The Nativity of our Lord - A

You have no doubt seen, as I have, the lingering effect of the songs that are sung at a loved one’s funeral. Certain individuals in my congregation reliably tear up during this hymn or that one, and I know that it’s because that song was sung at their parent’s, or spouse’s, or child’s service. And the experience of death and grief is so strong in us that that song, then, forever belongs to that occasion for that individual. 

Abraham Kuyper served two terms as prime minister of the Netherlands in the early 20th century. He was known as a man of faith and sought to incorporate it into every dimension of life, including social and political. But faith was not always so important to Kuyper. At the start of his career, he was a young preacher in a rural village. He had been schooled in the best of modern theology, and his sermons were well-polished masterpieces.

“There were so many people involved in the project I’m not sure I deserve to be singled out,” Jenny said.

“You deserve it and more,” Carl said from beside her. “Don’t be humble. You worked hard and should be thanked.”

“Thanked I can handle but all of this?” Jenny nodded toward the lavish reception which followed the surprise presentation. “Like I said in my speech there were many hands and gifts that went to make this outreach effort possible.”

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. (vv. 1-4)

Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (vv. 11-12)

I have a few questions for you.

Have any of you ever been sick? (Let them respond) How did you feel? Did you feel lucky? (Let them respond.)

Have any of you ever gotten hurt? (Let them respond) How did you feel? Did you feel happy? (Let them respond.)

Theme of the Day
Inspired by the saints and the love of God.

Collect of the Day
Acknowledging that God has knit His people together in one body, petitions are offered that the faithful might follow the saints in lives of faith and commitment and know the inexpressible joys prepared for those who love Him. Doctrines of Sanctification (construed as a Work of God), Church, and Eschatology are emphasized.

Psalm of the Day
Psalm 34:1-10, 22

Pharisees Today

The Pharisees were real "good news/bad news" guys!

They were the undisputed authorities on the Jewish Scriptures, and the recognized spokespersons for Moses himself. "Do whatever they teach you and follow it," Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples (Matthew 23:3a). We hear so much about Jesus in conflict with the Pharisees, that sometimes we forget Jesus respectfully acknowledged their academic accomplishments and religious leadership.

Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

The Church of Christ

Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority

The local community

Those who suffer

The communion of saints


These responses may be used:


Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer
Lord, hear us.
Lord, graciously hear us.