Prince of Peace

(Prince of Peace Confirmands narrated by Brent Haglund) When we made promises to these students long ago, we were serious about seeing it through. Back then, they were unable to speak for themselves, and yet they heard the promise of being "sealed with the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ, forever." Today, a piece of that promise has been honored. Now, we get to hear their words as they respond to that promise, and we take the next step in faith together. Scripture: Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 Song: Mountain by Twelwe Support our podcast here Watch the Livestream Follow us on Instagram Visit our Website

(Natalia Terfa) At Christmas, we are reminded that God comes to us. But then what? What happens after God comes? There are quite a few clues to help us answer this question at the start of John’s Gospel, to set us up as we enter a new year with Emmanuel.  Scripture: John 1:1-18 Song: Hold My Hand by They Dream By Day Support our podcast here Watch the Livestream Follow us on Instagram Visit our Website

(Chad Brekke) Home is not necessarily a place, but where we find authentic belonging. In this story, we find Jesus pursuing his theological education, increasing in his wisdom even as a young man. After the Passover festival, he strays from his birth family to dwell in the Temple, listening to the Rabbis and asking questions. Jesus claims and takes up space, choosing to dwell where God has chosen him to be. Similarly, we all need homes of our choosing— people and places that welcome us just as we are. Scripture: Luke 2:41-52 Song: Wherever You Are by Barnaby Bright (Paul & Amy Koopman) Support our podcast here Watch the Livestream Follow us on Instagram Visit our Website

(Natalia Terfa) After receiving the angel’s extraordinary news, Mary retreats to Elizabeth and Zechariah’s home to digest her new calling. She seeks refuge—physical safety and emotional protection. She receives a safe haven, a home for her heart to soon sing praise. Sanctuary and safe space are so crucial for everyone, especially the mother of Christ while she prepares to become a home for God. Sanctuary is anywhere God’s love dwells freely and abundantly. Scripture: Luke 1:39-55 Song: Wherever You Are by Barnaby Bright (Paul & Amy Koopman) Support our podcast here Watch the Livestream Follow us on Instagram Visit our Website

(Chad Brekke) John the Baptist’s good news sounds harsh, but he preaches a home for all— where inequities are banished, valleys are lifted up, and all have the resources they need for collective flourishing. Ultimately, John’s message is one of joy. We are called to collectively build and repair the structures of our society; we are called to be kin-dom builders. Wherever we build, God is there. What we build should be a place with a large table and room for all. Scripture: Luke 3:7-18 Song: Wherever You Are by Barnaby Bright (Paul & Amy Koopman) Support our podcast here Watch the Livestream Follow us on Instagram Visit our Website

(Natalia Terfa) In the miraculous birth of John the Baptist, we see the foundation of what is to come. We see how interwoven his story is with Jesus’ origin story. When Zechariah regains his voice, his imagination is also restored. He offers deep praise for God’s tender mercy and casts a hopeful vision for his own child. He sings blessings into John’s being. This lays the foundation for John’s life. In turn, John will go on to prepare the way for Jesus who will guide us all in the way of peace. In this week, we focus on making space—in our lives and our imaginations—forGod’s blessings to break through. Scripture: Luke 1:57-80 Song: Wherever You Are by Barnaby Bright Support our podcast here Watch the Livestream Follow us on Instagram Visit our Website

(Chad Brekke) As we begin Advent with the “Little Apocalypse” in Luke 21, we remember how far from home we are. The world is not as it should be. Many have lost their physical homes, many feel alone, and many are isolated. Many of us feel as if we are wandering with no clear way forward. This first week speaks to our deep longing—for our home to be made whole, made right, and made well. With deep longing, we watch for God. Thankfully, God enters a homesick world. Scripture: Luke 21:25-36 & 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 Song: Wherever You Are by Barnaby Bright Support our podcast here Watch the Livestream Follow us on Instagram Visit our Website

(Natalia Terfa) The call of the people of God on this Reign of Christ Sunday is the same year after year: God is God, I am not. This year, we speak these words again, as we wonder what it means to live in a world where we are not king. Scripture: John 18:33-37 Song: Queens And Kings by Curio Support our podcast here Watch the Livestream Follow us on Instagram Visit our Website