December 30, 2007 -- "Born into a Rough Neighborhood"

Pastor Steve Cook reminds us that Jesus was born into the real world with all its darkness and despair. Jesus' birth is an expression of God's love for the world even at its ugliest!

Texts:
Isaiah 63:7-9
Hebrews 2:10-18
Matthew 2:13-23

Sermon Audio

December 23, 2007 -- "It's All in the Name"

Today we hear the Good News from Matthew's Gospel and learn the meanings of the names given to the child born to Mary & Joseph: "Jesus - God saves," and "Emmanuel - God with us." May you be blessed by the Good News that God in Christ is with you - this Christmas and always.

Texts:
Isaiah 7:10-16
Romans 1:1-7
Matthew 1:18-25



Sermon Audio

December 16, 2007 -- "A Time for Joy"

It is not often easy to find joy in the trying times of life. It is when the darkness of life's circumstances cloud our vision that God's light shines brightly. Joy, a promised gift to all disciples of Jesus Christ, is right here. Pastor Janine Olson asks: "Is there time for joy in your life?"

Texts:
Isaiah 35:1-10
Matthew 11:2-11

Sermon Audio

December 9, 2007 -- "About Face!"

In the reading from Matthew for this Second Sunday in Advent, we hear John the Baptizer's call to "Repent! For the kingdom of heaven has come near." Pastor Dee Pederson reminds us that God's reign in Jesus Christ is so good, so sweet, it turns us around in our tracks and causes us to do an "about-face" so that we might live and share the Good News.

Texts:
Isaiah 11:1-10
Romans 15:4-13
Matthew 3:1-12

Sermon Audio

December 2, 2007 -- "Wake Up!"

The watchword for Advent is to be awake, alert, on watch. On this first Sunday of Advent Pastor Steve Cook lefts up Romans 13:11-14 and Mathew 24:36-44 so that we hear the voice of Paul and Jesus inviting us to shine in the darkness of our world for healing and hope is are hand.

Texts:
Romans 13:11-14
Mathew 24:36-44


Sermon Audio