A Year with Matthew 25

Nativity of the Lord, Revised Common Lectionary Year A. Matthew’s Gospel begins with Jesus’ family tree, the account of 42 generations from Abraham to David to Babylon to the Messiah. The God of our ancestors — indeed, of all history — has come to dwell with us. This is truly “good news of great joy for all” (Luke 2:10).  Readers: David Gambrell and Edwin González-Castillo. Musician: Phillip Morga...

Fourth Sunday of Advent, Revised Common Lectionary Year A. Jesus is “Emmanuel,” God with us. What difference does Jesus make in building congregational vitality, dismantling structural racism, and eradicating systemic poverty? By responding to these concerns, how might the church proclaim to the world that God is with us in Jesus? Reader: Shanea D. Leonard. Musicians: Gordon Thomas and Phillip Mor...

Third Sunday of Advent, Revised Common Lectionary Year A. Has the time finally come? Jesus describes signs that the kingdom of God has indeed come near: healing, new life, and good news for the poor. Have you seen signs of God’s realm with respect to racism, vitality, and poverty? Are we ready? What are we waiting for? Reader: Mienda Uriarte. Musicians: Gordon Thomas and Phillip Morgan. Music: &qu...

Second Sunday of Advent, Revised Common Lectionary Year A. It is our turn to turn. John calls us to repent (turn around) and prepare the way of the Lord. In what ways do we need to repent in relation to poverty, racism, and vitality? How might we prepare the way for the coming of God’s new realm of justice, peace, and righteousness? Reader: Ray Jones. Musicians: Gordon Thomas and Phillip Morgan. M...

First Sunday of Advent, Revised Common Lectionary Year A. There is good news and bad news. The bad news: Christ is coming at an unexpected time to judge the world. How will Christ judge us when it comes to poverty, vitality, and racism? The good news: Christ the judge is also Christ our Savior. How are we longing for salvation? Reader: Kim Long. Musicians: Gordon Thomas and Phillip Morgan. Music:...