Advent Devotional 2011

The Reason for the Season

In the hustle and bustle of the Advent season, it’s easy to forget what we are really celebrating. I heard something the other day that struck a chord in me: “Christmas - it’s not YOUR birthday.” How true and yet how easy to forget as we open that pile of presents under the tree. During all of the shopping, parties, decorating and planning this season, try to remember what is really important. Remember the reason for the season: Jesus Christ is born! Happy Birthday, Jesus!

The Board of Christian Education and I would like to thank all the people that contributed devotions or illustrations to this booklet. We hope you will take a few minutes every day to read these devotions and reflect on the blessings in your life and the true meaning of the season of Advent.

Julie Reimer

Director of Christian Education

Board of Christian Education

Jamie Clemons, Chairperson

Ryan Donahue

Erin Minch

Michele Hampe

Tracy Noll

Kimm Hill

Sherry Odle

Lynn Miller

Renee White

Click on the date that you would like to read.

November 27, 2011

November 27, 2011 Advent Wreath Devotional

December 4, 2011 Advent Wreath Devotional

December 11, 2011 Advent Wreath Devotional

December 18, 2011 Advent Wreath Devotional

December 25, 2011 Advent Wreath Devotional

The Advent Wreath

How To Make An Advent Wreath

Sunday, November 27, 2011

BEGINNING OUR CELEBRATION

Scripture: Isaiah 64:1-9

…Don’t be too angry with us, O God. Don’t keep a permanent account of our wrongdoings. Keep in mind, please, we are your people – all of us.

Isaiah 64:9

This is Advent, the month-long preparation period for Jesus’ birth. Here in Isaiah there is no long trip to Bethlehem for taxes, no child bride, no baby. We have to read the New Testament for all of that. So why read Isaiah?

Isaiah was a real person, historically. He was a prophet in Judah (the northern Kingdom) during the destruction of Israel (the southern Kingdom) by the Assyrians. He not only mourned this threat to God’s people but tried to help them find hope in a desperate situation. He believed that a “savior” would be sent – sometime, somehow, somewhere – to end the long cycle of persecution.

In this passage he:

1. Lists evidence of God’s greatness

2. Confesses the sins of the people

3. Mourns their sense of the absence of God in their lives

4. Asks for rescue and a new relationship

We believe that that relationship was healed by the life, teachings, and sacrifice of Jesus. So we begin our celebration of the birth of the Savior by remembering our need – again. God bless us, every one!

Prayer: Forgiving God, ease us into this Advent season, in expectation that we have much to learn and much to appreciate. Amen.

Judy Reich

Monday, November 28, 2011

KEEP WATCH!

Scripture: Mark 13:24-37

But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see “the Son of Man coming in clouds” with great power and glory.

Mark 13: 24 – 26

This scripture from Mark’s Gospel deals with the coming of Jesus. For us it can also be watching for the Second Coming. This scripture is also the first reading from the Gospels and Lectionary for Advent (this year) – the “Season” of anticipation and preparation.

Verses 24 – 31 list some of the earlier predictions of when to expect the Savior – Jesus. People for ages have used this and other scriptures to find numbers and predictions that will indicate it’s time for the Coming. One of the people receiving publicity recently predicted when the world would come to an end. The followers believed and gave away all they had, including clothes. Then they went to a mountain top to be closer to God. It obviously didn’t happen. Then he admitted he had figured wrong and the new date would be October 20, 2011. Since I’m writing this on the 21st he obviously missed again.

But the exact day and hour? No one knows that, not even heaven’s angels, not even the Son. Only the Father.

Mark 13:32

Therefore, we should be ready at any time, leading Christ-centered lives. KEEP WATCH! BE READY!

Prayer: Oh God, help us to listen for Your guidance while living the life that shows our faith and help us to be prepared. In Jesus’ holy name. Amen

Bob Reich

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

REVIVAL!

Scripture: Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19

Then we will not turn away from You: revive us, and we will call on Your Name.

Psalm 80:18

When I think of a revival I picture a group of people probably laughing, dancing, singing, and coming back to life with waves of joy. Sounds pretty exciting, a party in a sense, that I wouldn’t want to miss. Revival also involves some change that can result in taking something very familiar, and changing it up. The fear of the unknown or lack of faith and confidence in ourselves inhibits us from trying something new. We don’t want to fail. God has provided us with an abundance of talents and gifts, more than we could ever know.

Do you ever feel like you need to be revived? When the long winter is upon us I need to focus on things that will give me some life, revive me. I’m always trying to find new and different things to do, almost always involving friends and family. It gives me a chance to share and to learn from others.

There are so many ways to worship and not all ways work for one another. Just like we were not created the same, so are the methods in which we worship God. Isn’t this a wonderful gift? How about in the New Year we try something new, explore some possibilities, and wake up some new senses. If our focus is on faith and to worship God, there can’t be failure. There are so many opportunities waiting for us. Let’s listen to what God is saying.

Prayer: Dear Lord, let us always be considerate, patient, kind and understanding to others. We all hear you in different ways but we all long to be revived. Thank you for all our gifts and continue to make us better disciples. Amen.

Laurie Cooper

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM

Scripture: Micah 5:1-5

Bethlehem Ephrathah, you are one of the smallest towns in the nation of Judah. But the Lord will choose one of your people to rule the nation--someone whose family goes back to ancient times.

Micah 5:2

One of our favorite Christmas hymns is “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” The words were written in 1868 by Phillips Brooks while he was the rector of the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The music was written by the church organist, Lewis H. Redner, for the Sunday School children’s choir. About three years earlier, the minister had visited the Holy Land and on Christmas Eve he had ridden by horseback from Jerusalem to Bethlehem (a distance of about 6 miles) where he had assisted at the Midnight Service. He wrote about his experience: “I remember standing in the old church in Bethlehem, close to the spot where Jesus was born, when the whole church was ringing hour after hour with splendid hymns of praise to God, how again and again it seemed as if I could hear voices I know well, telling each other of the Wonderful Night of the Savior’s birth.” The beautiful words and music of the hymn have spread around the world bringing comfort, security, and peace at this blessed time of the year.

Prayer: Dear God, Remind us each day of this Advent season that the birth of your son Jesus in Bethlehem fills us with hope and joy. “O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us we pray....O come to us, abide in us, our Lord Emmanuel.” Amen.

Ron and Marilyn Sommer

Thursday, December 1, 2011

WONDERFUL GIFTS

Scripture: John 3:16

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Have you ever received a gift that was absolutely the best? Think about God giving his one and only Son to the world, in order to save all of us. That is the greatest gift of all times. God continues to give freely everyday with the open invitation to accept Him as your Lord and Savior. As we move closer to this Christmas season, let us all be mindful of God’s unconditional love for us.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the most wonderful gift of Love. Help us to give of ourselves to those in need so that it fulfills your plan. Amen.

Hal Wherley

Friday, December 2, 2011

THE PERFECT GIFT

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:20

For in him every one of God’s promises is a “Yes.” For this reason it is through him that we say the “Amen,” to the glory of God.

Every young child wishes relentlessly for that cherished gift, that perfect something that they cannot live without. Adults spend days and nights for weeks on end combing through catalogs, braving spirited crowds of holiday shoppers and hunting online to find that perfect gift. At times we are not aware that we do not know what that perfect gift is after all. We know what we want but we are not always sure of what we need. From the beginning, God has established himself as a maker and a keeper of promises. He will always provide for us, not always what we want, but always what we need.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for giving us what we need. May we continually pursue those things that make for life on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.

The Rodrigues Family

Saturday, December 3, 2011

THE BIRTH OF JESUS THE MESSIAH

Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25

…when Mary was found to be with child outside of marriage, her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.

Matt. 1:18-20

The laws at that time were harsh and Mary would have been disgraced to have a child outside of marriage. The Lord spoke to Joseph giving him the right path to follow even though it was outside tradition.

It seems to us that God may have a plan for us that is different than what we may expect. We should be open to hearing that voice and accepting Gods’ plan for us.

Prayer: Dear Lord, We ask that you teach us how to quiet ourselves in this fast paced life so that we can hear your words giving us direction. May we know in our hearts that to follow your words even though not our own plan, and even though doing so may cause some discomfort to us, following your plan will yield our greatest joy. Amen.

Dan, Sid and Claire Stech

Sunday, December 4, 2011

PREPARE THE WAY

Scripture: Isaiah 40:1-5

Listen! I hear the voice of someone shouting, “Make a highway for the LORD through the wilderness. Make a straight, smooth road through the desert for our God.”

Isaiah 40:3

In this scripture reading, the prophet Isaiah writes about a person in the desert who calls for us to prepare the way for the LORD. This prophecy foreshadowed the life of John the Baptist who encourages us to prepare the way for the coming Messiah. Making a straight, smooth road means removing obstacles. The desert here is a picture of life’s trails and sufferings. We are not immune to these, but our faith need not be hindered by them.

This year, we have been preparing our hearts for the coming Messiah by attending Cross Training on Wednesday nights. We are taking Julie Reimer’s class “The Journey”. This class is aided by a video of the Holy Land. We have seen the place where the angel spoke to Mary, where she and Joseph grew up, and the path they took to Bethlehem. It has given us a visual perspective to Mary and Joseph’s journey. It has brought to life for us just how miraculous the events of Christ’s birth truly are.

Prayer: Dear God, this Advent season, help us to prepare our hearts to see you. Help us to make room for you in our lives. Amen.

The Arebaugh Family

Monday December 5, 2011

FORGIVENESS, ONE OF THE GREATEST GIFTS

Scripture: Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13

You forgave the sin of your people and you pardoned the things they did wrong.

Psalm 85:2

In the scripture of Psalm 85, the message to me is, through asking for forgiveness we are now truly in God’s arms. During this season of blessings and love the greatest gift from God is the birth of his son, Jesus. Jesus is paramount in the development of our spiritual peace, from the eve of his birth to his death on the cross, God has given Him to us as an avenue to forgiveness in the flesh. God speaks to us through Jesus asking us for world peace. This seems to be out of our reach, so He then suggests that we have inward peace; speaking to our hearts by his Spirit. Peace is spoken to those who ask for forgiveness whatever our difficulties or distresses are, God is with us. Christ is the way, the truth, the life. Through Christ, the pardoned sinner becomes fruitful in good works, and by trusting in the Savior’s goodness, finds his feet set in the way of his steps. Righteousness is a sure guide to meeting God and following him.

Prayer: Holy God, thank you for the birth of your son, Jesus. May we always remember that we must continually search for inner spiritual peace and pray for world peace. Thank you for the blessings of forgiveness, for it is through forgiveness that we may be made whole.

Bethany Hackett

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

MESSENGERS OF CHANGE

Scripture: Mark 1:1-8

Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me…”

Mark 1:6-7a

John the Baptist must have been quite a strange sight, even to the people of his day. He emerged from the wilderness in animal skins, eating strange food and bringing a message that the people must change their ways. And yet, many responded and flocked to be baptized by him, to listen to his message, to embrace this change coming to their world. John the Baptist got their attention!

What causes us to change our ways? What forces us to re-examine what we value most, to assess our relationships, to turn our lives around and prepare to allow God to work through us and in us? What gets our attention today?

Prayer: Dear Lord, we admit that we don’t always see change coming. Sometimes we are blindsided by new information or a tragedy that rocks our world. Reassure us that “the one who is more powerful” than John the Baptist is always with us through every change. Amen.

Lyn Wilhoite

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

A SEASON FOR MIRACLES

Scripture: Luke 1:5-17

While Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar. Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him. But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John.”

Luke 1:11-13

This scripture passage relates the miracle of John the Baptist’s conception to elderly parents, Zechariah and Elizabeth, who well beyond childbearing years. For years, they had prayed for a child but had long ago given up hope. Now, they are told they will not only bear a son, but he will be God’s hand-picked messenger who will prepare the way for the Messiah.

Prayer: Dear Lord, as Christmas draws near, remind me that during the times in my life when I feel utterly lost and alone, you are still there waiting for me, and you have a plan for my life. Remind me that miracles, both large and small, still happen, even though life may not always unfold the way I anticipated. Remind me that hope and joy are alive this holiday season for all who believe in your master plan. Amen.

Laurie and Dean Henrichsen

Thursday, December 8, 2011

DO YOU HAVE PATIENCE FOR GOD?

Scripture: 2 Peter 3:8-13

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.

Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.

Raise your hand if you have ever wondered if God was really up there. If you ever thought maybe God took a red eye to the Caribbean or was off touring the world’s finest golf courses when you needed God most.

One of the most difficult things about being a Christian in 2011 is having the patience for God. We live in an instant replay, instant dinner, iphone, internet, fast food and even faster cars type of world. We want things now. We don’t have time to wait. There’s this and that to do and that other thing is coming up and we have to get here and there before then and….you get the picture.

The problem for all of us living on this super highway is that God doesn’t want anything to do with it. God travels at God’s pace. God makes things happen in a Godly/timely fashion.

During Advent, Christians all over the planet wait. We wait patiently and with hope and anticipation. Let’s be real…the cookies, the good music and the cheery deposition of everyone in sight makes this a little easier. But still we wait. Because if we had it Wal-Mart’s way or if we bowed to the radio stations, we would have this whole Christmas thing happen a lot faster.

What I believe Peter is telling us in this passage is as relevant today as it was 2,000 years ago. Have patience. God didn’t forget about us. The things we long for God to provide us with can’t be found on a web address or bought with the swipe of our credit card. We long for things like happiness and success and love and peace. Happiness is found in the joy of watching children at Haven Center open gifts from complete strangers. Success is when our entire world has clean drinking water, no one dies from hunger and we all are seen as equals in the eyes of the law. Love is phoning an old friend, love is giving all we can give, love is not judging anyone, love is what Jesus is all about. Peace is building understanding between peoples and tearing down stereotypes, peace is listening to another’s point of view and peace is what God longs for each and everyday among his people.

What can do you during this season of waiting, this Advent to live a holy and Godly life? What can you do to help God restore his planet and his people? When are minds shift into Godly mode instead of Me and I mode, you’d be amazed at how the me and I things become nothings and the amount of peace you will have in your heart.

Prayer: Almighty and Loving God, Help us to learn to be patient. Help us to find ways to restore your planet and your people during this season of waiting. Thank-you for your son Jesus and all that he did to turn our world upside down. With love we pray. Amen.

Nate Taylor

Friday, December 9, 2011

DON’T SPEAK TOO QUICKLY!

Scripture: Proverbs 29:20

Do you see people who speak too quickly? There is more hope for a foolish person than for them.

Surely there have been times in all of our lives when we have spoken too quickly, without thinking or put our foot in our mouth! We should always try to think before we speak, but especially at Christmas. It's a time where we're around lots of family and friends. While this creates lots of warm, fuzzy memories, almost everyone has some relatives who test their patience! It's also a time where we're running around a lot, trying to get everything done. The long lines in stores, trying to do all the wrapping, cooking, decorating, etc. can also test our patience! At this time of year as we prepare for the birth of Jesus, a good way to honor his birth is to try to live how he would want us to live, following the teachings of the Bible. He would want us to remember we are Christians and not foolish people, who try to live by the teachings of the Bible. Let us enjoy the season and remember this and not "speak too quickly" when our patience is being tested or we might say something we will later regret.

Prayer: Dear God, please help us to try to remember to follow your teachings, even when times get stressful. Help us to remember the reason why we celebrate Christmas.

Mandy and Greg Lavriha

Saturday, December 10, 2011

ON THE FENCE

Scripture: John 20:27

…then He said to Thomas, “Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.”

We can all recall times when we have encountered Thomas, both in ourselves and in others. Apparently, “doubt” is a natural human expression. Maybe we have doubts because we’re afraid of something: the unknown, failure, being excluded, even success and the effort it might require.

But fear not! There is good news! Thomas’ doubts and fears all fell away when Jesus spoke these words. At that moment, he believed! Why did all of this happen? Because Thomas was on the fence. Maybe it was easier to be unbelieving. Maybe he feared exclusion because he wasn’t there when Jesus appeared the first time. But in God’s infinite wisdom and plan, Thomas was an integral part. God needed “doubting Thomas”, to help spread the good news of eternal life; and to illustrate to us that we are human and we have doubts, but they can all be overcome through faith in Jesus Christ.

God needs us, too. Each of us has an integral part in His plan. He won’t let us use the “Doubting Thomas” cop out. He fervently nudges us to action. Does He have to offer for us to put our own hands into his side?

Prayer: Loving God, you are zealous in your desire for us. Help us to be zealous in our desire for you. When we are “on the fence”, relieve our fears and open our hearts so that we may hear your call and believe.

Mary Ann Ruben

Sunday, December 11, 2011

SHARING GOD’S LOVE

Scripture: Psalm 126

…When the Lord brought back the captives to Zion, we were like men who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy.

Open your hearts to the Lord that his spirit within you, can add meaning and purpose to your life. This is especially true during some of the most difficult times. His love is everpresent and eternal.

Prayer: Lord God, we long for your loving spirit. May we feel the joy of this love and share it freely with others. In the name of your son we pray. Amen.

Marilyn and Hugh Meabon

Monday, December 12, 2011

GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISES

Scripture: Luke 1:46b-55

“My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.”

Luke 1:46b-48

Mary’s Song, the name for this passage, is a statement of Mary’s gratitude for God’s blessing; that she would be the mother of Jesus. She sees the blessing bestowed upon her as part of God’s larger promise to the humble and poor. She knows her blessing is out of the ordinary, and that it will be remembered by all future generations. However, her words “he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant” seems to imply that to be blessed by God in some manner was something she expected.

And perhaps she did, and perhaps we should as well. Mary had faith that the humble would be lifted and God would be merciful. Mary was humble, and she hungered, maybe sometimes for food, and maybe at other times for a more peaceful, more just, existence. Mary was young, but she had been aware of God’s promise for years, but she had not grown bitter, frustrated, or angry. She had patience uncommon in today’s society. She lived a life of faith, and was not surprised to be rewarded. We need to remember that God will be merciful to us, just as he was for Mary. Knowing the timing and manner is for God alone, but we can know his promise will be kept.

Prayer: Dear God, please help us to persevere, and to take comfort in the fact that you do keep your promise. Even though knowing the time and manner is beyond us, echoing Mary’s faith is not. Help us to maintain that faith, and work your will within us, such that we are prepared to receive your mercy and blessings. Amen.

John Rice

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

IN EVERYTHING GIVE THANKS

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thess. 5:16-18

Everyone knows what it means to give thanks. It is to be mindful of the blessings that we have received, and express appreciation to God for them. Giving thanks is an important practice because a grateful person will be a happier person. A grateful person will also be a healthier person. Being thankful reduces stress. We are more likely to give thanks in everything, and at all times when we pray without ceasing. No prayer is complete without thanksgiving. So if you pray without ceasing, you will thank God often, and in every situation. Look for the good in the midst of the bad, and you will find something to thank God for.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank you for everything in our lives because everything that happens to us is your will, even the trials and tribulations. Help us to inspire those around us to enjoy the gift of life, to be glad, and to rejoice always.

Dwain Burgess

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

WITNESS TO THE LIGHT

Scripture: John 1:6-9

There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.

John was sent by God as a witness to point us to the truth and light of Jesus. He prepared us and got us excited about how Jesus would give meaning to our lives. It is always easier when someone lights the path and shows you the way. We are all witnesses to how much this church is here for us. It is truly open to all and we see a living example of what Jesus had in mind. We all have stories of where the smallest gesture made a biggest difference. The tiniest of lights shines brightly in the darkest night. During the holidays, be a witness for someone new or someone you have not talked to in a long time.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us be to be a witness of your good news and be that tiniest of lights in the life of someone new this Christmas.

Larry and Jane Smith

Thursday, December 15, 2011

HOPE

Scripture: Jeremiah 31:13

I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.

These are words spoken by the Lord through the prophet Jeremiah to the people of the Babylonian captivity. They can speak to us as well in this advent season. It is a good time to reassess what we are about and to realize that only through us can God bring comfort and joy to those among us who may be hurting.

Prayer: Gracious and loving God, help us to know how we can become what you have created us to be. Amen.

Dave and Gloria Weaver

Friday, December 16, 2011

CHRIST’S LIGHT

Scripture: Matthew 2:9-11

And so they left, and on their way they saw the same star they had seen in the East. When they saw it, how happy they were, what joy was theirs!

Matthew 2:9-10

The three wise men had just departed from their visit with King Herod, and on their way they again found the same star they had been following and they knew they were heading in the right direction. We know a small measure of their joy when we are lost and befuddled and then come across a sign that gets us back on track. The wise men were following Christ’s light and we can too this Christmas season and all through the year if we only take time to look and appreciate. It’s there all around us in the heartfelt greeting, thoughtful sermon, choirs and carols, a children’s time for all ages, and the giving and receiving of the season.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we ask that you present your light before us to guide our way; surround us with your light so we are reminded of your abundant love; and shine your light within us so that we might become better servants of your word. Amen.

The Fries

Saturday, December 17, 2011

THE GREATEST GIFT

Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-10

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God.

Ephesians 2:8

In this season of advent, we are so busy trying to choose just the right Christmas gifts for family and friends, we often forget the greatest gift of all.

When Jesus was born, we are told the three wisemen gave Him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Wonderful and precious gifts.

But God sent the greatest of all gifts to us. JESUS! Jesus, the promised savior who told us of God’s love for us and showed us the way to eternal life.

Let us in this season and all seasons express our gratitude for this precious gift by being loving and kind to all of God’s children.

Prayer: Kind and Loving God, please help us to be loving and kind to one another.

Sharon Parsons

Sunday, December 18, 2011

MARY, A HUMBLE SERVANT OF GOD

Scripture: Luke 1:26-38

Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the Angel departed from her.

Luke 1:38

Imagine. Being a young girl, being visited by an Angel, who tells you that you will conceive a child, by the Holy Spirit, to be the mother of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? How humbling that is, to be chosen by God, to be a vessel in His plan for the Salvation of the world. Mary! Who is truly blessed among women! A humble servant of our Holy God!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your gift of salvation, in giving us your Son Jesus, to save us from our sins. Give us a humble heart and spirit like Mary, to submit our lives to do your Holy Will. In Jesus’ name we ask. Amen.

Pam Hoover

Monday, December 19, 2011

MAKE IT COUNT

Scripture: Genesis 1:27

So God created man in His own image…

As we near the Christmas season in celebration of Christ, we generally give a little more and express a little more kindness. Love, kindness and generosity are all a reflection of God. I enter this Christmas season with a heavy heart for this will be my first Christmas without my parents. As I ponder this Scripture and its meaning, I’m reminded of what kind hearted and generous people my parents were. I can still hear my Mother’s voice saying ‘Remember to always be kind’.

As we enter this year’s Advent season, don’t be afraid to embrace someone you care about. Hug them tight. Reach out and shake a stranger’s hand. Shake it firmly. Smile when looking in someone’s eyes. Do it like you mean it. Help someone in need, and make it truly count. Do it not only during the Advent season, but throughout the year. God created us with this vision in mind.

Prayer: My favorite verse from the song Shine, by Salvador, sums it all up:

“Lord let me shine

Shine like the moon

A reflection of you

All that I do”

Amen.

CJ Jasany

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

HE’S GOT THE WHOLE WORLD IN HIS HANDS

Scripture: Job 12:7-10

In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.

Job 12: 10

“I just don’t know what’s going to happen!” Can any of us say we haven’t used those words at some point as we faced uncertain times? When life circumstances change, as they will for all of us, we may feel overwhelmed. The approaching Holidays can be especially daunting for those challenged by loneliness, unemployment, illness, financial loss or family discord. However, we need not be fearful whatever we are going through when we remember Job’s words. How we underestimate God when we forget that He holds all of creation in His hands!

Prayer: Loving Father, fill our hearts with joyful anticipation of Christ’s birth, knowing all is well, that all will be well. May we find comfort and reassurance remembering that we are ever surrounded by Your grace, Your care, by Your hands. Amen.

Joan Heinrich

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

LIVE WITH CHILDLIKE WONDER AND FAITH

Scripture: Mark 10:15

“Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them. For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children...”

Children have the natural tendency to just believe. They look at the world through innocent eyes, with a sense of joy, excitement, love and open-mindedness. Of course they have faith – it simply comes easy for them.

Too many times, however, we adults get jaded, overwhelmed with life and caught up with the hectic pace that we can’t seem to escape. We think that we’re self-sufficient – we can handle it all – whatever life throws at us.

With children, it’s different. Children trust adults to meet their needs and protect them. This is how our relationship with God should be. Trust that the Lord will shelter us and guide us. If we can come to God with childlike trust and love, we will become closer to God and deepen our faith.

Prayer: Dear Lord, please help us to view the world with the excitement, wonder and trust as children do. Never let us forget that you will protect us and keep us safe. Amen.

Cynthia Herr Kotora

Thursday, December 22, 2011

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

Scripture: 1 John 4:7-12

This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.

1 John 4:9

I’m sure most of you have heard this expression … “The Gift That Keeps On Giving.” This makes me think of times when my kids have gotten the absolute “best” present they could imagine. The best present in the world. They call and tell their friends all about it. But then, after a few months (or even weeks) go by, they realize that it may not be exactly what they wanted because 3 or 4 upgrades come out (that aren’t free) or it may just not do what it does in the TV ads. So who feels worse? You, for buying the gift? Or your kids who are now wishing they should have asked for something different? We’ve all been there. In the end, don’t they still love you for just being who you are and for just being there? That’s because Love is the gift that keeps on giving. God loved the world so much that he sent his son, Jesus Christ, to us. I encourage each person to take a couple extra minutes to show someone you know a little love this Holiday Season. Someone you don’t get a chance to see all that often. Pick up the phone and give them a call. Chances are they’ll remember it more than a gift under the tree.

Prayer: Dear God. Thank you so much for giving all of us the greatest gift of all. Help us remember that love and kindness is a gift that people can hold onto forever. Amen.

Jamie Clemons

Friday, December 23, 2011

JESUS IS ABOVE THE ANGELS

Scripture: Hebrews 1:1-4

The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.

Hebrews 1:3

Did you know that Jesus created us? Have you stopped to think about what this implies? What I take from this is that my life doesn't belong to me. It's not about me and your life is not about you. All things were created by Him and for Him. This means that all of my money belongs to Him, my family belongs to Him, my career belongs to Him and my time belongs to Him. When I forget this, I become a poor steward of the things Jesus owns but allows me to use for investment in his Kingdom.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, We praise you for being the creator of all things. We confess areas where we have not submitted to your authority. Please give us guidance to live our lives as if it belongs to Christ. Amen.

The Blackburn Family

Saturday, December 24, 2011

THE REWARDS ARE GREATER THAN THE GIVING ITSELF!

Scripture: Acts 20:35

…remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

The Season of Advent is filled with preparations for Christmas. There’s the excitement of getting out the holiday decorations, baking cookies and of course decorating the tree. Oh how my sisters and I would sneak a look at the gifts under the tree and ponder what was hidden under the wrapping. We loved the bigger wrapped gifts that needed more than one bow! I look back on those days with fond memories. The anticipation of the big morning would build until I almost couldn’t fall asleep the night before. Christmas morning was always filled with intense joy at each gift I received.

Now, many years later, I’ve learned that the same feelings of anticipation and joy come from giving much smaller packages and some not wrapped at all. Getting to sit with a cancer patient and hearing him talk about his life and family. Seeing his chest fill with pride with each memory spoken aloud. Listening to my Father-in-law, stricken with Alzheimer’s, share his life’s many journeys and relive the exciting moments over and over and over again. Washing my disabled Mother-in-law’s hair and curling it for her while she waited with excitement to look at the finished result. Her thank you hug and sparkle in her eye was like she opened that big wrapped present under the tree with more than one bow!

Blessings come from giving of oneself. Jesus knew that giving to others, however small or large the gift, the rewards were greater than the giving itself! Little did I know that I would be on the receiving end as well.

Prayer: Lord, teach us to see when we give to others, we give to you. We ask it for the sake of Jesus, through whom You give all things. Amen.

Teri Ann Jasany

Sunday, December 25, 2011

MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE THIS CHRISTMAS

Scripture: Psalm 98

O sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things! Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth and those who dwell in it!

Can you imagine a Christmas season without music? We can’t! There is something about music as a form of worship that awakens the spirit within us, even those of us who are vocally challenged. We relive the Christmas story in song and it becomes real for us year after year. Singing is our most fervent means of praising God and celebrating that birth, that Gift, which means so much to us as Christians. This season, let us all raise our voices in song and praise for the God who created us and for the Son born in a stable, born to lead us through this life and the next! May our spirits soar with the sounds of bells, brass, strings and wind as we worship the Almighty!

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the gift of music that transforms us as we praise Thee. As we listen to Christmas music, make us mindful of the reason for the season. We are grateful for and blessed with wonderful and talented musicians to lead us in this, our church. Amen.

David & Sandy Dibbell

THE ADVENT WREATH

Like so many of our Christian customs, the Advent wreath is an adaptation of an ancient practice that dates back to pre-Christian times. Candles were lighted around a wheel during the festival of the winter solstice to celebrate the return of gradually lengthening daylight. The symbolism of this ceremony takes on an entirely new meaning for us in the form of the Advent wreath as we anticipate the birth of Christ and the enlightenment His coming brings to our lives.

Today our Advent wreath custom retains the circular shape with four candles. Three of the candles are purple to represent penance and longing; they are lit during the first, second, and fourth weeks. One of the candles is rose-colored; it is lit during the third week in glad anticipation of the birth of Jesus. The first candle stands for hope, the second for peace, the third for joy and the fourth for love. Evergreens, a symbol of eternal life, and purple ribbons symbolic of penance are often added in preparation for the Lord's coming. Some families place a white Christmas candle in the center of the wreath and light it on Christmas day to celebrate the arrival of their long-awaited Guest.

How to Make an Advent Wreath

• Make or buy a circular base. It must be made out of nonflammable material, such as wire.

• Securely attach 4 nonflammable candle cups or inserts to the base.

• Attach artificial (nonflammable) evergreen branches to the base.

• Insert 4 nondrip candles into the base. (People usually use 3 purple candles and 1 rose candle.)

• Light one candle on the first Sunday of Advent, two candles on the second Sunday, etc. (The rose candle is lit on the third Sunday.)

• Use extra caution when burning candles. They should not be allowed to burn down into the bases of the candleholders. Never leave them unattended. Burning candles should never be placed too near flammable materials such as draperies or evergreen branches. Children should light candles only under adult supervision.

ADVENT WREATH DEVOTIONALS

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Reader 1: Today is the first Sunday of Advent. It is time to think about what it means to celebrate Jesus and to follow Jesus. The Bible says that Jesus is the light of the world. Jesus loves us and shows us the way out of the darkness.

Reader 2: Jesus shows us the way to live. We have many lights around us at Christmas time to remind us that Jesus is the light of the world.

Reader 3: Today, we light the first candle. The light of the prophets reminds us of the hope that God gives us on the way to Bethlehem. (Light the first purple candle.)

Reader 4: Thank you, Jesus, for coming to earth, just like the prophets said, and for your promise to come again. Thank you for being our light so we know how to live. Amen.

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Reader 1: Today is the second Sunday of Advent. The first candle spoke of hope. (Light the first purple candle.) Today we remember the long journey that Mary and Joseph took to Bethlehem.

Reader 2: We are also on a journey. We seek peace for our world. We are on our way to celebrate Christmas, and the birth of Jesus. (Light the second purple candle.)

Reader 3: The light reminds us of God’s peace as we journey to Bethlehem. We light this candle of peace waiting for the Prince of Peace to be born among us.

Reader 4: O God of peace, thank you for being with us on our way to Bethlehem. Thank you for loving us so much that you sent your Son, Jesus Christ, as a little baby. Amen.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Reader 1: Today is the third Sunday of Advent. The first candle spoke to us of hope. (Light the first purple candle.) The second candle prepared the way for peace. (Light the second purple candle.) The light of the candles reminds us not to be afraid but to be joyful on the Advent journey.

Reader 2: Mary was not afraid but joyful because the Lord was with her. The angels comforted the frightened shepherds out on the dark hillside with the joy of the good news.

Reader 3: Today, we light the third Advent candle. It is the candle of joy. Because of our relationship with Christ, we can experience joy and peace. (Light the rose-colored candle.)

Reader 4: Lord, today we rejoice. We rejoice because our Lord and Savior will be born on Christmas. Fill our hearts and our days with joy. We rejoice that you are with us always. Amen.

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Reader 1: Today is the fourth Sunday of Advent. The first candle spoke of hope. (Light the first purple candle.) The second candle spoke of peace. (Light the second purple candle.) The third candle spoke of joy. (Light the rose colored candle.) Long ago God promised a ruler from the tiny town of Bethlehem to love the people the way a shepherd loves the sheep.

Reader 2: While we have been preparing our hearts for Christmas, God has been leading us and guiding us to the true meaning of Christmas. God has come into the world to be with us so that we will experience his grace and love.

Reader 3: Today, we light the fourth Advent candle. We light this candle of love celebrating the love that came out of Bethlehem, the love that changes everything. (Light the third purple candle.)

Reader 4: O God of love, help us to experience the awe and wonder of Jesus’ birth. Help us to share this light of love with those around us. Amen.

Sunday, December 25, 2011

(You may wish to start by reading aloud the story of the birth of Jesus from Luke 2: 1-20.)

Reader 1: We have waited with hope for God to bring justice and righteousness. (Light the first purple candle.) We have waited for God’s peace with patience. (Light the second purple candle.)

Reader 2: We have waited with joy, celebrating the things God has already done. (Light the rose-colored candle.) We have waited with love, awed by how God has shown love to us. (Light the last purple candle.)

Reader 3: Now we light the Christ candle honoring the birth of Jesus, the Son of God, the One True Light, who has come to bring light to our hearts and to our homes. (Light the white Christ candle.)

Reader 4: Thank you, God, for giving us your most precious gift, Jesus. Help us to share the good news of Jesus with others. Help us to follow Jesus through the new year and the rest of our lives. Amen.

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