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Sunday, December 28
1st Sunday after Christmas
Pastor Molly, preaching
8:30amin the Epworth Lounge 10:30am in the Sanctuary
Sunday's Scripture:
Luke 2:22-40
Luke 2:22-24 Then when the days stipulated by Moses for purification were complete, they took him up to Jerusalem to offer him to God as commanded in God’s Law: “Every male who opens the womb shall be a holy offering to God,” and also to sacrifice the “pair of doves or two young pigeons” prescribed in God’s Law.
25-32 In Jerusalem at the time, there was a man, Simeon by name, a good man, a man who lived in the prayerful expectancy of help for Israel. And the Holy Spirit was on him. The Holy Spirit had shown him that he would see the Messiah of God before he died. Led by the Spirit, he entered the Temple. As the parents of the child Jesus brought him in to carry out the rituals of the Law, Simeon took him into his arms and blessed God:
God, you can now release your servant;
release me in peace as you promised.
With my own eyes I’ve seen your salvation;
it’s now out in the open for everyone to see:
A God-revealing light to the non-Jewish nations,
and of glory for your people Israel.
33-35 Jesus’ father and mother were speechless with surprise at these words. Simeon went on to bless them, and said to Mary his mother,
This child marks both the failure and
the recovery of many in Israel,
A figure misunderstood and contradicted—
the pain of a sword-thrust through you—
But the rejection will force honesty,
as God reveals who they really are.
36-38 Anna the prophetess was also there, a daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher. She was by now a very old woman. She had been married seven years and a widow for eighty-four. She never left the Temple area, worshiping night and day with her fastings and prayers. At the very time Simeon was praying, she showed up, broke into an anthem of praise to God, and talked about the child to all who were waiting expectantly for the freeing of Jerusalem.
39-40 When they finished everything required by God in the Law, they returned to Galilee and their own town, Nazareth. There the child grew strong in body and wise in spirit. And the grace of God was on him.
John Wesley's Notes-Commentary for Luke 2:22-40
Verse 22
[22] And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;
The days — The forty days prescribed, Leviticus 12:2,4.
Verse 23
[23] (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)
Exodus 13:2.
Verse 24
[24] And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.
A pair of turtle doves, or two young pigeons — This offering sufficed for the poor. Leviticus 12:8.
Verse 25
[25] And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
The consolation of Israel — A common phrase for the Messiah, who was to be the everlasting consolation of the Israel of God.
The Holy Ghost was upon him — That is, he was a prophet.
Verse 27
[27] And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,
By the Spirit — By a particular revelation or impulse from him.
Verse 30
[30] For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
Thy salvation — Thy Christ, thy Saviour.
Verse 32
[32] A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
And the glory of thy people Israel — For after the Gentiles are enlightened, all Israel shall be saved.
Verse 33
[33] And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken — For they did not thoroughly understand them.
Verse 34
[34] And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;
Simeon blessed them — Joseph and Mary.
This child is set for the fall and rising again of many — That is, he will be a savour of death to some, to unbelievers: a savour of life to others, to believers: and for a sign which shall be spoken against - A sign from God, yet rejected of men: but the time for declaring this at large was not yet come: that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed - The event will be, that by means of that contradiction, the inmost thoughts of many, whether good or bad, will be made manifest.
Verse 35
[35] (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
A sword shall pierce through thy own soul — So it did, when he suffered: particularly at his crucifixion.
Verse 37
[37] And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
Fourscore and four years — These were the years of her life, not her widowhood only.
Who departed not from the temple — Who attended there at all the stated hours of prayer.
But served God with fastings and prayers — Even at that age.
Night and day — That is, spending therein a considerable part of the night, as well as of the day.
Verse 38
[38] And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
To all that were waiting for redemption — The sceptre flow appeared to he departing from Judah, though it was not actually gone: Daniel's weeks were plainly near their period. And the revival of the spirit of prophecy, together with the memorable occurrences relating to the birth of John the Baptist, and of Jesus, could not but encourage and quicken the expectation of pious persons at this time. Let the example of these aged saints animate those, whose hoary heads, like theirs, are a crown of glory, being found in the way of righteousness. Let those venerable lips, so soon to be silent in the grave, be now employed in the praises of their Redeemer. Let them labour to leave those behind, to whom Christ will be as precious as he has been to them; and who will be waiting for God's salvation, when they are gone to enjoy it.
Verse 40
[40] And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.
And the child grew — In bodily strength and stature; and waxed strong in spirit - The powers of his human mind daily improved; filled with wisdom - By the light of the indwelling Spirit, which gradually opened itself in his soul; and the grace of God was upon him - That is, the peculiar favour of God rested upon him, even as man.
The Sermon Story "The Law Kept" by Gary Lee Parker for Sunday, 28 December 2014
Here we go hearing this story on the first Sunday after Christmas of Jesus' presentation of him and his Mother Mary into the Temple as prescribed by the Torah. We have heard over and over that Jesus abolished the Law after His Appearance as a man to live, suffer, die, and be raised but God allowed the Torah to continue. Here we have his earthly parents presenting Him to the Temple for the purification right of the Mother after so many days of the birth of a child. At this time, there were two people who were old but God kept them alive to see the promised Messiah who would bring salvation not only to Israel, but to all the people of the world. The first was a man named Simeon who prophesied as he held baby Jesus that he would bring much good and bad to many in Israel and even a sword would pierce Mary's heart. What a response to a new born baby. Then, the second was woman named Anna who began sharing about the prophesies to be fulfilled by this baby. Both of them said that they may die and be with God because God has fulfilled His word to them. How would you respond to to old people in the Temple? How do you respond to this Jesus after two thousand years of His presence as humanity and sending His Holy Spirit? What story do you have to tell others about Jesus in your life? Everybody has a story no matter who you are because there was a person who even though he was raised in a single mother's household under the care of the Government Aide or Welfare system, this family was raised by their mother to love God and all other people with the uncondtional love that God has for us. She also raised this family to allow them to know that the government aide is not to be permanent, but to give a chance to the people receiving the aide to begin to contribute back to society through their education. From this training as well as the formal training from school and church these children of this single mother received quality education and employment to give back to society as they have been given. This man is thankful for God's Presence in his family through his government, but become saddened because the same opportunity is not given to others just because they have a different skin color. May we remember that the Torah is here to not make us legalist, but to extend Grace to us through what God's Son, Jesus, did for all us to bring Grace, Love, and Justice to all people in the world not just a select few. We look upon this Christmas holiday as a time of renewal for each of us to be used of God to bring Heaven to earth as we pray each week in the Lord's Prayer. Just maybe as we approach this New Year 2015, we may read and participate in the John Wesley's Covenant Worship Service to Coventant with our friends and family to God that we confess of sins to repentance and live as God has called us to live with His Grace to bring Grace, Love, Peace, and Justice to ALL people in the world.
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| In This Issue |
| eScrip |
| From the Lay Leader |
| Chancel Choir News |
| Like us on Facebook |
| This Week at Church... |
| 20/30 Group |
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The Church office plans to close at noon on December 24, and will be closed Dec 25.
On December 29 & 30, the office will be open from noon-3pm; it will be closed Dec 31& Jan 1.
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| Adult Bible Study
The Pastor's Bible Study meets Thursdays at 11:00amin May Day Parlor. We will not meet on Dec. 25 or Jan. 1.
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A special message...
Church member Norma Nelson wishes everyone at Redondo Beach First UMC a very Merry Christmas. She misses coming to church and seeing everyone, but thinks of her church family often. Norma loves keeping in touch and hearing about everything that is happening here. MERRY CHRISTMAS FUMCRB!! |
A Church That Responds to the Needs of the Community Every Wednesday, with help from neighbor congregations and many volunteers, we host Shared Bread, a free meal for the community. (Click the logo for more information.) |
Groceries =
$$$ for Church
Looking for an easy way to support our church? Now you can do your grocery shopping and the store will give a percentage back to FUMCRB! Click the image on the left to learn how you can sign up for this easy giving program. Our Stewardship Team can answer any questions!
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WANT TO STAY CURRENT ON
ANNUAL CONFERENCE NEWS?
CLICK THE IMAGE ON THE RIGHT TO LINK TO THE CAL-PAC WEBSITE.
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You may also visit the new website for the entire denomination of United Methodist Church here.
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Want to see photos of past church
activities and events?
Check out our
Flickr page and ourFacebook page
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The Light of Christ, Held in Our Hands
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I never tire of the beauty of Christmas Eve candlelight--of watching as the light is passed from person-to-person and its glow begins to fill the sanctuary. As it's held in the hands of the beautiful diversity of people who've come to worship on Christmas Eve, the candlelight illuminates faces in which we are invited to see Christ.
Though the light of a single candle flame in my hands feels like such a small thing to hold onto in the face of the darkness of a long night, I always feel a powerful hopefulness when I hold it in the company of others--and especially at church. That light, held in each of our hands, has power because it's held in so many hands, working together.
This is the beauty of the Body of Christ--it's bigger that we imagine. As the light fills our tall sanctuary on Christmas Eve, we get to imagine the light generated by the millions of people around the world who hold onto this same hope.
Some of you have shared old Christmas Eve traditions with me--of walking outside with candlelight, singing together and taking the light into the world. Of taking the candle and its light to share with those who couldn't make it to church, and of letting it strengthen you for the work of being Christ's love to a world in need.
May it be so.
grace and peace,
Pastor Molly
P.S. This Sunday, we will continue our Christmas celebration--I look forward to being with you as we read the story of Simeon and Anna, a story of answered prayers.
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| Contact Info
Pastor Molly Vetter
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To make space for worship and our Shared Bread meal tonight, we are having two candlelight worship services--at 4pm and 11pm.
 Our 4pm worship will be family-friendly--we'll sing through many beloved Christmas songs, read the Christmas story and share candlelight. Some of our young people will sing a special song, too!
At 11pm, our Chancel Choir will sing, and we will also share in Holy Communion, as well as Christmas carols, scripture and candlelight.
Come early for both services. At 4pm, children from our congregation will be playing music for the prelude. At 11pm, the choir will be gathering in the narthex about 15 minutes early to sing Christmas carols. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun.
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Parking Reminder: If you are able, we encourage you to park at the Wells Fargo bank on Sunday mornings, and walk across the street, reserving the parking lot for those with mobility challenges or for new visitors. We also have a bike rack on the patio, for those who choose to bike to church! Thanks for your consideration.
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Year-End Giving
We invite you to participate in a Christmas Special Offering, between now and the end of the year. Your gifts will help us reach our ministry goals and obligations.
Also, as a reminder, any pledges or gifts for our 2014 budget--or that you wish to use as tax-deductible contributions for 2014--need to be postmarked or delivered to the church byDecember 31. We are so grateful for your generosity!
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Big Bear Youth Retreat 2015
The youth group is kicking off 2015 with our annual trip to Big Bear! It will be big, and it will set the tone for the next year. Don't miss it!
Our Price: $100
More Info: Click here!
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January Sermon Series:
God's Calling
Stories of how God's using us
to do amazing things.
Worship with us on Sundays
at 8:30 and 10:30am.
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The Lay Looker, Bob Peterson
a view from the pew from a longtime member of our church
"Because this is written Christmas Eve Day, I'm still making plans to be with family over the Holidays. Being with family, including our church family, make the season special and getting all those nice cards from around the country also helps bring beautiful memories into my mind.
So, as we share the excitement of giving and remembering the baby Jesus' birth and the beginning of a life that changed the world, we too should continue doing things that bring happiness to others and help..."
Read the rest of Bob's recent Lay Looker columns on our website by clicking here. Merry Christmas 2014 by Bob Peterson Because this is written Christmas Eve Day, I'm still making plans to be with family over the Holidays. Being with family, including our church family, make the season special and getting all those nice cards from around the country also helps bring beautiful memories into my mind. So, as we share the excitement of giving and remembering the baby Jesus' birth and the beginning of a life that changed the world, we too should continue doing things that bring happiness to others and help those in need. As has been said, we will always have the poor and there will always be the need to help out. Now, we plan for the new year. I was one of those at the recent Charge Conference meeting where the future of our church is laid out for inspection, new leaders are announced, goals set, financial details examined and our Pastor Molly reminds us to continue be follow the teachings of Jesus, the Son of God. You want a better church? Keep on working to help make ours important in our lives and in the world. Hope to see you Sunday and each Sunday in 2015 and that we all do everything we can to make next year the best year in our church's history. By the way, if you want to know something about our church history, talk with Paul Caldwell, the church historian. If he cannot answer your questions, he'll find someone who will, or keep digging until he can answer you himself. |
From the Lay Leader, Johnna Kosnoff
bi-weekly thoughts and reflections from our church Lay
Leader
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Join the Choir!
There's still room for more voices to join in the singing! We're adding handbells into some of the music, too--so ringers are welcome.
Rehearsals are on Wednesdayevenings, from 7:30-9pm in the Choir Room. Everyone's welcome. Come share your gifts and be a part of some amazing music-making to glorify God. |
Fall Stewardship Pledge Campaign
Thank you to everyone who has made a pledge of financial commitment to our church and ministries for 2015. We have already received 48 pledges, totaling $201,080 for our general budget--this is nearly 65% of our goal. We are glad to receive your pledges in coming weeks, and hope to receive many more.
Pledge cards are available in the sanctuary, church office, or you can submit pledges online. You can read more about our pledge campaign on our website.
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| Community Events and Other Opportunities: click these links for more information
January 17 - 19, 2015, Camp Wrightwood Winter Camp, sponsored by our Annual Conference, is only $95 for the weekend, including activities, staff, and meals. It's a wonderful opportunity for children and teens to spend a weekend with their peers from across the conference and (hopefully!) enjoy some time in the snow.
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To the entire congregation: Please Check Into Church!
Your results will be helpful for our membership committee to know areas of interest in our church and see who still needs assistance connecting in our church. If you are already as involved as you want to be, just fill in the areas where you are already serving! You may pick up a paper copy in the office or go to our website and complete it. CLICK HERE
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Look what fun we've been having!
Click through to see more pictures from ourPageant (left) or All-in-One Advent Fun (above)!
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 Like us on Facebook!
Visit the page and "like" us so you can see and share the latest photos, news and links from the church.
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This Week at Church...
Nursery (6 weeks-2 years):
The Nursery is open during both services: 8:30am for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old and 10:30am for children 6 weeks to 4 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (Preschool- 3rd Grade):
8:30am & 10:30am: Join us in service! Look for special activities on the children's cart that invite children to engage with the message. (Sunday School starts again on January 11th)
Church R Us (4th and 5th grade):
8:30am & 10:30am: Join us in service! Look for special activities book that invite children to engage with the message. Watch your email for information about our upcoming Fun Friday Fellowship on January 9th. (CRU starts again on January 11th)
Youth Group (6th-12th grade):
-Big Bear Youth Retreat Sign-ups are online! Check out the promo video and sign up here!
-Middle School Sunday School? Yes! Remember, we do it every otherweek at 10:30am in the youth room!
-Youth Group-Come hang out this Sunday at our regular time, 3-5pm.Adult Sunday School:
Advent Video Bible Study: A study and conversation about advent, in Epworth Lounge from 9:30-10:15. Led by Pastor Molly and Stephen Hale.
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Men's Breakfast:
Our next breakfast is Monday, January 5 at 7AM. Coco's Restaurant, 18120 Hawthorne Blvd. (Hawthorne and 182nd) All men of the church and their friends are welcome to join us for fellowship.
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20/30 group: This young adult group is a casual gathering of people in their 20's and 30's looking to connect with other young adults who attend the same church. Contact Amanda Kuczun for info on upcoming events!
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First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
310-372-8445 main 310-372-5696 fax
Reverend Molly Vetter, Lead & Teaching Pastor PastorMolly@beachfaith.com
Ernie Valenzuela, Administrative Assistant x101 Ernie@beachfaith.com
First United Methodist Church
243 South Broadway Strett
Redondo Beach, California 90277 United States
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