What Do You Fear - Advent and Christmas 2025
Luke’s Gospel begins the story of Jesus with this opening line: “In the time of Herod...” This detail may seem minor to modern readers, however, it reveals layers of information about the fearful world Jesus entered, one filled with rampant oppression, economic disparity, uncertainty, and instability. A
world not so unlike our own. And yet, throughout the stories of Christ’s birth, we hear the whispers of angels delivering a surprising message: “Do not fear.” In our own time, we might ask: is it even possible to be fearless in a fearful world? When Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the magi are each called
into God’s redemptive story, they do not deny their fears—they move through them. They ask questions, hold fast to courage, trust in good news, and say, “Here I am, Lord.” When we find ourselves in fearful times, can we acknowledge our fears while also insisting on hope?
world not so unlike our own. And yet, throughout the stories of Christ’s birth, we hear the whispers of angels delivering a surprising message: “Do not fear.” In our own time, we might ask: is it even possible to be fearless in a fearful world? When Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the magi are each called
into God’s redemptive story, they do not deny their fears—they move through them. They ask questions, hold fast to courage, trust in good news, and say, “Here I am, Lord.” When we find ourselves in fearful times, can we acknowledge our fears while also insisting on hope?
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December 21 - 5:30 pm
Large Sanctuary Friends, though Christmas is a time of joy and hope, we also recognize that fear and grief are often present too, weighing on us like a heavy fog. Tonight we will light candles together and keep vigil, inviting God to join us no matter what emotions are present too. |
Christmas Eve Worship
Prelude - 5:15 pm
Worship - 5:30 pm
Please come and celebrate the birth of the Christ Child at Lake Nokomis Lutheran Church. Worship includes all the beloved carols to sing, Holy Communion, and candlelight. Invite a neighbor to join you.
Worship - 5:30 pm
Please come and celebrate the birth of the Christ Child at Lake Nokomis Lutheran Church. Worship includes all the beloved carols to sing, Holy Communion, and candlelight. Invite a neighbor to join you.
