Close to Home acknowledges the “already but not yet” tension of our faith: Emmanuel is with us, and yet, God’s promised day is not fully realized. Close to Home also names the pain many of us will carry into this season. The holidays have a way of amplifying our grief. Some will be missing loved ones lost to sickness and tragedy. Traumas from the pandemic linger with us. Many have lost homes due to natural disasters, economic hardship, and unjust policies. Others don’t feel safe in their own homes because of poor living conditions or harmful family dynamics. Many feel alone and isolated at home.
This Advent, may we find comfort in the One who accompanies us in all circumstances. May we expand safety and sanctuary for everyone wandering far from home. May we come home, wherever home is found—to live fully with joy, hope, and courage.
NOVEMBER 28: First Sunday of Advent
”Homesick” (Luke 21:25-36)
Lectionary Texts: Jeremiah 33:14-16; 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13
We light the candle of HOPE.
As we begin Advent with Luke’s “Little Apocalypse,” we remember how far from home we are. The world is not as it should be. This first week speaks to our deep longing for our home to be made whole, and our deep longing for God. We remember and celebrate that God the Beloved has come to our homesick world.
DECEMBER 5: Second Sunday of Advent
”Laying the Foundation” (Luke 1:57-80)
Lectionary Texts: Philippians 1:3-11; Isaiah 12:2-6
WE light the candle of PEACE
The account of the miraculous birth of John the Baptist invites us to making space in our lives and our imaginations for the reality and blessings of God to break through.
DECEMBER 12: Third Sunday of Advent
”A Home for All” (Luke 3:1-18)
Lectionary Texts: Zephaniah 3:14-20; Philippians 4:4-7
We light the candle of JOY
John the Baptist’s good news sounds harsh, but he preaches a home for all—where inequities are banished, valleys are lifted up, and all have the resources they need to flourish. Ultimately, John’s message is one of joy, in which we are called to build and repair the structures of our society. Wherever we build, God is there.
DECEMBER 19: Fourth Sunday of Advent
“Seeking Sanctuary” (Luke 1:39-55)
Lectionary Texts: Micah 5:2-5a; Hebrews 10:5-10
We light the candle of LOVE
After receiving the angel’s extraordinary news, Mary retreats to Elizabeth and Zechariah’s home to digest her new calling. She seeks refuge—physical safety and emotional protection. Sanctuary and safe space are crucial for everyone. Sanctuary is anywhere God’s love dwells freely and abundantly.
DECEMBER 24: CHRISTMAS EVE (4pm)
”Invited Home” (Luke 2:1-20)
Lectionary Text: Isaiah 9:2-7
We light the CHRIST candle.
There is no room for Mary and Joseph in the inn. Finally, a place is made in the feeding trough, in a cramped room full of chaos. In many ways, Jesus is born without an invitation, yet he devotes his life to inviting people who are cast out. The story of Christmas is God’s loving invitation to be welcomed home despite all barriers.
DECEMBER 26: A flexible worship experience following Christmas Day.
”A Chosen Home” (Luke 2:41-52; Colossians 3:12-17)
Everyone has different rhythms and rituals around the holidays. Through the pandemic, we have been reminded that we can worship almost anywhere.
This Advent and Christmas season, we are returning to worship in person with beautiful Advent liturgies, Candlelight Carols, Blue Christmas, and Christmas Eve in our sanctuary. However, on Sunday, December 26, the invitation to worship will be different.
Rather than in-person or virtual worship at a set time and place, the FBC staff will provide a 30-minute pre-recorded worship service of music, prayer, scripture, and reflection. This will be made available at 8:00 am on December 26 via the church’s website, Facebook, and Vimeo. You will be able to carve out meaningful space for worship, prayer, and reflection at your own convenience on December 26th or during the following week.
You might worship in the comfort of your own home, or while traveling. You might worship alone, with family, or with friends. Regardless of where and how you worship, this faith community will be there and most importantly, so will God.
JANUARY 2, 2022: Epiphany Sunday
“Home By Another Way” (Matthew 2:1-12)
Proclaimer: Associate Pastor Eric Mathis
Lectionary Texts: Ephesians 3:1-12; Isaiah 60:1-6
The story of Epiphany marks an end and the beginning. Leaving their home, the Wise Men embark upon a pilgrimage, seeking the glimpse of the Divine in the Christ child. Being warned in a dream, the Magi choose a different direction to journey back home.