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Introduction As we look ahead to Sunday’s worship, we consider what it means to step into our identity and purpose. At times, we find ourselves caught between expectations—our own, those of others, or even what we think God expects of us—and affirmations of who we already are and who we are becoming. These tensions are nothing new. Even as we look at the life and ministry of Jesus, we see moments of expectation and affirmation intertwining, setting the stage for…

Introduction As we conclude our Advent series, The Redemption of Scrooge, we celebrate the transformation that comes from accepting Christ’s invitation. The text this week reminds us that life in the Spirit offers freedom from fear and adoption into a new family—a church family that shares in the joy and purpose of following Christ. This week, we witness Ebenezer Scrooge’s exuberance as he wakes up on Christmas morning, overjoyed by the chance to live a new life. His transformation from…

Introduction As we continue our Advent series, The Redemption of Scrooge, we journey with the Ghost of Christmas Present to consider the theme of abundance. This week’s scripture recounts the story of the shepherds, ordinary people who are the first to hear of Christ’s birth. Their awe and joy in response to God’s gift remind us that true abundance isn’t measured by wealth but by recognizing God’s presence among us. Similarly, Ebenezer Scrooge is taken to witness the Cratchit family,…

Introduction As we continue our Advent series, The Redemption of Scrooge, we explore how Christ redeems even the most painful parts of our lives. Just as Ebenezer Scrooge is forced to confront his past, we, too, are invited to examine the moments that have shaped us. In this week’s text, we see Jesus calling his first disciples—ordinary fishermen with imperfect pasts. He invites them not because they are perfect, but because he sees their potential. In the same way, Christ…