These weeks when we cannot gather in person for Sunday worship, Lakewood United Church of Christ is providing brief weekly sabbath programs for you to listen to on your own or with others in your social isolation group. They will be posted on Friday so that you can schedule your sabbath time to suit your schedule and your spiritual inclinations. We hope these programs are of spiritual support to you in these difficult times.
The post this week focuses on the theme for the third Sunday of Advent – joy.
This post includes a scripture reading from Claire Stiles, a reflection from Rev. Kim Wells and a music video by Hilton Jones. We hope this post helps to feed your spirit in these difficult times as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
You are invited to find a quiet space, inside or outside. Light a candle. Take a look around you. Breathe. Life-giving breath. Be present.
You may begin with this reading:
Bright star-maker God, travel with us through Advent shine into our dark corners lead us into ways of justice warm us with joy and wonder bring us to new birth. --Ruth Burgess
When you are ready, start the video below.
(For written text of the above video click HERE.)
As you listen to the music that follows, you are invited to notice the thoughts and feelings that arise for you.
In closing, you are invited to offer the following closing reading:
All the broken hearts shall rejoice: all those who are heavy laden, whose eyes are tired and do not see, shall be lifted up to meet with the motherly healer. The battered souls and bodies shall be healed; the hungry shall be fed; the imprisoned shall be free; all her earthly children shall regain joy in the reign of the just and loving one coming for you coming for me in this time in this world. --Sun Ai Lee Park, Hong Kong/USA
Breathe. Breathe again. Be filled. With joy. Extinguish your candle and engage whatever may come with a sense of peace and a desire to serve.
LAKEWOOD UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
- A Just Peace Church An Open and Affirming Church A Creation Justice Church
- 2601 54th Avenue South, St Petersburg, FL 33712-4700 (727) 867-7961 see the Contact page for map, personnel, and email addresses
The mission of Lakewood United Church of Christ, as part of the Church Universal, is to:
- Celebrate the presence and power of God in our lives and in our world;
- Offer the hospitality and inclusive love of Christ to all people;
- Work for God’s peace and justice throughout creation.
USEFUL LAKEWOOD LINKS DURING THE CORONA CRISIS:
Lakewood United Church of Christ 
Hilton, thank you for “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” – beautifully played & arranged – a lifetime favorite, even in my wedding 53 years ago.
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