December 17, 2025 Midweek News
Greetings church family,
Last Sunday we continued our series “What Do You Fear?” We remembered the call of a young boy named Jeremiah, and a young girl named Mary. There calls filled them with fear and uncertainty, and yet they chose to move forward.
In the image above, artist Lisle Gwynn Garrity imagines the moment the angel responds to Mary’s question “How can this be?” Lisle writes:
“In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, the angel goes to Nazareth to find Mary. I was six months pregnant with my second daughter when I read this scripture and began this image, so at first, this detail seemed like a happy coincidence. But as I pondered it, I wondered if Elizabeth’s pregnancy might have everything to do with Mary’s willingness to say yes to this wild, wonderful—but risky and terrifying—undertaking.
Elizabeth’s pregnancy provides reassurance that Mary can trust the angel’s impossible news. By the sixth month, Mary will be able to see for herself that Elizabeth is truly pregnant. By the sixth month, Mary can place her hands on Elizabeth’s belly and giggle as the baby leaps and kicks. By the sixth month, the risk of miscarriage has significantly decreased.
By the sixth month, Elizabeth will be emotionally, mentally,and physically preparing for birth. Her miracle is real, even as it is yet to be born. Therefore, Mary can rest her hope in an emerging—not empty—promise. Mary’s willingness to say “yes” is also fortified by the assurance that she is not stepping forward alone. Even as fears surely surround her, Mary will go to Elizabeth for protection and comfort. She won’t fulfill her calling without support. Her hope will be strengthened in solidarity.”
I look forward to seeing you this Sunday for the fourth Sunday of Advent as we ponder Joseph’s mystical dream and call to support Mary as the mother of Jesus.
Advent Blessings,
Pastor Jared