Led by David Boyd.
Click here to download the sermon notes handout for children.
Welcome & Advent Candle Lighting
Opening Hymn: IPH 324 It Came Upon The Midnight Clear
Prayers of Adoration and Confession
Reading: Isaiah 2:1-5
Reflection: O Come, King of Peace
Sermon: “A Cry For Peace”
Praise: This Earth Belong To God
Prayers for Others
Closing Hymn: IPH 321 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Announcements
Benediction
Click here to read a transcript of today’s sermon.
Children’s Corner
Advent Alphabet: Only a few letters left, which means Christmas is almost here! Click here to see what words we’ve come up with so far!
Discussion & Application
Fight: Peacebreaking – sacrificing people and peace to win or get what we want – is characterised by insults and attacks (James 4:1). Think of some examples of peacebreaking in your life and in our world from the past year.
Flight: Peacefaking – pretending things are good even when they aren’t – is characterised by denial and avoidance, caring more about the appearance of peace rather than actual peace. Think of some examples of peacefaking in your life and in our world from the past year.
Flourish: Peacemaking – seeking restoration and reconciliation through the application of the gospel and living according to God’s ways – is characterised by discussion, mediation and accountability, by seeking God’s glory in a given situation and the prosperity of others.
When we act as peacemakers, we follow the example of Jesus, who reconciled us – His enemies – to God through His death. Read Romans 5:1-11, reflecting on this peace we have with God, and take time to praise God for this peace.
“O come, Desire of nations, bind all peoples in one heart and mind. Bid envy, strife, and quarrels cease and be Thyself our King of peace.”
Pray these words into specific situations, both locally and globally.
How can you seek to be a peacemaker this week? How can you help others “blossom and bloom”?