CHRISTMAS EVE 2013
FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH (Missouri Synod) Pastor Gerhard Grabenhofer Organist: Katie Rosenwinkel 71 W. First St. Corning, NY Phone: 962-4970 [email protected] www.faithlutherancorning.org
A SERVICE OF LESSONS AND CAROLS— CHRISTMAS EVE 2013 Pre-service Prayers (Hymnal pp. 4; 102-109; 118; 170) Hymn #62 Oh, Come, Oh, Come, Emmanuel At the final stanza, the congregation turns facing the processional cross P: In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. C:Amen.
Confession And Absolution P: Dearly beloved! We have come together in the presence of God our heavenly Father, to render thanks for the great benefits that we have received at His hand, to set forth His most worthy praise, to hear His holy Word, and to ask for ourselves and on behalf of others, those things that are necessary for our life and salvation. O come, let us worship Him! Let us kneel and bow down before Him. Let us confess our sins with penitent hearts, and obtain forgiveness by His infinite grace and mercy. C: Almighty and most merciful Father, I have strayed from Your ways like a lost sheep. I have followed the devices and desires of my heart. I have offended against Your holy law. I have done those things which I should not have done, and I have not done those things which I should have done. Have mercy on me, O Lord! Spare and restore me, according to the promises You have declared to us in Jesus Christ, our Lord. For His sake grant that I may live a godly, righteous, and sober life, to the glory of Your holy name. P: Upon this your confession, I, by virtue of my office, as a called and ordained servant of the Word, announce the grace of God unto you, and in the stead and by the command of my Lord Jesus Christ, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the ()Son and of the Holy Spirit. C: Amen. Introit: (Psalm 2.7; Isaiah 7.14; 9.6; Ps. 98. 1-4) P: I will tell of the decree: The Lord said to Me, “You are My Son; today I have begotten You.” C: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.
P: A Child will be born for us, a Son will be given to us, and the government will be on His shoulder, C: And He will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. P: Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! For He has done marvelous things. C: The Lord has made known His salvation; He has revealed His righteousness in the sight of the nations. P: He has remembered His mercy and faithfulness. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. C: Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth. Break forth in song, rejoice, and sing praises. All: Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. P: The Lord be with you. C: And also with you. P: O God, You make us glad with the yearly remembrance of Your onlybegotten Son, Jesus Christ. Grant that as we joyfully receive Him as our Redeemer, we may with sure confidence behold Him when He comes to be our Judge; through the same, Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord. C: Amen.
First Lesson read by Paul Sutton: Isaiah 40. 1-5 This a prophecy about St. John the Baptizer who prepared the way for Jesus by preaching repentance. Repentance is two parts: first sorrow over sin and faith in God’s promise of “Comfort”, of forgiveness of sins in Christ which is—Double—more than enough. With the forgiveness of sins we have peace with God. Only the penitent sinners can enter Christ’s kingdom. The call to repent is in picturesque language: the discouraged are to gain courage and confidence, the proud and arrogant will be humbled, and false and perverse hearts will become right and honest. 1
"Comfort, yes, comfort My people!" Says your God. 2 "Speak to the heart of Jerusalem, and cry out to her, That her warfare is ended, That her guilt is pardoned; That she has received from the LORD'S hand Double for all her sins."3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness: "Prepare the way of the LORD; Make straight in the desert A highway for our God.4 Every valley shall be exalted And every mountain and hill brought low; The crooked places shall be made straight And the rough places smooth;5 The glory of the LORD shall be revealed, And all flesh shall see it together; For the mouth of the LORD has spoken." This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: #90 (1-6) Come, Your Hearts and Voices Raising
Second Lesson read by Ken Zaun: Luke 1.5-17 The announcement of the birth of St. John the Baptizer, who by preaching repentance will prepare the way for Jesus. “John” means “God is gracious,” testifying and guaranteeing that God looks upon His people in grace. After about 800 years the prophecy was fulfilled. There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. 7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years. 8 So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division,9 according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.10 And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. 11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. 13 But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.14 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.15 For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother's womb. 16 And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God.17 He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, 'to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,' and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: #95 Savior of the Nations, Come, [Congregation stands at stanza 7]
Third Lesson read by Greg Behrens: Malachi 3. 1-3 This is a prophecy the Son of God spoke through the Old Testament prophet Malachi. Here He calls John “My messenger.” This is a prophecy of Jesus First Coming. Those who receive Him would be purified/ refined as through faith they receive the forgiveness of sins and Messiah’s holiness. "Behold, I send My messenger, And he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, Will suddenly come to His temple, Even the Messenger of the covenant, In whom you delight. Behold, He is coming," Says the LORD of hosts.2 "But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner's fire And like launderer's soap.3 He will sit as a refiner and a purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi, And purge them as
gold and silver, That they may offer to the LORD An offering in righteousness. This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: #85 (1-4) From Heaven Above to Earth I Come
Fourth Lesson read by Tom Rosenwinkel: Luke 1. 26-38 The angel Gabriel announces to Mary that although she is a virgin, she will give birth to a Son—the Messiah, true God and true Man. Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee 27 named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the 28 house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, "Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among 29 women!" But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered 30 what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, 31 Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your 32 womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of 33 His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His 34 kingdom there will be no end." Then Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, 35 since I do not know a man?" And the angel answered and said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and 37 this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing 38 will be impossible." Then Mary said, "Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her. This is the word of the Lord.
Prayer: L: O God, You make this most holy night to shine with the brightness of the true Light. Grant that as we have known the mysteries of that Light on earth we may also come to the fullness of His joys in heaven; through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son our Lord. C: Amen
Hymn: #106 The People That in Darkness Sat [Congregation stands at stanza 7] Fifth Lessons read by Jon Maxim: Isaiah 9. 1, 2 According to this prophecy, the Messiah would be from Galilee, in the north of Israel. The second prophecy places His birth in Bethlehem, in the south near Jerusalem. God mightily works all things and controls all His history for His good and gracious purposes.
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Nevertheless the gloom will not be upon her who is distressed, As when at first He lightly esteemed The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, And afterward more heavily oppressed her, By the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, In Galilee of the Gentiles.2 The people who walked in darkness Have seen a great light; Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, Upon them a light has shined. This is the word of the Lord.
Micah 5. 2-5 This prophecy, which refers to the promised Virgin of Isaiah 7, is a prophecy of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. Also note that Jesus’ divine and human natures are placed side by side—Jesus the God-man. "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting."3 Therefore He shall give them up, Until the time that she who is in labor has given birth; Then the remnant of His brethren Shall return to the children of Israel. 4 And He shall stand and feed His flock In the strength of the LORD, In the majesty of the name of the LORD His God; And they shall abide, For now He shall be great To the ends of the earth;5 And this One shall be peace. This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: Once in royal David’s city Stood a lowly cattle shed. Where a mother laid her baby In a manger for His bed: Mary was that mother mild, Jesus Christ her little Child. He came down to earth from heaven, Who is God and Lord of all, And His shelter was a stable, And His cradle was a stall; With the poor and mean and lowly Lived on earth our Savior holy. (LSB #376)
Sixth Lesson read by John Weiner: Luke 2. 1-7 Jesus’ birth, the greatest event in world history is the center of history. Since Jesus is the Savior of the world, all world government revolves around Him. Thus Caesar Augustus unknowingly and unwittingly sees to it that Jesus whose mother is from Galilee is born in Bethlehem as the prophets foretold. And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus 2 that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while 3 Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own 4 city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and
lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with 6 child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to 7 be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. This is the word of the Lord.
L: Let us pray: Almighty God, grant that the birth of Your only begotten Son in the flesh may set us free from the bondage of sin; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. C: Amen. Hymn: Away in a manger, no crib for a bed The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head. The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay. The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes. I love Thee, Lord Jesus! Look down from the sky, And stay by my side until morning in nigh. Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask Thee to stay Close by me forever and love me I pray. Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, And take us to heaven to live with Thee there.
(L.W. #64)
Seventh Lesson read by Alden Weiner: Isaiah 9.6, 7 The Savior, Christ Jesus, is both a Child and God almighty, the Christmas miracle. For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.7 Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. This is the word of the Lord. Hymn: #94 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Eighth Lesson read by John Weiner: Luke 2. 8-14 The great miracle of the birth of the God-man occurred in the quiet of the night, in seclusion and solitude. But at once God makes it known to humble, pious shepherds. Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping 9 watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good 11 tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in 12 the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: 13 You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God 14 and saying: "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: God rest ye merry, gentlemen, let nothing you dismay, Remember Christ our Savior was born on Christmas Day; To save us all from Satan's power when we were gone astray. Refrain: O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy; O tidings of comfort and joy. In Bethlehem, in Israel, this blessèd Babe was born, And laid within a manger upon this blessèd morn; The which His mother Mary did nothing take in scorn. Refrain From God our heavenly Father a blessèd angel came; And unto certain shepherds brought tidings of the same; How that in Bethlehem was born the Son of God by name. Refrain
Hymn: Gentle Mary laid her Child Lowly in a manger; There He lay, the Undefiled, To the world a stranger. Such a Babe in such a place, Can He be the Savior? Ask the saved of all the race Who have found His favor. Angels sang about His birth, Wise Men sought and found Him; Heaven’s star shone brightly forth Glory all around Him. Shepherds saw the wondrous sight, Heard the angels singing; All the plains were lit that night, All the hills were ringing. Gentle Mary laid her Child Lowly in a manger; He is still the Undefiled But no more a stranger. Son of God of humble birth, Beautiful the story; Praise His name in all the earth; Hail the King of glory.
people; But the LORD will arise over you, And His glory will be seen upon you.3 The Gentiles shall come to your light, And kings to the brightness of your rising. This is the word of the Lord.
"Fear not, then," said the angel, "Let nothing you afright This day is born a Savior of a pure Virgin bright, To free all those who trust in Him from Satan's power and might." Refrain
Tenth Lesson read by Paul Sutton: Matthew 2. 1-11 In their homeland, the wise men had heard of the Hope of Israel and that also the Gentiles were to have a share in the kingdom of the Messiah of Israel.
(LSB #374)
Ninth Lesson read by Jon Maxim: Isaiah 60. 1-3 When Isaiah speaks the earth is still enshrouded in darkness, but there is the morning star of the divine promise of the coming Savior. When Jesus came, the Sun arose and light broke forth. This light of salvation draws the people to it. Here is a glorious prophecy of the spread of the New Testament Church into all the world. Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you.2 For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, And deep darkness the
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, 2 behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come 3 to worship Him." When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all 4 Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of 5 the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. So they said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: 6 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.'” 7 Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them 8 what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back 9 word to me, that I may come and worship Him also." When they heard the king,
they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before 10 them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. When they saw the 11 star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: What Child is this, who, laid to rest, On Mary’s lap is sleeping? Whom angels greet with anthems sweet While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the king, Whom shepherds guard and angels sing; Haste, haste to bring Him laud, the Babe, the Son of Mary! Why lies He in such mean estate Where ox and ass are feeding? Good Christian, fear; for sinners here The silent Word is pleading. Nails, spear shall pierce Him through, the cross be borne for me, for you; Hail, hail the Word made flesh, The Babe, the Son of Mary! So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh; Come, peasant, king, to own Him. The King of kings salvation brings; Let loving hearts enthrone Him. Raise, raise the song of high, The virgin sings her lullaby; Joy, joy, for Christ is born, The Babe, the Son of Mary! (LSB #370)
Hymn: Angels we have heard on high, Sweetly singly o’er the plains, And the mountains in reply, Echoing their joyous strains. Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Shepherds, why this jubilee? Why your joyous strains prolong? What the gladsome tidings be Which inspire your heav’nly song? Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Come to Bethlehem and see Him whose birth the angels sing; Come, adore on bended knee Christ the Lord, the newborn King. Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Offering Sermon— Learning of the Nativity From the Nativity 1. Joy of the Angels 2. The simplicity of the Shepherds 3. The Adoration of the Wise Men 4. The Peace of the Christ Child Hymn #646 Silent Night! Holy Night!
Eleventh Lesson read by Ken Zaun: Titus 2. 11-14 Christmas is the saving grace of God appearing. By this He wants to lead us to desire His grace and mercy that is, that we believe, trust, fear, honor, love and praise God and so change our ungodliness into godliness. For the grace of God that brings salvation to all people has appeared, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. This is the word of the Lord.
L: Let us pray. Most merciful God, You gave Your eternal Word to become incarnate of the pure Virgin. Grant Your people grace to put away fleshly lusts, that they may be ready for Your visitation; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. C: Amen.
All: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But deliver us from evil; for Thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen. P: May He Who by His Incarnation gathered things earthly and heavenly into one, fill you with the sweetness of inward peace and goodwill; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be upon you and remain with you always. C: Amen. Hymn: #87 Joy to the World, the Lord is Come At the final stanza, the congregation faces the processional cross as it leaves
Silent Prayer
A SERVICE OF LESSONS AND CAROLS— CHRISTMAS EVE 2013 Pre-service Prayers (Hymnal pp. 4; 102-109; 118; 170) Hymn #62 Oh, Come, Oh, Come, Emmanuel At the final stanza, the congregation turns facing the processional cross P: In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. C:Amen.
Confession And Absolution P: Dearly beloved! We have come together in the presence of God our heavenly Father, to render thanks for the great benefits that we have received at His hand, to set forth His most worthy praise, to hear His holy Word, and to ask for ourselves and on behalf of others, those things that are necessary for our life and salvation. O come, let us worship Him! Let us kneel and bow down before Him. Let us confess our sins with penitent hearts, and obtain forgiveness by His infinite grace and mercy. C: Almighty and most merciful Father, I have strayed from Your ways like a lost sheep. I have followed the devices and desires of my heart. I have offended against Your holy law. I have done those things which I should not have done, and I have not done those things which I should have done. Have mercy on me, O Lord! Spare and restore me, according to the promises You have declared to us in Jesus Christ, our Lord. For His sake grant that I may live a godly, righteous, and sober life, to the glory of Your holy name. P: Upon this your confession, I, by virtue of my office, as a called and ordained servant of the Word, announce the grace of God unto you, and in the stead and by the command of my Lord Jesus Christ, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the ()Son and of the Holy Spirit. C: Amen. Introit: (Psalm 2.7; Isaiah 7.14; 9.6; Ps. 98. 1-4) P: I will tell of the decree: The Lord said to Me, “You are My Son; today I have begotten You.” C: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.
P: A Child will be born for us, a Son will be given to us, and the government will be on His shoulder, C: And He will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. P: Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! For He has done marvelous things. C: The Lord has made known His salvation; He has revealed His righteousness in the sight of the nations. P: He has remembered His mercy and faithfulness. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. C: Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth. Break forth in song, rejoice, and sing praises. All: Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. P: The Lord be with you. C: And also with you. P: O God, You make us glad with the yearly remembrance of Your onlybegotten Son, Jesus Christ. Grant that as we joyfully receive Him as our Redeemer, we may with sure confidence behold Him when He comes to be our Judge; through the same, Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord. C: Amen.
First Lesson read by Paul Sutton: Isaiah 40. 1-5 This a prophecy about St. John the Baptizer who prepared the way for Jesus by preaching repentance. Repentance is two parts: first sorrow over sin and faith in God’s promise of “Comfort”, of forgiveness of sins in Christ which is—Double—more than enough. With the forgiveness of sins we have peace with God. Only the penitent sinners can enter Christ’s kingdom. The call to repent is in picturesque language: the discouraged are to gain courage and confidence, the proud and arrogant will be humbled, and false and perverse hearts will become right and honest. 1
"Comfort, yes, comfort My people!" Says your God. 2 "Speak to the heart of Jerusalem, and cry out to her, That her warfare is ended, That her guilt is pardoned; That she has received from the LORD'S hand Double for all her sins."3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness: "Prepare the way of the LORD; Make straight in the desert A highway for our God.4 Every valley shall be exalted And every mountain and hill brought low; The crooked places shall be made straight And the rough places smooth;5 The glory of the LORD shall be revealed, And all flesh shall see it together; For the mouth of the LORD has spoken." This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: #90 (1-6) Come, Your Hearts and Voices Raising
Second Lesson read by Ken Zaun: Luke 1.5-17 The announcement of the birth of St. John the Baptizer, who by preaching repentance will prepare the way for Jesus. “John” means “God is gracious,” testifying and guaranteeing that God looks upon His people in grace. After about 800 years the prophecy was fulfilled. There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. 7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years. 8 So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division,9 according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.10 And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. 11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. 13 But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.14 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.15 For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother's womb. 16 And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God.17 He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, 'to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,' and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: #95 Savior of the Nations, Come, [Congregation stands at stanza 7]
Third Lesson read by Greg Behrens: Malachi 3. 1-3 This is a prophecy the Son of God spoke through the Old Testament prophet Malachi. Here He calls John “My messenger.” This is a prophecy of Jesus First Coming. Those who receive Him would be purified/ refined as through faith they receive the forgiveness of sins and Messiah’s holiness. "Behold, I send My messenger, And he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, Will suddenly come to His temple, Even the Messenger of the covenant, In whom you delight. Behold, He is coming," Says the LORD of hosts.2 "But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner's fire And like launderer's soap.3 He will sit as a refiner and a purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi, And purge them as
gold and silver, That they may offer to the LORD An offering in righteousness. This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: #85 (1-4) From Heaven Above to Earth I Come
Fourth Lesson read by Tom Rosenwinkel: Luke 1. 26-38 The angel Gabriel announces to Mary that although she is a virgin, she will give birth to a Son—the Messiah, true God and true Man. Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee 27 named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the 28 house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, "Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among 29 women!" But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered 30 what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, 31 Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your 32 womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of 33 His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His 34 kingdom there will be no end." Then Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, 35 since I do not know a man?" And the angel answered and said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and 37 this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing 38 will be impossible." Then Mary said, "Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her. This is the word of the Lord.
Prayer: L: O God, You make this most holy night to shine with the brightness of the true Light. Grant that as we have known the mysteries of that Light on earth we may also come to the fullness of His joys in heaven; through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son our Lord. C: Amen
Hymn: #106 The People That in Darkness Sat [Congregation stands at stanza 7] Fifth Lessons read by Jon Maxim: Isaiah 9. 1, 2 According to this prophecy, the Messiah would be from Galilee, in the north of Israel. The second prophecy places His birth in Bethlehem, in the south near Jerusalem. God mightily works all things and controls all His history for His good and gracious purposes.
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Nevertheless the gloom will not be upon her who is distressed, As when at first He lightly esteemed The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, And afterward more heavily oppressed her, By the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, In Galilee of the Gentiles.2 The people who walked in darkness Have seen a great light; Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, Upon them a light has shined. This is the word of the Lord.
Micah 5. 2-5 This prophecy, which refers to the promised Virgin of Isaiah 7, is a prophecy of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. Also note that Jesus’ divine and human natures are placed side by side—Jesus the God-man. "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting."3 Therefore He shall give them up, Until the time that she who is in labor has given birth; Then the remnant of His brethren Shall return to the children of Israel. 4 And He shall stand and feed His flock In the strength of the LORD, In the majesty of the name of the LORD His God; And they shall abide, For now He shall be great To the ends of the earth;5 And this One shall be peace. This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: Once in royal David’s city Stood a lowly cattle shed. Where a mother laid her baby In a manger for His bed: Mary was that mother mild, Jesus Christ her little Child. He came down to earth from heaven, Who is God and Lord of all, And His shelter was a stable, And His cradle was a stall; With the poor and mean and lowly Lived on earth our Savior holy. (LSB #376)
Sixth Lesson read by John Weiner: Luke 2. 1-7 Jesus’ birth, the greatest event in world history is the center of history. Since Jesus is the Savior of the world, all world government revolves around Him. Thus Caesar Augustus unknowingly and unwittingly sees to it that Jesus whose mother is from Galilee is born in Bethlehem as the prophets foretold. And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus 2 that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while 3 Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own 4 city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and
lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with 6 child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to 7 be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. This is the word of the Lord.
L: Let us pray: Almighty God, grant that the birth of Your only begotten Son in the flesh may set us free from the bondage of sin; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. C: Amen. Hymn: Away in a manger, no crib for a bed The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head. The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay. The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes. I love Thee, Lord Jesus! Look down from the sky, And stay by my side until morning in nigh. Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask Thee to stay Close by me forever and love me I pray. Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, And take us to heaven to live with Thee there.
(L.W. #64)
Seventh Lesson read by Alden Weiner: Isaiah 9.6, 7 The Savior, Christ Jesus, is both a Child and God almighty, the Christmas miracle. For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.7 Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. This is the word of the Lord. Hymn: #94 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Eighth Lesson read by John Weiner: Luke 2. 8-14 The great miracle of the birth of the God-man occurred in the quiet of the night, in seclusion and solitude. But at once God makes it known to humble, pious shepherds. Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping 9 watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good 11 tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in 12 the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: 13 You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God 14 and saying: "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: God rest ye merry, gentlemen, let nothing you dismay, Remember Christ our Savior was born on Christmas Day; To save us all from Satan's power when we were gone astray. Refrain: O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy; O tidings of comfort and joy. In Bethlehem, in Israel, this blessèd Babe was born, And laid within a manger upon this blessèd morn; The which His mother Mary did nothing take in scorn. Refrain From God our heavenly Father a blessèd angel came; And unto certain shepherds brought tidings of the same; How that in Bethlehem was born the Son of God by name. Refrain
Hymn: Gentle Mary laid her Child Lowly in a manger; There He lay, the Undefiled, To the world a stranger. Such a Babe in such a place, Can He be the Savior? Ask the saved of all the race Who have found His favor. Angels sang about His birth, Wise Men sought and found Him; Heaven’s star shone brightly forth Glory all around Him. Shepherds saw the wondrous sight, Heard the angels singing; All the plains were lit that night, All the hills were ringing. Gentle Mary laid her Child Lowly in a manger; He is still the Undefiled But no more a stranger. Son of God of humble birth, Beautiful the story; Praise His name in all the earth; Hail the King of glory.
people; But the LORD will arise over you, And His glory will be seen upon you.3 The Gentiles shall come to your light, And kings to the brightness of your rising. This is the word of the Lord.
"Fear not, then," said the angel, "Let nothing you afright This day is born a Savior of a pure Virgin bright, To free all those who trust in Him from Satan's power and might." Refrain
Tenth Lesson read by Paul Sutton: Matthew 2. 1-11 In their homeland, the wise men had heard of the Hope of Israel and that also the Gentiles were to have a share in the kingdom of the Messiah of Israel.
(LSB #374)
Ninth Lesson read by Jon Maxim: Isaiah 60. 1-3 When Isaiah speaks the earth is still enshrouded in darkness, but there is the morning star of the divine promise of the coming Savior. When Jesus came, the Sun arose and light broke forth. This light of salvation draws the people to it. Here is a glorious prophecy of the spread of the New Testament Church into all the world. Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you.2 For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, And deep darkness the
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, 2 behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come 3 to worship Him." When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all 4 Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of 5 the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. So they said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: 6 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.'” 7 Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them 8 what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back 9 word to me, that I may come and worship Him also." When they heard the king,
they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before 10 them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. When they saw the 11 star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. This is the word of the Lord.
Hymn: What Child is this, who, laid to rest, On Mary’s lap is sleeping? Whom angels greet with anthems sweet While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the king, Whom shepherds guard and angels sing; Haste, haste to bring Him laud, the Babe, the Son of Mary! Why lies He in such mean estate Where ox and ass are feeding? Good Christian, fear; for sinners here The silent Word is pleading. Nails, spear shall pierce Him through, the cross be borne for me, for you; Hail, hail the Word made flesh, The Babe, the Son of Mary! So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh; Come, peasant, king, to own Him. The King of kings salvation brings; Let loving hearts enthrone Him. Raise, raise the song of high, The virgin sings her lullaby; Joy, joy, for Christ is born, The Babe, the Son of Mary! (LSB #370)
Hymn: Angels we have heard on high, Sweetly singly o’er the plains, And the mountains in reply, Echoing their joyous strains. Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Shepherds, why this jubilee? Why your joyous strains prolong? What the gladsome tidings be Which inspire your heav’nly song? Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Come to Bethlehem and see Him whose birth the angels sing; Come, adore on bended knee Christ the Lord, the newborn King. Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Offering Sermon— Learning of the Nativity From the Nativity 1. Joy of the Angels 2. The simplicity of the Shepherds 3. The Adoration of the Wise Men 4. The Peace of the Christ Child Hymn #646 Silent Night! Holy Night!
Eleventh Lesson read by Ken Zaun: Titus 2. 11-14 Christmas is the saving grace of God appearing. By this He wants to lead us to desire His grace and mercy that is, that we believe, trust, fear, honor, love and praise God and so change our ungodliness into godliness. For the grace of God that brings salvation to all people has appeared, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. This is the word of the Lord.
L: Let us pray. Most merciful God, You gave Your eternal Word to become incarnate of the pure Virgin. Grant Your people grace to put away fleshly lusts, that they may be ready for Your visitation; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. C: Amen.
All: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But deliver us from evil; for Thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen. P: May He Who by His Incarnation gathered things earthly and heavenly into one, fill you with the sweetness of inward peace and goodwill; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be upon you and remain with you always. C: Amen. Hymn: #87 Joy to the World, the Lord is Come At the final stanza, the congregation faces the processional cross as it leaves
Silent Prayer
