“So, Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born.” (Luke 2:4-6, NIV)
MCC Hartford December 2024 Newsletter
Advent and Christmas greetings, dear friends.
The season of Advent begins the familiar story of a journey to Bethlehem and a lowly manger that cradled love, hope, peace, and joy. Advent is traditionally a time of waiting with anticipation (expectant like Mary) and making the long trek once again to the place where Jesus was born. We experience this each year with wonder and awe; as if for the first time, like children.
As the story begins, Joseph and Mary set out to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem, the 90 or so miles, without any means of comfort. They had no choice, given the government edict to register, and there was no way for them to know what lay ahead during the journey or when they arrived. Would they survive the travel (the route was dangerous and cold)? In Bethlehem, would they find shelter and be met with hospitality, kindness, and compassion? Would they be fed and find safety? Where and how difficult would Mary’s labor and delivery be (hopefully without complications)? And, could this vulnerable infant be born in such unclean conditions, without any preparedness, and survive?
I am struck by the fact this journey and birth is almost entirely depicted in the dark through illustration and song lyrics (i.e. O Holy Night, Silent Night). The shepherds were in the field keeping watch over their flock by night and wasn’t a star the guiding light for Magi?
It seems to me, there is an underlying message that is profoundly important for us to hear, especially now--as we begin a journey ourselves within this country as the new administration takes office in January. It may feel like we, too, are traveling in the dark, uncertain about what lies ahead. Will we be welcome? Will we be met with hospitality, kindness, and compassion? Like Mary and Joseph, will angels guide us and the light of God’s love pierce the night for us, too? Are we expecting a miracle is in the making and when we see one will we fall on our knees (like Magi) --- overwhelmed with awe and filled with joy? The Nativity story reminds us each year that darkness is not new and that it loses its power in the light---the light of Christ. This light can never be diminished or extinguished. As a familiar song goes “The world didn’t give it and the world can’t take it away.”
So, take heart fellow travelers for Hark (in the dark)! The herald angels still sing-----glory to God in the highest!! A dark night may very well be a sign of a miracle. If in doubt, look up…to see the light of the stars---given as a reminder that God is watching over and lighting the way…not just with one star but with many.
Happy Advent and Merry Christmas, dear friends. May we shine this light of love everywhere we go, bringing love, hope, peace, and joy---like living Advent candles. And, may we join the angels in singing this never-ending song of Divine Love, that is born again and again in hearts and nations everywhere.
Amen and Merry Christmas! -- Pastor Aaron
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MCC Hartford December 2024
Schedule of Events
Note: events via Zoom are noted (the link for these events is included below)
December 1
On the first Sunday, we celebrate “Sunshine Sunday” as we welcome a cup-full of sunshine from our church family in Florida with Lay Pastor Jackie preaching.
Season of Advent starts. We celebrate the season each week with lighting the Advent wreath candles (Hope, Joy, Peace, and Love) the 4 weeks before Christmas.
Birthday Sunday -- join us as we celebrate those who were born this month in singing ‘Happy Birthday’ and, of course, with cake after the worship service!
Wednesdays December 4-18 will be a journey through Advent (on Zoom)
Join us as we experience the Christmas story in our own lives as we travel (like Mary and Joseph) with hopeful anticipation. All are welcome. (Note: after this Advent study, we will be on holiday until January)
Tuesday December 10 at 6:30pm – Board Meeting (on Zoom) Join us for the monthly
MCCH Board of Directors meeting. All are welcome.
Saturday December 14: Christmas Carol-sing followed by dinner at Clyde and Scott’s. We will sing our favorite Christmas Carols by the Christmas Tree starting at 5pm followed by dinner at 6pm. Dress in holiday cheer and come join us as we fill the night with song, good food, wonderful friends, and much joy! All are welcome. (A love offering is welcome; if you are able.)
Tuesday December 24 -- Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 5pm (in-person only). This year, we will be hosting an intimate IN-PERSON (not on Zoom) candlelight service on Christmas Eve. We hope you will join us as we re-tell the Christmas story in Word and Song and then light candles as we share the light of Christ and the warmth of candles that connect us heart-to-heart. The waiting is nearly over as Love will be born again this night. Come, O Come, Emmanuel--God with us always…and forever.
Join via Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/719817716
Important note: If you are in need of pastoral care, a prayer or support please contact the pastor by
text/phone at (203) 209-1504 or through email at: aaronmillerpastor@gmail.com
