FOLLOWING--THIRD SUNDAY IN ADVENT (DECEMBER 14, 2008)

[Light the first and second candles of the Advent wreath.]

We celebrate the birth of Jesus each year at Christmas. Jesus' disciples follow Jesus every day of the year knowing that Jesus is the Savior and experiencing the peace that comes from following Jesus. Hear these words from First Thessalonians:
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
"Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise the words of the prophets, but test everything; hold fast to what is good; abstain from every form of evil."
"May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
"The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this." ( 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, NRSV)
Seeking Jesus involves:. . . following Jesus. . . experiencing the peace that Christ brings . . . helping the weak and the poor. . . loving one another. . . and giving thanks in all circumstances.

[Light the third candle of the Advent wreath.]

As we light this third candle, let us remember that this is the will of God in Christ Jesus, who comes to us.
Dear God, we praise you for the peace that comes from following Jesus.
Come, Lord Jesus, come. Amen.