The Bethany January 2013 newsletter and calendar are now available for reading on MemberConnect.
A link to the newsletter is on the home page of our MemberConnect site. Simply click on the link and you will be able to read the newsletter WITHOUT logging in.
However, we still encourage you to log in and check out the calendar and other areas of MemberConnect!
Paper copies of the newsletter are also available at the Hospitality Desk in the Gathering Area.
Wednesday Words for December 19, 2012
from Pastor Carrie Smith
Thought for the Day, in light of the Newtown tragedy:
“When the old Christendom spoke of the coming again of the Lord Jesus, it always thought first of all of a great day of judgment. And as un-Christmas-like as this idea may appear to us, it comes from early Christianity and must be taken with utter seriousness … . The coming of God is truly not only a joyous message, but is, first, frightful news for anyone who has a conscience. And only when we have felt the frightfulness of the matter can we know the incomparable favor. God comes in the midst of evil, in the midst of death, and judges the evil in us and in the world. And in judging it, he loves us, he purifies us, he sanctifies us, he comes to us with his grace and love. He makes us happy as only children can be happy.”
– Dietrich Bonhoeffer, martyred Lutheran pastor and theologian, in “God is in the Manger”
***
In our prayers: Cole Gaffney (now recovering at home), Bill Kohl, Carol Stupar (now recovering at home); Alice McDonald (in home hospice care); all who are grieving the loss of loved ones this week; teachers and other school workers; and for all schoolchildren, that they would feel safe and secure each day in school.
Tonight at Bethany: We gather at 7 pm for “The Longest Night: A Service of Reflection during Advent”. This is an opportunity to gather and remember the loved ones we miss; to pray for a world shaken by violence, and ask God to heal our hearts broken by loss. We will sing, pray, and write our griefs and concerns on paper stars to be hung on a tree in the front of the church. These stars will remain through Christmas, a visible sign that God comes to be with us in the midst of our pain. All are welcome to attend this service.
Sunday at Bethany: We…are…almost…there! Join us for the 4th Sunday of Advent, when our theme will be “Living Together in Peace.” We’ve spent the last few weeks reflecting on the violence in us and in the world. We’ve confessed our part in furthering a culture of hate and exclusion. And we’ve prayed for Jesus, the Prince of Peace, to guide us into the way of peace. Now, we will gather to celebrate that the wait is almost over! Our hearts are ready, the path is cleared, our prayers have been offered, and the baby is about to be born!
Special Music will be offered by Bethany Choir at 9 am and by Jeanna Hoekstra and Andy McKay playing a saxophone duet at 10:45 am. I will be preaching, and Pastor Paul will preside at the table. Join us for a service of joyful anticipation!
Christmas Eve Information: Worship on Christmas Eve will be at 5 pm, 7 pm, and 10:30 pm. The 5 pm service is designed especially for families with children. Pastor Paul will preach, youth will be doing the readings and serving in other ways, and children will have a chance to ring jingle bells as part of our Christmas music-making! At 7 and 10:30, you can expect a more formal Christmas festival, including 30 minutes of pre-service music at 6:30 and 10 pm. I will be preaching at these 2 services. Holy Communion will be celebrated at all three services. I hope you see you all there!
Bishop Mark Hanson expresses grief over the Sandy Hook shootings: “Today we express our sorrow for lives lost in Newtown, and we are being drawn together as a people. May this tragic moment become the occasion to experience the depth of God’s mercy and the love of Jesus,” said the Rev. Mark S. Hanson, ELCA presiding bishop. “May our mourning move us to join together to turn back a rising tide of violence, for this is not the world that God desires for God’s children. In this season of Advent, we bear witness that our hope is in Christ, the prince of peace,” said Hanson.
Need last minute gifts? You can give something unexpected this Christmas: a duck, a goat, or even an alpaca! ELCA Good Gifts are gifts that make a difference. Click here to give now: ELCA Good Gifts
Upcoming opportunity at the Raue Center: Documentary about the foster care system ("From Place to Place") January 6, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. Free admission! Sponsored by CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of McHenry County. To reserve seat: 815-356-9212 or casafilm@rauecenter.org
Questions? Call Bethany member Debbie Groat at 815-236-0605
Texts for this Sunday: Advent 4
Micah 5:2-5a
5Now you are walled around with a wall; siege is laid against us; with a rod they strike the ruler of Israel upon the cheek. 2But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days. 3Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has brought forth; then the rest of his kindred shall return to the people of Israel. 4And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall live secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth; 5and he shall be the one of peace.
Hebrews 10:5-10
5Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said, “Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body you have prepared for me; 6in burnt offerings and sin offerings you have taken no pleasure. 7Then I said, ‘See, God, I have come to do your will, O God’ (in the scroll of the book it is written of me).” 8When he said above, “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law), 9then he added, “See, I have come to do your will.” He abolishes the first in order to establish the second. 10And it is by God’s will that we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
Luke 1:39-55
39In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, 40where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit 42and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. 43And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? 44For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. 45And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.” 46And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, 47and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; 49for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. 50His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. 51He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. 52He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; 53he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. 54He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”
Peace,
+ Pastor Carrie Smith
| Prayer Vigil Tonight at 7:00 p.m. | ||||||||
Dear Bethany Lutheran sisters and brothers,
Our hearts are breaking after the tragic school shootings in Connecticut today. During this Advent season, Bethany Lutheran has been praying for peace, and waiting expectantly for the Prince of Peace to come quickly.
Tonight, join us at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary to mourn the lives lost, to pray for the wounded, and to once again look to Christ, the Prince of Peace, to heal our broken world.
Friday, December 14 at 7 :00 p.m.
All are welcome.
Pastor Carrie Smith Pastor Paul Cannon |
Wednesday Words for December 12, 2012
from Pastor Carrie Smith
Thought for the Day:
“Time always seems long to the child who is waiting - for Christmas, for next summer, for becoming a grownup: long also when he surrenders his whole soul to each moment of a happy day.”
- Dag Hammarskjold
+++
In our prayers: the Heisler family on the death of Dorothy; the Michaels family on the death of John; the Trebes family on the death of Aunt Ann; Cole Gaffney; the Kerrigan family at the birth of James on Dec. 5 (and for James, who has been in the hospital since birth).
Today at Bethany: A funeral for John Michaels will be held at 10 am, followed by a luncheon in Luther Hall.
Tonight: Join us for a peaceful evening of worship at 7 pm! We will gather in the sanctuary for Holden Evening Prayer and a reflection by Pastor Paul. What a good way to re-group in the middle of a busy week. I hope to see you there!
Tomorrow night: It’s time for the congregational potluck! See you at 6 pm in Luther Hall for some good food and holiday entertainment! I’ll bring the pickled herring.
This Sunday at Bethany: For this third Sunday in Advent, our theme will be “Giving Birth to Peace.” The star is guiding us, the path has been cleared, and now we prepare the manger where the Prince of Peace will be laid!
In some traditions, the 3rd Sunday of Advent is called “Gaudete Sunday” and is a day of joy in the midst of this season of waiting and expectation. We will certainly be joyous as we hear the special music of all the Bethany choirs during worship! Come and hear the Bethany Adult Choir, the Sonshine Singers, and the Bell Canto bells at the 9 am and 10:45 am services.
We will also be blessed at all services by a sermon from Felix Malpica, one of Bethany’s own youth who is now a senior at Luther Seminary in St. Paul. You won’t want to miss it!
Sunday afternoon: Come back to church at 4 pm for the Sunday school Christmas program! This year’s program is called “A Tree-mendous Gift”. Our kids and teachers have been working hard to prepare this drama, and I hope we will pack the pews to support them.
Next week: Wednesday, December 19th at 7 pm is “The Longest Night” worship service. If you are grieving, struggling with a chronic illness, undergoing chemo, missing a friend, or otherwise finding the holidays a difficult season, you are invited to join us for this worship opportunity. We will sing, hear Scripture, pray, and spend some time lifting up our concerns to God. Bring a friend who could use some encouragement, too!
Tomorrow is St. Lucia Day! What’s that, you ask? Well, if you grew up in a Swedish (or Swedish-American) household, you would know that St. Lucia was a young woman martyred for her faith in 304 A.D. It is said that she took food to persecuted Christians who were hiding in the catacombs in Rome. She wore candles on her head so she would have her hands free to carry things. There is also a somewhat gruesome story about why we often see pictures of Lucy with her eyes on a plate (eww!) Read (and see) more here: St. Lucy's Eyes
Later, monks who first brought Christianity to Sweden told her stories there, and she became a beloved Scandinavian saint. On December 13 in Sweden, the oldest girl of the family wakes up early to bring breakfast to her parents in bed, wearing a crown of candles in her hair and presenting special buns called “Lussekatter” (Lucy Cats!) In Sweden, there is a special church service for St. Lucy, and this day marks the beginning of the Christmas season.
To learn more about St. Lucy, click here: St. Lucy in Sweden
This Week’s Texts: 3rd Sunday of Advent
(notice the theme of JOY and REJOICING in these texts!)
Zephaniah 3:14-20
14Sing aloud, O daughter Zion; shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter Jerusalem! 15The Lord has taken away the judgments against you, he has turned away your enemies. The king of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you shall fear disaster no more. 16On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands grow weak. 17The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing 18as on a day of festival. I will remove disaster from you, so that you will not bear reproach for it. 19I will deal with all your oppressors at that time. And I will save the lame and gather the outcast, and I will change their shame into praise and renown in all the earth. 20At that time I will bring you home, at the time when I gather you; for I will make you renowned and praised among all the peoples of the earth, when I restore your fortunes before your eyes, says the Lord.
Isaiah 12:2-6
2Surely God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid, for the Lord God is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation. 3With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.
4And you will say in that day: Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known his deeds among the nations; proclaim that his name is exalted. 5Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be known in all the earth. 6Shout aloud and sing for joy, O royal Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.
Philippians 4:4-7
4Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Luke 3:7-18
7John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our ancestor’; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. 9Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.” 10And the crowds asked him, “What then should we do?” 11In reply he said to them, “Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise.” 12Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, “Teacher, what should we do?” 13He said to them, “Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you.” 14Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what should we do?” He said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.”
15As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, 16John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” 18So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people.
Peace,
+ Pastor Carrie Smith
carrie.smith@bethanylc.com
Dear Bethany Sisters and Brothers,
Today we mourn the passing of longtime Bethany member, John Michaels. John died on Friday, December 7, 2012.
Funeral arrangements are as follows:
Visitation:
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Bethany Lutheran Church, ELCA
76 W. Crystal Lake Avenue
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
(815)459-2690
Funeral Service:
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
10:00 a.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church
Interment immediately following the funeral service.
There will be a meal at Bethany following the committal.
Please keep the Michaels family in your prayers.
| Funeral Arrangements for Dorothy Heisler | ||||||||
Dear Bethany Sisters and Brothers,
Today we mourn the passing of longtime Bethany member, Dorothy Heisler. Dorothy died on Thursday, December 6, 2012.
Funeral arrangements are as follows:
Visitation: Sunday, December 9, 2012 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Querhammer & Flagg Funeral Home 500 West Terra Cotta Ave Crystal Lake, IL 60014 (815) 459-1760
Monday, December 10, 2012 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Bethany Lutheran Church 76 W Crystal Lake Ave Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-459-2690
Funeral Service: Monday, December 10, 2012 11:00 a.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church
Interment at McHenry County Memorial Park.
There will be a meal at Bethany following the committal. |
| Bethany Member John Michaels | ||||||||
Dear Bethany Sisters and Brothers, Today we mourn the passing of Bethany member, John Michaels, age 83, who died this morning, December 7, 2012. John was a longtime member of Bethany Lutheran Church. Funeral arrangements are pending. Please keep the Michaels family in your prayers. |
| Bethany Member Dorothy Heisler | ||||||||
Dear Bethany Sisters and Brothers, Today we mourn the passing of Bethany member, Dorothy Heisler, age 94, who died on December 6, 2012. Dorothy was a founding member of Bethany Lutheran Church. A funeral service will be held at Bethany, although a date has not yet been set. Please keep the Heisler family in your prayers. |
Wednesday Words for December 5, 2012
From Pastor Carrie Smith
Thought for the Day:
“God is coming! God is coming!
All the element we swim in, this existence,
Echoes ahead the advent. God is coming! Can't you feel it?”
--Walter Wangerin Jr., "The Signs of the Times" in The Manger Is Empty
***
In our prayers: John Michaels, Bill Kohl, Dorothy Heisler, Millie Karger, Jennifer Reuskens and family, all of our members who struggle with cancer, all those who are grieving this holiday season, soldiers and others who will not be able to be with family this Christmas.
Tonight at Bethany: It’s time for Advent Midweek Worship! Come at 7 pm for Holden Evening Prayer, featuring a special message about St. Nicholas Day (celebrated in many countries on December 6th). Hint: wear shoes you can easily remove (and socks you won’t be embarrassed to show off!)
There are no confirmation classes until after Christmas.
Tomorrow at Bethany: Theology on Tap at Duke’s Alehouse, Thursday, December 6th at 7:30 p.m. Pastor Paul says the topic is “Christian Ethics.” But if that sounds boring—never fear! The discussion will really be about what our role is supposed to be as Christians in the world. All are welcome to join this casual evening of drinks and conversation!
Sunday at Bethany: For the 2nd Sunday of Advent, the focus will be “Paving the Path to Peace.” What are the obstacles to peace in our lives, in our community, and in our world? Pastor Paul will be preaching, and the Sonshine Singers (kids’ choir) will be providing the special music.
Caroling: At 3:45 p.m. the F.A.S.T. (Fellowship and Service Team) will meet at the church and will proceed to a nursing home to brighten the day of the residents. If the weather cooperates, they will also sing to our neighbors in the area by the church. No singing talents required!
A Prayer for St. Nicholas Day, December 6: Almighty God, who in your love gave to your servant Nicholas of Myra a perpetual name for deeds of kindness on land and sea: Grant, we pray, that your Church may never cease to work for the happiness of children, the safety of sailors, the relief of the poor, and the help of those tossed by tempests of doubt or grief; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Learn more about the REAL Santa Claus (St. Nicholas) here: St. Nicholas Center
The Congregational Potluck is coming! Please remember to sign up on the board outside Luther Hall. This Sunday (December 9th) is the last day to indicate that you are coming and what dish you will bring to share. The dinner is Thursday, December 13 at 6:00 p.m.
Coming Soon: We will have a special “Guest” preacher for the 3rd Sunday of Advent, December 16th—our very own Felix Malpica! Felix is a child of Bethany who is in his final year of seminary at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. He was a grateful recipient of scholarship funds from the Bethany Mission Endowment Fund this year. Please plan to attend worship to hear how that seminary education has paid off!
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Bethany Sunday School Christmas Program! This year’s program is called “A Tree-mendous Gift”. You can hear the Christmas story and hear the kids sing on Sunday, December 16th at 4:00 p.m. Come one, come all!
This Week’s Texts: The 2nd Sunday of Advent
Malachi 3:1-4
3See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. 2But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap; 3he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. 4Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years.
68“Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has looked favorably on his people and redeemed them. 69He has raised up a mighty savior for us in the house of his servant David, 70as he spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, 71that we would be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us. 72Thus he has shown the mercy promised to our ancestors, and has remembered his holy covenant, 73the oath that he swore to our ancestor Abraham, to grant us 74that we, being rescued from the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear, 75in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. 76And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, 77to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins. 78By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, 79to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
3I thank my God every time I remember you, 4constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, 5because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. 6I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. 7It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because you hold me in your heart, for all of you share in God’s grace with me, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. 8For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the compassion of Christ Jesus. 9And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight 10to help you to determine what is best, so that in the day of Christ you may be pure and blameless, 11having produced the harvest of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God.
3In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias ruler of Abilene, 2during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, 4as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth; 6and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’”
Peace,
Pastor Carrie Smith
| Bethany December 2012 Newsletter and Calendar | ||||||||
The Bethany December 2012 newsletter and calendar are now available for reading on MemberConnect.
A link to the newsletter is on the home page of our MemberConnect site. Simply click on the link and you will be able to read the newsletter WITHOUT logging in.
However, we still encourage you to log in and check out the calendar and other areas of MemberConnect!
Paper copies of the newsletter are also available at the Hospitality Desk in the Gathering Area.
|
WANTED: Bethany members (or regular visitors!), ages 25-45
Are you interested in meeting for intentional prayer, study, and fellowship? Would you like to build stronger bonds with other Bethany community members in your age group?
A special meeting is being held on Friday, December 14 at 7 pm to explore this new spiritual growth opportunity. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact me by phone or e-mail. I can give you more details and will let you know the location of the meeting.
Peace,
Pastor Carrie
815-459-2690
Wednesday Words for November 28, 2012
from Pastor Carrie Smith
Thought for the Day:
“The house lights go off and the footlights come on. Even the chattiest stop chattering as they wait in darkness for the curtain to rise.
In the orchestra pit, the violin bows are poised. The conductor has raised his baton.
In the silence of a midwinter dusk, there is far off in the deeps of it somewhere a sound so faint that for all you can tell it may be only the sound of the silence itself.
You hold your breath to listen. You walk up the steps to the front door. The empty windows at either side of it tell you nothing, or almost nothing. For a second you catch a whiff of some fragrance that reminds you of a place you’ve never been and a time you have no words for.
You are aware of the beating of your heart…The extraordinary thing that is about to happen is matched only by the extraordinary moment just before it happens. Advent is the name of that moment.”
— Frederick Buechner, “Whistling in the Dark”
In our prayers: Dorothy Heisler (in hospice care); John Michaels, Bill Kohl, Millie Karger, Shelby Perkins, Don Barkley, Bill Krusinski.
Tonight at Bethany: It’s time for the Hanging of the Greens! Join us at 6:30 pm to sing some carols and beautify the church for the Advent season. We’ll be hanging garlands, lighting the trees, assembling the Advent wreath, and blessing the small nativity set. All are welcome, but we extend a special welcome to new members and visitors!
Tonight is also the last Confirmation class of 2012. Students, we hope you will join us for worship on the Wednesdays of Advent at 7 pm!
Sunday at Bethany: Advent marks the beginning of a new church year—so, Happy New Year! Our Advent theme this year is “Imagine: Peace”, and each week we will be reflecting on what it means for the Prince of Peace to born into our lives and into the world. This week’s focus is “Visualizing Peace”. I will be offering the sermon this week, and we will be blessed by special music from Bell Canto bell choir.
Advent Wreath: Each week, the Advent candles will be lighted by new members of the Bethany community. This week, our families are Richard, Karen, Kajsa & Shane Stramberg, and Tiffany, Eric, and Finley Goodman. We give thanks for you, new members! You are a gift to God’s mission and to this congregation!
Why Advent? Why blue? Why no nativity scene yet? If you are asking these questions, you are not alone....Advent is largely unknown to popular Christian culture. Some have said to me “Hey, it feels like Lent in the church! Why aren’t we decked out for Christmas yet?” This question reveals an important truth: Advent is indeed related to Lent. In the past, Advent and Lent even shared the same color, purple. More recently, Advent has been changed to the color blue, which symbolizes hope and expectation.
Advent and Lent also share the common theme of repentance and waiting. Waiting is hard! But for hundreds (thousands!) of years, Advent has been a time for reflection, prayer, and preparation for the birth of Jesus. Each week, we will move a little further down the path to the peace Christmas brings. Each week, our worship space will look a little different. Come join us for worship as Bethany, with Christians around the world, prepares for the celebration of the birth of our Savior.
Advent and Christmas resource for families: Check out this interesting website, which features crafts, activities, and devotions for families! Fridge Art
Homemade Advent Calendar: This web page gives a lovely definition of Advent, and some practical tips on how to make an Advent calendar for your home: Keeper of the Home
Stewardship commitments: If you have not yet turned in your financial and time and talent commitments for next year, please bring those to church on Sunday (or drop them in the mail ASAP).
This Week’s Texts: The First Sunday in Advent
Jeremiah 33:14-16
14The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. 15In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. 16In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is the name by which it will be called: “The Lord is our righteousness.”
Psalm 25:1-10 (Message Version)
25 1-2 My head is high, God, held high;
I’m looking to you, God;
No hangdog skulking for me.
3 I’ve thrown in my lot with you;
You won’t embarrass me, will you?
Or let my enemies get the best of me?
Don’t embarrass any of us
Who went out on a limb for you.
It’s the traitors who should be humiliated.
4 Show me how you work, God;
School me in your ways.
5 Take me by the hand;
Lead me down the path of truth.
You are my Savior, aren’t you?
6 Mark the milestones of your mercy and love, God;
Rebuild the ancient landmarks!
7 Forget that I sowed wild oats;
Mark me with your sign of love.
Plan only the best for me, God!
8 God is fair and just;
He corrects the misdirected,
Sends them in the right direction.
9 He gives the rejects his hand,
And leads them step-by-step.
10 From now on every road you travel
Will take you to God.
Follow the Covenant signs;
Read the charted directions.
1 Thessalonians 3:9-13
9How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy that we feel before our God because of you? 10Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith.
11Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you. 12And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. 13And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.
Luke 21:25-36
25“There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. 28Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
29Then he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; 30as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. 31So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. 33Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 34“Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, 35like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. 36Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Peace,
+ Pastor Carrie Smith
Wednesday Words for November 14, 2012
from Pastor Carrie Smith
2 Thoughts for the Day:
“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.”
― Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
– 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18
***
In our prayers: Dorothy Heisler, in ICU for congestive heart failure; John Michaels, now at the Springs; returning veterans; all those who are grieving during the upcoming holiday season.
Sunday at Bethany: This is the last “regular” Sunday before Thanksgiving Eve, Christ the King, and then Advent! We will begin worship with Thanksgiving for Baptism, and will sing some favorite hymns, including “O God, Our Help in Ages Past” and “Canticle of the Turning.” The Sonshine Singers will provide a musical offering at 9 am, and the Bethany Choir will sing at 10:45 am.
Sunday evening: Come back to church at 7 pm for the FaithBridge Interfaith Thanksgiving Service. Often we think about the things that separate us from people of other faiths—but gratitude to God is a theme found in all religions. Come for music, prayer, dancing, storytelling, and a chance to give thanks to God as Thanksgiving week begins!
Community Harvest Donations: Don’t forget to bring back your grocery bag this Sunday, filled with goodies for our hungry neighbors! If you didn’t pick up a shopping bag, now worries—any and all food donations will be gratefully accepted.
Church clean-up day: We’re all scrambling to clean our homes before the family arrives, and the church needs the same attention! Please come on Saturday from 9-noon and help the Property Team with the Indoor Work Day. Many hands make light work!
Saturday is National Suicide Awareness Day. Clergy, counselors, and hospitals will be holding an information fair and a short remembrance ritual in the Woodstock Square from 4:30 -6:00 pm, to draw attention to the resources available for families affected by suicide.
Tomorrow night (Thursday) is Theology on Tap! Join Pastor Paul and others at Duke’s Alehouse, 7:30 pm, for a beverage and a discussion of “Jesus in Pop Culture”. You are encouraged to bring examples of movies, books, music, pictures or memes to share with the group!
As you make your Thanksgiving week plans, don’t forget to include time for prayer. The Thanksgiving Eve service will be Wednesday, November 21 at 7 pm. We will gather for Evening Prayer (Vespers), with an opportunity to light candles, sing favorite hymns of thanksgiving, and hear a short reflection. And then—PIE! The annual pie fest will take place in Luther Hall immediately following the service.
Senior Breakfast: Monday morning at 8:30 am is the monthly senior breakfast. All seniors are invited to gather at Colonial Café for coffee, breakfast, and conversation! This month’s “guest” speaker is Pastor Paul.
***
This week’s texts: 25th Sunday after Pentecost
Daniel 12:1-13
12“At that time Michael, the great prince, the protector of your people, shall arise. There shall be a time of anguish, such as has never occurred since nations first came into existence. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone who is found written in the book. 2Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. 3Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.
Psalm 16 (The Message Version)
Keep me safe, O God,
I’ve run for dear life to you.
I say to God, “Be my Lord!”
Without you, nothing makes sense.
And these God-chosen lives all around—
what splendid friends they make!
Don’t just go shopping for a god.
Gods are not for sale.
I swear I’ll never treat god-names
like brand-names.
My choice is you, God, first and only.
And now I find I’m your choice!
You set me up with a house and yard.
And then you made me your heir!
The wise counsel God gives when I’m awake
is confirmed by my sleeping heart.
Day and night I’ll stick with God;
I’ve got a good thing going and I’m not letting go.
I’m happy from the inside out,
and from the outside in, I’m firmly formed.
You canceled my ticket to hell—
that’s not my destination!
Now you’ve got my feet on the life path,
all radiant from the shining of your face.
Ever since you took my hand,
I’m on the right way.
Hebrews 10:11-25
11And every priest stands day after day at his service, offering again and again the same sacrifices that can never take away sins. 12But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, “he sat down at the right hand of God,” 13and since then has been waiting “until his enemies would be made a footstool for his feet.” 14For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are sanctified. 15And the Holy Spirit also testifies to us, for after saying, 16“This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds,” 17he also adds, “I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.” 18Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin. 19Therefore, my friends, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, 20by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain (that is, through his flesh), 21and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. 24And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, 25not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Mark 13:1-8
13As he came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look, Teacher, what large stones and what large buildings!” 2Then Jesus asked him, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone will be left here upon another; all will be thrown down.” 3When he was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked him privately, 4“Tell us, when will this be, and what will be the sign that all these things are about to be accomplished?” 5Then Jesus began to say to them, “Beware that no one leads you astray. 6Many will come in my name and say, ‘I am he!’ and they will lead many astray. 7When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed; this must take place, but the end is still to come. 8For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. This is but the beginning of the birthpangs.
Peace,
+Pastor Carrie Smith
carrie.smith@bethanylc.com
Wednesday Words for November 7, 2012
from Pastor Carrie Smith
Thought for the Day: “This is My Song” (aka Finlandia)
This is my song, oh God of all the nations,
a song of peace for lands afar and mine.
This is my home, the country where my heart is;
here are my hopes, my dreams, my holy shrine;
but other hearts in other lands are beating
with hopes and dreams as true and high as mine.
My country's skies are bluer than the ocean,
and sunlight beams on clover leaf and pine.
But other lands have sunlight too and clover,
and skies are everywhere as blue as mine.
This is my song, thou God of all the nations;
a song of peace for their land and for mine.
Many choirs, bands, and soloists have performed this beautiful hymn, which appears in our hymnal. Here is one lovely version: This is My Song
***
Happy 529th birthday, Martin Luther! Martin was born in Eisleben, Germany on November 10, 1483. He was named for St. Martin of Tours, on whose saint day he was baptized.
In honor of Luther’s birthday, a little fun: The Lutheran Insulter (real quotes from Luther, insulting anyone and everyone, but often the Pope or others who disagreed with him!)
In our prayers: John Michaels (in a regular hospital room now); Bonnie Domino on the death of her father; Larry Kohn, beginning cancer treatments; Gary Summers, for healing after his stem cell transplant; and all of our beloved Bethany members who are fighting cancer and chronic illnesses.
A busy weekend!
Coffee with the Bishop: Come to Luther Hall on Saturday at 10 am for an opportunity to meet Bishop Gary Wollersheim of the Northern Illinois Synod! Bishop Gary will be talking about the last 25 years of ministry in the synod, and will be available to answer your pressing theological (and fishing) questions.
Pastor Paul’s Installation: On Sunday afternoon, come to church after your early afternoon nap to attend Pr. Paul’s installation as our Associate Pastor of Youth and Family Ministries. This service of Holy Communion will be at 3 pm. Pastor Jeff Clements, assistant to the bishop, will be preaching.
Stewardship Sunday, Donor Sabbath, Honoring Veterans:
This Sunday, we will honor your generous giving of time, talents, and finances by blessing your commitment cards during the worship services. Thank you for considering how your family can contribute to God’s mission through Bethany Lutheran Church this year!
We will also lift up another kind of stewardship—stewardship of our very own bodies. Churches and synagogues all over the country set aside one day in the autumn to encourage people of faith to become organ and tissue donors. Bethany members Mike and Deb Berdis will share their story of life-giving organ donation. You can learn more here: http://donatelife.net/
Veterans: During announcement time, we will ask all veterans to stand for recognition. If you have served, in wartime or in times of peace, please plan to attend so we can honor you with a special prayer this Sunday.
Mark your calendars: Sunday, November 18th at 7 pm is the Interfaith Thanksgiving Service which is being hosted by Bethany this year. This special worship opportunity is not a replacement for our own thanksgiving service (no worries—the pie fest is still on!). Rather, this is an evening of story and song, including storyteller Jim May, musicians Ravi Subramanyan (Hindu drumming and song), Lia Nicine McCoo, and The Sisters in Spirit (of the Unity Church). We will celebrate, offer our gratitude, and hear stories and music that bring together our many and varied traditions. After the service there will be time for conversation and food (vegetarian). A free-will offering to donate local food pantries will be collected.
Opportunities to serve!
We are especially in need of:
• People who have current skills and interest who would serve on a newly-forming IT team.
• Leaders and actors who can carry on the tradition of having a drama during Wednesday Lenten Worship in 2013.
• Assisting ministers (chanting is not a necessary skill!)
• Sunday School site leaders (short term commitments are fine for this)
• Helpers for the Children’s Christmas Program (December 16th)
Email me at carrie.smith@bethanylc.com or Sandi at sandi.teiken@bethanylc.com if you are interested in any of these opportunities!
All ministry teams are in need of new members! Many of our ministry teams have been comprised of the same hard-working members for many years. No matter what your interest, there is room for YOU at the table! You can email me at carrie.smith@bethanylc.com or Sandi at sandi.teiken@bethanylc.com for more information about any Bethany ministry team. Team night in November is Tuesday, November 13th at 7:15 pm. YOU are welcome to show up and learn more!
***
This Week’s Texts
1 Kings 17:8-16
8Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying, 9“Go now to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and live there; for I have commanded a widow there to feed you.” 10So he set out and went to Zarephath. When he came to the gate of the town, a widow was there gathering sticks; he called to her and said, “Bring me a little water in a vessel, so that I may drink.” 11As she was going to bring it, he called to her and said, “Bring me a morsel of bread in your hand.” 12But she said, “As the Lord your God lives, I have nothing baked, only a handful of meal in a jar, and a little oil in a jug; I am now gathering a couple of sticks, so that I may go home and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it, and die.” 13Elijah said to her, “Do not be afraid; go and do as you have said; but first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterwards make something for yourself and your son. 14For thus says the Lord the God of Israel: The jar of meal will not be emptied and the jug of oil will not fail until the day that the Lord sends rain on the earth.” 15She went and did as Elijah said, so that she as well as he and her household ate for many days. 16The jar of meal was not emptied, neither did the jug of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke by Elijah.
Psalm 146 (The Message)
Hallelujah!
O my soul, praise God!
All my life long I’ll praise God,
singing songs to my God as long as I live.
Don’t put your life in the hands of experts
who know nothing of life, of salvation life.
Mere humans don’t have what it takes;
when they die, their projects die with them.
Instead, get help from the God of Jacob,
put your hope in God and know real blessing!
God made sky and soil,
sea and all the fish in it.
He always does what he says—
he defends the wronged,
he feeds the hungry.
God frees prisoners—
he gives sight to the blind,
he lifts up the fallen.
God loves good people, protects strangers,
takes the side of orphans and widows,
but makes short work of the wicked.
God’s in charge—always.
Zion’s God is God for good!
Hallelujah!
Hebrews 9:24-28
24For Christ did not enter a sanctuary made by human hands, a mere copy of the true one, but he entered into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf. 25Nor was it to offer himself again and again, as the high priest enters the Holy Place year after year with blood that is not his own; 26for then he would have had to suffer again and again since the foundation of the world. But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the age to remove sin by the sacrifice of himself. 27And just as it is appointed for mortals to die once, and after that the judgment, 28so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin, but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.
Mark 12:38-44
38As he taught, he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, 39and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! 40They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”
41He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. 42A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. 43Then he called his disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. 44For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”
Peace,
+Pastor Carrie Smith
carrie.smith@bethanylc.com
