Who Is This Baby? a service for Christmas eve
Creative project- A Christmas Eve Service
(Dark auditorium)
Leader-Who is this baby we celebrate tonight, whose tiny cries announced that God's salvation was near?
This is Jesus, hope of the world, the one who had come to set things right.
What hope does Jesus bring to you and me?
The hope of real life, eternal life, given the moment we believe.
What hope does Jesus have for our world?
The hope of everything made right, the hope of God among us, the hope of unending life that is full and good. (The first advent candle is lit.) (Lights come up)
Hymn- Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Welcome and announcements
Opening prayer
Who is this tiny baby, born in the midst of chaos, yet who promised peace?
This is Jesus, the one who gives us peace beyond our understanding when we trust him with everything.
This Jesus has also negotiated peace for us with God through his death on the cross.
Thanks be to God for such complete peace.(2nd Advent candle lit)
Hymn-O Little Town of Bethlehem
Who is this baby that angels rejoice to tell of his birth?
It is Jesus the one who secures the way of joy for us.
What is joy?
Joy is knowing God is at peace with you. Joy is the love of God welcomed in your heart.
You, who are welcomed of the Father, rejoice in the birth of your King.
We come, like the shepherds long ago, to worship and adore this Jesus. (3rd Advent candle lit)
Hymn- O Come All Ye Faithful
Offering- Offering, P. Baloche
Who is this baby, born among the animals and laid to sleep in a manger?
This is Jesus, beloved of the Father, Son of God.
But why should God send his son to live so humbly among us?
It is for love God sent his son, "For God so loved the world that He sent his one and only son that whoever believes on Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
Hallelujah, what a savior! (4th Advent candle is lit.)
Hymn- My Peace
SCRIPTURE READING: Luke 2:1-20
Sermon: Jesus, God's Plan A
Who is this baby, born so long ago, that we should gather and sing and celebrate?
This is Jesus, the one who knew from before time that He would come to save us all.
What did this Jesus bring with Him?
He answered our hopes. He made the way of peace. He fills us with joy. And He is the proof and provision of God's great love.
This is the Christ! Receive your King tonight! (Christ candle is lit.)
Hymn: Silent Night, verse 1
Scripture Titus 3:4-7, with instruments playing
Auditorium darkens-Continue Silent Night, passing the light from candle to candle
Choir: Go Light Your World, Chris Rice
Lights on full- Hymn: Joy to the World
Benediction