Theme: Beyond nativity

Exegetical note
The enigmatic and eccentric figure of John the Baptizer is rich and colorful in this passage and elsewhere in the New Testament, but for this Sunday the real focus of attention should be the coming One whom he proclaims. In this regard, it is noteworthy that the "coming" to which John refers is not Jesus' birth but his ministry, a helpful reminder in this season that the advent we celebrate is more than just a nativity; it is a life, a ministry, and even a death.

Call to Worship
Leader: …