In biblical numerology, the number seven symbolizes completeness, perfection, and divine fullness. This understanding flows from the creation story, in which God rests on the seventh day after creating the world. Seven also appears prominently in the Book of Revelation, a letter addressed to seven churches. Throughout this final book of the Bible, groups of seven abound: seven spirits, seven lampstands, seven stars, seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven bowls. Jesus, too, emphasized the importance of seven when he taught that forgiveness should not be offered merely seven times, but seventy-seven times (or seventy times seven, depending on the translation).

Seven also shapes the rhythm of time. In Leviticus, the Jubilee Year follows seven cycles of seven years. Our modern calendars reflect this same pattern, with seven days forming a complete week. Today, if we begin a seven-day countdown, we arrive at Christmas, the day toward which the season of Advent has been leading us. We now have exactly one week remaining until we celebrate the incarnation of our Lord.

Before that day of celebration arrives, our Advent journey continues with the lighting of the fourth candle on our Advent wreath. We invite you to worship with us this Sunday, December 21, at 9:30 AM, as we enter the final days of this holy season. Then, as the calendar turns, we will gather for Christmas Eve worship on Wednesday, December 24, at 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM, preparing our hearts for the joy of Christmas Day. We conclude our countdown one week from today, Thursday, December 25, at 9:30 AM, with worship on Christmas morning.

Celebrate seven with us this week. Count with us as we await the arrival of the Christ Child.

Blessings,

Pastor Marc