Look Up!

Look up! A phenomenon is coming to a patch of sky near you! Saturn and Jupiter have been flirting, moving a little closer toward each other evening by evening. In the heavenly ballet, they’ll dance into each other’s arms on Monday once the sun clears the stage. When they do, the astronomical choreography will result in brilliance! The “great conjunction” of planets will inspire us from our earthly vantage point as the two will seem to shine as one: The Christmas Star.

Look up! The celestial configuration is rare, having last been visible in the year 1226. Remarkably, its last appearance was so long ago that it has never before been captured by a camera!

Look up! Let something so uncommon stir you. Let it capture your attention. Let it intrigue you to think about all of the other human beings on this planet who are looking up with similar amazement on the same night, and all of those who have gazed skyward through all of time. Let it remind you that you are small. And let it also remind you that you are part of something extraordinary: Creation.

Look up! Be drawn in. Be drawn into story. Be drawn into imagining what the experience might have been like for the ancients–people who knew nothing of flight, or Apollo missions, or Hubble telescope imagery, but who did seem to have an inkling that there was much to be learned by observing what takes place overhead.    

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in the territory of Judea during the rule of King Herod, magi came from the east to Jerusalem.  They asked, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We’ve seen his star in the east, and we’ve come to honor him…When they heard the king, they went; and look, the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stood over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy.  ~Matthew 2: 1-2, 9-10

Look up! Imagine that God is speaking through signs and wonders, just as God always has. Imagine that God is encouraging you to make new discoveries that will lead you ever toward more joy! Imagine that God is encouraging you to encounter Godself by encountering Jesus, the Christ!

Look up! Christmas is in the cosmos! Hope is in the air!

Always Looking Up,

Pastor Chris

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If you are able and would like to participate, please donate a NEW blanket, twin or full size. Blankets will be received as you enter the parking lot. They will be donated to New Bethany Ministries to be distributed.

Experience carol singing, a BYO Lovefeast, candlelight, and the Christmas story from the safe bubble of your own vehicle. Dress warmly and feel free to run your engine and heater as necessary. Remember to bring along seasonal treats for the folks in your vehicle for a BYO Lovefeast.

Virtual Fellowship Time on Zoom – Sundays at 11:30 a.m.

This casual online gathering has taken root over the last few months and become a wonderful way to keep connected. Whether you’ve become a “regular” at these gatherings, or you’re thinking about dropping by for the very first time, please use the Zoom link and password provided below, or join by phone if you do not use a device with a screen.

And if Zoom is new to you and you’d like to be coached on how to get started, please email me at  moravianpastorchris@gmail.com  or call me at 484-894-9077.

To join by computer, tablet or smart phone, please go to:https://zoom.us/j/99831347702?pwd=Vk1VWDk0RkdlUXJacWtCRGEvNFpnZz09

Passcode: 789162

To join by phone (no video), dial:

+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)

Meeting ID: 998 3134 7702  

Zoom Prayers–Sundays at 6:30 p.m.

We are also continuing to offer Zoom Prayers on Sunday evenings at 6:30. We come together to share simply in intercessory prayer on behalf of our congregation, community, and world. We usually conclude by 7:00 p.m. All are welcome! 

To join by computer, tablet, or smart phone, please go to: https://zoom.us/j/91961743369?pwd=S3FYVG1NSFBrb1BoaTl0dnV5ZmNFUT09

Passcode: 073131

To join by phone (no video), dial:

+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)

  Meeting ID: 919 6174 3369