As the Christmas season unfolds, one cherished tradition among many churches is the Lessons & Carols service. This unique gathering weaves together Scripture readings, carols, and hymns to retell the story of God’s redemptive work through Christ. At its core, this service invites worshippers to reflect on the profound mystery of the Incarnation and respond in awe and gratitude.

This year, our Lessons & Carols service will conclude our Holy Disruption sermon series by centering on the account of Simeon in Luke 2:25–35 (CEB), a passage filled with wonder, fulfillment, and hope. Simeon’s praise of God captures the essence of Advent and Christmas: a celebration of the fulfillment of God's promises and the revelation of salvation to all people through the greatest holy disruption of all time - the birth of Christ.

Simeon, a righteous and devout man, lived in expectation of the "consolation of Israel," embodying the deep longing of God’s people for redemption. His active hope, guided by prayer and the Holy Spirit, was fulfilled when he encountered the infant Jesus in the temple. Taking Him in his arms, Simeon praised God, declaring Jesus as the light for all nations and the glory of Israel. The Lessons & Carols service echoes this anticipation and fulfillment, inviting us to celebrate how Christ's birth brings hope, peace, and redemption to all people.

Simeon’s prophecy acknowledges both the joy and the cost of Jesus’ mission, foretelling that Jesus will be a sign that is opposed, revealing the hearts of many and bringing both challenge and salvation. This reminds us that the joy of Christmas is inseparable from the reality of the cross, calling us to embrace both the hope and the cost of following Christ. Simeon's encounter with Jesus invites us to respond in worship and trust. The Lessons & Carols service offers space to echo his gratitude, proclaim Christ’s light to the world, and find peace in God’s promises, courage to follow Him, and joy in sharing His love with others.

As you prepare your hearts for Lessons & Carols this week, I invite you to reflect on these questions:

1. What are the longings or hopes you bring before God this Christmas season? How does Simeon’s steadfast faith in God’s promises inspire you to trust in God's timing?
2. Simeon recognizes Jesus as the light for revelation to the Gentiles and the glory of Israel. How do you see Jesus bringing light into the world today, and how can you share that light with others?
3. Simeon speaks of both the joy and the challenges of Jesus’ mission. How does reflecting on the cost of following Christ deepen your understanding of Christmas and shape your response to His call in your life?

The Lessons & Carols service is more than a retelling of the nativity; it’s an invitation to join the timeless song of praise for the Savior who fulfills every promise. This Christmas, let Simeon’s words inspire worship and remind us of the light and salvation Christ brings to all. I look forward to worshiping with you at 10 am for a Combined Service in the Sanctuary!

Blessings,

Pastor Carrie