While I do not believe this is what Einstein had in mind when he was studying the “space-time continuum”, Star Wars fans, in the late 1990’s/early 2000’s, were invited into “prequels”. The stories, in these movies, took place sometimes over 30 years before the events of the original Star Wars movie. The lectionary (suggested) readings for this Advent season also take us on a non-linear journey across time and space. This includes the scripture passage for this Sunday, which is based on the words of the writer of the Gospel of John 1:6-8, 19-28.
As Biblical scholar, Karoline Lewis, writes “Smack dab in the middle of an out of this world, beyond time and space beginnings of the Gospel of John, is John (the Baptist)- interrupting this cosmic birth story…* The Gospel of Luke tells us that Jesus and John were close in age. Yet, this week’s scripture passage has John already grown up, while we won’t celebrate Jesus’ birth until the next week. However, the importance is not the space-time continuum, but who Jesus is, and who John is called to be as a witness.
As we receive New Members this Sunday, they will each be asked if they will agree to the promises of membership: Will you be loyal to Christ through the United Methodist Church, and uphold it by your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service, and your witness? What might it mean for each of us to be a witness, as a follower of Jesus? We will explore this together in worship, on Sunday.
We will first gather and greet one another. All children are invited to ring us into worship. The Chancel Choir, accompanied by Ilze Akerbergs, will lead us in music. The Degener family will light the Advent Candle. A group of children, and the young at heart, will share “Away in a Manger” as a newly formed Chimes Choir (led by Lois Leong and Stephanie Conklin). There will also be a Children’s Moment. We will pray and reflect and have the blessing of receiving our New Members. Sue Sgambelluri will read our scripture passage (John 1:6-8, 19-28). The sermon is titled “Called to Witness”.
If you have been part of the St. Mark’s community for a long time, a short time, or will be joining us for the first time, we look forward to connecting with those of you here in-person or joining on the livestream.