Veritas Gathered: Liturgy Recap – December 14th, 2014

Derek Nicol

Welcome to the recap of the songs, hymns and readings of the Veritas worship gathering on December 14th, 2014

This Sunday, we’re beginning our Advent series leading up to our Eve of the Eve service and Christmas! We will be focusing on Jesus being the light that came to shine in the darkness. We’re going to begin our gathering by singing a classic Christmas song “O Come O Come Emmanuel”.

Song: “O Come O Come Emmanuel”

:::ADORATION:::

L: Long ago, the coming birth of our Savior Jesus was foretold to a world, who like us now, was consumed by chaos and sin:
C: The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.
L: And even today, above the clamor of our darkness and sin, the Word of truth and light resounds. Over nations enshrouded in despair His justice dawns.
C: For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
—Based on Isaiah 9:1-2, 6

Song: “Gloria (Angels We Have Heard On High)”

:::CONFESSION/ASSURANCE:::

L: Merciful God, we confess that in our longing, we have worshipped the idols of this world instead of worshipping You, the true God. We realize the sin in our own hearts and the destruction that sin brings to the dark world around us. We lament and mourn the sins of racism, hatred, sex trafficking, abuse, addiction and so many more that are all around us in our city. We lament and confess our sins of pride, selfishness, and pursuit of our own comfort that have lead us to ignore our role in your work of reconciliation and restoration.
C: We ask for your forgiveness and mercy and ask that, in your grace, you would restore our broken hearts and lives and empower us to bring your light and love into these dark areas. We celebrate as we remember the Birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, our Savior. We rejoice because He alone has brought light and hope into our dark hearts and into this dark world. Praise be to God for the hope of Christ!

Song: “It Came Upon A Midnight Clear”

:::PASSING OF THE PEACE:::

Because of Christ’s work on the cross, his death and resurrection, we have been brought back into communion with our God! Because of Jesus, we can sing out with confidence, “In life and death, Lord, Abide with me.”. Our God is with us! We have peace with our creator, our Father. And that same peace is among us this morning, because the Spirit of God unifies us together in Christ! Lets demonstrate this together as we take a few moments to greet each other.

:::PROCLAMATION OF THE WORD:::

Our Sermon was from Nick on Application IN | Advent

Song: “You Are the Living Word – Fred Hammond”

:::COMMUNION:::

L: Jesus’ death brings us life and this meal reminds us that we are fed by Jesus and forgiven because of Jesus.
C: We rejoice that You have died, have risen, and are now with the Father advocating for us. Amen.
L: With our money, time, and talent we give generously, knowing that through Your Son, Jesus, You have generously given to us.
C: We rejoice that You have given everything and we joyfully give everything back to Your care. Amen.

Song: “He Who Is Mighty – Sovereign Grace Music”

:::COMMITMENT:::

L: Merciful God, Above the clamor of the chaos in our hearts and lives, Your Word of peace resounds. Grant Your people a peaceful spirit to remember and joyfully proclaim the good news of Jesus in the hour in which we live.
C: Hasten the advent of that day when all chaos and hopelessness shall be banished, our deeds of darkness and sin cast off, and all Your peace, justice and joy are made known to all!

Song: “Joy to the World”

:::BENEDICTION:::

In this season of Advent, may the Father’s light shine in your darkness. May the Spirit open our eyes to see His coming, and may Jesus’ glory outshine the tinsel, the gifts, and the hustle and bustle of the season. Go in hope of the peace He brings to the world. Peace be with you.