"His Name Shall Be Called" Series 2025

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“His Name Shall Be Called” Series Summary (Advent-Christmas 2025)

What's in a name?  This Advent, we will explore how Jesus lives up to the prophetic names he is called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).  Each name reveals the heart of the Savior who was born in Bethlehem yet still shines in our darkness and confusion.  Join us this Christmas to encounter Jesus, because whatever name you use, together we meet the One who is Emmanuel, God with us.

 


Nov. 30 | First Week of Advent
WONDERFUL: In the darkest places of our lives, God shines an extraordinary light.  In Isaiah 9:2–7, the prophet proclaims the child who will establish God’s kingdom of righteousness and justice.  God’s works far beyond human imagination, and Christ’s incarnation is pure wonder.  Where do you need Christ’s light?

 

Dec. 7 | Second Week of Advent – Pinkham's Christmas Cantata
COUNSELOR: We do not expect great things from little places.  But God’s wisdom often surprises us.  In Micah 5:2-5a, the prophet says the Messiah will come from among the lowliest of people.  Jesus is not only wise but also the One who listens, understands, and directs us toward God’s justice and peace.  When do you seek advice or wisdom?

 

Dec. 14 | Third Week of Advent
MIGHTY GOD: One theory of power is that might makes right.  Jesus was born amid the rule of ancient tyrants and strong men.  In Isaiah 11:1-9, the prophet says the Messiah’s power will be the Spirit of God.  Christ’s might transforms weakness into hope and brings harmony to a broken world.  How is “soft power” better than brute force? 

 

Dec. 21 | Fourth Week of Advent
EVERLASTING FATHER: We get tired, but God never does.  Like a faithful parent, God renews our strength and carries us through.  In Isaiah 40:27-31, the prophet assures us that the Messiah will not abandon us.  In Christ, we experience God's steadfast love.  What drains your strength? 

 

Dec. 24 | Christmas Eve
PRINCE OF PEACE: The forces of division and fear seem to rule our world.  Amidst the noise of empire and fears of the night, Christ comes as the Prince of Peace.  In Luke 2:1–20, the angels announce the gift the world needs most.  True peace isn’t the absence of conflict but the presence of justice and the reconciliation God offers in Christ.  What is your prayer for peace?

 

Dec. 28 | First Sunday of Christmas
EMMANUEL: All of Jesus’ names find their fulfillment in the good news that God has come to dwell with us.  In Matthew 1:18-25, Jesus receives the name Emmanuel, “God with us.”  The incarnation is not distant or abstract but personal.  God with us, now and always.  What helps you remember God’s presence?

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