GOD REVEALED

The Gospel for this weekend comes from the first chapter of the Gospel according to St. John. Within the Gospel reading, there are profound words which carry the simple message that God is revealed to us in a human person. The wonder we celebrate at Christmas is that the Word continues to dwell among us. Christ comes to us in the community of the church, through the words of Scripture, through the preached word and through the sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion. Through these ordinary gifts we receive the fullness of God's grace and truth. "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God." (John 1:1)

PRAYER: O God our redeemer, you created light that we might live, and you illumine our world with your beloved Son. By your Spirit comfort us in all darkness, and turn us toward the light of Jesus Christ our Savior, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Prayer of the Day for Christmas II Evangelical Lutheran Worship)

Alive in Christ,

"Holy Child within the manger, long ago yet ever near;

Come as friend to ev'ry stranger, come as hope for ev'ry fear.

As you lived to heal the broken, greet the outcast, free the bound.

As you taught us love, unspoken, teach us now where you are found."

- Hymn Text by Marty Haugen