Join Us for a Service of Worship
Sunday, December 12, 2021
Third Sunday of Advent
FBC Sanctuary
-OR-
Virtual Worship
Facebook Live & YouTube Live
Click to View Bulletin
Scripture includes: Isaiah 12:2-6 and Philippians 4:4-7
Rev. Dr. Libby Grammer will preach a sermon entitled, “Infectious Joy ”
The joy of the Lord is unlike anything else we experience in this life. Unlike our pursuits of happiness and daily life occurrences that allow us to feel happy momentarily, joy is something that finds us when we trust in God. Joy is a steadiness and overflowing sense of gratitude in the midst of all life’s moments of challenge and contentment. Joy is something we feel not because of our life experience, but often in spite of it. And joy’s true nature is not of this world, but from God, who brings into our weary world hope, peace, and love. This joy cannot be contained, either – and this is why on this Sunday, Joy Sunday, we sing to our God with rejoicing, holding on to those promises in spite of the worries of this world.
Today is the Third Sunday of Advent, the inaugural season of the Christian year. Advent is a time of spiritual preparation for the coming of Christ; thus, it is a season of both joyous and solemn expectation. The liturgical color is purple, symbolic of a spirit of preparation.
Advent Candle of Joy Lighting – Christina & Kody Kinzer, James
We light the candle of Joy, rejoicing in God’s good will for all creation, and opening ourselves to God’s gentle, transforming love. May God fill us with the kind of joy that cannot be contained, but must be shared. We light the candle of Peace, knowing full well that peace is elusive. May we trust that even where there is war and discord, God is never absent from us, but is always gently leading us to new possibilities.
Giving of our Resources
Please continue to give generously to the ministries of our church in 2021, whether in-person or online here – or mail / drop off your tithes and offerings to the church office. Your gifts help us to continue to minister through in-person and virtual church services, Bible studies, ministry to the community, and more.
Thank you for providing for the mission and ministry of First Baptist Church!