Reforming our Hearts
Dear High Street Family,
Last Sunday we kicked off our The Carols that Made Us series with Joy to the World by Isaac Watts.
The son of a Dissenter, this prolific reformer sought to make Advent come alive to his readers by leading their hearts into a powerful personal encounter with Jesus the King. This cry of his heart, "The Lord is come," came from a deep conviction that true reformation started in the heart of each person. We need moments with Jesus where the externals, concerns and fears bow their knee to the One who reigns in us and through us. It’s actually in this sort of atmosphere of our hearts and minds where the response of Joy becomes most natural.
We expressed this in a variety of ways on Sunday, but one we ought to revisit is the “spontaneously planned” kid’s parade! When Born is our King began playing over the speakers, children stood up and began to parade around the Sanctuary twirling ribbons and dancing! After clapping, laughing, and grabbing ribbons, many adults joined in the parade, and colors and worship filled the room.
Click here for spontaneously planned parade video!
This was such a picture of the freedom and joy we can express through our relationship to Jesus. When we submit our lives to Him, the atmosphere can change, and we experience Joy. The Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating or drinking, but it’s righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).
Advent, though it is a season of reflection and remembrance, isn’t just sober, it’s full of life and joy. And we see this on vivid display when led by the Holy Spirit and our kiddos!
And actually, it’s our children who will be leading worship this upcoming Sunday, so if you’re wanting more of this joy, then come in for our second Sunday in this series focusing on the Christmas carol, O Come O Come Emmanuel.
Joyfully,
Pastor Dave
Ps. Check out these amazing Advent resources too:
Biola Advent Project – A daily Advent Calendar created by Biola’s Center for Christianity, Culture and the Arts, featuring a daily Advent painting, music/song, scripture and a devo from a Theologian or thought-leader starting Dec 1st – Jan 7th. Totally worth diving into!
Joy to the World – Caroling, Christmas & Christian Formation Interview– An Online Conversation with Keith Getty (writer/composter of In Christ Alone, Before the Throne of God, How Deep the Father’s Love and other modern hymns)