Marking Time: Forming Spirituality through the Christian Year

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Mark i ng T ime : Formi ng Sp i r i tua l i t y through the Chr i s t i an Year

e. Rev. 5.9-10 (ESV) – And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, [10] and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.”

3. Its meaning in Jesus’ history : the sending of the Holy Spirit and his gifts, Christ’s present session in heaven at the Father’s right hand, the harvest of God among the nations, the hope of his soon return

4. The Season of the Church Year : the Season after Pentecost, the Reigning Lord in heaven and the Judge and Coming Bridegroom.

a. During “ordinary time” (Kingdomtide), we consider God’s saving acts through time. As Christus Victor , Jesus must reign until his enemies are put under his feet. He is the head of the body, the Church, and now he empowers his people to bear witness of his saving grace in the world. b. As Lord of the harvest, Jesus has commissioned the Church to go and make disciples of all nations. During this season let us consider how we may advance God’s Reign as we show and tell of Christ’s salvation to the world. This is a season of harvest. c. As the dawn follows night, so our Lord will surely appear in power and glory to gather his own to himself, to make an end of war and sin, and to restore creation under God’s will. This is a season of the hope of Christ’s soon return.