Gabriel’s Message is an understated and gentle tribute to Mary, the mother of God. Through the soothing and modulated melody – never so slow as to be somber, but equally not giddy or excited, not rushing to joy – the piece captures perfectly the sense of thoughtful acceptance of Mary’s response to God.
The humble and subdued nature of Mary are further emphasized by the contrast made with the angel’s words of praise and honour. Together though, like the softness of snow and the blazing energy of flame, they affirm the glory of God’s abiding love.
In a similar way, Mary’s monumental service is encapsulated in the simplest of lines: “Of her, Emmanuel, the Christ, was born.” Of her. Such small words to channel such immense love, both Mary’s act of love and devotion in serving God in this way, and God’s gift of love for the world.
Of her, the life and teaching of Jesus is made possible. Of her, healing, love, and compassion are renewed in the world. Of her, the poor and insignificant are lifted up and honoured, as God’s love upends the expectations of the world of what a messiah would be.
And because of Mary perhaps, our idea of serving God can be renewed and lifted up. Mary’s service starts quite simply with who and where she is; God takes all that she is – and isn’t – and with God that will always be more than enough. For us too: no matter who we are or wherever we find ourselves, God can take our lives and use them to serve God’s gift of love. If we, like Mary, will allow the possibility of God’s greatness, what might just be born of us?
Empowering God, Bless me with your love and call me into your service. No matter who I am and wherever I may be, let your greatness empower me to reach out to those places in need in your world. Out of me, may compassion flow, may the overlooked be lifted up, may justice be born. Inspire and strengthen me to glorify you in my life. Amen.
Reading: The angel Gabriel from heaven came
The angel Gabriel from heaven came, With wings as drifted snow, his eyes as flame. “All hail,” said he, “O lowly maiden Mary, Most highly favored lady.” Gloria!
“For known a blessed Mother thou shalt be, All generations laud and honour thee, Thy Son shall be Emmanuel, by seers foretold. “Most highly favored lady.” Gloria!
Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head. “To me be as it pleases God,” she said. “My soul shall laud and magnify God’s holy name.” Most highly favored lady. Gloria!
Of her, Emmanuel, the Christ, was born In Bethlehem, all on a Christmas morn. And Christian folk throughout the world will ever say: “Most highly favored lady.” Gloria!
If you’re enjoying the carols each day, there’s now a YouTube playlist you can listen to that contains all the carols shared so far. The playlist will grow as the devotional series progresses, with each day’s carol being added. By Christmas Day, you’ll have the perfect soundtrack of worship and praise. Click here to listen.
Thank you for joining us on this prayerful path through Advent. Blessings and best wishes for 2021.
Walton has two services each Sunday in our historic, air-conditioned Sanctuary and a virtual service
Both 9:30am and 11:00am worship services are planned around a relevant theme. The message, Bible readings, music and prayers are selected to be meaningful and applicable to our everyday life. We reflect, respond in song and prayer, and experience God’s presence together in worship.
We have music at both services, featuring one of our three choirs. We are also fortunate to have excellent soloists, ensembles and instrumentalists.
Virtual Service
Our 9:30am service is recorded and shared at 2:00 pm on our website, Facebook and YouTube.
Children’s and Youth Programs (9:30am service only)
During the 9:30am service, children stay with the adults at the beginning of the service. After a special time of story and prayer geared especially toward those who are young (or young at heart), most children leave for Sunday School, Junior Youth or Teen Talk. Our nursery program for children under age 3 is currently paused. Babies and toddlers are always welcome in the church during services
Children are welcome to stay in the service with their parents if they would like to or some children might prefer a parent to stay with them while they become familiar with Sunday School. At Walton, we want each child to feel as if they belong.
Sacraments of Communion and Baptism are scheduled on certain Sundays throughout the year.
Between the services, please join us for a time of community: a time to share and visit with our church family with fair-trade coffee, tea and juice (and often something baked). During this time, there is an activity table set up for the children to use while the adults enjoy some social time.
During the summer, we join together at one service at 10:00am with nursery care and children’s programming for children 3 to Grade 4.
We invite you to come and worship with us at Walton.
We have many special events that happen at Walton! Something for everyone!
Accessible
We have a ramp and an elevator so the church is accessible to all.
