**No sermon today due to our Christmas program**

Today Isaiah prophesies that a young woman will bear a son and name him Emmanuel. The gospel is Matthew’s account of the annunciation and birth of the one named Emmanuel, God-with-us. During these final days of Advent we pray, “O come, O come, Emmanuel,” a beloved hymn based on ancient prayers appointed for the seven days preceding Christmas. On this final Sunday in Advent we prepare to celebrate the birth of the one born to save us from the power of sin and death.

Readings and Psalm

• Isaiah 7:10-16
  The sign of Immanuel
• Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19
  Let your face shine upon us, and we shall be saved. (Ps. 80:7)
• Romans 1:1-7
  Paul’s greeting to the church at Rome
• Matthew 1:18-25
  A God near at hand