And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. (Luke 2:10)
SCRIPTURE READINGS
HYMNS FOR THE WEEK
- Opening Hymn “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus” (LSB 338) Text here.
- Hymn of the Day “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come” (LSB 358) Text under “more” in video.
- Distribution Hymns
- “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” (LSB 366) Text under “more” in video.
- “Angels We Have Heard on High” (LSB 368)
- “The People That in Darkness Sat” (LSB 412) Text under “more” in video.
- “Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence” (LSB 621) Text under “more” in video.
- Closing Hymn “Silent Night, Holy Night” (LSB 363) Text under “more” in video.
Christmas eve candlelight service
Sermon
Please read the note below from Pastor Woodhouse regarding his sermon:
At first glance, there seems to be some significant tension between the tone set by our introit for Christmas Eve and the familiar story of the angels appearing to the shepherds on Christmas Morning. It seems so natural and so familiar to celebrate the birth of Jesus with joy and peace. Why does our introit sound so adversarial and confrontational? As we reflect on the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation to Adam and Eve, it will become clearer to us just how many people tried to thwart God’s plan, and how welcome is the news that God prevailed, anyway. As we marvel at this miraculous birth, we can become all the more appreciative of what our God has done for us this Christmas!