Weekly Worship Bulletin for 12/29/24

Sunday, December 29, 2024 – First Sunday of Christmas

The bulletin may be accessed by clicking “Read More” below and looking under "downloads" at the bottom of the page.  

Becoming Who We Were Intended to Be 

In this Christmas season we celebrate that Jesus has come among us to free us from our enslavement to sin and to restore the dignity of our human nature. With Christ dwelling richly within us, we are empowered to answer our divine callings.

In the gospel Jesus models this by spending time in his “Father’s house,” listening carefully and learning from the teachers. Because of this faithfulness, he increased in wisdom and “in divine and human favor.” Likewise, Samuel learned from the scriptures. This helped him to grow both in stature and “in favor with the Lord and with the people.”

Both Jesus and Samuel are young boys in today’s texts, yet they’re already in the temple answering their unique calls. This illuminates that as God’s children, with the Spirit at work within us, it is never too soon to begin the work of ministry.

The Colossians text instructs us, as God’s chosen ones, to clothe ourselves with love. Humility and the attributes of a servant will enable us to forgive one another and live in peace. In addition, a heart of gratitude is important.

Together, these scriptures help us recognize that each one of us is called through our baptism. God seals us with the Holy Spirit and sets about to transform us through that call. As we answer it, we become who God intends us to be.

How to watch via livestream or on demand:

Join us Sunday mornings at 10am as we broadcast live directly on our website: clcathens.org/live. (Note: If you don’t hear audio, make sure that it is not muted.)
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Thank you for your partnership and your generosity.  Please know that your financial support for the ministry of Christ Lutheran is greatly appreciated. Consider giving in one of the following ways:

• Mail your Sunday offerings to: Christ Lutheran Church, Attn Wanda Weinberg, 69 Mill St., Athens, OH 45701
• Donate on our website, click on "Give" on the top right and follow the prompts.