Mary Beth always says you can never tell what characters are going to show up for the Christmas pageant, or what they might say.(And she likes it that way.) I suppose that’s appropriate, because if you read the stories of Jesus’ birth in Matthew and Luke, there are some pretty big surprises. There were unexpected guests that evening, according to the narrative. But even in the genealogies, there are some head scratchers. But all of these form part of the community of energetic influence for Mary and Joseph, and thus, for Jesus. Through their courage and their creativity, they make story and character come alive.
Who has surprised you with their unexpected ability to sustain and inspire you? Perhaps it was a family member or friend whom you did not expect to be influential in your life. Maybe it was an overlooked figure from history whose story has been retrieved, and you found to be deeply impactful? Could it have been a member of the community, even the church, whose powerful gifts you never saw coming?
The sermon Sunday is titled, “O Come, All Ye Unexpected” arising from Matthew 1: 1-6; and 17-21. The scripture will be read by Benjamin Quint, and Brenda and Brian Lewis will offer the reading for the Advent Candle. Our Sanctuary Singers, accompanied by Nara Lee, will guide us musically, and Pat Conklin will sing “I Wonder as I Wander” during the decorating of the tree. There will be a special video presentation by the Bloomington Chamber Singers of “See, Amid the Winter’s Snow”, the text written by Edward Caswall, and arranged by Dan Forrest. And we will sing carols, pray and have a children’s moment.
Join us on the Live Stream at 10:30 AM by visiting www.smumc.church.