January 6 Worship: Epiphany/Communion Scriptures: Psalm 72:1-7; Ephesians 3:1-12; Matthew 2:1-12 Sermon: “Following the Star” The term “epiphany” comes from the Greek meaning “appear, reveal, shine, give light.” Starlight led the magi to discover the birth of a new hope, a gift to the world, a baby who would himself be called “the light of the world.” By what means can we follow the pointing to where Jesus can be found in our lives today?
January 13 Worship: Baptism of Our Lord/Christian Unity Scriptures: Isaiah 43:1-7; Psalm 29; Acts 8:14-17; Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 We join our friends from St. Paul Lutheran Church in their House of Worship. Diversity is a messy thing. Why can’t everyone just believe the exact way that we believe? What can we gain from concentrating on what unites us, as opposed to what divides us?
January 20 Worship: 2nd Sunday After Epiphany Scriptures: Isaiah 62:1-5; Psalm 36:5-10; 1 Corinthians 12:1-11; John 2:1-11 Sermon: “Surprising Signs” Sometimes we fall prey to the tendency to see God’s activity in predictable places. We forget that scripture show us, again and again, that God acts in unexpected ways. Our scriptures today remind us to stay open to the new places and new ways that God’s work is revealed. We must take notice of God’s surprising activity in the world.
January 27 Worship: Third Sunday After Epiphany/ Annual Mtg. Sunday Scriptures: Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10; Luke 4:14-21; Psalm 19; 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a Sermon: “Looking Back– Looking Forward” We take time to reflect on our past – the personal and corporate events of 2018, and see God’s presence and guiding hand in it all. How blessed we are! And God is waiting to continue to bless us as we move forward with gratitude, love, and faithful service.
NOTE: NO Men’s/Women’s Lunch in January. The next scheduled lunch will be Tues., Feb. 5th at 11:30 a.m. at The Mail Pouch. All are welcome!
Girls’ Night Out Planning Meeting January 23rd , 2019 6:30 p.m. at Knucklehead’s Kafe In Grand Rapids (Meet at 6 p.m. at HCC to carpool)
Bring in canned goods now through Super Bowl Sunday February 3rd, 2019 All donations benefit the Otsego Food Pantry. Monetary donations via “noisy offering” will be collected on Super Bowl Sunday. With your donations, millions will be raised across the country to help people in need.
Special Guest Musicians Leading Worship! We welcome back Bob & Mary Fry of “Melody Road” Sunday, February 24th at 10:00 a.m. With keyboard and guitar, soaring vocals, and original songs, Bob and Mary are always a favorite at HCC! We will collect a love offering that week to help defray their costs. Invite a friend or neighbor!
