Sermons & Series – Close to Home Series
THIS IS WHAT WE ARE CURRENTLY DISCUSSING ON SUNDAY MORNINGS
This Sunday: Seeking Sanctuary
Theme: Close to Home Series
Text: Luke 1:39-55
We have invited two members to share their reflections on sanctuary based on some questions given to them. Join in to hear what they have to say and how their experiences have shaped their concept of home at UCC.
In the meanwhile... Listen to this song "A Space to Land"by Sarah Bareilles ft John Legend
Does this speak to you in any way?
What one word/song describes sanctuary for you?
How was Elizabeth providing sanctuary for Mary?
Listen to the discussion - the song that was heard at the beginning of the discussion was "Sanctuary" by Carrie Newcomer
Text: Luke 3:1-18 and Zephaniah 3:14-20
The words from John found in the text from Luke are harsh, don't they Wayne?
What stands out for you as you read this?
How do we shift to joy after listening to John call people (us?) a brood of vipers?
How does Zephaniah help us with that?
Why are we able to sing:
Here I find my greatest treasure;
hither by thy help, I’ve come;
and I hope, by thy good pleasure,
safely to arrive at home.
Text: Luke 1:57-80
John's story is interwoven with Jesus’ origin story. Zechariah, his dad, sings blessings into John’s being. This lays the foundation for John’s life. In turn, John will go on to prepare the way for Jesus who will guide us all in the way of peace.
- What are the words, blessings, and actions that have laid the foundation for your life?
- Who helped lay a foundation of faith for you?
- How are you doing this for others?
- What are the specific acts that build a foundation of love?
This Sunday - Close to Home Series: Homesick
But what does that mean?
Text: Luke 21:25-36
Home.
What emotions does that word evoke?
Is it safety? Is it love? It hurt or pain? Is it something else? Does home offer you a feeling of being grounded, or a sense of displacement?
Home can be invitational and warm, or home can be the source of war, stolen lands, or economic loss. We navigate this tension of comfort and unsettledness in the season of Advent.
In the midst of cheery holiday celebrations, grief and nostalgia may become unwelcome guests or too close for comfort.
We remember that God is also just as close. And so we are close to home, God is coming. We celebrate the closeness of a God who chooses to dwell with us.
Join us on the journey of being Close to Home