Advent 2024: Alone (Discernment, Dependence, and Devotion)
Dec 4, 2024
Delve into the enchanting tradition of Fallow Month, which invites reflection and discernment during the Christmas season. Explore the transformative themes of discernment and dependence on God through the lens of Joseph's experience during Advent. Learn the power of stepping back from digital distractions to focus on personal growth and devotion. Reflect on cherished Thanksgiving traditions that have been reshaped by life's challenges, emphasizing the importance of family and adaptation in times of change.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Digital Detox
Participate in a 3-day digital fast, minimizing non-essential digital device usage.
If a complete fast feels daunting, start by eliminating one time-consuming digital habit.
insights INSIGHT
Symbolism of Black Candles
Black Advent candles symbolize the negative emotions present in the world when Jesus was born.
These emotions, such as loneliness, anger, fear, and shame, are ultimately extinguished by Christ's arrival.
insights INSIGHT
Joseph's Dilemma
Joseph's experience with Mary's unexpected pregnancy serves as a parable for dealing with unexpected life events.
It underscores feelings of being alone and powerless when life deviates from our plans.
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In this episode of the Village Church podcast, Pastor Eric launches Advent 2024 with a thoughtful explanation of Fallow Month, a cherished Village Church tradition. He unpacks its significance and connection to the Advent season. Wrapping up the introduction, Pastor Eric extends an invitation to join a three-day digital fast. From there, he transitions into a heartfelt discussion on the theme of being alone, drawing on Joseph's experiences during and surrounding the birth of Jesus.
The Village Church’s sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God’s work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God’s kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose.
Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age.