Advent has wrapped up and the New Year is about to begin. We've had a break from reading Beyond the Gospels, but beginning January 4 we will continue into Corinthians with a plan to read the rest of the New Testament in 2016.
If you've found encouragement in reading Scripture or through the devotionals shared here, Grow Team challenges you to invite someone you know to begin reading along too. We would also love to have your feedback on what's presented here. Leave a comment in the Comment Box at the end of the article [click the post title and then scroll to the bottom of the article to find the box].
If you have a heart for writing devotionals. We are looking to grow the writing ministry here at Growing in Faith at FUMC.
Contact Stacy Boyer stacy@jacksonvillemethodist.org
or Carol Weaver cbweaver@suddenlink.net
if you are interested in sharing your gift here.
Blessings for the New Year!
Grow Team
Thursday, December 31, 2015
Friday, December 25, 2015
The Manger Awaits
"When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us". And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger."
---Luke 2:15-16
Why were the shepherds the first to hear the announcement of the birth of the Savior? Perhaps it was because they were humble enough to believe and to act upon the good news. They went with haste down the rocky hillside, guided by a wondrous star. They did not tarry until they found the precious babe. What joy must have filled their hearts as they knelt at the manger!
Just as the baby Jesus was waiting for the shepherds on the first Christmas Eve, he is waiting on this night for all who will hasten to Him in love and humility.
Let us go to the manger once more and kneel before the Christ Child with joy and thanksgiving.
Loving God, we thank you that you were willing to come to earth, live as we live, and die to save us. We do not understand the wonderful mystery; but we accept it with grateful hearts. We confess that we have not always loved one another as you love us. On this glorious night, we pray that you will forgive us and strengthen our desire to be more like Jesus. May the song of the angels and the light of the star remain with us and bless us forever. Amen.
Marcy Lang---1990
Have you opened your heart to Jesus? have you received Him with love and humility?
If you have consider sharing your story of Jesus's birth in your heart with someone this week. If you haven't consider why you haven't. He's waiting for you...
Thursday, December 24, 2015
Extraordinary in the Ordinary
I eagerly anticipate Christmas because of those special once a year activities that mark the holiday: putting up lights, decorating the tree, baking cookies, singing carols, receiving gifts, gathering with family, and on and on. My ordinary daily routine gets put aside as we celebrate the extraordinary event.
But when the holiday ends and the decorations are put away. I breathe a sigh of relief and look forward to the return of an ordinary daily routine.
We celebrate the coming of Emmanuel, (the word means God with us), that life changing and world changing event that began in an ordinary way with the birth of a baby. A birth is an extraordinary event for a family but an ordinary, routine process that has happened billions of times since the world began. God chose to live with us in an ordinary time and an ordinary place and in an ordinary way to show us that that is where the extraordinary happens.
I wait for miracles expecting them to be announced by angels singing and a star lighting up the sky and wise men bringing gifts. I wait for God's call and look for a burning bush and listen for a rushing wind or a thundering voice.
But while I am waiting for the extraordinary to happen, it is in the small, seemingly insignificant, routine events that I am suddenly aware of God. When lighting a candle during the Christmas Eve service, I know God is with me and calling me by name. That small flames passed from person to person lights up the sky and announces the presence of God. Standing with my children and hearing them sing a familiar Christmas carol is when I hear the angel's announcement ringing through the heavens.
The extraordinary love and grace of God is always there, whether I have decorated and baked and shopped and prepared or if it has just been an ordinary day. It all depends on if I let the stresses of the ordinary block my ability to see the possibility of the extraordinary in my daily routine.
Ann Culotta--2003
But when the holiday ends and the decorations are put away. I breathe a sigh of relief and look forward to the return of an ordinary daily routine.
We celebrate the coming of Emmanuel, (the word means God with us), that life changing and world changing event that began in an ordinary way with the birth of a baby. A birth is an extraordinary event for a family but an ordinary, routine process that has happened billions of times since the world began. God chose to live with us in an ordinary time and an ordinary place and in an ordinary way to show us that that is where the extraordinary happens.
I wait for miracles expecting them to be announced by angels singing and a star lighting up the sky and wise men bringing gifts. I wait for God's call and look for a burning bush and listen for a rushing wind or a thundering voice.
But while I am waiting for the extraordinary to happen, it is in the small, seemingly insignificant, routine events that I am suddenly aware of God. When lighting a candle during the Christmas Eve service, I know God is with me and calling me by name. That small flames passed from person to person lights up the sky and announces the presence of God. Standing with my children and hearing them sing a familiar Christmas carol is when I hear the angel's announcement ringing through the heavens.
The extraordinary love and grace of God is always there, whether I have decorated and baked and shopped and prepared or if it has just been an ordinary day. It all depends on if I let the stresses of the ordinary block my ability to see the possibility of the extraordinary in my daily routine.
Ann Culotta--2003
Lord Jesus, give me eyes to see You in every ordinary happening this season,
make every moment extraordinary by Your presence.
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Responding in Faith
Scripture: Luke 2:1-14
In Luke, chapter 2, beginning with verse 8, we read the story of an angel of the Lord, then a multitude of heavenly hosts appearing before the shepherds who were watching their flocks at night. It is hard for one to imagine how frightening and overwhelming that must have been for these men. But as amazing as this sight must have been, an equally marvelous happening of this treasured Christmas story is the faith shown by those shepherds that night.
Imagine these men, going about their daily routine, tending the sheep just as they had done so many nights before, and suddenly an angel appears to them telling of a Savior who has been born in the town of David.
The Bible tells us how terrified these shepherds were, but the angel said to them, "Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people." As soon as the angel had left them, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us." The story then tells us the shepherds hurried away and found the newborn Savior, and they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.
What a great showing of FAITH by these shepherds. They did not let their initial fears overwhelm them, they did not try to ignore or dismiss what they had just experienced, or try to formulate some explanation of what happened to them that night. They simply, and immediately, responded in faith, and found the Lord Jesus, and ultimately spread the word of the Savior to those who had not heard the great news. How wonderful it would be if all of us would have such faith to follow God's plan for our lives immediately, enthusiastically, without fear, without doubt, just trusting in the Lord.
Barry and Leigh Ann Murray---1997
In Luke, chapter 2, beginning with verse 8, we read the story of an angel of the Lord, then a multitude of heavenly hosts appearing before the shepherds who were watching their flocks at night. It is hard for one to imagine how frightening and overwhelming that must have been for these men. But as amazing as this sight must have been, an equally marvelous happening of this treasured Christmas story is the faith shown by those shepherds that night.
Imagine these men, going about their daily routine, tending the sheep just as they had done so many nights before, and suddenly an angel appears to them telling of a Savior who has been born in the town of David.
The Bible tells us how terrified these shepherds were, but the angel said to them, "Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people." As soon as the angel had left them, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us." The story then tells us the shepherds hurried away and found the newborn Savior, and they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.
What a great showing of FAITH by these shepherds. They did not let their initial fears overwhelm them, they did not try to ignore or dismiss what they had just experienced, or try to formulate some explanation of what happened to them that night. They simply, and immediately, responded in faith, and found the Lord Jesus, and ultimately spread the word of the Savior to those who had not heard the great news. How wonderful it would be if all of us would have such faith to follow God's plan for our lives immediately, enthusiastically, without fear, without doubt, just trusting in the Lord.
Barry and Leigh Ann Murray---1997
Father God, use the events of this season to increase my faith and trust in You.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
The Promise of Coming
Years ago when I was very young, I learned an important lesson from my mother's friend, Mrs. T. They had been friends for a long time. I liked Mrs. T. very much. I recall that she and my mother spent many times "delivering" things. I was curious. When I'm curious I ask questions. But I never got the answers, at least not then.
Several years later Mrs. T. became very ill with cancer and died. Even at my young age, that someone very special had died. Then my mother told me about the deliveries of food, new clothing and bedding, medicine, and toys for the children to people everyone else had by-passed or simply never looked for. Mrs. T. was tireless in her search for those who needed help and hope. She provided her deliveries from her own resources. She was, in fact, a practicing Christian. It isn't an unusual story. Christians throughout the world give themselves every day.
Gradually, I realized that Christian love and caring bring "Christmas" every day. In the years before Jesus' birth, the world prayed for his coming, for the prophecy to be fulfilled. The promise of his coming sustained them. He came and he is here now. If we truly wish to abolish the anger, violence, and fear from the world we live in, we must search for the peace. It will come true when we actively share the peace. It will come true when we actively share the reality of Christ. We can turn the world around beginning in our own time and place. It is the only solution.
Mrs. T. knew that.
Ruth Alexander--1992
Several years later Mrs. T. became very ill with cancer and died. Even at my young age, that someone very special had died. Then my mother told me about the deliveries of food, new clothing and bedding, medicine, and toys for the children to people everyone else had by-passed or simply never looked for. Mrs. T. was tireless in her search for those who needed help and hope. She provided her deliveries from her own resources. She was, in fact, a practicing Christian. It isn't an unusual story. Christians throughout the world give themselves every day.
Gradually, I realized that Christian love and caring bring "Christmas" every day. In the years before Jesus' birth, the world prayed for his coming, for the prophecy to be fulfilled. The promise of his coming sustained them. He came and he is here now. If we truly wish to abolish the anger, violence, and fear from the world we live in, we must search for the peace. It will come true when we actively share the peace. It will come true when we actively share the reality of Christ. We can turn the world around beginning in our own time and place. It is the only solution.
Mrs. T. knew that.
Ruth Alexander--1992
Father God, show me the ones who've been by-passed by others,
those who need help and need to know Your love and care.
Use me to show Your love to others.
Help me to bring Christmas every day.
Monday, December 21, 2015
Hope
Hope is such an important thing to human beings. Without hope we become filled with despair. I believe that Christmas is all about hope.
Jesus was born to two adults who were far from home and had no place to stay. Could we say they were homeless?
She was giving birth and they had no one to attend to her in the birth. Could we say they had no insurance?
They had no family or support group around them to help with the details or to celebrate the birth. Could we say they were lonely?
Joseph had not fathered the child, yet he stood by Mary when she said that the baby was immaculately conceived. Could we say there were marital problems?
Yet, in the middle of this unusual but very familiar circumstance a miracle happened. Who says it? The scholars and the powerful in their community did not. It was the shepherds and wise men from far away that recognized the importance of the event. The impact of that moment in times is to create a sense of hope and connection to the eternal for all of us who suffer and feel estranged from the goodness of life. Hope comes in small packages, but is very powerful.
Jim Brown---2004
Jesus was born to two adults who were far from home and had no place to stay. Could we say they were homeless?
She was giving birth and they had no one to attend to her in the birth. Could we say they had no insurance?
They had no family or support group around them to help with the details or to celebrate the birth. Could we say they were lonely?
Joseph had not fathered the child, yet he stood by Mary when she said that the baby was immaculately conceived. Could we say there were marital problems?
Yet, in the middle of this unusual but very familiar circumstance a miracle happened. Who says it? The scholars and the powerful in their community did not. It was the shepherds and wise men from far away that recognized the importance of the event. The impact of that moment in times is to create a sense of hope and connection to the eternal for all of us who suffer and feel estranged from the goodness of life. Hope comes in small packages, but is very powerful.
Jim Brown---2004
Help me find hope in Your life, Jesus, and openly
share that hope with others. Amen.
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Christmas Poem
Christmas is a time of love,
A time for thanking the One above
For all our blessings and joys,
A time for Santa to see the good girls and boys.
People laughing, cheering, and carrying on,
Until the break of a beautiful dawn.
Exchanging presents to and fro,
Taking long walks through the white snow.
Families unite from all around,
The talking and laughing creates quite a sound.
"Why Elizabeth! My how tall you've grown,"
Says the aunt year after year, when she calls on the phone.
Mistletoe hung high and low,
Couples stop there before they go.
Entertaining little ones with stories of joy,
While they drift off to sleep dreaming of bright and shiny toys.
Before they go to sleep they take time to pray,
Just like Mary and Joseph did on the hay.
Christmas is a time of love,
A time for thanking the One above!
Elizabeth Sorrell---1992
A time for thanking the One above
For all our blessings and joys,
A time for Santa to see the good girls and boys.
People laughing, cheering, and carrying on,
Until the break of a beautiful dawn.
Exchanging presents to and fro,
Taking long walks through the white snow.
Families unite from all around,
The talking and laughing creates quite a sound.
"Why Elizabeth! My how tall you've grown,"
Says the aunt year after year, when she calls on the phone.
Mistletoe hung high and low,
Couples stop there before they go.
Entertaining little ones with stories of joy,
While they drift off to sleep dreaming of bright and shiny toys.
Before they go to sleep they take time to pray,
Just like Mary and Joseph did on the hay.
Christmas is a time of love,
A time for thanking the One above!
Elizabeth Sorrell---1992
Thank You, Lord, for every moment of the Christmas Season.
Fill my thoughts and heart with love for You, the provider of all good things.
I said to the Lord, "You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing."
Psalm 16:2 NIV84
Saturday, December 19, 2015
A Light in the Darkness
God looked down upon the world and wept. The minions of Satan went freely across the face of the Earth. Humankind, tempted by evil, had turned to sinful ways. When the remaining faithful tried to light God's candle, the devil's henchmen stood nearby to snuff it out.
But then God acted. He rocked the foundations of sin when he sent His Son to be born unto the Virgin Mary. Jesus Christ, the embodiment of hope and light, had been born into the world.
The pure, golden light of the Lord shined forth from Jesus. The faithful and the needy welcomed its holy illumination as it eased burdens and restored souls. But the evil at heart feared the light. It exposed their corruption and hate, and they hid from it.
Enraged at God's "invasion," the followers of Satan led Jesus to a cross and crucified him. For a moment it appeared the darkness won. But then the news came of an empty tomb. Jesus had ascended and returned. Neither sin, nor death, nor the vast powers of the devil had been able to extinguish the light. The faithful of the Lord rejoiced.
From a blood stained cross, Jesus created a throne. From it he leads the righteous to light and life everlasting.
Through the years many have tried to put out the light. Hitler, Stalin, Nero and Pilate, and others have attempted to vanquish good through evil. But the symbol of the cross stands as an eternal reminder that no force can extinguish the light of God's love. Jesus Christ lives. And the light burns eternal!
But then God acted. He rocked the foundations of sin when he sent His Son to be born unto the Virgin Mary. Jesus Christ, the embodiment of hope and light, had been born into the world.
The pure, golden light of the Lord shined forth from Jesus. The faithful and the needy welcomed its holy illumination as it eased burdens and restored souls. But the evil at heart feared the light. It exposed their corruption and hate, and they hid from it.
Enraged at God's "invasion," the followers of Satan led Jesus to a cross and crucified him. For a moment it appeared the darkness won. But then the news came of an empty tomb. Jesus had ascended and returned. Neither sin, nor death, nor the vast powers of the devil had been able to extinguish the light. The faithful of the Lord rejoiced.
From a blood stained cross, Jesus created a throne. From it he leads the righteous to light and life everlasting.
Through the years many have tried to put out the light. Hitler, Stalin, Nero and Pilate, and others have attempted to vanquish good through evil. But the symbol of the cross stands as an eternal reminder that no force can extinguish the light of God's love. Jesus Christ lives. And the light burns eternal!
"...I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness,
but will have the light of life." ---John 8:12
but will have the light of life." ---John 8:12
Jonathan Foster---1990
Father God, thank You for sending the light of Jesus into the darkness of the world.
Thank You for making the way for me to live in and by the Light.
Use me as Your light in this world.
Friday, December 18, 2015
Kneeling is Standing
These words have been in our lives and on our refrigerator door for several years now. We've learned through the years that keeping our focus on God makes us strong. We do our best to remember this verse every day. It is a reminder to us all year and is our guide just as Jesus was given to us as our example. At Christmas we stop and are reminded of Jesus and his humanness. He had what appeared to be strong friendships, but he always went to God for ultimate direction. His birth is our hope, and he is the supreme mentor to us all."The man who kneels to God can stand up to anything."
As this is our 20th Christmas together, we look back at the deaths, the births, the nontraditional holidays in a second marriage, the illnesses both physical and emotional in our family and friends, the service, the joy and the passages we all realize when we really reflect on our lives. We remember that our happiest and most peaceful times come when we know that we can listen to God and do the best we know to do, but realize that God created this world and all that follows.
We remember a Christmas during our first years together as we attended our Christmas Eve Service here. Starting new traditions together was not without growing pains, but we had our whole family with us and it snowed! We looked around us and became aware that many among us were carrying their own "sack of rocks," as a friend from Reklaw once said. As we looked at our friends at church that night, we became aware of such spiritual strength. We know that when we kneel to God, his power makes us stronger than we ever thought we could be by ourselves. We knew that the greatest examples were among us that night.
Billie and Chuck Hopson---2003
Lord, I choose to kneel before You.
You are my Lord, You are my strength.
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
James 4:10 NIV84
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Entertain the Angels This Year
"Come to Bethlehem and see Him whose birth the angels sing; Come adore on bended knee Christ, the Lord, the newborn King."
---Angels We Have Heard on High
The picture often seen in the Christmas story is of the Holy Family. How could the innkeeper of Bethlehem be so unkind as to turn Mary and Joseph away and send them to the manger? What was his reason for sending them to the manger? The innkeeper missed Christmas and with it the blessing of his lifetime. He could have been host to a King!
Some of us will miss Christmas this year, also, because we will concentrate more on the gifts than the giver. One verse of scripture that would save us all from the innkeeper's mistake is found in Hebrews.
"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." ---Hebrews 13:2Christ came as a baby; we might look for Christmas in small packages too.
Dorothy and Eugene Stolze---1990
Lord, keep me from distraction this Advent Season.
Keep me focused on You and the heart of Christmas.
Today, take time to sing a carol of praise to Christ the Lord!
Below is a YouTube of Angels We Have Heard on High!
Click and sing along.
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
He Works in Us
Scripture: Isaiah 9:2-7
The Advents season for me is a special time to renew my faith that God is and always will be at work in our lives. Isaiah said our Savior would be born and lucky for us there were believers who expected this event to occur. Now, two thousand years later we celebrate Jesus' birthday with joy and happiness that His message from God can give us the comfort and peace within we all yearn for.
Jeanne Baker---1997
The Advents season for me is a special time to renew my faith that God is and always will be at work in our lives. Isaiah said our Savior would be born and lucky for us there were believers who expected this event to occur. Now, two thousand years later we celebrate Jesus' birthday with joy and happiness that His message from God can give us the comfort and peace within we all yearn for.
Dear Lord, help each of us to use the gifts you have given us to help others and to bring them the message of love and forgiveness you have given us. This we ask in Christ's name. Amen.
Jeanne Baker---1997
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Love Came Down
"But He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement that made us whole, and with his stripes we are healed."
---Isaiah 53:5
In the beginning was love. It was through love that He created us in His image --- not as slaves or robots, but with free will to choose whether or not to have a relationship with Him.
It was His love during the Old Testament period that tried to guide the Israelites to eternal happiness, and away from their desire for temporary pleasure. Do we sometimes behave like the Israelites? I can't speak for you, but I know I have. (Thanks for forgiveness!)
Because of love He came in the flesh to show us by His example how to live. He would die on the cross then arise so our sins could be forgiven in order for us to have eternal life. No more symbolic sacrifice or offering according to the law --- He was the ultimate and final sacrifice.
This Advent season let us remember His great love for us from creation to this very moment:
1. The baby in a manger... no doctor, no hospital.
2. His traveling and teaching... no air conditioned car or hotel.
3. His death on the cross... no pain medicine or fancy funeral.
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." ---John 3:16Wayne Cessna---1992
Bless me with greater understanding of Your love, Lord,
as we move toward Christmas.
Monday, December 14, 2015
Disappointment
Scripture: Micah 5:2-5a
As the oldest grandchild on both sides of the family, and the first girl on one side, suffice it to say that I was just a little bit spoiled --- especially at Christmas. When I was twelve my Christmas list included a bean bag chair --- the latest rage. I truly expected to get the chair, I just wasn't sure from whom.
Christmas morning arrived and my bean bag wasn't under the tree where I expected it to be. No worry, we still had to make the rounds to both sets of grandparents. The five of us traveled from Lovelady to Frankston to the paternal grandparents. Again I wasn't too disappointed that I didn't receive my expected present because I knew we had one more stop. Onto Ft. Worth. My excitement was building as I wondered about the color of my bean bag and if it would fit into the car.
I didn't see a big present for me under the tree when we arrived at Ft. Worth, but I thought maybe my grandmother didn't want to be too obvious. The little package my grandmother handed to me when the presents were passed out wasn't at all what I was expecting. For the first time, I began to worry about not getting my bean bag chair.
When it came my turn to open a present, I took the paper off of a little black box and inside the box was a belly-button brush with little fake diamonds on the handle. (You'd have to know my grandmother!) I tried to act excited and be gracious but I'm sure that the disappointment was evident.
In reminiscing this event in my life I am reminded of the three magi and their long journey to worship the newborn king. Would his palace be big? Would there be parades through the town? After all, any event important enough to be announced by its own star must be a magnificent thing.
I can just imagine their surprise (disappointment) at finding the "king" in such humble surroundings. Their disappointment didn't last long however as their hearts were touched and they knelt down to worship this child who represented greatness.
This Advent season may you enjoy the excitement and anticipation of Christmas, remembering that the greatest gift of all is the small unassuming gift of love --- Jesus.
P.S. My bean bag chair was brought out to me after all of the other presents were opened.
Jerri Lykins---1997
As the oldest grandchild on both sides of the family, and the first girl on one side, suffice it to say that I was just a little bit spoiled --- especially at Christmas. When I was twelve my Christmas list included a bean bag chair --- the latest rage. I truly expected to get the chair, I just wasn't sure from whom.
Christmas morning arrived and my bean bag wasn't under the tree where I expected it to be. No worry, we still had to make the rounds to both sets of grandparents. The five of us traveled from Lovelady to Frankston to the paternal grandparents. Again I wasn't too disappointed that I didn't receive my expected present because I knew we had one more stop. Onto Ft. Worth. My excitement was building as I wondered about the color of my bean bag and if it would fit into the car.
I didn't see a big present for me under the tree when we arrived at Ft. Worth, but I thought maybe my grandmother didn't want to be too obvious. The little package my grandmother handed to me when the presents were passed out wasn't at all what I was expecting. For the first time, I began to worry about not getting my bean bag chair.
When it came my turn to open a present, I took the paper off of a little black box and inside the box was a belly-button brush with little fake diamonds on the handle. (You'd have to know my grandmother!) I tried to act excited and be gracious but I'm sure that the disappointment was evident.
In reminiscing this event in my life I am reminded of the three magi and their long journey to worship the newborn king. Would his palace be big? Would there be parades through the town? After all, any event important enough to be announced by its own star must be a magnificent thing.
I can just imagine their surprise (disappointment) at finding the "king" in such humble surroundings. Their disappointment didn't last long however as their hearts were touched and they knelt down to worship this child who represented greatness.
This Advent season may you enjoy the excitement and anticipation of Christmas, remembering that the greatest gift of all is the small unassuming gift of love --- Jesus.
P.S. My bean bag chair was brought out to me after all of the other presents were opened.
Jerri Lykins---1997
Lord, remove my expectations of the ways You want to bless me.
Keep my heart open and attentive so I don't miss a one.
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Follow Me
"Then Jesus said to them all, "If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up my cross daily and follow me." ---Luke 9:23"Follow me" has always been the hallmark of leaders. Jesus was no exception. He led, not by coercion or intimidation or fear, but by example. His life was so exemplary that his followers gladly denied themselves, risked their lives, gave their lives to be counted among His chosen.
He mainly shows how we should behave toward one another. We can find all sorts of reasons to justify all sorts of conduct unless we have a model of how life should really be lived. We can draw strength and righteousness from another person, from someone we understand to be better than we are, someone we can use as a touchstone for testing the truth of our own behavior. We have found him in the person of Jesus.
Margie Wilson---1995
Jesus, thank You for coming to lead us into light and love,
grace and truth, knowledge and understanding.
You showed mus how to live our life from beginning to end.
Teach me to follow You.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
Sharing Joy
"And the angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, "Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will come to all the people; for to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."
---Luke 2:10-11
Each year as I prepare for Christmas there are some things that are constant. My preparation usually begins before Advent with the anticipation of the enjoyment I'll share with family and friends. I begin making lists of the things I need to do --- gifts, menus, Christmas card addresses, decorations needed --- all the things that will make the holidays pleasurable.
This year I remember when my daughter was having her fifteenth birthday. Together we planned a party and she was given the task of sending out the invitations. A day before the party I asked her how many friends she expected and she looked at me in horror. She had forgotten to send out the invitations. The most important element of the celebration could have been missing --- people to share in the celebration. Of course, the telephone saved the party.
Join me this year in not forgetting the most important aspect of Advent. Along with preparing for the season, I intend to be more diligent in sharing the joy of the celebration with as many people as possible. Each day of Advent let's join together to make sure our family, friends, and even strangers know that we are filled with the expectation of the real meaning of Christmas.
Along with our gifts and Christmas correspondence, we can make telephone calls and visits to shut-ins in our church, make a visit to the hospital, offer to read a story at the Readiness School, run an errand for someone who is ill, drop some money in the Salvation Army collection, smile to a weary clerk at Wal-Mart. Be creative! Then we can sing with the angel: We bring you tidings of great joy, A Savior is born and He shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the Prince of Peace, Emmanuel (God with us).
Carol Crawford---2003
Fill me anew with the joy of Your salvation!
Inspire me with ways to share the joy with others
this Advent Season.
Who can you bring joy to today?
Friday, December 11, 2015
The Light of Christmas
Christmas lights are so important to the mood of the holiday. There are lights on the tree and lights outside the house. We have candles on the table and candles in the Advent Wreath. Even the glow of the fireplace gives a special light to the home at Christmas. But what about the real light of Christmas?
The scriptures have many references to light in the Christmas stories. The light of a star led the wise men to Bethlehem. And as the shepherds were in the fields the night the "glory of the Lord shone 'round them." Perhaps this why lights are so important in our Christmas celebrating.
Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever believes in me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." Just as the star led the wise men to the manger, Jesus gives light for each of us to follow. As we light the Advent candles, look for the light that will lead us to do God's will. Amen.
Rebecca Ross---1994
The scriptures have many references to light in the Christmas stories. The light of a star led the wise men to Bethlehem. And as the shepherds were in the fields the night the "glory of the Lord shone 'round them." Perhaps this why lights are so important in our Christmas celebrating.
Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever believes in me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." Just as the star led the wise men to the manger, Jesus gives light for each of us to follow. As we light the Advent candles, look for the light that will lead us to do God's will. Amen.
Rebecca Ross---1994
Light me up from the inside, Lord,
let Your love be seen through me!
let Your love be seen through me!
Thursday, December 10, 2015
God Speaks
When I awaken early on a spring or summer morning and listen to the birds singing in the trees outside my window, God speaks to me of peace. When I walk through the woods and experience the quietness and calm, the turning leaves of autumn, the scampering of squirrels and critters, God speaks to me of peace. When I wander under clear blue skies and into mountains filled with carved-into-rock homes of ancient peoples, God speaks to me of peace.
When I hear children's delightful voices sing simple songs filled with fun and exuberance, God speaks to me of joy. When we baptize a beautiful and innocent baby who looks up into our face as the holy water trickles over their little head, God speaks to me of joy. When I look at each stained glass window, some nearly 100 years old, some dedicated to the early families of our church, some depicting Bible stories or leaders of our faith, God speaks to me of joy.
When I remember my dear husband and parents and so many friends who are no longer with me, God speaks to me of love. When my family gathers for birthdays, holidays, or special events, and we celebrate together, God speaks to me of love. When I spend time with any one of my nine beloved grandchildren and we share secrets, remembrances, fun times together, God speaks to me of love.
As we celebrate this Advent and Christmas season, may God grant you and yours peace, joy, and love.
Barbara Hugghins---2010
When I hear children's delightful voices sing simple songs filled with fun and exuberance, God speaks to me of joy. When we baptize a beautiful and innocent baby who looks up into our face as the holy water trickles over their little head, God speaks to me of joy. When I look at each stained glass window, some nearly 100 years old, some dedicated to the early families of our church, some depicting Bible stories or leaders of our faith, God speaks to me of joy.
When I remember my dear husband and parents and so many friends who are no longer with me, God speaks to me of love. When my family gathers for birthdays, holidays, or special events, and we celebrate together, God speaks to me of love. When I spend time with any one of my nine beloved grandchildren and we share secrets, remembrances, fun times together, God speaks to me of love.
As we celebrate this Advent and Christmas season, may God grant you and yours peace, joy, and love.
Barbara Hugghins---2010
Father God, open my ears to the many ways You speak to me
of peace, joy, and love.
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Something Special
Christmas is something special to everyone. I will always remember Christmas when my Grandma was alive. We always sat together on Christmas Eve, and opened our gifts. We would talk and laugh, enjoying the night.
Christmas is something I will always remember. It's when Mary and Joseph came to the manger. It's the day when Jesus was born. Jesus is watching us and he forgives our sins.
Beth Cannon--1993
Christmas is something I will always remember. It's when Mary and Joseph came to the manger. It's the day when Jesus was born. Jesus is watching us and he forgives our sins.
Beth Cannon--1993
Let me never forget how very special You are, Lord.
How is Jesus special to you?
Consider blessing us all by adding a comment to this post telling us how Jesus is special to you.
[Note: To leave a comment click the post title and scroll to the bottom where you'll find the comment box.]
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Door of Mercy
Ronni and I had the opportunity to travel to Italy last January. Every aspect of the trip was incredible, but my favorite... Rome. Imagining the early followers of Jesus walking in the same places somehow made all I have read in the Scriptures seem more real.
The last day of our trip we spent in the Vatican. Beautiful paintings and sculptures were everywhere.
I am fascinated by traditions and history of other denominations and religions, especially the Catholic church. As we passed through the entrance to the Vatican and turned right, one of the first things our tour guide showed us was this.
Our tour guide went on to explain this thing we were looking at is a door called the Door of Jubilee. Basically it stays boarded up and is only opened every fifty years or at a time the Pope feels God is calling the church to open the door. It represents sanctuary (think Hunch Back of Notre Dame) and is a symbol of all Jesus did to set us free.
Today, December 8, 2015, the Pope has declared the beginning of a year of Extraordinary Jubilee. The church will actually open up the door to begin this year. The focus for the Catholic church: mercy. I heard someone define mercy once as "not getting what we deserve." This is the message of Advent. Jesus entering our world as an infant, frail and vulnerable. He becomes the very door of mercy that leads us into the Father's presence. He is freedom and grace and mercy all wrapped in skin.
Those of us who have been blessed to experience His love and the wonder of Advent have a responsibility. It is our job to share mercy with those in our homes, community, and world. Each of us following the leading of the Holy Spirit can offer mercy to the hungry, the orphaned and especially the lost. We can offer what others don't deserve just because we've received the gift ourselves. This is the most precious gift of the season.
May we celebrate and rejoice in the mercy Jesus poured over us this season.
Stacy Boyer -- 2015
The last day of our trip we spent in the Vatican. Beautiful paintings and sculptures were everywhere.
I am fascinated by traditions and history of other denominations and religions, especially the Catholic church. As we passed through the entrance to the Vatican and turned right, one of the first things our tour guide showed us was this.
Our tour guide went on to explain this thing we were looking at is a door called the Door of Jubilee. Basically it stays boarded up and is only opened every fifty years or at a time the Pope feels God is calling the church to open the door. It represents sanctuary (think Hunch Back of Notre Dame) and is a symbol of all Jesus did to set us free.
Today, December 8, 2015, the Pope has declared the beginning of a year of Extraordinary Jubilee. The church will actually open up the door to begin this year. The focus for the Catholic church: mercy. I heard someone define mercy once as "not getting what we deserve." This is the message of Advent. Jesus entering our world as an infant, frail and vulnerable. He becomes the very door of mercy that leads us into the Father's presence. He is freedom and grace and mercy all wrapped in skin.
Those of us who have been blessed to experience His love and the wonder of Advent have a responsibility. It is our job to share mercy with those in our homes, community, and world. Each of us following the leading of the Holy Spirit can offer mercy to the hungry, the orphaned and especially the lost. We can offer what others don't deserve just because we've received the gift ourselves. This is the most precious gift of the season.
May we celebrate and rejoice in the mercy Jesus poured over us this season.
Stacy Boyer -- 2015
Lord, thank You for Your mercy.
Open my heart as a door of mercy to others.
Monday, December 7, 2015
From Darkness to Light
In the darkness I kneel; a troubled soul.
My thoughts of no accord.
The heart is heavy. Each beat is heard.
Trembling hands reveal me.
The waning moon sets in the west.
An owl swoops low towards its daily perch
Amid the cluster of sharp-needled pines.
Another soon follows. One calls. One answers.
Quietness, darkness, hope for the new day prevails.
Peace with my Lord is what I seek, and
Peace is what I find.
I feel His presence. I stand in awe!
"Forgiven." What joy! Sublime!
Magnificent colors stir in the east.
Dawn is making its bid.
From indigo to azure, pale rose to blood red,
A spectacle and feast for the soul.
Walk, talk, and pray with the Lord.
His love is freely given.
From the darkness we came, loved and nurtured in faith.
To the eternal light we are driven.
Christine Durr---1990
My thoughts of no accord.
The heart is heavy. Each beat is heard.
Trembling hands reveal me.
The waning moon sets in the west.
An owl swoops low towards its daily perch
Amid the cluster of sharp-needled pines.
Another soon follows. One calls. One answers.
Quietness, darkness, hope for the new day prevails.
Peace with my Lord is what I seek, and
Peace is what I find.
I feel His presence. I stand in awe!
"Forgiven." What joy! Sublime!
Magnificent colors stir in the east.
Dawn is making its bid.
From indigo to azure, pale rose to blood red,
A spectacle and feast for the soul.
Walk, talk, and pray with the Lord.
His love is freely given.
From the darkness we came, loved and nurtured in faith.
To the eternal light we are driven.
Christine Durr---1990
Lord, drive me to Your light eternal.
Sunday, December 6, 2015
A Deeper Meaning
How do you explain the true meaning of Christmas? There are so many things that we associate with Christmas: families reunited together, exchanging gifts, singing of Christmas carols, bright lights and Christmas trees.
Now we do not want to put these things down, but beneath all of the tinsel and hustle and bustle, which we usually associate with Christmas. This is the deeper meaning...
How do we explain the meaning of Christmas to someone who does not know Jesus? "God, by sending his only Begotten Son into the world to die on Calvary's cross has preapproved some things in our lives. Our salvation is preapproved. For God demonstrated His own love toward us that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Our eternal home is preapproved and paid for."
Christmas means different things at different times in our lives, and as we grow older, Christmas can be a time to renew and strengthen our inner beings --- our soul.
Today, let us open our hearts and souls to his Holy Spirit that we may start to experience his blessing.
Raymond and Eloise Teague---1992
Now we do not want to put these things down, but beneath all of the tinsel and hustle and bustle, which we usually associate with Christmas. This is the deeper meaning...
"Immanuel--God with us."God's invitation to all people to eternal life through His only Begotten Son and his death on the cross for our sins.
How do we explain the meaning of Christmas to someone who does not know Jesus? "God, by sending his only Begotten Son into the world to die on Calvary's cross has preapproved some things in our lives. Our salvation is preapproved. For God demonstrated His own love toward us that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Our eternal home is preapproved and paid for."
Christmas means different things at different times in our lives, and as we grow older, Christmas can be a time to renew and strengthen our inner beings --- our soul.
Today, let us open our hearts and souls to his Holy Spirit that we may start to experience his blessing.
Raymond and Eloise Teague---1992
Lord, teach me to live as if You were with me every moment of every day.
Holy Spirit reveal Your presence to me in a new way today.
Embolden me to share Your invitation of life with those who have not heard.
Saturday, December 5, 2015
The Wonder of God's Presence
Read Luke 1 and 2.
"Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel,
because he has come and has redeemed his people. ..."
Luke 1:67 NIV84
The story of the Advent of Jesus was first illustrated to me through the pictures in a religious calendar. I think I was nearly four years old and filled with awe and "wonder" as I began to turn the pages. Apparently, I picked up the significance of the story through the colorful and artful illustrations.
I marveled at the bright circles that appeared to radiate behind and above the heads of the Holy family. I became not only curious but puzzled as well. I had never seen anyone that had that kind of aura about them. The awe and wonder increased as my mother attempted to explain what that circle (Nimbus) represented about the deity of the Holy family.
Luke 1 and 2 sets forth the real beginning of the story of Jesus and God's ancient plan to bless the nations. (That is to bring to fruition God's promise to Abraham.) The people, as Luke depicts the scriptural story, continue to come to life, even for us today. God will still intervene to redeem His people in these coming days and weeks before we celebrate Christmas.
The Christmas story arouses awe, wonder and enlightenment to many. But the simple proclamation is not just left to wonder and chance. Each year we have the opportunity to renew and to develop our understanding of the Christmas story. The mysterious wonder of spiritual enlightenment continues to be carried forward. It never stops --- nor was it intended to.
Besides the colorful calendar and pictures, I still carry in my mind the remembrance of it being one of the few treasured shared times of feeling a closeness with my mother. I am thankful for that, and what was embodied in the pictures. There was also a visible means through which the wonder of God's presence became real and very personal.
Rev. Enid Doris Shephard--2009
Lord, fill me with the wonder of Your redeeming love.
Show me how I can continue the story of Your love this holiday season.
Friday, December 4, 2015
Anticipating a Special Gift
"Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift." ---2 Corinthians 9:15As young children Julie and I would ask Santa each Christmas to bring us one special gift. The anticipation of receiving that one "special" gift was sometimes more than we thought we could endure. In December of 1965, Julie and I had both chosen that one "special gift" and Christmas seemed like it would never come. Mama and Daddy were preparing for both Christmas and an event scheduled for January of 1966, the birth of their third child.
Julie and I were excited as a six and a nine year old could be about our new baby brother. It had to be a boy because there were already two daughters in our household, and Daddy needed an ally in his "girl's dormitory."
The morning of December 24th came, and we were so excited! Santa was finally going to come, and we were going to get our special gifts. There was, however, one small hitch in our plans; Mama decided (or rather brother decided) to come early. Julie and I were both disappointed by the fact that Santa might not find us at our grandparents' house if we had to stay with them.
When Daddy called to tell us around 6:30 pm that our new family member had arrived, there was one minor adjustment. Our special Christmas gift was the most wonderful present ever --- our little sister, Janna.
God gave us an inexpressible gift that year just as he gave us all one that first Christmas morning. May we never forget the most special gift ever given to us, Jesus Christ, as we eagerly anticipate the celebration of his birth during this Advent.
Diana Smith---1990
Lord, birth something new in my life this Advent Season!
Thursday, December 3, 2015
Treasure
Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning the Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and treasured them in her heart.
Luke 2: 17-19
Luke 2: 17-19
Webster's dictionary defines "treasure" as: to value greatly, to cherish.
In those days surrounding Jesus' birth, the laws were strict about a maiden being pregnant out of wedlock. The law stated that Joseph, Mary's betrothed, had the right to put her away from him, and even to have her stoned to death, if he wished. We can only imagine how stressed she was as she waited for that first Christmas. But God made His promises known to her through Elizabeth's blessing and Zecharias' prophecies. And, after Jesus' birth, the shepherds came to worship the Babe, and shared with Mary the words of the angels.
"For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."
These words comforted Mary and filled her with joy. The scripture says Mary kept all these things, and treasured them in her heart. To her these were treasured memories to hold in her heart all her lifetime.
In this Christmas season, as we stress over the holiday duties that tax our minds, energies, time, and pocketbooks, perhaps we, like Mary, should stop and once more, rejoice at the words of the angels.
Let us all treasure in our hearts the memories of both our own past Christmases, as well as that special First Christmas.
Dear Lord, We thank you for all our wondrous memories created in this coming Christmas season. And thank you for allowing us to treasure the magic of that first Christmas Season in the our hearts. Amen.
Elizabeth Halpain--2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
He Does Great Things
Scripture: Luke 1:39-55
Wow! What is going on here? Mary spoke "Hello" to her cousin, Elizabeth, and made Elizabeth's baby "jump for joy" in his womb. Elizabeth knew, then, that she could expect a living child, and not the dead one she was afraid of having.
I suspect until that moment, Mary had been in turmoil: The Mighty God has "done great things" to her, yet she had to face everyone who didn't believe in her visit from the Holy Spirit, who didn't understand that she was found to be pure and worthy enough to be a vessel to carry the "Son of God" (through the Holy Spirit) and the "Son of Man" (through Mary). That's why she was visiting her cousin, who lived in another town. Now, because of Elizabeth's joy and belief, Mary acknowledged Elizabeth's praise of her by agreeing that she would be call blessed by all generations.
The same God who has "done great things" to Mary has demonstrated His might with His arm, confounded the wicked and humbled the proud. He has shown His mercy and love to those who fear Him from generation to generation. (I used to think "fear of the Lord" meant being "afraid of God." Through study, I find it means being "afraid of separation from God".) He has filled those who hunger spiritually with good things (as Jesus will show with Mary and Martha). He will always remember to help His people Israel, though they may be stiff-necked and contrary, because of the promise made to Abraham and his children. This is the same God who chose Mary, and she must accept and cherish this. She can expect Jesus.
Carol Haberle---1997
Wow! What is going on here? Mary spoke "Hello" to her cousin, Elizabeth, and made Elizabeth's baby "jump for joy" in his womb. Elizabeth knew, then, that she could expect a living child, and not the dead one she was afraid of having.
I suspect until that moment, Mary had been in turmoil: The Mighty God has "done great things" to her, yet she had to face everyone who didn't believe in her visit from the Holy Spirit, who didn't understand that she was found to be pure and worthy enough to be a vessel to carry the "Son of God" (through the Holy Spirit) and the "Son of Man" (through Mary). That's why she was visiting her cousin, who lived in another town. Now, because of Elizabeth's joy and belief, Mary acknowledged Elizabeth's praise of her by agreeing that she would be call blessed by all generations.
The same God who has "done great things" to Mary has demonstrated His might with His arm, confounded the wicked and humbled the proud. He has shown His mercy and love to those who fear Him from generation to generation. (I used to think "fear of the Lord" meant being "afraid of God." Through study, I find it means being "afraid of separation from God".) He has filled those who hunger spiritually with good things (as Jesus will show with Mary and Martha). He will always remember to help His people Israel, though they may be stiff-necked and contrary, because of the promise made to Abraham and his children. This is the same God who chose Mary, and she must accept and cherish this. She can expect Jesus.
Carol Haberle---1997
God Almighty, fill me with confidence in Your promises.
Fill my life with hope and my mouth with praise.
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Angels Watching Over Me
Scripture: Jeremiah 33:14-16
Angels are "in." Angels are hot commodities in art, style, and literature. Just look at the coverage the Heavenly Host are currently receiving in magazines and on television. The "why" is obvious. Angels represent God. Angels are embodiments of the Lord's presence. Angels protect and promise, present and prostrate the presence of the "holy."
We are people hungry for the holy. A people hungering for faith. When the Lord sent the Angel Gabriel to Mary, God sent the one whose name means "Hero of God, Man of God". In other words, God sent an agent capable of representing God to a person most desperate for God in a moment that belonged to God.
As we enter the Advent Season, my prayer is that each of us will admit our desire for God in our lives, and see that we, too, live in lives and time that belong to Him. Likewise our prayer of preparation may be; "Angels watching over me, my Lord."
Matt Idom---1994
Angels are "in." Angels are hot commodities in art, style, and literature. Just look at the coverage the Heavenly Host are currently receiving in magazines and on television. The "why" is obvious. Angels represent God. Angels are embodiments of the Lord's presence. Angels protect and promise, present and prostrate the presence of the "holy."
We are people hungry for the holy. A people hungering for faith. When the Lord sent the Angel Gabriel to Mary, God sent the one whose name means "Hero of God, Man of God". In other words, God sent an agent capable of representing God to a person most desperate for God in a moment that belonged to God.
As we enter the Advent Season, my prayer is that each of us will admit our desire for God in our lives, and see that we, too, live in lives and time that belong to Him. Likewise our prayer of preparation may be; "Angels watching over me, my Lord."
Matt Idom---1994
Lord, this Advent season remind me of the supernatural nature of Your power.
I acknowledge my desire and need of Your presence in my life.
Thank You for watching over me and being near.
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