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CHRIST THE KING SUNDAY

21 NOVEMBER 2021

Even after Israel had experienced the vagaries of kings, the people still longed for a true king to set things right.  He would have the king’s title of Anointed One (Messiah); he would be the “one like a human being” (Son of Man) given dominion in Daniel’s vision.  Jesus is given these titles, even though he is nothing like an earthly king.  His authority comes from the truth to which he bears witness, and those who recognize the truth voluntarily listen to him.  We look forward to the day he is given dominion, knowing his victory will be the nonviolent victory of love.

First Reading: Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14

To the community for whom this passage was written, it seemed as though the oppression they were experiencing would never end.  Daniel’s message is:  It shall end.  The Ancient One, who is judge, will call all nations to account and will give dominion to “one like a human being,” the Messiah.

Psalm: Psalm 93

Ever since the world began, your throne has been established. (Ps. 93:2)

Second Reading: Revelation 1:4b-8

The book of Revelation begins by celebrating the Almighty God, who spans all of time.  Similarly, Jesus is celebrated as the firstborn from the dead who rules over the world’s rulers.  He is the one whose return we eagerly await.

Gospel: John 18:33-37

In John’s gospel, the story of Jesus and Pilate presents two different ways of exercising power: through force or with love.

(from Sundays and Seasons, 2021, Year B, Guide to Worship Planning)

THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT

28 NOVEMBER 2021

Advent is about the “coming days.” God’s people have always lived in great expectation, but that expectation finds specific, repeated enunciation in the texts appointed for these four weeks.  The ancients anticipated a “righteous Branch to spring up for David.”  The Thessalonians awaited “the coming of our Lord Jesus with all the saints.”  Jesus’ contemporaries hoped for the time “to stand before the Son of Man.”  With them we eagerly await the coming days:  another Christmas celebration, a second coming, and the advent of Christ in word and supper.

First Reading: Jeremiah 33:14-16

In the Old Testament, “righteousness” often has to do with being faithful in relationship.  God acts righteously both in punishing Israel for its sin and in having mercy.  In today’s reading, Jerusalem’s future name—“The Lord is our righteousness”—proclaims that God is even now working salvation for Israel.

Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13

Upon Timothy’s report from the congregation at Thessalonica, Paul is exuberant with gratitude for them.  In this passage from his letter, Paul voices overflowing thanks, joy, and blessings for the people of this growing church.

Gospel: Luke 21:25-36

God will fulfill God’s purposes and, already, hidden signs of that fulfillment abound.  On that great day there will be dismay, perplexity, confusion, and terror, but God’s people shall be given strength to stand boldly and receive God’s promised redemption.

(from Sundays and Seasons, 2022, Year C, Guide to Worship Planning)

During the Sunday of Advent, in place of the Psalm, we will be lighting the Advent Wreath with song and a litany of each candle for that Sunday.