What Do You Fear? || When You’re Afraid, Give Me Your Hand || Fourth Sunday of Advent

Sunday, December 21, 2025 || 11:00am

Rev. Dr. Donna Claycomb Sokol || Pastor

Matthew 1:18-25 and Isaiah 41:5-10

While he never says a word that is recorded in any of the four Gospels, he plays a critical role in the birth of Jesus.

While he could have silently dismissed her as planned, he instead yielded to the wisdom of an angel who beckoned him to not be afraid but to take Mary as his wife.

What if he had dismissed her instead?

What if Joseph would have listened to his fear instead of summoning his faith?

And what if countless other people who are carrying heavy burdens or facing challenging circumstances were left to fend for themselves instead of having others reach out a hand and say, "I'll walk with you?"

Join us in worship this week as we explore a theology of proximity--one that walks with people in danger, lightens loads, and plays a real role in cultivating new life.