What do you fear? Christmastide

Affirmation of Faith
What do you fear?
We have seen the valley.
We have seen a sky without stars.
We have seen the longest night,
and still we believe.
We believe in a with-us God.
We believe in the hope of tomorrow.
We believe that good news is louder than fear.
We believe this good news is for all people.
So even when our knees shake,
even when our voice trembles,
even when fear is all around us,
we will hold onto that good news.
We will reach for each other.
We will look for God in our midst.
We will sing songs of joy.
We will proclaim:
Unto us, love is born.
We have seen the longest night,
and we have seen unimaginable love.
So still, we believe.
Amen.

Scripture – just click on the link below
Matthew 2:13-15; 19-23 as in NRIV

Poem for Christmas Tide
by Rev. Sarah (Are) Speed

Buffaloes are the only animals that run into a storm.
They can smell the snow coming. They can feel the temperature change—
Deep in their bones. So they gather together, a pack on the plains.
And with their large lumbering bodies, they run.
They run through snow and ice, wind and rain. They do not stop
Until they reach the sun.

When you are afraid, because this world is cruel and harsh,
Or because humans are deported and shot without reason,
Or because we cannot remember how to talk to each other civilly,
I will be your pack. I will stay by your side. I will run with you
Until we reach the sun.

Benediction
In a fearful world,
may you look for God’s spirit.
May you reach for each other’s hands.
May you choose courage whenever you can.
And in all things, may you remember
that good news is louder than fear.
In the name of the one who calls,
the one who sends,
and the one who journeys with—
go in peace and
be not afraid.
Amen.