2. 2
December 2, 2012
“But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a
dream,saying ‘Joseph,son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is
conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name
JESUS, for he will save his people from their sins.’ All this took place to fulfill what the Lord
had spoken by the prophet:‘Behold,the virgin shall conceiveand beara son,and they shall
call his name IMMANUEL (which means, God with us.)’”
Matthew 1:20-23
In The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe C.S. Lewis refers to itas the deep magic
and the ancient magic. The Beaver family remembers the ancientprophecies pertaining to
the return of Aslan. All of Narnia anticipated the day when their land would be redeemed
from the power of the great witch. Narnia was a mystical land where it was “always winter,
but never Christmas;” a land ofconstantexpectation butnever any fulfillment.
The land of Narnia groaned as she waited for Aslan the King Lion to come and save
them. Aslan, upon his return to the Narnia, did more than save the people from their long-
suffering…he dweltamong the people, loving them, encouraging them, and teaching them.
C.S. Lewis didn’t come up with this idea for literature from his own creative thinking.
Rather, he shaped Narnia, and Aslan, from his baptized Christian imagination. Aslan sym-
bolizes the Lord Jesus. The people and land ofNarnia symbolize humanity and all of crea-
tion. The deep, ancient magic is the Faith of the Church as expressed through the story of
salvation in the Holy Bible.
As we begin this journey of expectation and remembrance this Advent, I would like
for you to read the Scripture above. I highlighted two names for the promised Messi-
ah/Savior of the world: Jesus and Immanuel. Did you know thatthe promised Lord had two
names? One ofthe names is a noun (who he is), the other is a verb (whathe does).
So, who is the Messiah? He is Immanuel—God with us. What does he do? He
saves his people from their sins. Jesus is the God-with-us-saving-us-from-our-sins Messiah!
He is the long awaited King who has come to redeem humanity and all ofcreation. During
the Advent season, we remember Jesus’ first coming (advent) in Bethlehem while at the
same time we eagerly awaithis second coming sometime in the future.
Peace to you all as you begin this sacred journey.
Pastor Mark
3. 3
December 3, 2012
Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will
give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel. He will eatcurds and honeywhen He knows
enough to rejectthe wrong and choose the right. Isaiah 7:14-15
“Immanuel” translates as “God with us”. The Bible teaches that God is so different
from us; all his attributes are the things we are not: holy, merciful, full of glory, divine, all
knowing and on and on. Yet scripture also teaches us thatGod did indeed become “flesh
and dwelt among us” and even that his glory was visible! (John 1:14) What a mysterious
concept- “God with us”. God’s love for us is so far-reaching thatHe decided to empty Him-
self and become human and live with us: teaching, healing, performing miracles, showing
kindness to outcasts. His loving-kindness expressed all of his divine qualities; they are in-
separable. Very differentfrom us butstill flesh, like us.
We worship a God who loves us so much he left His throne to come be with us, re-
veal Himself to us, bend down in the dirt and bind our painful wounds. “God with us”- how
compassionate and tender, our “God with us”. Immanuel.
This Advent season, take time to remember just who it is we are singing about and
hearing stories about- Jesus, who is the God of the universe whose love for us knew no
bounds- “God with us”.
Prayer: Lord, we praise you for your mercy, for your compassion to us. Thank you
for coming to live among us, for revealing yourself to us in Jesus, for coming to live in the
hearts of each ofus through your Holy Spirit. Thank you for your love.
Melissa Gould
4. 4
December 4, 2012
Each biblical ‘writer’ has an historical context. Isaiah 9:2 is no exception: The peo-
ple walking in darkness haveseen a greatlight, on those livingin the land ofthe sha-
dow of death a light has dawned. Isaiah tells us that King Ahaz chose to walk in dark-
ness when he decided not to believe God. With a confederation formed between the Nor-
thern Kingdom (Israel) and the Assyrians causing great fear and trepidation, even though
the prophet Isaiah speaking for God said “not to worry,” Ahaz took matters into his own
hands. He decided to buy off the Assyrians with an alliance of his own and therefore pro-
tection. Ultimately his plans failed. The Assyrians crushed the Northern Kingdom and then
marched into and through the Southern Kingdom ofJudah, crushing them as well. The re-
sult was a time of horrendous gloom and doom, or said more biblically, a time when the
people walked in darkness. Oppression is its own unique kind ofdarkness, though notthe
only kind!
As a figurative term, darkness can take on many shapes and forms. Walking in dark-
ness, as one writer suggested, implies a voluntary motion growing outofchoice and resolu-
tion. Walking is in itselfan on-going motion, one step following the other. Itis a progressive
(ing) motion. Figuratively speaking, darkness signifies a condition ofintentioned ignorance,
sin, and misery due in large part of corrupt principles resulting in the commission of grave
transgressions. Moral darkness is wanton living hallmarked by lust, license, cruel spots at
the expense of other’s lives, intellectually and electronically living as if God really is the “un-
known god.”
However, Isaiah continues. Though folks have been walking in darkness,dwelling in
the land of the shadow ofdeath (as the resultofthe decision of Ahaz or our own choices) a
great light is to be seen. The point is God’s intention is for the darkness to be dispelled by
light. Gloom would be replaced and God would have a people ruled by a perfect king. A
light would shine.
Isaiah’s words obviously go beyond Chapter 9, Verse 2. By the time we reach verse
7, Isaiah tells the people of all generations that a Child is born, unto us a Son is given,
and the governmentwill be uponhis shoulders;and his namewill be called Wonder-
ful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace; … the zeal of the
Lord of hosts will perform this.
Being in the Advent season is to realize that this is a time of expectation, hope and
promise, a time of preparation for the coming of Jesus the Christ: Babe ofBethlehem, Man
of Galilee, Christ of Calvary. It is Jesus who proclaims, I am the light of the world. An-
other translation says: I am the world’s Light. No one who followsme stumbles around
5. 5
in darkness. I provide plenty of light in which to live. Stumbling is a distorted form of
walking. Jesus’ word to us is thatthis does nothave to be. I come as light into the world
so that all who believe in me need not walk or live in darkness. I am the light of the
world. Choosing to live and walk in lightis the choice ofbelieving and following Jesus. He
is the one who fill us with the light thatenables us to shed lighton a world thatis needy and
lost. As we live and walk in his light, he can be reflected through us and become a lightfor
others around us.
Anonymous Author
6. 6
December 5, 2012
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his
shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father,
Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on
David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righ-
teousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish
this. Isaiah 9:6-7
For Unto Us a Child Is Born
Chorus
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon His
shoulders.
And His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father,
the Prince ofPeace.
I love seeing newborn babies. Don’t you? They are so sweetand cute. I’m still ex-
cited aboutmy new great-nephew who was born back in October.
Yet, here we are told of a different kind ofbaby. We are told ofa son to be born. Not
just any son, however, but the Messiah who will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty
God, Everlasting Father, and the Prince of Peace. Also, we learn that the government will
be upon His shoulders and thatofHis peace there will be no end. This child to be born will
reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom with justice and righteousness forever and it
will be accomplished by the zeal ofthe LORD Almighty.
Back then, they didn’t knowthat the Messiah to be born was Jesus. We do. Should-
n’t we share the news of the baby born over 2,000 years ago so that others may know of
Him and His peace?
Kathy McLaughlin
7. 7
December 6, 2012
A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.
The Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him – the Spirit ofwisdom and ofunderstanding, the Spirit
of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord – and He will
delight in the fear ofthe Lord. He will notjudge by whatHe sees with His eyes, or decide by
what He hears with His ears; butwith righteousness He will judge the needy, with justice He
will give decisions for the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod ofHis mouth;
with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked. Righteousness will be His belt and faith-
fulness the sash around His waist. Isaiah 11:1-5
I’ll admit that I’m not very good at writing but Melissa said she’d help me out if I nee-
ded it and I gladly took herup on it. She showed me an article from her women’s devotional
Bible connected to this Scripture written by a lady named Sue Monk Kidd. The name ofthe
article was called “Out of a Stump.”
She mentions that some of her midlife suffering came from tensions within her own
marriage. One weekend, she and her husband went away to a lakeside cabin and, early
one morning, they went for a walk. The path wound up a steep hill and she couldn’t help
but think that marriage had its own steep hills.
At the top of the hill, she paused to catch her breath while her husband wandered
about 20 yards ahead. The next thing she heard was her husband calling “Look! Come
closer.” She looked up to see him pointing at a scarred tree stump. When she came closer,
she saw a green shootofa new oak tree growing in the center ofthe stump.
She was unaware of how long they stood there, but felt God speaking eloquently to
her“about rebirth…a simple message abouthowlife comes outof death and healing comes
out of scars and wounds. The message said thatrebuilding could happen after leveling. It
said that hope is bigger than despair.
“I looked atSandy. Could we heal the wounds?”
Relationships (and people) can be fragile, justlike a tender green shootfrom a tree.
Are there relationships in our lives that need repairing and rebuilding? If so, maybe this is
the time of the year to repair, rebuild, and renew.
Submitted on behalfof Amber Quinn
8. 8
December 7, 2012
Matthew 24:35 “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass
away.”
I Peter 1:25 “The word of ourGod which will stand forever.”
Pastor Mark recently said that he is convinced that a person can’t love God deeply
without knowing God deeply. Mark has said this before and I hope he reminds us ofit again
and again. The older Iget, the more Iunderstand how true thatis. As Istudy the Chapter of
John each week, I have also been reading two of William Barclay’s commentary books
about it. I must confess that I have read these books before, around 40 years ago. Back
then I very carefully underlined and wrote notes to myselfon the side ofvarious pages. Iam
amazed of what a good job Idid. Guess what, Iabsolutely don’tremember these things that
I thought were so important. Perhaps part of that is age, but I still have to ask myself how I
could have forgotten all ofthatwonderful information and insights aboutJesus and the Jew-
ish customs and lifestyles. The truth has smacked me right dab in the face, for I have not
been digging into God’s word hard enough.
I am finding myself actually looking forward to doing my study each day and finding
out what all Ihave forgotten through the years. Lastweek the Barclay book asked the ques-
tion of why would Jesus tell his disciples thatHe knew thatthey would abandon Him. He did
not chastise them. He did not hold it against them. Barclay stated that Jesus spoke these
things so that they would have peace. If Jesus had notforetold their weakness, when they
realized afterwards how they had failed Him, itmighthave driven them into despair. Barclay
paraphrased this by writing, “I know what’s going to happen; I am telling you about it now;
you must not think that your disloyalty came as a shock to me; I knew itwas coming; and it
does not make any difference to my love. When you think about it afterwards, don’t des-
pair.” Wow! Not only did Christ give them divine forgiveness then, He is saying that He
gives it to us now because ofHis love.
The Bible is the world’s best-selling book. I’m so grateful to Mark and the Education
Team for these Wednesday night studies. I’m slowly learning that before I delve into it, I
need to first ask the Holy Spirit to speak to me through its words. A March Daily Word De-
votional described the Bible beautifully with these words: “It contains the mind of God, the
state of man, the way of salvation, the fate of sinners, and the happiness of believers. It is
the traveler’s roadmap, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s weapon, and the player’s game
plan. It’s a mine of incredible wealth and a river of genuine joy. Its doctrines are holy, its
precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Christ is its
grand subject, your good its design, and the glory of God its end. Read it to be wise, be-
lieve it to be safe, practice it to be spiritually healthy. Read it slowly, frequently and prayer-
fully. Let it fill your memory, rule your heart, and guide your steps. It is given to you in life,
9. 9
will be opened atthe judgment,and be remembered forever. Itinvolves the highestrespon-
sibility, will reward the greatestlabor, and judge those who trifle with its sacred contents.”
Dear Lord, thank you for your word. Thank you for a church family thatstudies it to-
gether and is willing to learn from one another. Help it to be our roadmap, our daily com-
pass. Strengthen us as we walk with You. Light our paths with your word.
Mary Dee Brown
10. 10
December 8, 2012
“The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will fulfill the gracious promise I
made to the house ofIsrael and to the house ofJudah.
“In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David’s
line; he will do what is just and right in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jer-
usalem will live in safety. This is the name by which it will be called: The LORD Our Righ-
teousness.” Jeremiah 33:14-16
The Prophecy
Chorus
Behold, the days are coming when the Lord will raise up a righteous branch for David.
Behold the days are coming when a King shall reign and prosper and shall execute
judgmentand justice in the earth.
In His days, Judah shall be saved and Israel shall dwell in safety and this is the name
whereby He shall be called: The LORD our Righteousness.
The LORD our righteousness — There is no such name any where given, either to
the Jewish or Christian church, as the Lord our righteousness, but the full import of that
name is spoken of Christ, Isaiah 45:23, which text is applied to Christ, Romans 14:11;
Philippians 2:10.1
Christ is ourLord God,our righteousness,oursanctification, and ourredemption.2
What does it mean for Christ to be the Lord our Righteousness? One definition of
righteousness is without guilt or sin. Whata perfect description of Jesus! Jeremiah prophe-
sied about Him in both chapters 23 verses 5-6 and 33 verses 14-16. He describes Him as
Someone Who will do whatis justand right (and withoutsin).
However, if you look ahead to 2 Corinthians 5:21, it says, “God made Him who had
no sin to become sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.”
Wow! Another way of saying that would be,“God made Him who had righteousness to be-
come sin for us, so that in Him we might become without guilt or sin…” Wow! Just to
think that Christ was born as the LORD our Righteousness (without guiltor sin) and died so
that we would be found righteous (withoutguiltor sin) in Him… Thatjustamazes me! Does
it amaze you? Perhaps we should share that with others this season so that they may be
equally amazed and turn to Him ifthey haven’talready.
Submitted on behalfof SuzanneBrewer
1 John Wesley’s explanatory notes
2 Matthew Henry’s commentary
11. 11
December 9, 2012
“Marshal your troops, O city of troops, for a siege is laid against us. They will strike
Israel’s ruler on the cheek with a rod. ‘Butyou, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small
among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel,
whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.’ Therefore Israel will not be abandoned
until the time when she who is in labor gives birth and the rest of His brothers return to join
the Israelites. He will stand and shepherd in the strength ofthe Lord, His God. And they will
live securely, for then His greatness will reach to the ends ofthe earth. And He will be their
peace.” Micah 5:1-5
The prophet Micah promises Israel that out of Bethlehem will come their ruler,
“whose origins are from ofold, from ancienttimes.” He goes on to describe this ruler…
“He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the
LORD,in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And
they will live securely,forthen his greatness will reach to
the ends ofthe earth.And he will be their peace.”
It is interesting that this chapter begins with “marshal your troops, oh city of troops,
for a siege is laid against us.” These words seem to suggest battle and a leader who will
save them with strength and power. Yet this promised ruler is described gently as a shep-
herd, as one who will guide us to living securely. His strength is not in brute force or the
other things the world might consider powerful qualities. His strength is the majesty of the
name of the LORD. He leads us not to victory in battle, but to peace. He calls us to a min-
istry that extends to the ends ofthe earth. In Isaiah 40:11, thatpromise continues: “He tends
his flock like a shepherd. He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his
heart; he gently leads those thathave young.”
The book of Micah speaks a greatdeal ofunrighteousness and the judgmentofsin.
He attacks greed, oppression, injustice, and all kinds of evil. But he speaks so tenderly of
this Redeemer, this promised ruler. It is perfect that a loving God would defeat evil not with
more evil, but with LOVE. It is rightthathe would notsend us a warrior, butinstead a shep-
herd. I love this image of Jesus, cradling us in his arms; saving us, leading us, sending us
out, taking us home.
In a frenzied and still unrighteous world, we need that shepherd more than ever.
Micah only foretold this leader. In this season and always, we can celebrate his arrival! We
can live securely in His presence! We can share the good news to the ends ofthe earth!
“And he will be their peace.”
Debbie Blackman
12. 12
December 10, 2012
Of the Father’s Love Begotten
Verse 1
Of the Father’s love begotten, ere the worlds began to be,
He is Alpha and Omega,He the source,the ending He,
Of the things that are, that have been,and that future years shall see,
Evermore and evermore!
Verse 2
O ye heights of heav’n adore Him; angelhosts His praises sing;
Pow’rs, dominions,bowbefore Him, and extol ourGod and King;
Let no tongue on earth be silent, ev’ry voice in concertring,
Evermore and evermore!
Verse 3
Christ to Thee with God the Fatherand,O Holy Ghost, to Thee,
Hymn and chantand high thanksgiving and unwearied praises be.
Honor,glory, and dominion,and eternalvictory,
Evermore and evermore!
WheneverI hearthis song,for some strange reason,I hearMalcolm McDowellspea-
king the words to this song. I’m not sure why, but this is who’s voice I’m hearing on this
song.
“Of the Father’s Love Begotten” was written by Marcus Aurelius Clemens Prudentius
to express his faith that Jesus is, indeed, divine –– the Son ofGod –– notlike the restofus,
who are children of God, but uniquely the Son of God –– begotten by the Father’s love ––
the Alpha and Omega –– the beginning and end –– evermore and evermore. When you
think about it, this is one ofthe things we profess to believe in the Nicene Creed: We believe
in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from
God, Lightfrom Light, very God from very God, begotten, notmade, being ofone substance
with the Father.
One of the things I like about this song is thatwe’re all called to give praise to Jesus:
“Let no tongue on earth be silent, ev’ry voice in concertring, evermore and evermore.” An-
other thing I like is that it praises God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost:
“Christ to Thee with God the Father and, O Holy Ghost, to Thee, hymn and chantand high
thanksgiving and unwearied praises be.”
May we be ever praising God this Adventseason and always for whatHe has done
in our lives.
In Christ,
Melissa Ball
13. 13
December 11, 2012
So Joseph also wentup from the town ofNazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem
the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to
register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While
they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a
son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no room
for them in the inn. Luke 2:4-7
Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Ro-
man world. Augustus’s decree went out in God’s perfect timing and according to God’s
perfect plan to bring his Son into the world.
Joseph was required by law to go to pay his taxes and his fiancée, Mary, was requi-
red to go with him. They traveled seventy miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem where they
were required to register. Joseph must have been worried about the trip and about Mary.
Mary must have been very uncomfortable and worried about her baby. But they both trus-
ted God to care for them and see to their safety.
When they finally arrived, tired and worried because Mary’s time was drawing near,
they could not even find a room. When they did find the stable, it was probably warm from
the animals that were there but certainly not very comfortable. It was there that our Savior
was born.
We are notpromised comfort when we do God’s will. However, God’s perfect plan
for our lives is assured ifwe believe in Him.
Lord in Heaven, Please grant us the courage to follow your plan for us. Guide us in
all things that we may do your will. Thank you for your Son our Lord, your amazing love for
us and our many daily blessings. Amen
Alice Staves
14. 14
December 12, 2012
“Friends, why are you doing this? We too are only human, like you. We are bringing
you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made
the heavens and the earth and the sea and everything in them. In the past, he let all nations
go their own way. Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by
giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty offood
and fills your hearts with joy.” Acts 14:15-17
FAITH – What an elusive thing! A ChristChild is born butitis by FAITH thatwe real-
ly believe it. It is by FAITH that we bow down to pray and ask Jesus to liftwhatever itis we
are carrying. Yet at times, FAITH for each of us seems to wane. Sometimes we feel our
FAITH is for naughtand we wonder where God is!
It is times like these we need to heed the Scriptures and witness God’s miracles ev-
ery day. Take a walk in nature. Watch the sun travel across the sky – feel the wind in your
face – delight in the stars atnight – watch plants grow and flowers bloom – see a rainbow –
watch the birds. How can we ever doubt! It is times like this that Paul’s words have great
meaning – “FAITH does not rest in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God!” (Para-
phrase from 1 Corinthians 2:5)
We would do well to take time from our busy lives – pray and watch the miracles of
God by just observing nature in all it’s glory!
We as Christians are sometimes just human enough to lose FAITH in Jesus! It is
the season of Christmas that jars us enough to renew our FAITH and again become avid
followers of Christ! His daily miracles make all ofthis real!
Praise be to God!
DwightSampson
15. 15
December 13, 2012
Matthew 2:3-8: When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all
Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people’s chiefpriests and teachers
of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born. “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they
replied, “for this is what the prophet has written: ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will
be the shepherd ofmy people Israel.’”
Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found outfrom them the exacttime the star
had appeared. He sentthem to Bethlehem and said, “Go and make a careful search for the
child. As soon as you find Him, reportto me, so that I too may go and worship Him.”
Once In Royal David’s City
Verse 1
Once in royal David’s city stood a lowly cattle shed,
Where a mother laid her Baby in a mangerfor His bed.
Mary was that mother mild,
Jesus Christ herlittle child.
Verse 2
He came down to earth from heaven,Who is God and Lord ofall,
And His shelter was a stable, and His cradle was a stall.
With the poor and meek and lowly
Lived on earth our Savior holy.
Verse 3
Jesus is ourchildhood’s pattern, day by day like us He grew,
He was little, weak, and helpless,tears and smiles like us He knew.
And He feels for all oursadness
And He shares in all our gladness.
Verse 4
And oureyes at last shallsee Him through His own redeeming love,
Forthat child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heaven above
And He leads His children on
To the place where He has gone.
Advent is a season ofrebirth and renewal. I ponderthese things during this Season,
knowing that Jesus chose to be born oflowly stature and to experience allthe emotions and
growing pains that we all do. God watches after us as we grow; only asking that we trust
and obey Him. He wants to see us grow and be happy and to have everlasting life with Him
in Heaven. God protects us from the Herods of the world and the forces of darkness that
attempt to extinguish the Light. He assures us, “I love you more than the stars and the sun
16. 16
that I taught how to shine; you are Mine and you shine for Me too…” Ipray this season be
one of joy and rebirth for you. Remember not to live solely by the pleasure/pain principle,
but instead be thankful for all things God has given us. Keep in mind thatchallenges and
discipline we receive serve to bring glory to Him and help us grow in faith. Ibelieve itis im-
portant to give sacrificially, especially at Christmastime – for God loves a cheerful giver and
is honored by such gifts.
Kevin Kelly
17. 17
December 14, 2012
After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in
the east went ahead ofthem until itstopped over the place where the child was. When they
saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mo-
ther Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures
and presented him with gifts ofgold and ofincense and ofmyrrh. And having been warned
in a dream notto go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.
Matthew2:9-12
The wise men travelled a great distance to see this newborn king. We do notknow
exactly where they came from, how many there were, or how they knew the star represen-
ted a king. We do know they came with costly gifts to worship Jesus. Thatis perhaps the
beginning of gift giving tradition at Christmas that is such an important part of the holiday
today.
Each Christmas Americans spend millions and millions of dollars and countless
hours buying gifts for family and friends. We get caught up in finding just the right gift for
each person on our list. Gift cards have become popular in the last few years so thateach
person can choose exactly whatthey want.
What we have forgotten is that God gave us “just the right gift” on that very first
Christmas in Bethlehem. It’s perfect for everyone and something we all need. It is Jesus
and through Him our salvation and eternal life in Heaven!
Heavenly Father,
We praise and thank you for the wonderful giftofyour Son, Jesus. Help us to share
this gift with others during this Christmas season.
In Jesus name,
Amen
Sue Krall
18. 18
December 15, 2012
When Herod realized thathe had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious and he
gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and un-
der, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. Then whatwas said through
the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: “A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and greatmourn-
ing, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no
more.” Matthew 2:16-18
I struggled with this devotion. As we read about the story of the birth of Jesus, the
killing of innocent children doesn’t seem to fit. A King who is fearful of losing his power,
violence, brutality, and a mourning mother over the loss of her children. It’s quite a stark
image of mankind’s sin, for the sought after power and authority thatKing Herod was seek-
ing. But doesn’t this paint such a vivid picture of why our Savior was so needed? Human-
kind, with our sinful natures, so desperately needed a Savior. And even Jesus, as a tiny in-
fant, was not safe from the cruel world. Jesus immediately took on his Humanity and was
not only born in a stable, but into a violent, unjust world. Jesus—fully human but yet a fully
divine Savior.
DearGod,
Thank you so much for sending us Your Savior. We know that our ways are sinful.
Please help keep us focused on Your Word and your path for our lives. You sentyour only
son into a brutal world for us, You sent Your Son to die for our sins. Thank You so much
Awesome God and help us to remember this most beautiful gift at Christmas time and al-
ways. In Jesus’ Precious Name we pray, Amen.
Sarah Seymour
19. 19
December 16, 2012
In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a
virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendantofDavid. The virgin’s
name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored!
The Lord is with you.”
Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this
might be. But the angel said to her, “Do notbe afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.
You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus. He
will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the
throne of His father David, and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever; His kingdom
will never end.”
“How will this be,”Mary asked the angel, “since Iam a virgin?”
The angel answered, “The Holy Spiritwill come upon you, and the power ofthe Most
High will overshadow you. So the Holy One to be born will be called the Son ofGod. Even
Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be
barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God.”
“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it be to me as you have said.” Then
the angel left her. Luke 1:26-38
During the Advent Season most of our thoughts look forward to the birth of Jesus.
Little time is spent considering Mary in the divine birth. The phrase “Do notbe afraid, Mary,
you have found favor with God”implies thatboth divine and human gifts ofgrace were to be
found in Mary. Mary was chosen because God had given her all of the gifts of the Holy
Spirit. Gabriel truly proclaimed her full of grace. He saw that she had already received
these gifts. Mary was chosen for this honor not because she had perfected herself, but
because she was “full of grace” – fully welcoming ofand prepared by God’s abundantlove.
Although there are many women in the Bible who received God’s favor, no other has the
amazing glory ofthe Virgin Mother of God—gifts unimaginable to us!!
Isn’t it astonishing that Jesus entered the world as a baby, totally dependenton Mary
and Joseph for his nourishment, training, and love. And, isn’t it also perplexing that Mary
and Joseph were given the task to raise Jesus when we think aboutall of the hardships they
endured. Only a truly magnificentGod could be responsible for this amazing miracle.
Apostle Paul wrote, “God sent his Son, born of a woman so that we might receive
adoption as children of God. Humble Mary was chosen and followed God’s plan. As Chris-
tian women (chosen by God) I hope we will consider Mary as a mentor and notget“caught
up” in the sinful world that is often times degrading to women. Ipray thatall ofus (men and
women) will be mindful of Mary’s grace, i.e., fully welcoming of and prepared by God’s
abundantlove.
Jean McHenry
20. 20
December 17, 2012
Sing to the LORD,bless His name;tell of His salvation from day to day. Psalm 96:2
What Will I Give Him?
We’re halfway through Advent. For many, that statement evokes stress. There’s
shopping to be done, projects to finish, and long to-do lists.
Yet the psalmist’s words bring us back to the true meaning of Advent: preparing to
celebrate the past, present, and future coming ofChrist. They remind us thatin the midstof
this demanding season, we need to pause, show gratitude to God, and share the joy ofHis
salvation.
Advent is a time when Christ’s story becomes ours, because at the heart of Christi-
anity is our relationship with God through Christ. Albert Einstein reminds us, “There are
only two ways to live your life: as though nothing is a miracle, or as though everything is a
miracle.”
Gracious God,we thank You for the many miracles in ourdaily lives and the greatest
miracle of all – Your gift to us of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Submitted by JiniSampson
From a devotionalin These Daysa fewyears ago.
21. 21
December 18, 2012
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their
flocks at night. Luke 2:8
While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night
Verse 1
While shepherds watched theirflocks by night, all seated on the ground,
The angelofthe Lord came down, and glory shone around,
And glory shone around.
Verse 2
“Fear not,”he said, for mighty dread had seized theirtroubled minds.
“Glad tidings of greatjoy I bring to you and all mankind,
To you and all mankind.”
Verse 3
“To you in David’s town this dayis born of David’s line,
The Savior who is Christ the Lord,and this shall be the sign,
And this shallbe the sign.”
Verse 4
“The heavenly Babe you there shall find to human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands, and in a mangerlaid,
And in a mangerlaid.”
Verse 5
Thus spake the Seraph and forthwith appeared a shining throng
Of angels praising God,who thus addressed theirjoyful song,
Addressed their joyful song.
Verse 6
“All glory be to God on high, and to the earth be peace;
Good will hence forth from heaven to men begin and nevercease,
Begin and never cease.”
This Christmas story told in song form reminded me of some truths that I should put
deeper into my life.
Verse 1. Watching – I should watch more to see whatGod is doing in my life and in
the lives of those around me. Sometimes I am aware of lessons that God might be teaching
me and others butnotalways. Ihave no idea whatjobs He may have us do in the hereafter
but I am sure He is training us for different jobs. In addition, we are all probably learning
obedience and perseverance. If heaven is peaceful and runs smoothly, I want to be well
trained so I don’t mess up.
22. 22
Verse 2. Fear not – Ihope I’m learning to trustHim with all ofmy life and notdepend
on myself to do everything and to try to help others solve their problems. Oh, whata mess
that can be. Idon’t have all the facts butGod does. He does a much better job.
Verse 3. Savior – I need one – I can’t save myself. I don’thave that power. He has
so much powerthat He can keep this earthly world going every day and He may still be cre-
ating in the universe. Whata mess I would make of it.
Verse 4.The heavenly baby – is there if we only open our eyes. Yes, Jesus came to
earth to show us who He is and to tell us ofa future we can have, ifonly we will letgo ofour
lives and lethim have them.
Verse 5. Praising angels – set the example for us to praise God daily for all thatHe
is. And we should give thanks for all the blessings He sends us. (Psalm 100:4) Remember
the Praise books thatreally spelled outthe need and value ofpraise to God.
Verse 6. God and good – God starts good things in our lives and continues itwithout
ceasing till it is accomplished. God is the only one that is truly good. Imusttrustthis when
my life seems uncomfortable and I selfishly want to think He is mean. I am so thankful for
Jesus and the Holy Spirit for their guidance.
What more could Iask? He created me with needs and provided for those needs to
be met (sometimes by members ofthis congregation). Please join me this season in giving
thanks to God and each other. Whata greatfellowship we have.
Thank You, Lord, for fellowship with You and others. May we learn our lessons with
gratitude and joy.
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND AN INTERESTING 2013 TO ALL OF YOU.
Mary Srack
23. 23
December 19, 2012
An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around
them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you
good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior
has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: you will find a baby
wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:9-12
God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen
Verse 1
God rest ye, merry gentlemen, let nothing you dismay. Remember, Christ our Savior was
born on Christmas Day. To save us all from Satan’s pow’r when we were gone astray.
Chorus
O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy.
Verse 2
In Bethlehem, in Jewry, this blessed Babe was born and laid within a manger upon that
blessed morn, the which His mother Mary did nothing take in scorn.
Verse 3
From God,our heavenlyFather, a blessed angelcame and unto certain shepherds brought
tidings of the same, how thatin Bethlehem was born the Son ofGod by name.
Verse 4
“Fear not,” then said the angel, “let nothing you affright. This day is born a Savior ofa pure
virgin brightto free all those who trust in Him from Satan’s pow’r and might.”
Verse 5
The shepherds, at those tidings, rejoiced much in mind, and left their flocks afeeding in
tempest storms and wind and wentto Bethlehem straightway the blessed Babe to find.
Verse 6
And when they came to Bethlehem, where our dear Savior lay, they found Him in a manger
where oxen feed on hay. His mother, Mary, kneeling down, unto the Lord did pray.
Verse 7
Now to the Lord, sing praises all you within this place. And with true love and brotherhood
each other now embrace. This holy tide ofChristmas all others doth deface.
...And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their
flocks at night.
We have heard the saying “The Lord works in mysterious ways” many times
throughout our lives, and here is a vivid example. At this most important time in Earth’s
history, God, Our Heavenly Father, continues to reveal his Son, but not to those we might
expect. Obviously, first of all God through an angel promises the birth of Jesus to Mary
24. 24
(Luke 1:26). This of course is not surprising that God would reveal to the birth mother that
his Son was to be born. But, perhaps individually speaking, this announcement came as a
great surprise to Mary. However, here Luke records that Jesus’ birth was announced to
shepherds in the fields. Not kings or royalty, not rich people, not scholars, but simple
humble shepherds. These shepherds may have been the shepherds who supplied the
lambs for the Temple sacrifices, performed for the forgiveness of sin. God through his
Angels now invited these shepherds to greetthe Lamb ofGod (John 1:36), who would take
away the sins ofthe whole world, forevermore.
Imagine how terrified you might be when first approached by an Angel, but how
wonderful the feeling that would come over you once the Angel reveals to you the good
news of Jesus’ birth. Immediate fear quickly turning into ultimate joy! What a life-altering
experience. To be spoken to by an Angel who tells you about the imminent birth of the
world’s Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Surely, these lowly shepherds tending the field must
have questioned – why us, why are we the ones to first hear of the birth of Jesus. How
wonderful, how incredible, how significantthey must have felt!
These shepherds, specifically chosen by God, musthave been overwhelmed and in
awe because they were invited to witness the new born Jesus and instructed to go outinto
the world and share the good news that Jesus Christ is born. Imagine being invited to see
the baby Jesus, and then being appointed, by God, no less, to go spread the word that
Jesus, mankind’s Messiah, mankind’s Savior has been born.
Given all ofthis, these humble Shepherds were the first people to seek Christ. Try to
imagine their feelings and the questions they must have had. The Promised Messiah Had
Come! Try and Compare your feelings when YOU firstreally metJesus Christ, the Messiah
to the feelings of these Shepherds.
Surely, we all as believers of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ can only dream of
being called upon by God to see his new born son. However, today, we as believers can still
feel the joy these lowly shepherds must have experienced; that joy of spreading the news
today, tomorrow and forever that Jesus Christ was indeed born – born to be the world’s
Messiah and Savior!
Merry Christmas! Today we celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Whether
you are with friends, family, or away from home, let us not forget the miracle that was the
birth of ourLord and Savior. Let us rememberthe blessings that He brings to us all and how
God provides to us in every way. The Lord speaks to us through so many facets ofour lives.
Let us always remember our blessings and glorify God in all we do.
Christ’s Peace this Holiday Season,
MichaelA. Gould
25. 25
December 20, 2012
“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising
God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”
Luke 2:13-14
It Came Upon the Midnight Clear
Verse 1
It came upon the midnight clear,that glorious song ofold,
From angels bending nearthe earth to touch their harps ofgold:
“Peace on the earth, goodwill to men,from heaven’s all gracious King”;
The world in solemn stillness lay to hearthe angels sing.
Verse 2
Still through the cloven skies they come with peacefulwings unfurl’d;
And still their heav’nly music floats o’erall the weary world.
Above its sad and lowly plains, they bend on hov’ring wing,
And ever o’erits Babelsounds the blessed angels sing.
Verse 3
Yet with the woes of sin and strife the world has suffered long
Beneath the angel-strain have rolled two thousand years of wrong.
And man,at war with man hears notthe love-song which they bring,
O hush the noise,ye men of strife, and hearthe angels sing.
Verse 4
And ye, beneath life’s crushing load,whose forms are bending low,
Who toil along the climbing way with painful steps and slow,
Look now!for glad and golden hours come swiftly on the wing:
O rest beside the weary road,and hearthe angels sing.
Verse 5
Forlo, the days are hastening on,by prophets seen ofold,
When,with the ever circling years,shall come the time foretold,
When the newheaven and earth shallown the Prince of Peace their King,
And the whole world send back the song which nowthe angels sing.
This poem was written by a preacher named Edmund Sears in 1849 in his parish
nearBoston. He had recently survived a period of depression and illness. His congregation
was full of people whose lives were crushed by war, famine, suffering and fear.
Our country had just finished a war with Mexico and a civil war was looming on the
horizon. Revolutions wracked Europe from France to Russia. When these were crushed,
many refugees poured into the U.S. Also, between 1845 and 1849, there was a terrible
26. 26
famine in Ireland. So many poor Irish immigrated that they made up one-quarter of the
population ofthe major Eastern cities, including Boston.
The Industrial Revolution took hold in the North and slavery was rampant in the
South. Men, women and children had to toil from dawn into the night under harsh condi-
tions in both factory and field.
Pastor Sears firmly believed that Jesus was the only hope for his desperate world.
To them, he wrote:
“And ye, beneath life’s crushing load,whose forms are bending low,
Who toil along the climbing way with painful steps and slow.
Look now!for glad and golden hours come swiftly on the wing,
O rest beside the weary road and hearthe angels sing.”
Like the Jewish people ofBible days,he longed for the Messiah to come soon and establish
God's kingdom on earth. In this Christmas carol, he makes a strong connection between
the first advent and the second coming ofJesus Christ.
Like the people of his day, we live in a world full of violence, cruelty, greed, slavery,
famine and suffering. We have tried to solve these problems through science, diplomacy,
money, education and war. All of our efforts have failed. Jesus Christis our only hope. In
Him, people who formerly hated each other have found brotherhood.
The Scripture quote above follows the King James Bible wording, “and on earth
peace, goodwill toward men.” A lot of people through the years have scoffed at the mess-
age of the Bible due to this poor translation. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow putitbestin his
carol. “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.” He wrote:
“And in despairI shook my head:
“There is no peace on earth," I said,
“For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.”
However, a better translation of the Scripture would be, “and on earth, peace in
those men well-pleasing to Him.” The Greek word translated as “good will” or “well-pleas-
ing” is the same word used by Luke atthe baptism ofJesus, where God says, “You are My
beloved Son. In you I am well-pleased.”
Jesus will bring peace in the future, yes, but also right now, to those who are well-
pleasing to God. Who are they? They are the ones who embrace His giftofsalvation in the
death and resurrection ofHis son, making Him their Lord. Jesus promises,
“My peace Igive to you.” John 14:27
The real Christmas carols offer Jesus Christas the only hope for me and for you. We
need to sing them every year. Our sad world needs to hear them. They echo the promise
of the Bible, that “the new heaven and earth shall own the Prince ofPeace their King.”
Lord, use me to spread your good news to someone and bring them peace.
Amen.
Ted Horowitz
27. 27
December 21, 2012
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one an-
other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing thathas happened, which the Lord has told
us about.” Luke 2:15
Many of our congregation members are natives of Missouri, the Show Me State.
Under that motto, we want to see before we believe. All of us fall into this manner of thin-
king at times and, in certain instances, caution is warranted. The U.S.’s “trust but veri-
fy”modus operandi with Soviet Russia in the 1980s comes to mind. But the Luke 2:15
shepherds remind us thatwe need notsee to believe when the Lord speaks. Thatis, rather
than saying “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see whether this thing that the Lord has told us
abouthas happened,”the shepherds say “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has
happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
When the Lord speaks, we can (and should) simply believe. He is Truth. And justas
the shepherds’ faith led them to an unparalleled-in-history eye-to-eye encounter with the
eternal Gift, belief opens the door for us to enjoy all the richness oflife in His presence, here
and now.
Believe, and worship in the light of His goodness and love. Blessings to you in this
season ofJoy.
Miriam Bailey
28. 28
December 22, 2012
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the
manger. Luke 2:16
O Come, All Ye Faithful
Verse 1
O come,all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant
O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem;
Come and behold Him born the King of angels;
Chorus
O come,let us adore Him,
O come,let us adore Him,
O come,let us adore Him,
Christ, the Lord.
Verse 2
Sing, choirs of angels,sing in exultation,
O sing, all ye citizens of heaven above;
Glory to God,all glory in the highest;
Verse 3
Yea, Lord,we greetThee,born this happymorning,
O Jesus,to Thee be all glory be given;
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing;
The hymn that was selected to accompany this devotion is “O Come All Ye Faithful.”
The words to this song are familiar to everyone. It says, “Come to Bethlehem and behold
the King ofangels. Come letus adore Him.”
That certainly is the theme of this Advent season and we can feel the excitement in
Luke 2:16 as they find the baby in the manger.
St. Luke Church is blessed this year to have many little angels skipping around the
hallways. We pray that this trend will continue and that sufficient time and effort will be
made to truly come and adore them and worship our heavenly Father.
Bob Hayward
29. 29
December 23, 2012
When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning whatthey had been told
them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to
them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
Luke 2:17-19
How special Mary must have been to be chosen to give birth to The Savior. How
humble Mary must have been to be able to give birth to the Savior and not gloat about it.
What a special gift to be able to treasure this experience and nottake any ofthe glory away
from God. How many of us have heard from God and didn’t follow up with what He was
saying? Whatdo you think would have happened ifthe shepherds had notgone to see what
the messengers were so gladlyproclaiming? Whatif the shepherds remained afraid? God
knew it would take His “armies of heaven” to get the attention of the shepherds. God wan-
ted to make sure the excitement would cause the shepherds to go witness the event for
themselves so that they could spread the good news of The Savior being born. God even
gave the very details needed for them to know which baby born was The Savior. God still
wants us to continue to be excited aboutspreading the good news ofThe Savior, The Mes-
siah, The Lord. People today will still be astonished aboutthe message ofpeace and good
will through the birth of our Lord and Savior when we talk aboutthe birth ofJesus.
Alonda Forde
30. 30
December 24, 2012
The shepherdsreturned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard
and seen, which were justas they had been told. Luke 2:20
Go Tell It On the Mountains
Chorus
Go, tell it on the mountains,over the hills and everywhere;
Go, tell it on the mountains,that Jesus Christis born!
Verse 1
While shepherds kepttheir watching o’er silent flocks by night,
Behold throughoutthe heavens there shone a holy light.
Verse 2
The shepherdsfeared and trembled when lo! above the earth
Rang outthe angelchorus that hailed ourSavior’s birth.
Verse 3
Down in a lowly mangerthe humble Christ was born,
And broughtus God’s salvation that blessed Christmas morn.
I love the song “Go Tell It On the Mountains.” It is one of my all-time favorite Christ-
mas carols.
The chorus especiallymoves me and can be easily connected to Luke 2:20. To me,
this song (and the Scripture) speaks of witnessing. For instance, take a look at what the
shepherds did after seeing the baby Jesus: they returned, glorifying and praising God for all
they had heard and seen, which God’s angels had told them about.
I can get pretty excited about sharing my faith with others and trying to get others to
join me. Also, sharing with others abouttheir need for a Savior can be quite satisfying. Then
seeing that person come to Christ and growing in their relationship with Him is a powerful
testimony to the Lordship ofJesus.
Perhaps this song can help you lead someone to Christthis Adventseason. Ipray it
will and thatyou will be blessed.
Kathy Bailey
31. 31
December 25, 2012
Christmas Day
Merry Christmas. The reality is that for most this day will leave little room for devo-
tionals or reflection. It is also possible that many will be reading this either before or after
December 25. In both cases, it is well. The “to do’ list has been long enough and the last
thing we need is another task to work in. For this day we celebrate the beginning ofthe end
of our labors. Today we celebrate the birth ofthe finished work.
The Christmas holiday is often referred to as “the season of hope.” In some ways
this is accurate but, though it be true, it also falls far short of the full meaning. Itis notmy in-
tention to disparage the importance of hope as a spiritual force, promise or necessity but I
believe that Christmas points us to, and leads us to an ultimate destination. Thatdestination
is certainty.
In Luke 2:11 the angel said “for today in the city ofDavid there has been born for you
a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” With the word “today” the Holy Spirit brings certainty to
time. This is not to be placed with the prophecies concerning the Messiah. This is notthat
He will come. The future is now. Today is “today.”
The word “born” brings certainty to existence. This was notaboutGod raising up
from among the people one person. Norwas this aboutthe Fathercalling out, setting apart
or anointing one already living who would then have to respond with faithfulness and obedi-
ence. He was “born.” He exists. He is here now.
Purpose is made certain in the word “Savior.” Prophet, teacher, healer,deliverer (He
was, in fact, all of these) were given secondary importance with the proclamation ofwho He
is, first and foremost: Savior of the world.
The Promise was no longer a promise. Itwas now reality, a flesh and blood human
being, no longer hoped for only butnow to for us to behold.
Lord God by Your Grace and the power ofthe Holy Spirit, enable us to embrace the
present hope realized. Holy Spirit come and pull us outofthe past. Free us from our con-
cern about the future. Bear witness with our spirits of the certainty thatwe have in Christ. In
His name. Amen.
Steve Bozarth
