12/7 - Seeking and Finding Christ in Our World

St. Andrew's Family,

Happy Cantata Week!

This Sunday, our worship follows a beautiful arc—a journey that moves from joyful proclamation, to spiritual seeking, to the global celebration of Christ’s birth. Each musical moment, scripture reading, and sermon theme weaves together to help us experience Christmas not just as a story, but as a living journey of faith.

We begin with a festive handbell prelude, “To the World, Joy,” which blends “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” and “Joy to the World.” These bright, shimmering bells announce that something hopeful is stirring. Much like the star that appeared to the Magi, this musical opening invites us to lift our eyes and open our hearts, trusting that God is drawing near.

The congregation then joins in singing “Joy to the World,” a hymn that invites all creation to prepare room for Christ. From the very start of worship, the theme is clear: God’s joy is not tucked away—it is breaking into the world, calling us to receive it and then share it.

Our scripture reading from Matthew 2:1–12 leads us into the story of the Magi, seekers who pay careful attention to the signs God places around them. They follow a star that leads them to the Christ child, and Scripture tells us they are “overwhelmed with joy.” Pastor Norma’s sermon, “Seeking and Finding Christ in Our World,” reminds us that we, too, are invited to be seekers—looking for Christ in our everyday lives, in our community, and in the world around us. Joy is more than a feeling; it becomes a guide and companion on the journey.

This theme expands in our cantata, The World Sings Noel: The Christmas Story in Global Song. Through melodies and rhythms from around the globe, we join a worldwide celebration of Christ’s birth. The same star that guided the Magi continues to shine across nations today, drawing voices from every culture to sing “Noel” in unity and hope.

We close worship with “Joy to the World (Unspeakable Joy),” a vibrant reminder that the joy found in Christ cannot be contained. It moves us, fills us, and sends us out with new energy. And as a final musical gift, Music Tom offers a postlude of “Joy to the World,” arranged by David Lanz, sending us into the week with hearts lifted and spirits renewed.

As we worship together this Sunday, may we follow the example of the Magi—seeking Christ with curiosity, finding joy in unexpected places, and returning to our daily lives transformed by the light we have encountered. Joy to the world, indeed!

Blessings 

Music Tom 

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