“Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.” Colossians 3:14 (NRSV)
Here is the link for the Destination Bethlehem – the pageant for the December 1, 2024 worship service: https://youtu.be/WvjNQgAz4s0
Scripture for the week: Luke 1:68-79; Luke 3:1-6; Philippians 1:3-11; Malachi 3:1-4;
Scripture to Ponder & Prayer
Second week of Advent
Theme: PEACE
Scriptures: Malachi 3:1–4; Philippians 1:3–11; Luke 3:1–6
Scriptures to Ponder:
During this Advent season, as we await Christ’s coming, we long for peace in a world torn by conflict and suffering. It’s easy to be discouraged by the brokenness around us. Yet, this longing for peace reminds us of our need for the Prince of Peace to make all things new.
In Malachi 3:1-4, we are reminded that God’s peace is transformative, not just a quick fix. It requires facing brokenness and allowing God to refine us. In Luke 3:1-6, John the Baptist calls us to prepare the way for Christ, to turn away from division, and to make room for true peace in our hearts and in the world.
Though the world is fractured by violence, injustice, and hatred, Advent reminds us that peace has already begun with the birth of Jesus. Christ came into our broken world to heal it, bringing a peace that transcends understanding—a peace that can begin in our hearts today.
Let us meditate in prayer
Lord of Peace,
We come before You with heavy hearts, burdened by the world’s brokenness and pain.
We long for Your peace to heal and restore what is torn.
In this Advent season, we ask You to refine and purify us, making us instruments of Your peace.
Help us to remember that Your peace is not just a future hope but a present reality that can transform us.
Grant us courage to bring peace to our families, communities, and the world.
May we be voices calling for justice and healing where peace is needed most.
We trust in Your promise that one day all will be made new.
Until then, we wait with eager hearts for Your peace to fill our lives and the world.
Amen.
Trinity United Church 