“This Little Light” series
The scriptures for February 5, 12 and the 19th involve images of light. Jesus as the light of the world and us, as the reflection of that light. It is a good time to talk about how Jesus light affects us and how we reflect that light to others.
February 5, 2023
Communion Sunday
Message: “Light to All”
Focus Scriptures: Isaiah 58:9b-12; Matthew 5:13-20; Matthew 5: 3-12
Thread: For today, “this little light” is that of Matthew. We will explore his call story and response to his call. The scripture mostly comes from the sermon on the Mount, with the “salt and light” passage that follows.
February 12, 2023
Candlemas
Message: “A Light for Revelation”
Focus Scriptures: Luke 2:22-40
Thread: A blessing for the candles and people today– the “little lights” who are the people of faith. Mary and Joseph, Simeon and Anna were the little lights who were called by the Holy Spirit and into the Temple where they were illuminated by the Light of the World. Then they were joined by other little lights across the ages, making up the body of Christ. We are the little lights coming into the Temple once more as a testament to our faith.
February 19, 2023
Transfiguration Sunday
Communion Sunday
Message: “The Painter of Light”
Focus Scriptures: Matthew 17:1-9; 2 Peter 1:16-21
Thread: I wonder how an artist might have painted the Transfiguration if they set up their pallet that day up on the mountain. Peter, James and John and their little lights. Moses and Elijah, whose lights were blazing. And Jesus, who was transfigured in the Light. I can just imagine our artist frantically trying to capture the scene. Capture that true and perfect light the painters all search for. And how might our little light capture those on whom our light shines?
February 22, 2023
Ash Wednesday (6:00 P.M.)
“Learning to Live Inside Out” Lenten Series
Message: “The Fast We Choose”
Focus Scriptures: Psalm 51:1-10, Isaiah 58:6-7; Matthew 6:16-18
Thread: Most everything we do originates from inside of us, and then takes form by what we do outwardly. If we are at peace on the inside, compassionate, of a generous spirit, faithful, then what we do will reflect that. We begin this series tonight with “The Fast We Choose” and how that fast is manifested throughout this season of Lent.
February 26, 2023
First Sunday in Lent
“Learning to Live Inside Out” Lenten Series
Message: “If You Fall Down”
Focus Scriptures: Matthew 4:1-11; Genesis 3:1-5
Thread: We fall down. Ever since the great fall in the Garden of Eden, we are a fall risk. But Jesus taught us how to get back up and stand and walk with him.