The Covenant Keeper

Think about how a world in darkness can see one candle shine very brightly.

So this is the idea of the coming of the light.

and as Advent builds, the light builds too.

The revelation of God's plan, God's purpose, God's promises in Jesus grows, and we understand it better until Christmas when he's here, he's born, and the world is flooded with his light.

So there's a lot to celebrate, and that's the meaning of Advent.

Hark the herald angels sing Glory to the newborn King.

Peace on earth and mercy mild.

God and sinners reconciled.

Joyful all ye.

nations rise Join the triumph of the skies With angelic host proclaim Christ is born in Bethlehem Hark the herald angels sing Upon the world, promise from creation God's salvation now above Hope for ev'ry nation Love with love comes from above Isn't that good news? is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is is Reconciling God and man Christ the mighty champion What a Savior, what a friend What a glorious mystery Once a baby met the hand Now the Lord of history Come to Bethlehem and see Him whose birth the angels sing Come adore on bended knee Christ the Lord, the newborn King

What a joyful day.

Aren't you glad you came today?

Father, we come into your presence and we thank you again for the access that you give us.

You allow us to come from anywhere and we can come about anything and so, Father, we come.

You are sovereign from coast to coast, from country to country.

You hold the universe in place by the sheer force of your will.

You reign, Father, and we rejoice this morning because the fact that you reign gives us hope.

And so, Father, our prayer is simple this morning, that you would Visit each household that is worshiping with us today and that you would provide a fresh appreciation of your sovereignty, but a fresh appreciation of the hope that comes because you love us.

Your children need comfort this morning, Father.

Won't you comfort them? We cry out to you for mercy, Father.

We're well aware that there are many people who are unsheltered in Chicago today And they'll be cold and hungry.

We thank you for the provision you've given each one of us.

We thank you for the grace that you pour out in our lives.

Would you meet us where we are, Father, and give us what we need today.

Use your word as only you can.