FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT: HOPE

Sermon Notes, November 30, 2014

Rev. Dan White

            Sunday was the first Sunday of Advent.  The candle of Hope was lit.  Pastor Dan’s sermon text was Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”  God loves us with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3, John 3:16)

            We are surrounded by noise.  We must really listen in order to hear God.  Then we must respond to what we hear from Him. 

Luke 1 tells the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, both from a priestly family.  They wanted children, had prayed for them for years, but they were old, and they had no children.  It was Zechariah’s turn to go into the Holy of Holies.  The angel of God spoke to him, “Don’t be afraid; your prayer has been answered.  Your wife will bear a son.  Call him John.  He will be a joy to you. He is not to drink wine.  He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from birth.”  (v. 11-17) Zechariah asked the angel “How can I be sure of this?  I’m old and my wife is well along in years.” There were consequences to his question. (v. 19)  The angel told him that because he doubted, he would be unable to speak until this happens.  When Zechariah came out, people realized he had seen a vision because he couldn’t talk. (v. 21-22)  When he went home, Elizabeth became pregnant.  (v. 23-25)

            During the Christmas season we are surrounded by noise.  If we’re not careful, Jesus’ voice will be drowned out.  We need to hear God, not just hear about Him.  The best place to start your day at Christmas time is in church.  God does great things when you turn your life over to Him.