“Same story, different town.” This is my first Christmas at Johnson Memorial, but, after more than twenty-five years in ministry, I find myself telling the same stories again and again. During this season, I have lots of family memories: there was the time my little cousin cried on Christmas eve because bigger people had “blocked her view” and that was the only reason she couldn’t see Santa’s reindeer in the sky, the December day when my aunt held a new baby boy and cried her thanks to God, because she was dying and had feared that she would not live to see him born, the time we all went to church and came home to find Barbies and Lincoln Logs piled in front of our tree and the dog running circles, barking for joy….there was that December Sunday morning when my family’s general store burned to the ground, and the volunteer firefighters were late because they had been in church, but we all held hands and prayed in the ashes. Light and darkness, joys and tears, all mixed together, overflowing.
As a pastor, I used to worry about how to tell the ancient stories of our faith in a new way, and especially this story—-the birth of the Christ Child. After years of Christmas pageants, with wise men and shepherds, angels and animals, children wearing bathrobes and tinsel crowns, don’t we all know this story, maybe a bit too well? Haven’t we sung it, said it, chanted it, so often, that there’s little room for wonder? Every year, at this church and thousands of others, we share scriptures about the promised One from God, the longing and the waiting, the evil King in his palace and the baby in the manger, fulfillment at last. It’s so easy to summarize the story, and then leave it alone, not connecting it to the lives we lead. I majored in history, and also love folklore, so there’s no happier set of words to me than “once upon a time….” But the Holy Mystery of the Incarnation demands more of me, more of us: “And the Word became flesh and lived among us….” John’s gospel proclaims. This is a stunning pronouncement, with consequences all the way through time and history. Human life becomes the vessel for Holy life, and our story and God’s story entwine in amazing and beautiful ways, not just as history but as present reality. When we tell our stories, we are telling a part of God’s story, too. Suddenly, the light and darkness, laughing and crying, winning and losing, every single part of life from the smallest to the vast, is touched by the numinous power of God. And it all matters—-Thanks be to God, it all matters!
I wish you joy this holy day, and I leave you with another favorite scripture about the connect between body and spirit:
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns.’ “ (Isaiah 52:7) You’ve got beautiful feet, and a beautiful, God-touched life. Joy to the World.
Rev. Terry Deane
Sunday, December 25, 2016
Saturday, December 24, 2016
Devotional 12-24-16
Psalm 98 (From The Message)
1 Sing to God a brand-new song. He’s made a world of wonders! He rolled up his sleeves, He set things right. 2 God made history with salvation, He showed the world what he could do. 3 He remembered to love us, a bonus to his dear family, Israel—indefatigable love. The whole earth comes to attention. Look—God’s work of salvation! 4 Shout your praises to God, everybody! Let loose and sing! Strike up the band! 5 Round up an orchestra to play for God, Add on a hundred-voice choir. 6 Feature trumpets and big trombones, Fill the air with praises to King God. 7 Let the sea and its fish give a round of applause, with everything living on earth joining in. Let ocean breakers call out, “Encore!” And mountains harmonize the finale— 9 A tribute to God when he comes, when he comes to set the earth right. He’ll straighten out the whole world, He’ll put the world right, and everyone in it.
One of my favorite forms of worship has been through music. Music is one way that we all communicate with God, and with each other. There are times when an artist finds words when set to music remind us to thank God for providing for our lives.
There are times when these words reminds us to care for our neighbors, using acts of kindness to praise God for the blessings in our lives. Some artists simply use melodies and harmonies to pull our emotions and feelings to the surface and make us understand that we are not alone in this world.
Looking back, I was encouraged to participate in activities involving music. Each of the different activities exposed me to different forms of music. Children’s choir taught stories of God and Jesus. The music wasn’t always perfect, but it was most definitely a Joyful Noise. In school, joining the band, I learned to play the trombone and was taught many different forms of music, classical, popular, and jazz. Each of these types of music would stir different emotions for me while playing, and would cause similar and many times other emotions to be stirred by the audience.
The psalm calls for us to sing a New song. Singing a new song to thank God for his salvation, and a new song to help others know the love and salvation of Christ! As much as I enjoy singing and playing an instrument, it is difficult to convey a message to a large group on my own. But, if we come together as an orchestra or choir to sing for God we are given the chance to reach out to our congregation and to our neighbors as well. Some of these neighbors may know God, but others may not, and the music we provide can help them experience the love, strength and salvation of Christ!
Dear God, Thank you for your love and salvation! We are grateful for your strength and love. As we sing through song and voice help us to reach out to those that need your love. Use our music to share your story, let us sing from the mountains so that all may share in your glory! Amen
Hulse Budd
1 Sing to God a brand-new song. He’s made a world of wonders! He rolled up his sleeves, He set things right. 2 God made history with salvation, He showed the world what he could do. 3 He remembered to love us, a bonus to his dear family, Israel—indefatigable love. The whole earth comes to attention. Look—God’s work of salvation! 4 Shout your praises to God, everybody! Let loose and sing! Strike up the band! 5 Round up an orchestra to play for God, Add on a hundred-voice choir. 6 Feature trumpets and big trombones, Fill the air with praises to King God. 7 Let the sea and its fish give a round of applause, with everything living on earth joining in. Let ocean breakers call out, “Encore!” And mountains harmonize the finale— 9 A tribute to God when he comes, when he comes to set the earth right. He’ll straighten out the whole world, He’ll put the world right, and everyone in it.
One of my favorite forms of worship has been through music. Music is one way that we all communicate with God, and with each other. There are times when an artist finds words when set to music remind us to thank God for providing for our lives.
There are times when these words reminds us to care for our neighbors, using acts of kindness to praise God for the blessings in our lives. Some artists simply use melodies and harmonies to pull our emotions and feelings to the surface and make us understand that we are not alone in this world.
Looking back, I was encouraged to participate in activities involving music. Each of the different activities exposed me to different forms of music. Children’s choir taught stories of God and Jesus. The music wasn’t always perfect, but it was most definitely a Joyful Noise. In school, joining the band, I learned to play the trombone and was taught many different forms of music, classical, popular, and jazz. Each of these types of music would stir different emotions for me while playing, and would cause similar and many times other emotions to be stirred by the audience.
The psalm calls for us to sing a New song. Singing a new song to thank God for his salvation, and a new song to help others know the love and salvation of Christ! As much as I enjoy singing and playing an instrument, it is difficult to convey a message to a large group on my own. But, if we come together as an orchestra or choir to sing for God we are given the chance to reach out to our congregation and to our neighbors as well. Some of these neighbors may know God, but others may not, and the music we provide can help them experience the love, strength and salvation of Christ!
Dear God, Thank you for your love and salvation! We are grateful for your strength and love. As we sing through song and voice help us to reach out to those that need your love. Use our music to share your story, let us sing from the mountains so that all may share in your glory! Amen
Hulse Budd
Friday, December 23, 2016
Devotional 12-23-16
When Don and I were twenty-one years old, we decided to marry. I had just received my teaching degree, and he was working for Malcolm Hinshaw, a local builder/contractor. We didn’t have any money saved - I suppose we thought we were going to live on love. I mean wasn’t that what we were told in every movie in the ‘70s?
What’s really funny is that we never STOPPED living on love because he didn’t work as much in the winter, and I didn’t work as much in the summer. But we didn’t do easy. We worked hard, kept to ourselves, and raised a family.
When Don passed away this past November, I realized that we had been living on love and a whole lot more. Our lives were intertwined with hopes, dreams, fear, anticipation, and hard work. We had moved into a house that he had wired, plumbed, and partially dry walled. We were on a two-year plan, and we were right on track when life took a detour.
Today is Friday, December 23, 2016. While the world prepares for the coming of the Christ Child, I am also preparing for a Christmas Day without the love of my life. I do have a constant thought that keeps me from knocking over the Christmas tree and poking holes in beautifully wrapped packages. I know for a fact that God loves me.
How do I know? He has shown me in every wonderful person he put next to Don and me during Don’s battle with cancer. God was in every kind word and gesture that came from the nurses and doctors at St. Mary’s and HIMG. God was in the room when Don and I held each other and cried. God was in every card, message, text, and email that we received from family and friends. He was also the one who convinced my Koinonia Sunday School Class that food was not what we needed. So what did they do? They sent money to be used to pay co-payments and hospital bills. I could also feel God’s hand in the way church family and high school friends would show up in the hospital, at HIMG, at the pharmacy, or in the corner where I had gone to have a meltdown. God was also in the room when we faced the fact that I would be going on alone.
But I’m not alone. God loves me. God loves you. God loves Don, and for that reason, I know that He didn’t take Don’s soul, but was smiling as he received his soul and welcomed him into His Kingdom.
There is a beautiful hymn in the United Methodist Hymnal called “When Love Is Found” (p.643). It says what I’m not able to express. I love that the lyrics were written by Brian Wren in 1978. That was about the time we were thinking about starting a family. I’m pretty sure God was around then, too.
“When Love is Found” ( Sung to the tune of “The River is Wide”)
When love is found and hope comes home,
sing and be glad that two are one.
When love explodes and fills the sky,
praise God and share our Maker’s joy.
When love has flowered in trust and care,
build both each day, that love may dare
to reach beyond home’s warmth and light,
to serve and strive for truth and right.
Praise God for love, praise God for life,
in age or youth, in husband, wife.
Lift up your hearts, let love be fed
through death and life in broken bread.
Amen
Becky Warren
What’s really funny is that we never STOPPED living on love because he didn’t work as much in the winter, and I didn’t work as much in the summer. But we didn’t do easy. We worked hard, kept to ourselves, and raised a family.
When Don passed away this past November, I realized that we had been living on love and a whole lot more. Our lives were intertwined with hopes, dreams, fear, anticipation, and hard work. We had moved into a house that he had wired, plumbed, and partially dry walled. We were on a two-year plan, and we were right on track when life took a detour.
Today is Friday, December 23, 2016. While the world prepares for the coming of the Christ Child, I am also preparing for a Christmas Day without the love of my life. I do have a constant thought that keeps me from knocking over the Christmas tree and poking holes in beautifully wrapped packages. I know for a fact that God loves me.
How do I know? He has shown me in every wonderful person he put next to Don and me during Don’s battle with cancer. God was in every kind word and gesture that came from the nurses and doctors at St. Mary’s and HIMG. God was in the room when Don and I held each other and cried. God was in every card, message, text, and email that we received from family and friends. He was also the one who convinced my Koinonia Sunday School Class that food was not what we needed. So what did they do? They sent money to be used to pay co-payments and hospital bills. I could also feel God’s hand in the way church family and high school friends would show up in the hospital, at HIMG, at the pharmacy, or in the corner where I had gone to have a meltdown. God was also in the room when we faced the fact that I would be going on alone.
But I’m not alone. God loves me. God loves you. God loves Don, and for that reason, I know that He didn’t take Don’s soul, but was smiling as he received his soul and welcomed him into His Kingdom.
There is a beautiful hymn in the United Methodist Hymnal called “When Love Is Found” (p.643). It says what I’m not able to express. I love that the lyrics were written by Brian Wren in 1978. That was about the time we were thinking about starting a family. I’m pretty sure God was around then, too.
“When Love is Found” ( Sung to the tune of “The River is Wide”)
When love is found and hope comes home,
sing and be glad that two are one.
When love explodes and fills the sky,
praise God and share our Maker’s joy.
When love has flowered in trust and care,
build both each day, that love may dare
to reach beyond home’s warmth and light,
to serve and strive for truth and right.
Praise God for love, praise God for life,
in age or youth, in husband, wife.
Lift up your hearts, let love be fed
through death and life in broken bread.
Amen
Becky Warren
Thursday, December 22, 2016
Devotional 12-22-16
A man leaves a party fearing danger.
A man enters a celebration knowing the danger.
A man in the wrong place at the wrong time.
A man in the only place in His time.
Bang Bang Bang - shots fired.
Bang Bang Bang - the yet unheard echo of nails pounded.
A gavel falls - a man goes free.
No gavel present - a man condemned.
Justice mocked.
A mother weeps.
A mother weeps.
Friends despair. No faith in the law.
Friends despair. No faith in forever.
Loved ones arise to carry on.
THE loved one arises to carry all.
While sounding much like Easter – it’s about Christmas. It’s a about a gift. Easter gives us our forever. The gift at Christmas gives us what we hold dear our entire lives; compassion, service, love of others, tolerance, caring, parables to help understanding, prayers to sustain, sacrifice. Pause - think - cherish.
A roof overhead. Clothes on our backs. Food on our table. All gifts.
We have so much in this world and yet there is an extreme focus on what isn’t there. What others have that we don’t.
Family is a gift. Friends are a gift. Children are a gift. Life is too quickly gone. Sometimes an illness - a blurred glimpse down a dark road foretells of the future. Sometimes it is unforeseen and in the blink of an eye and ring of a phone > everything changes. What couldn’t possibly happen has just happened and now NOTHING will ever be same.
Part of the scripture reference for this date on the devotional schedule is the birth narrative in Luke. The last Sunday of the Christian/Liturgical calendar (Christ the King Sunday) is the Sunday before Thanksgiving, leading into the First Sunday of Advent and the scripture reading is again from Luke > but is from chapter 23...part of the crucifixion story. It’s all ONE story - woven into the very fabric of our Christian lives - beginning with a gift.
Let us, this year, re-gift our Christmas present and spread the love that was given all those years ago.
Pause – think – cherish. Merry Christmas.
Steve Matthews
A man enters a celebration knowing the danger.
A man in the wrong place at the wrong time.
A man in the only place in His time.
Bang Bang Bang - shots fired.
Bang Bang Bang - the yet unheard echo of nails pounded.
A gavel falls - a man goes free.
No gavel present - a man condemned.
Justice mocked.
A mother weeps.
A mother weeps.
Friends despair. No faith in the law.
Friends despair. No faith in forever.
Loved ones arise to carry on.
THE loved one arises to carry all.
While sounding much like Easter – it’s about Christmas. It’s a about a gift. Easter gives us our forever. The gift at Christmas gives us what we hold dear our entire lives; compassion, service, love of others, tolerance, caring, parables to help understanding, prayers to sustain, sacrifice. Pause - think - cherish.
A roof overhead. Clothes on our backs. Food on our table. All gifts.
We have so much in this world and yet there is an extreme focus on what isn’t there. What others have that we don’t.
Family is a gift. Friends are a gift. Children are a gift. Life is too quickly gone. Sometimes an illness - a blurred glimpse down a dark road foretells of the future. Sometimes it is unforeseen and in the blink of an eye and ring of a phone > everything changes. What couldn’t possibly happen has just happened and now NOTHING will ever be same.
Part of the scripture reference for this date on the devotional schedule is the birth narrative in Luke. The last Sunday of the Christian/Liturgical calendar (Christ the King Sunday) is the Sunday before Thanksgiving, leading into the First Sunday of Advent and the scripture reading is again from Luke > but is from chapter 23...part of the crucifixion story. It’s all ONE story - woven into the very fabric of our Christian lives - beginning with a gift.
Let us, this year, re-gift our Christmas present and spread the love that was given all those years ago.
Pause – think – cherish. Merry Christmas.
Steve Matthews
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Devotional 12-21-16
Luke 21:25-29”
“There will be signs in the sun,
the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by
the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and
foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will
be shaken. Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and
great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your
heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
Today’s scripture
seems a far cry from what we might expect as we begin the Advent season. Isn’t
it all about the birth of Christ, in a stable, with angels, and the Wise Men,
and the shepherds with their sheep—Mary holding the Christ Child, and Joseph
contemplating all that has occurred since his visit from the Angel?
The Advent
season, of course includes this beautiful celebration. But we’re reminded again
by this scripture to think about the greatest gift God could have given us—His
Son, for our salvation—and that Advent is a time of reflection. How is our
relationship with God coming along? Are we doing our best as we claim our
discipleship with Christ? It can be so
hard to focus on and reflect about our journey with Christ when we find
ourselves in the midst of the hustle and bustle of shoppers, the endless
commercials telling us Christmas will be here before we know it, and….It
sometimes seems the world has forgotten the “reason for the season.”
Just hang in
there! Make time for prayer and meditation; help those in our community who
have so little; take advantage of those opportunities Christ puts before us to
help someone in need. Worhip with our church community to experience the true
meaning of Christmas. Celebrate with great joy the birth of our Savior. We’ll enjoy
our family and friends, share memories of Christmases past, but we should also
remember the promise that Christ will come again.
Prayer: Loving God,
today we start the journey toward Bethlehem, a stable, and remembering the day
your Son came into the world to save us from our sins. As we await his return
to redeem the world for eternity, open our hearts so that as we move through
this Advent season, the joy of knowing the love of God through Jesus Christ
overshadows everything else we experience. Amen
Reverend
Doctor LaGretta Bjorn
Pastor of the United Methodist Church of
Spring Valley, New York
Diane Feaganes
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
Devotional 12-20-16
Please read Psalm 96
What is new for you this Advent season?
I’m experiencing a new Advent this year because I am retired. Even though I still work with my husband Tim at St. Matthew, it’s only about 10 hours a week, and I have no huge responsibilities (some might say headaches) like most pastors have. We have bought a house here in Weston, which is where we grew up, and hope to be in it by Thanksgiving. (I’m writing this on Halloween.) These are new things that are good.
There are some new things that are not so good. Tim’s father died in April, so this will be the first holiday season without him. We will miss him terribly. I continue to struggle with both thyroid and breast cancer. I stopped taking chemo for the thyroid cancer a couple of months ago, because it made me so very sick. I will start a new kind in December.
Change and newness are true for everybody. What we celebrate at Christmastime is that God is with us through all the changes in our lives. God’s presence is eternal. God does not change, but is there for us in every situation in which we find ourselves. He rejoices with us when we rejoice and comforts us when we are troubled. In the worst times, God brings hope.
The reality of God with us in human form is what we celebrate at Christmas. Have a blessed one!
Rev. Dorcas Conrad
St. Matthew United Methodist Church. Weston, WV
What is new for you this Advent season?
I’m experiencing a new Advent this year because I am retired. Even though I still work with my husband Tim at St. Matthew, it’s only about 10 hours a week, and I have no huge responsibilities (some might say headaches) like most pastors have. We have bought a house here in Weston, which is where we grew up, and hope to be in it by Thanksgiving. (I’m writing this on Halloween.) These are new things that are good.
There are some new things that are not so good. Tim’s father died in April, so this will be the first holiday season without him. We will miss him terribly. I continue to struggle with both thyroid and breast cancer. I stopped taking chemo for the thyroid cancer a couple of months ago, because it made me so very sick. I will start a new kind in December.
Change and newness are true for everybody. What we celebrate at Christmastime is that God is with us through all the changes in our lives. God’s presence is eternal. God does not change, but is there for us in every situation in which we find ourselves. He rejoices with us when we rejoice and comforts us when we are troubled. In the worst times, God brings hope.
The reality of God with us in human form is what we celebrate at Christmas. Have a blessed one!
Rev. Dorcas Conrad
St. Matthew United Methodist Church. Weston, WV
Monday, December 19, 2016
Devotional 12-19-16
Let It Shine!
Isaiah, chapter 9 foretells the coming of Jesus. Verse 2 tells of a great light coming into the world. Jesus is the light of the world. Followers of Jesus are called to reflect that light to the world.
As a child I remember singing:
This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine,
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!
Hide it under a bushel, No! I’m going to let it shine!It seemed so easy to let it shine as I sang those words! But, like so many things it doesn’t seem quite so easy as an adult. I have known people who speak easily of their faith. Their faces seem to radiate a light that permeates their whole being. Does my face do that? Speaking easily is not a talent I have been given. How can I reflect God’s love? It doesn’t take a special talent to be more aware of the people around me. A kind word, a smile, a pat on the back, or just listening can go a long way for someone who is having a bad day. All it takes is remembering that everyone I meet is a child of God and deserves my love, respect, and attention.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!
Isn’t that a wonderful way to reflect God’s love? Caring enough about God’s children to really see them--isn’t that the perfect gift to give the Christ child?
Let your light shine!
Margaret Williams
Sunday, December 18, 2016
Devotional 12-18-16
Psalm 80:19 – “Restore us, O Lord God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved.”
Recently I went to get my annual flu shot, so I could be protected from the dreaded flu and because my doctor told me I should get it. It was a long wait for my turn, but when I was called back, the nurse was pleasant and light-hearted. She asked the routine questions and then said, “Now you will feel a slight stick.” Ha!!!! Tears immediately sprang to my eyes, as I felt the pain of that shot. She apologized and told me she had accidently hit my bone. Wow!! That hurt. All of a sudden, I was mad and resentful. I had waited quite a while for my turn to get that shot and then the nurse had really hurt me. What was the deal???
But then the whole situation changed, as the nurse began a conversation with me, to ease the tension. What was my occupation? (Retired pastor) Really? What denomination? (United Methodist) Where did you serve before you retired? (Beverly Hills, Marshall University, Johnson Memorial, Lavalette) Really!! Johnson Memorial??
Then the situation really changed. Now the nurse was telling me her story. You see, she and her boyfriend used to be drug addicts. They were living on the streets, always searching for ways to support their addictions, but they knew that when they were really hungry, they could go to Johnson Memorial on Thursday night for Common Grounds, to receive good food to eat and someone to talk to. They never had enough money for food and they were always hungry, but the people there were so nice and tried to help with their needs, so Common Grounds was very important to them.
But then she said one evening she was really desperate, so she had snuck upstairs and searched around until she had found some money. She said she only took a $20.00 bill, because they were really, really hungry and needed that money. However, she had been thinking about that stolen money a lot lately. She and her boyfriend had gone through detox, and had been clean for 12 months, but the fact she had taken that money from the church – the place where they fed her physically and spiritually - really bothered her. She wanted to know what she could do to make it right.
We talked for a while, and I made some suggestions to her, so she could make the situation right. She confessed that she was a new Christian, and it was hard to understand what the Bible meant when she was reading it. She asked for suggestions about particular scripture readings and translations. I’m sure the next person in line, waiting for their flu shot was really discouraged, because we talked for quite a while.
The truth is - God had restored this nurse and her boyfriend partly through the help they received through Common Grounds. (and detox) I was where I was that day, (even though it was a bit painful) because God put me there, to listen and help as well.
That’s the way God works. We are God’s hands, God’s feet, God’s voice, God’s ears - to everyone we come in contact with. Be open to God and let God’s face shine through you, so we may serve and save God’s children wherever we encounter them. AMEN
Rev. Suzanne Ellis
Recently I went to get my annual flu shot, so I could be protected from the dreaded flu and because my doctor told me I should get it. It was a long wait for my turn, but when I was called back, the nurse was pleasant and light-hearted. She asked the routine questions and then said, “Now you will feel a slight stick.” Ha!!!! Tears immediately sprang to my eyes, as I felt the pain of that shot. She apologized and told me she had accidently hit my bone. Wow!! That hurt. All of a sudden, I was mad and resentful. I had waited quite a while for my turn to get that shot and then the nurse had really hurt me. What was the deal???
But then the whole situation changed, as the nurse began a conversation with me, to ease the tension. What was my occupation? (Retired pastor) Really? What denomination? (United Methodist) Where did you serve before you retired? (Beverly Hills, Marshall University, Johnson Memorial, Lavalette) Really!! Johnson Memorial??
Then the situation really changed. Now the nurse was telling me her story. You see, she and her boyfriend used to be drug addicts. They were living on the streets, always searching for ways to support their addictions, but they knew that when they were really hungry, they could go to Johnson Memorial on Thursday night for Common Grounds, to receive good food to eat and someone to talk to. They never had enough money for food and they were always hungry, but the people there were so nice and tried to help with their needs, so Common Grounds was very important to them.
But then she said one evening she was really desperate, so she had snuck upstairs and searched around until she had found some money. She said she only took a $20.00 bill, because they were really, really hungry and needed that money. However, she had been thinking about that stolen money a lot lately. She and her boyfriend had gone through detox, and had been clean for 12 months, but the fact she had taken that money from the church – the place where they fed her physically and spiritually - really bothered her. She wanted to know what she could do to make it right.
We talked for a while, and I made some suggestions to her, so she could make the situation right. She confessed that she was a new Christian, and it was hard to understand what the Bible meant when she was reading it. She asked for suggestions about particular scripture readings and translations. I’m sure the next person in line, waiting for their flu shot was really discouraged, because we talked for quite a while.
The truth is - God had restored this nurse and her boyfriend partly through the help they received through Common Grounds. (and detox) I was where I was that day, (even though it was a bit painful) because God put me there, to listen and help as well.
That’s the way God works. We are God’s hands, God’s feet, God’s voice, God’s ears - to everyone we come in contact with. Be open to God and let God’s face shine through you, so we may serve and save God’s children wherever we encounter them. AMEN
Rev. Suzanne Ellis
Saturday, December 17, 2016
Devotional 12-17-16
Acting in Peace
I’m a people-watcher. I try to empathize with those around me, whether or not we have actually met. Recently, I have reconnected with an old friend. It has been intriguing to watch him. He tells me of trials in his own life. They are situations which make me angry or frustrated on his behalf. When I ask how he dealt with each problem, his responses always astound me. He answers irrational with wise. He answers impatient with peace. He answers complicated with clarity. Time after time, he has responded with humility and grace.
Matthew 1: 18-25 tells of Joseph discovering that Mary was with child, even though the two had not yet lived together. Verse 19 shares that Joseph was planning to ‘quietly dismiss’ Mary. He was facing a complicated and dramatic situation. Joseph could easily have shamed her throughout the community. His world was turned upside down, but he made the better choice. Even before the angel appeared to him, Joseph was responding with peace and grace.
People are rash, impatient, illogical, immature, and vengeful. In this age of email and social media, we enjoy the luxury of instant access to the world. In turn, we seem to also want to have an instant answer for events around us. Rather than taking the time to think and pray for the correct response (which is often silence!), we act first. While we journey through another Christmas season – the season of peace—let us take just a little more time to ask God what He would have us do.
Father God, thank you for the gift of your truly amazing grace. Please help me to listen to you before I speak or act based on my own understanding. Bless me with peace and discernment, and let me be the voice of Your love to those around me. In Your holy name, Amen.
“Practice the pause : When in doubt, pause. When angry, pause. When tired, pause. When stressed, pause. And when you pause, pray.” –Toby Mac
Natalie Wray
Matthew 1: 18-25 tells of Joseph discovering that Mary was with child, even though the two had not yet lived together. Verse 19 shares that Joseph was planning to ‘quietly dismiss’ Mary. He was facing a complicated and dramatic situation. Joseph could easily have shamed her throughout the community. His world was turned upside down, but he made the better choice. Even before the angel appeared to him, Joseph was responding with peace and grace.
People are rash, impatient, illogical, immature, and vengeful. In this age of email and social media, we enjoy the luxury of instant access to the world. In turn, we seem to also want to have an instant answer for events around us. Rather than taking the time to think and pray for the correct response (which is often silence!), we act first. While we journey through another Christmas season – the season of peace—let us take just a little more time to ask God what He would have us do.
Father God, thank you for the gift of your truly amazing grace. Please help me to listen to you before I speak or act based on my own understanding. Bless me with peace and discernment, and let me be the voice of Your love to those around me. In Your holy name, Amen.
“Practice the pause : When in doubt, pause. When angry, pause. When tired, pause. When stressed, pause. And when you pause, pray.” –Toby Mac
Natalie Wray
Friday, December 16, 2016
Devotional 12-16-16
God Claims You
Lectionary Readings: Isaiah 7:10-16; Psalm 80:1-7; Romans 1: 1-7; Matthew 1: 18-25
“Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered 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 home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”……. when Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.” Matthew 1: 19-21, 24.
The Gospel Lesson this week focuses on Joseph. Joseph was a descendant of King David and it was important for the gospel writer to connect Jesus to this lineage and heritage. As Joseph was about to divorce Mary quietly because she had confessed to him that she was with child, God decided to intervene in the situation so that His plan could unfold.
I do not often remember any of my dreams and the ones I can recall in the morning are not usually pleasant to think about. But Joseph’s dream was very specific and included a visit from an angel of the Lord. If I had this dream, would I believe it in the morning??? The angel gave clear instructions regarding the future of Joseph, Mary and Jesus. Joseph was to accept Mary as his wife with no more fear about who “fathered” the child, because he was conceived by the Holy Spirit. I don’t know how Joseph believed this, for surely he had some knowledge of how children are made??? He was to name the baby Jesus and the child would save his people from their sins. WHAT??? How was that going to happen?? The angel even quoted the prophecy of Isaiah 7: 14 as the basis for acceptance of Mary as his wife and her status as a virgin prior to conception.
I guess I am just too cynical to give a dream the power to guide my actions. Maybe it is because I have never had a dream of this magnitude or maybe God knows who would respond to an angel visit. I do think that problem solving can take place as one sleeps and that after a good night’s sleep, a person can have clarity of thought. But Joseph’s life-changing dream not only included a very persuasive angel but also one with a specific “to do” list. However, the most astounding part of the story was Joseph’s response to the dream: “When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife”. Joseph claimed Mary as his wife and then he proceeded to claim Jesus as his son. Although there are not many verses allotted to the relationship between Jesus and Joseph, this passage provides a glimpse of Joseph’s acceptance of Jesus and his own obedience to God.
Joseph claimed and accepted both Mary and Jesus, just as God claims each of us. The following lyrics are not of an Advent or Christmas theme, but they do highlight the grace of God as he calls out to each of us to trust his love, to listen to his voice, that he knows us by name and we are His!!! What a message to contemplate during this busy, hectic season of Advent: “I claim you as my choice, I love you and you are MINE!!”
“You Are Mine”
by David Haas (p. 2218 Faith We Sing)
I will come to you in the silence,
I will lift you from all your fear.
You will hear my voice, I claim you as my choice,
be still and know I am here.
Refrain:
Do not be afraid, I am with you.
I have called you each by name.
Come and follow me, I will bring you home;
I love you and you are mine.
Dear Loving Lord of all things, We hear You calling to us during this Advent season. With Joseph as an example of obedience, help us to heed your call and trust the instructions. We thank you for claiming us and loving us so very much. We are so blessed to be chosen by you, to belong to you, and to be in relationship with you. Help us to heed your instructions and guidance in whatever format they may take. May we ponder each day the lessons that point us to prepare more fully for the birth of our Savior. AMEN.
Chyrl Budd
Thursday, December 15, 2016
Devotional 12-15-16
I received a great blessing this past July – a daughter-in-law. Matt and Alyssa wed on July 16. As anyone who has been even remotely involved with a wedding knows, the preparation for the big day is almost overwhelming – reserving the church and reception hall, selecting a menu, picking colors, choosing a dress, designing the invitations. Thankfully, the list of responsibilities for the mother of the groom is less daunting. Even so, the preparations took months.
Another preparation was for the couple themselves - intense marriage counseling. Matt and Alyssa are fortunate to be connected with a former Young Life area director and his wife, who took them under their wings, and counseled them on marriage and life issues. The counselors met with the couple for months and challenged them to get their hearts and minds prepared for the marriage.
This preparation of heart and mind for the marital union reminded me of the preparation I should be making for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. What would my Christmas be like if I used Advent to prepare for the blessed day as intensely as I prepared for Matt and Alyssa’s wedding?
How can we prepare our hearts for the special gift that is Christmas? I’ll need to be intentional and focus on what really matters. Through prayer, study and fellowship with other Christians, I’ll find the Hope, Love, Joy and Peace that Christ brings.
The lectionary for this week includes Matthew 1:18 -25. Verse 23 says “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son and they will call him Immanuel – which means ‘God with us.’ ” That reminded me of a verse that is a continual source of comfort for me – Matthew 28: 20 “. . . And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” I can certainly find Hope, Love, Joy and Peace in that promise.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for this Advent season and pray that you’ll guide us as we prepare our hearts for the celebration of the birth of your Son and His Coming. Amen.
Shelly Shideler
Another preparation was for the couple themselves - intense marriage counseling. Matt and Alyssa are fortunate to be connected with a former Young Life area director and his wife, who took them under their wings, and counseled them on marriage and life issues. The counselors met with the couple for months and challenged them to get their hearts and minds prepared for the marriage.
This preparation of heart and mind for the marital union reminded me of the preparation I should be making for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. What would my Christmas be like if I used Advent to prepare for the blessed day as intensely as I prepared for Matt and Alyssa’s wedding?
How can we prepare our hearts for the special gift that is Christmas? I’ll need to be intentional and focus on what really matters. Through prayer, study and fellowship with other Christians, I’ll find the Hope, Love, Joy and Peace that Christ brings.
The lectionary for this week includes Matthew 1:18 -25. Verse 23 says “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son and they will call him Immanuel – which means ‘God with us.’ ” That reminded me of a verse that is a continual source of comfort for me – Matthew 28: 20 “. . . And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” I can certainly find Hope, Love, Joy and Peace in that promise.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for this Advent season and pray that you’ll guide us as we prepare our hearts for the celebration of the birth of your Son and His Coming. Amen.
Shelly Shideler
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
Devotional 12-14-16
Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle. --Romans 12: 9-10 (The Message)
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35
“At the end of the day people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” --Maya Angelou
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35
“At the end of the day people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” --Maya Angelou
Camouflage
I recently spent a day at a zoo with one of my sons. We really enjoyed The Bird House. We walked into a section that was sealed off by doors and plastic chain maille that featured plants, rocks and water. We both saw only one bird. I said, “This is a lot of trouble for one bird.” But then, we started spotting other ones. There’s one, and there’s another one in the corner, and here’s one right in front of our noses and there’re two on that branch... In the end, we found at least a dozen birds in the space. If we hadn’t made the effort, we would have missed most of them.
In our everyday worlds, we see people coming and going but do we really see them? I’d say most people reading this help others on a regular basis. The homeless, hungry, sick. We have programs and agencies to provide help in many forms to those. But what about those who are camouflaged? Did you ever consider that the well groomed, nicely dressed person in front of you at Starbucks is hurting on the inside due to a family crisis? Perhaps the thin, beautiful woman on the next treadmill is terrified that addiction will take her child. Maybe the owner of the perfect house on your street hates his job and is desperately searching for some meaning to his life.
We are called to love one another. Sometimes that takes some effort, often effort to recognize there’s a need in the first place. Here we are in another Advent season. Sadly, people are generally more stressed than usual and we need to make an extra effort to show the love of the one whose birth we are celebrating. Keep you eyes open!
Anita Farrell
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
Devotional 12-13-16
In 2000 I wrote an Advent Devotion called “Lean on Me” after the song from the 70’s. I talked about how difficult it was for me to give up control and lean on God. It has been 16 years since then and I definitely have learned to lean on God! Now I have another song in my heart this Advent season. It is called “What the world needs is Love,” especially after the political campaign of 2016. The anger and frustration continues.
John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” What is the Christmas message? God gave us the gift of L-O-V-E on Christmas Day. The song says “What the world needs is Love.” I need it! You need it! I choose love over the darkness of the past few months in the political arena.
One of the four advent candles represents Love. Advent is all about love. The season is of waiting for the greatest gift of all. In the movie “It is a wonderful Life,” George permits despair to take over but finally realizes that love is the only thing that matters. The love of his family and friends is all that matters; not wealth or material things. He learns this from an angel who is trying to get his wings. It is a simple story, but each year when I watch it, it creates the same feeling of love and joy. This joy and especially, the love should be in our hearts at this time of year. I choose L-O-V-E!
Let us pray:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Please help us to remember that your precious gift of your son to us on Christmas Day was your gift of love to us and let never take it for granted.
In present day turmoil, we need to remember this gift not only during Advent, but every day.
Hear Our Prayer
Carolee Brown
Monday, December 12, 2016
Devotional 12-12-16
Romans 1: 1-7
1 Paul a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God- 2 the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures 3 regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, 4 and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord. 5 Through him and for his name’s sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. 6 And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. 7 To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul wrote this letter to the Church in Rome to introduce himself. He had not been to Rome yet and did not start this church. However, even in the early days there was friction between the Jews & Gentiles in the early Christian Church. In the scripture reading we can see Paul appealing to the Jewish sense of tradition referencing the prophets and David’s lineage while also reminding the Gentiles that through Jesus death and resurrection they were receivers of the same grace.
As we prepare for Christmas I hope these few verses speak to you. How? Well- Paul reminds us that we too are called to Christ! We are called to serve, we are called to witness, we are called to love and we are called to forgive. Paul states that obedience to Christ comes via faith. So during this time of Advent why not take the time to prepare yourself both physically and spiritually to be called to do God’s work here on his Kingdom on Earth! Grace and peace awaits all who do!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for this day. We ask that you help to strengthen us in faith and obedience so that when called we can be your servant while we await that house not built with hands but eternal to the Heavens. Amen
1 Paul a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God- 2 the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures 3 regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, 4 and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord. 5 Through him and for his name’s sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. 6 And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. 7 To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul wrote this letter to the Church in Rome to introduce himself. He had not been to Rome yet and did not start this church. However, even in the early days there was friction between the Jews & Gentiles in the early Christian Church. In the scripture reading we can see Paul appealing to the Jewish sense of tradition referencing the prophets and David’s lineage while also reminding the Gentiles that through Jesus death and resurrection they were receivers of the same grace.
As we prepare for Christmas I hope these few verses speak to you. How? Well- Paul reminds us that we too are called to Christ! We are called to serve, we are called to witness, we are called to love and we are called to forgive. Paul states that obedience to Christ comes via faith. So during this time of Advent why not take the time to prepare yourself both physically and spiritually to be called to do God’s work here on his Kingdom on Earth! Grace and peace awaits all who do!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for this day. We ask that you help to strengthen us in faith and obedience so that when called we can be your servant while we await that house not built with hands but eternal to the Heavens. Amen
Marv Jones
Sunday, December 11, 2016
Devotional 12-11-16
James 5:7-10
7 Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains.
8 You also must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. 9 Beloved, do not grumble against one another, so that you may not be judged. See, the Judge is standing at the doors! 10 As an example of suffering and patience, beloved, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
Having a four-year-old in the house this time of year is an exercise in patience. Not only must Samantha be patient as every trip to the store, every commercial on TV, every conversation with friends - and grandparents - revolve around what she wants for Christmas, but as parents, we too must be patient, both with a four year old, and with the world around us.
Samantha is constantly asking how many days are left until the presents arrive. As soon as a box shows up under the tree, she wants to know when she can open it. Although she understands that she will soon be able to open her gifts, patience for a four year old is in very short supply!
Christmas is truly a season that brings out both the best and worst in us. We have great moments of care and compassion for each other, we bake cookies, we go sing Christmas carols, we give to and serve those around us who need our help, the list goes on. But we also have great moments of failing to reflect the reason for the season. We feel the pressure of shopping for the perfect gift, of going to the many required parties and gatherings, of putting up with our crazy relatives… all those things that test our patience and conspire to make us forget that the meaning of Christmas is our celebration of Christ coming to this place to bring us hope and peace.
The lectionary reading for this week from James is never more beneficial for our study and contemplation than now - just two weeks from Christmas day. “Be patient…. strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.”
I know there will be times in the next couple of weeks when we will all loose sight of this. We will start grumbling against one another. We will need the example of suffering and patience promised, but be patient. The gift of Christ is the perfect gift, now and forever.
Dear Lord, we thank you for the reminder that yours is a kingdom that is ever unfolding. Yours is a kingdom that has come through the gift of Christ our Savior, and continues to come through each of us who are your disciples. We are called to be faithful and patient, with the promise and the hope that your kingdom comes, and your will is being done, all in your own time. Let us savor each day we have, even as the world around us rushes about. Let us seek out times of rest and sabbath, as we ask for your patience this day. Amen
7 Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains.
8 You also must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. 9 Beloved, do not grumble against one another, so that you may not be judged. See, the Judge is standing at the doors! 10 As an example of suffering and patience, beloved, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
Having a four-year-old in the house this time of year is an exercise in patience. Not only must Samantha be patient as every trip to the store, every commercial on TV, every conversation with friends - and grandparents - revolve around what she wants for Christmas, but as parents, we too must be patient, both with a four year old, and with the world around us.
Samantha is constantly asking how many days are left until the presents arrive. As soon as a box shows up under the tree, she wants to know when she can open it. Although she understands that she will soon be able to open her gifts, patience for a four year old is in very short supply!
Christmas is truly a season that brings out both the best and worst in us. We have great moments of care and compassion for each other, we bake cookies, we go sing Christmas carols, we give to and serve those around us who need our help, the list goes on. But we also have great moments of failing to reflect the reason for the season. We feel the pressure of shopping for the perfect gift, of going to the many required parties and gatherings, of putting up with our crazy relatives… all those things that test our patience and conspire to make us forget that the meaning of Christmas is our celebration of Christ coming to this place to bring us hope and peace.
The lectionary reading for this week from James is never more beneficial for our study and contemplation than now - just two weeks from Christmas day. “Be patient…. strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.”
I know there will be times in the next couple of weeks when we will all loose sight of this. We will start grumbling against one another. We will need the example of suffering and patience promised, but be patient. The gift of Christ is the perfect gift, now and forever.
Dear Lord, we thank you for the reminder that yours is a kingdom that is ever unfolding. Yours is a kingdom that has come through the gift of Christ our Savior, and continues to come through each of us who are your disciples. We are called to be faithful and patient, with the promise and the hope that your kingdom comes, and your will is being done, all in your own time. Let us savor each day we have, even as the world around us rushes about. Let us seek out times of rest and sabbath, as we ask for your patience this day. Amen
Rev. Alan Williams
Saturday, December 10, 2016
Devotional 12-10-16
Christmas and the Doll
Christmas is a time for thanking God for the gift of his son and reflecting on what a sacrifice that was. It is a time of giving, parents often giving sacrificially. It is a time of being grateful for family, friends and much more.
The poem below expresses thanks to a mother for her sacrifices on her daughter’s behalf. It was the year the Cabbage Patch dolls were new to the toy scene. All the dolls were gone from store shelves before the mother even knew what they were, so she made a cloth doll as close to the original as she could.
I just remembered
the Christmas you worked in the basement
hours after you tucked me in bed
making that beautiful doll
like the one in the store
I had cried for.
You must have spent weeks
down there
alone
in the quiet of the winter night
tireless
cutting and stuffing the fleshy body
tacking in the long, brown hair
painting her smiling face.
You prayed with each stitch
it would be enough to make me smile
on Christmas morning
and I don’t think I ever told you
how much I loved you for that.
Connie Karickhoff Colvin
(Submitted by Maudie Karickhoff)
Friday, December 09, 2016
Devotional 12-9-16
Read Luke 1:46-55
You never know what God has in store for you as you go about your day to day activities. Around the first of the month of October I had a appointment to get my nails done with my nail tech. I had just finished and was on my way home. Remembering that we needed a few things, I went into the Save Mart by the nail salon. While I was shopping I noticed a younger couple that was visibly doing their monthly grocery shopping, having their list and checking things off, making sure they purchase everything on their list.
After finishing my shopping I was in line behind them. While the clerk was checking them out, I started putting things on the counter behind them. As the lady was about finished I heard her say “I am going to do a random act of kindness now” and then she picked up meat, tatter tots and broccoli of mine and she said “I am going to buy this meal for you!” I was thinking “What is she doing paying for MY stuff? I should be paying for her stuff!” Then I heard her say that she and her husband make it a point to do this every so often. I said ? “Thank you, bless you!” And gave her a big hug.
Afterwards as I was walking out of the store I felt humbled, and felt guilty for accepting her kindness toward me. I felt that I should have paid it forward for her and not her for me! I was really taken back and I started Jesus’s teaching about feeding the hungry and giving a drink, etc.If you do it to the least of those or a stranger, you have done it to Jesus. It is hard to be on the receiving end of grace and kindness from a stranger, but we must remember that we also must feed the hungry; cloth the needy and so on to pay it forward.
We all must be on the look out for ways we as Christians can pay it forward during this advent season and be the hands and feet of Jesus for others. Some suggestions are adopt a family, pick a name of a child from the Angel Tree at the mall, or just be observant,as you shop, of the other shoppers and you might be able to show Jesus to someone!
Let us pray:
Dear Lord, thank you for putting us in the places we need to be in order to feel the love of Jesus, and to put us in out place to let us know how we should act as a child of God. Remembering that as Christians we should help others and be on the lookout how we can show Jesus to all. Thanks for your blessings and the teachings you provide for us as we go about our daily lives, keep us on tract to do your work and to reach others.
Amen
Melanie Herr
You never know what God has in store for you as you go about your day to day activities. Around the first of the month of October I had a appointment to get my nails done with my nail tech. I had just finished and was on my way home. Remembering that we needed a few things, I went into the Save Mart by the nail salon. While I was shopping I noticed a younger couple that was visibly doing their monthly grocery shopping, having their list and checking things off, making sure they purchase everything on their list.
After finishing my shopping I was in line behind them. While the clerk was checking them out, I started putting things on the counter behind them. As the lady was about finished I heard her say “I am going to do a random act of kindness now” and then she picked up meat, tatter tots and broccoli of mine and she said “I am going to buy this meal for you!” I was thinking “What is she doing paying for MY stuff? I should be paying for her stuff!” Then I heard her say that she and her husband make it a point to do this every so often. I said ? “Thank you, bless you!” And gave her a big hug.
Afterwards as I was walking out of the store I felt humbled, and felt guilty for accepting her kindness toward me. I felt that I should have paid it forward for her and not her for me! I was really taken back and I started Jesus’s teaching about feeding the hungry and giving a drink, etc.If you do it to the least of those or a stranger, you have done it to Jesus. It is hard to be on the receiving end of grace and kindness from a stranger, but we must remember that we also must feed the hungry; cloth the needy and so on to pay it forward.
We all must be on the look out for ways we as Christians can pay it forward during this advent season and be the hands and feet of Jesus for others. Some suggestions are adopt a family, pick a name of a child from the Angel Tree at the mall, or just be observant,as you shop, of the other shoppers and you might be able to show Jesus to someone!
Let us pray:
Dear Lord, thank you for putting us in the places we need to be in order to feel the love of Jesus, and to put us in out place to let us know how we should act as a child of God. Remembering that as Christians we should help others and be on the lookout how we can show Jesus to all. Thanks for your blessings and the teachings you provide for us as we go about our daily lives, keep us on tract to do your work and to reach others.
Amen
Melanie Herr
Thursday, December 08, 2016
Devotional 12-8-16
Giving and Receiving
We are well into Advent with thankfulness for a time of preparation of our hearts and spirits. Indications that Christmas is near are all around us: packages in the mail, catalogs searched for just the right gift, online shopping for bargains and convenience, malls filled with people, glitter and decorations.
If you are like most persons, including myself, we focus a lot on giving. After all, are we not reminded: “It is better to give than to receive.” Certainly, with so many needs in the world there is much truth in these words. It may be better to give than to receive but perhaps it is more difficult the other way around: to be the recipient. I find this to be the more challenging of the two and yet, isn’t receiving at the heart of Christmas? I confess that I must remember at times that it is not the content of the package received but the love of a family member or close friend who has given a gift to me. I need more attention to receiving graciously and gratefully.
Have you ever had the experience of no acknowledgment of a gift given or sent in the mail? Perhaps not often, but this leaves us with uncertainty. Was the gift received? Did the recipient dismiss it casually? I have wondered if this is the way God may feel at Christmas. He has given the perfect gift, that of Himself in the form of a little child who came to live and dwell among us, sent to be the Savior of the world. The gift of the Christ child is for anyone and for all; we have only to receive God’s gift with gratitude. Receive and be blessed. May this be the season when we open our hearts to do just that at Christmas and in the coming year.
“How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is given;
So God imparts to human hearts
the blessings of His heaven.
No ear may hear His coming; but in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive Him;
Still, the dear Lord enters in.”
Sue Darlington Woods
with an inspiration from Dr. Richard Lancaster, (now among the saints in heaven.)
If you are like most persons, including myself, we focus a lot on giving. After all, are we not reminded: “It is better to give than to receive.” Certainly, with so many needs in the world there is much truth in these words. It may be better to give than to receive but perhaps it is more difficult the other way around: to be the recipient. I find this to be the more challenging of the two and yet, isn’t receiving at the heart of Christmas? I confess that I must remember at times that it is not the content of the package received but the love of a family member or close friend who has given a gift to me. I need more attention to receiving graciously and gratefully.
Have you ever had the experience of no acknowledgment of a gift given or sent in the mail? Perhaps not often, but this leaves us with uncertainty. Was the gift received? Did the recipient dismiss it casually? I have wondered if this is the way God may feel at Christmas. He has given the perfect gift, that of Himself in the form of a little child who came to live and dwell among us, sent to be the Savior of the world. The gift of the Christ child is for anyone and for all; we have only to receive God’s gift with gratitude. Receive and be blessed. May this be the season when we open our hearts to do just that at Christmas and in the coming year.
“How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is given;
So God imparts to human hearts
the blessings of His heaven.
No ear may hear His coming; but in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive Him;
Still, the dear Lord enters in.”
Sue Darlington Woods
with an inspiration from Dr. Richard Lancaster, (now among the saints in heaven.)
Wednesday, December 07, 2016
Devotional 12-7-16
New Life and Joy
This coming Sunday Dec. 11th is Joy the Third Sunday of Advent and as you prepare use this Mediation. Let the Joy of Christ’s Birth and new life fill your heart.
What must it be like to encounter a season of new life and rebirth in the midst of the winter of the soul? Like an oasis in the desert, life has the ability to spring up at God’s command. But we so often can’t see it. Maybe it’s because we aren’t looking. God meets us in our hope to bring joy and fuel our anticipation. It is in this season of expectation that we encounter a reading from the Book of Isaiah on this third Sunday of Advent.
Isaiah 35: 1-10 (NRSV)
The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the Lord, the majesty of our God. Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are of a fearful heart, “Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God. He will come with vengeance, with terrible recompense. He will come and save you.” Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy. For waters shall break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert; the burning sand shall become a pool, and the thirsty ground springs of water; the haunt of jackals shall become a swamp, the grass shall become reeds and rushes. A highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Holy Way; the unclean shall not travel on it, but it shall be for God’s people; no traveler, not even fools, shall go astray. No lion shall be there, nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it; they shall not be found there, but the redeemed shall walk there. And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
Pray,
God you are a never-ending source of Joy. As I follow and live in your light God, let me be sustained through the darkest night and know that joy can defeat hopelessness. Your light will provide me deep and abiding sense of joy. “Sorrow and sighing shall flee away” (Isaiah 35: 10). Amen.
Fred Herr © 2016 by Discipleship Ministries, The United Methodist Church, PO Box 340003, Nashville TN 37203. Telephone (877)899-2780, ext 7073. Used by permission. Permission is granted to download, adapt, edit, copy, and use in congregational or home worship with the inclusion of this entire copyright citation on each copy. It may not be sold, republished, used for profit, or placed on a website without permission.
What must it be like to encounter a season of new life and rebirth in the midst of the winter of the soul? Like an oasis in the desert, life has the ability to spring up at God’s command. But we so often can’t see it. Maybe it’s because we aren’t looking. God meets us in our hope to bring joy and fuel our anticipation. It is in this season of expectation that we encounter a reading from the Book of Isaiah on this third Sunday of Advent.
Isaiah 35: 1-10 (NRSV)
The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the Lord, the majesty of our God. Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are of a fearful heart, “Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God. He will come with vengeance, with terrible recompense. He will come and save you.” Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy. For waters shall break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert; the burning sand shall become a pool, and the thirsty ground springs of water; the haunt of jackals shall become a swamp, the grass shall become reeds and rushes. A highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Holy Way; the unclean shall not travel on it, but it shall be for God’s people; no traveler, not even fools, shall go astray. No lion shall be there, nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it; they shall not be found there, but the redeemed shall walk there. And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
Pray,
God you are a never-ending source of Joy. As I follow and live in your light God, let me be sustained through the darkest night and know that joy can defeat hopelessness. Your light will provide me deep and abiding sense of joy. “Sorrow and sighing shall flee away” (Isaiah 35: 10). Amen.
Fred Herr © 2016 by Discipleship Ministries, The United Methodist Church, PO Box 340003, Nashville TN 37203. Telephone (877)899-2780, ext 7073. Used by permission. Permission is granted to download, adapt, edit, copy, and use in congregational or home worship with the inclusion of this entire copyright citation on each copy. It may not be sold, republished, used for profit, or placed on a website without permission.
Tuesday, December 06, 2016
Devotional 12-6-16
Finding the Words
Luke 1:46b-55 is referred to at The Magnificat, Mary’s song of praise upon learning her role in God’s advent into the world. Imagine a young peasant girl, pregnant and unmarried, giving birth to God. At first, she asks incredulously, “How can this happen? I am not married!” (Luke 1:34). After her historic function is confirmed by another humble and expectant mother, Elizabeth, Mary breaks forth into her eloquent song.
As I read the beautiful and poetic verse, I find I can often be too practical. Did Mary really come up with these words spontaneously? Or does Luke put them in her mouth?
Upon further review, the idea of Mary impulsively singing her hymn of praise is not beyond comprehension. She searched the depth of her heart and soul for the words that could be the proper response to God’s calling her into service. She found the words in an ancient hymn from the Scripture, words that were likely etched in her heart.
The Hebrew Bible tells the story of Samuel and his mother, Hannah. Hannah’s childlessness was the cause of her torment by other women. When God answered Hannah’s fervent prayers for a child, Hannah responded with a song that is recorded in 1 Samuel 2. Mary’s song parallels Hannah’s, but I’m not suggesting plagiarism. Rather, Mary’s heartfelt response came from the Scripture that was inscribed on her soul.
One of the things I love about Methodism is that we sing our theology. As a “cradle Methodist,” the Wesleyan hymns as well as other favorites from the official hymnal and other songbooks, including the old Cokesbury brown hymn book, are embedded deep within me. When I don’t have the words for praise, or the expression of lament, a hymn text will come to me. I love the texts. I read and study them. Sometimes during a sermon, I thumb through the hymnal. The songs and hymns of Sunday school, bible school, worship, Wednesday night hymn sings, picnics and other gatherings became the language of my soul. Hymns for the Use of Methodists, which John Wesley published in 1780, distilled his spirituality and theology to such an extent that it was called “the grandest instrument of popular religious culture that Christendom has ever produced.” The Wesley brothers incorporated hymns into their worship services to “implant Methodist teaching in the minds and memories of the people.”
It worked for me! When I lack the words, a hymn text rises up in my memory as a gift. And so it is not unreasonable to think that when Mary was bursting with joy, looking for the right words to offer praise to God, she found them within herself in the Song of Hannah.
Rev. Jeff Taylor
Sunday, December 04, 2016
Devotional 12-5-16
Psalm 146:5-10 Common English Bible (CEB)
5 The person whose help is the God of Jacob—
the person whose hope rests on the Lord their God—
is truly happy!
6 God: the maker of heaven and earth,
the sea, and all that is in them,
God: who is faithful forever,
7 who gives justice to people who are oppressed,
who gives bread to people who are starving!
The Lord: who frees prisoners.
8 The Lord: who makes the blind see.
The Lord: who straightens up those who are bent low.
The Lord: who loves the righteous.
9 The Lord: who protects immigrants,
who helps orphans and widows,
but who makes the way of the wicked twist and turn!
10 The Lord will rule forever!
Zion, your God will rule from one generation to the next!
Praise the Lord!
I am the only member of my family that didn’t go to seminary. Both of my parents are currently serving churches. My brother is a minister in a church in Pittsburgh. My sister in awaiting a call (Presbyterian ordination process) in Chicago, after graduating in May. My aunt is a minister, my grandfather, my great uncles… and on back…all minister. Then I married a minister, who’s father was a minister, and who’s grandfather was a minister. There is never a lack of theological discussion at my house. I think that is a lot of the reason why I love Advent and Christmas.
For just about 1/10th of the year (the four weeks leading up to Christmas, then the 12 days of Christmas) we surround ourselves with reminders of what has happened and what is to come. We put up trees and tell stories about the ornaments on that tree… my favorite is the crystal star that Benjamin and I were given by a church member on our first Christmas. It was an ornament she and her husband, who had recently died, received on their first Christmas, about sixty year prior. We make batches of Chex mix, put hot punch on the stove, sit in cozy couches, and read by the light of the many Christmas trees we have in the house. During Advent we do everything we can to prepare the house to be a place you want to spend time. We set the stage and then the discussion follows.
When I read all of the assigned passages for today (Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146:5-10, James 5:7-10, Matthew 11:2-11, Luke 1:46b-55) I see a pattern. (Except James, but now you’ll just have to read them all to see that it doesn’t fit) I see a lot of different people remembering. They are not just praising God they are acknowledging the things God has done. The psalmist tells us about the creative God, that continues to protect those in need. Mary talks about a good God, who cares about all people. John asks Jesus about the things he is doing, which was referencing more memories and more scripture. These aren’t just praises. They aren’t just someone else’s scripture. They are memories. They have become real to John and real to Mary. They are like that crystal star on the tree. It may have been someone else’s ornament at one time, but now it is ours, and hopefully one day it will be in someone else’s Advent devotional. We do the preparations and it becomes real. We can have our own theological discussions about the second coming of Christ, giving exegesis on the Christmas stories, or discussing the fact that there isn’t an innkeeper and there aren’t three kings. All of these things are wrapped up in the Christmas story. Making it real again… to a new time… to a new people. As you surround yourself with Christmas this Advent season, be thankful like the psalmist and Mary for what God has done, and that your own memories can be added to the memories from these stories of God.
Tobyn Domske Wells
5 The person whose help is the God of Jacob—
the person whose hope rests on the Lord their God—
is truly happy!
6 God: the maker of heaven and earth,
the sea, and all that is in them,
God: who is faithful forever,
7 who gives justice to people who are oppressed,
who gives bread to people who are starving!
The Lord: who frees prisoners.
8 The Lord: who makes the blind see.
The Lord: who straightens up those who are bent low.
The Lord: who loves the righteous.
9 The Lord: who protects immigrants,
who helps orphans and widows,
but who makes the way of the wicked twist and turn!
10 The Lord will rule forever!
Zion, your God will rule from one generation to the next!
Praise the Lord!
I am the only member of my family that didn’t go to seminary. Both of my parents are currently serving churches. My brother is a minister in a church in Pittsburgh. My sister in awaiting a call (Presbyterian ordination process) in Chicago, after graduating in May. My aunt is a minister, my grandfather, my great uncles… and on back…all minister. Then I married a minister, who’s father was a minister, and who’s grandfather was a minister. There is never a lack of theological discussion at my house. I think that is a lot of the reason why I love Advent and Christmas.
For just about 1/10th of the year (the four weeks leading up to Christmas, then the 12 days of Christmas) we surround ourselves with reminders of what has happened and what is to come. We put up trees and tell stories about the ornaments on that tree… my favorite is the crystal star that Benjamin and I were given by a church member on our first Christmas. It was an ornament she and her husband, who had recently died, received on their first Christmas, about sixty year prior. We make batches of Chex mix, put hot punch on the stove, sit in cozy couches, and read by the light of the many Christmas trees we have in the house. During Advent we do everything we can to prepare the house to be a place you want to spend time. We set the stage and then the discussion follows.
When I read all of the assigned passages for today (Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146:5-10, James 5:7-10, Matthew 11:2-11, Luke 1:46b-55) I see a pattern. (Except James, but now you’ll just have to read them all to see that it doesn’t fit) I see a lot of different people remembering. They are not just praising God they are acknowledging the things God has done. The psalmist tells us about the creative God, that continues to protect those in need. Mary talks about a good God, who cares about all people. John asks Jesus about the things he is doing, which was referencing more memories and more scripture. These aren’t just praises. They aren’t just someone else’s scripture. They are memories. They have become real to John and real to Mary. They are like that crystal star on the tree. It may have been someone else’s ornament at one time, but now it is ours, and hopefully one day it will be in someone else’s Advent devotional. We do the preparations and it becomes real. We can have our own theological discussions about the second coming of Christ, giving exegesis on the Christmas stories, or discussing the fact that there isn’t an innkeeper and there aren’t three kings. All of these things are wrapped up in the Christmas story. Making it real again… to a new time… to a new people. As you surround yourself with Christmas this Advent season, be thankful like the psalmist and Mary for what God has done, and that your own memories can be added to the memories from these stories of God.
Tobyn Domske Wells
Devotional 12-4-16
“Reach for the Star-Child”
I don’t know about you, but I cannot let the Christmas season go by without watching every version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Yes, I know it was a novel first, and I have read it a few times, but I do occasionally like for Hollywood to do my thinking for me.
Whether my visions are brain or television induced, I have found that one scene has grown in significance to me lately. When the Ghost of Christmas Present pulls back his robe to reveal the two children hiding there, Ignorance and Want, I feel helpless. What’s more, I think if Dickens were writing his book today, he would have to include a few more children under that robe.
In the hymn “Star Child” by Shirley Murray, we are reminded of all the children who are in need of our help. In 1994, she wrote the lyrics and set it to a beautiful melody by Carlton Young.
C. Michael Hawn wrote an article called “History of Hymns: “Star Child” for the United Methodist website, Discipleship Ministries. He made this observation: “While I do not wish to play Scrooge during this season of wonder and hope, our songs should include those that remind us that there are many among us for whom the joy of Christmas has never been experienced.
All of these children are created in the image of the “Star - Child, earth - Child” of stanza one and the “Hope-for-Peace Child” of stanza five. “This year, let the day arrive,” is a petition for the presence of the “Christ Child” for “everyone alive.”
Let this hymn be a gentle reminder that although we have made great strides by helping Lily’s Place, our Johnson Memorial Backpack Ministry, and the Ebenezer Community Outreach Center, there is more to be done before Christmas comes to everyone alive. Let’s reach for the Star-Child.
“Star Child” by Shirley Murrays
1)Star-Child, earth-Child,
Go-between of God,
Love Child, Christ Child,
Heaven’s lightening rod.(Refrain)
2)Street child, beat child,
no place left to go,
hurt child, used child,
no one wants to know (Refrain)
3)Grown child, old child,
Memory full of years,
Sad child, lost child,
Story told in tears, (Refrain)
4)Spared child, spoiled child,
having, wanting more
wise child, faith child,
knowing joy in store. (Refrain)
5)Hope-for peace Child,
God’s stupendous sign,
Down-to-earth Child,
Star of stars that shine. (Refrain)
Refrain:
This year, this year,
let the day arrive
when Christmas comes for everyone,
everyone alive.
Amen
Becky Warren
Saturday, December 03, 2016
Devotional 12-3-16
The smell of the city was indescribable
And it was nothing like home.
The crowds, the sounds, the noise,
Was foreign.
The pain in her back
As she rode the donkey
Could be ignored
If she concentrated on the people around her.
It was unlike anything she had seen before.
When Joseph had told her
That they had to go to his hometown,
She thought Bethlehem would be interesting.
She wanted to know more about the man
Who would be her husband.
She never considered that the journey
Would take her through Jerusalem.
She was looking everywhere,
Afraid.
She hoped that they would leave soon.
It was unlike anything
She had ever seen before.
She ran a hand over her swollen belly,
Ignoring the rough feel of the cloth
To marvel at the push of the tiny feet
Against her skin.
Still amazed that there was life growing inside of her.
Still shocked that she had been chosen
By God.
To carry this child.
To be mother to the incarnate God.
It was unlike anything
She had ever imagined before.
It was all so very much unlike
Anything.
She remembered the stories
Her parents had told her as she was growing up.
Stories of Solomon and his palace.
Stories of Kind David.
And she looked around,
Wondering if she would see
Where these wonderful places
Had been.
Wondering if she would pass the temple.
The holy place of God.
Where would this trip take her?
What would it mean to her life
That she had said yes to God’s angel?
What would it be like to give birth
To a baby?
To this baby?
To be a wife?
To be a mother?
To raise the man who would be greater
Than King David?
It was unimaginable.
It was unlike anything
She had ever seen before.
And it was nothing like home.
The crowds, the sounds, the noise,
Was foreign.
The pain in her back
As she rode the donkey
Could be ignored
If she concentrated on the people around her.
It was unlike anything she had seen before.
When Joseph had told her
That they had to go to his hometown,
She thought Bethlehem would be interesting.
She wanted to know more about the man
Who would be her husband.
She never considered that the journey
Would take her through Jerusalem.
She was looking everywhere,
Afraid.
She hoped that they would leave soon.
It was unlike anything
She had ever seen before.
She ran a hand over her swollen belly,
Ignoring the rough feel of the cloth
To marvel at the push of the tiny feet
Against her skin.
Still amazed that there was life growing inside of her.
Still shocked that she had been chosen
By God.
To carry this child.
To be mother to the incarnate God.
It was unlike anything
She had ever imagined before.
It was all so very much unlike
Anything.
She remembered the stories
Her parents had told her as she was growing up.
Stories of Solomon and his palace.
Stories of Kind David.
And she looked around,
Wondering if she would see
Where these wonderful places
Had been.
Wondering if she would pass the temple.
The holy place of God.
Where would this trip take her?
What would it mean to her life
That she had said yes to God’s angel?
What would it be like to give birth
To a baby?
To this baby?
To be a wife?
To be a mother?
To raise the man who would be greater
Than King David?
It was unimaginable.
It was unlike anything
She had ever seen before.
Kim Matthews
Friday, December 02, 2016
Devotional 12-2-16
“In those days came John the Baptist preaching in the wilderness of Judea. And saying, Repent ye: for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:1-12
These are the beginning scriptures where John the Baptist tells the people of Judea, to not only repent of their sins, but to be prepared for the Kingdom of Heaven. In the next verses he rebukes the Sadducees and Pharisees for their activities.
However, rather than focusing on John the Baptist’s warnings about the Sadducees and message of repentance, I prefer to see the verses as the essence of Advent, the preparation and coming of the Christ child and the Christmas season. I see it as a prediction of a time of joy and celebration. I believe that the Christmas spirit is best embodied and described by that noted author, Dr. Seuss, who described the feelings of the Grinch, who thought he had stolen Christmas but then he hears a joyous noise and singing coming from all the Whos in Whoville.
“And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice-cold in the snow,
Stood puzzling and puzzling: “How could it be so?
“It came without ribbons! It came without tags!
“It came without packages, boxes or bags!”
And he puzzled three hours, till his puzzler was sore.
Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before!
“Maybe Christmas,” he thought, “doesn’t come from a store.
“Maybe Christmas…perhaps…means a little bit more!”
Have a Joyous Advent Season!
These are the beginning scriptures where John the Baptist tells the people of Judea, to not only repent of their sins, but to be prepared for the Kingdom of Heaven. In the next verses he rebukes the Sadducees and Pharisees for their activities.
However, rather than focusing on John the Baptist’s warnings about the Sadducees and message of repentance, I prefer to see the verses as the essence of Advent, the preparation and coming of the Christ child and the Christmas season. I see it as a prediction of a time of joy and celebration. I believe that the Christmas spirit is best embodied and described by that noted author, Dr. Seuss, who described the feelings of the Grinch, who thought he had stolen Christmas but then he hears a joyous noise and singing coming from all the Whos in Whoville.
“And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice-cold in the snow,
Stood puzzling and puzzling: “How could it be so?
“It came without ribbons! It came without tags!
“It came without packages, boxes or bags!”
And he puzzled three hours, till his puzzler was sore.
Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before!
“Maybe Christmas,” he thought, “doesn’t come from a store.
“Maybe Christmas…perhaps…means a little bit more!”
Have a Joyous Advent Season!
Lee Oxley
Thursday, December 01, 2016
Devotional 12-1-16
Psalm 72:18-19
Bless be the Lord, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things.
Blessed be his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his Glory!
Amen and Amen!
The feeling of thankfulness is wonderful, we are full of joy, we have just what we wanted. But how long does that joyfulness last?
Like so many Christmas gifts, we have waited expectantly, been dazzled by the wrapping, and were excited to reveal the wonderful thing inside. Maybe we are happy, grateful for the love and thoughtfulness expressed by our loved ones. Maybe it is one of those special gifts, the one we never thought we would ever get, because it is state of the art expensive, exquisitely and artistically crafted, and we jump up with shouts of joy.
Once the excitement is over, and it’s time to get back to the business of taking care of things, anywhere from seconds to minutes, maybe even as much as an hour later, we are complaining about the mess, the work, and the lack of help. Our gift is still there, put on a shelf, hung in a closet, and we are off looking for the next new thing, checking the fliers for the after-Christmas sales, rationalizing just a few other purchases put onto our credit card, extending the payments out just a couple of more months.
We don’t think of that emergency that is bound to come up, and when it does we cry and demand, “Why God! What am I going to do? How can you do this to me.” Not only do we rail against God, but forget our many gifts, including the gift of being able to make our own poor choices, and the gift of resources we have squandered. Resources that could have helped in our emergency. Instead of being thankful, we are complaining. Instead of being hopeful, we despair.
Some people just seem to know, beyond all reason it sometimes seems, that they are going to be okay. These people have faith, and are at peace, and instead of worrying they are joyful.
Our faith comes from the promise of the Bible. The promise of welcome and forgiveness. Instead of piling up gifts for ourselves we are called to share our gifts. Instead of squandering our resources we are called to share our resources. Instead of complaining we are called to give thanks for what we have. Instead of blaming God, or others, for the problems of the world, we are called to get to work, to feed the hungry, welcome the homeless, fight for justice, protect the weak, and share our hope.
No life is free of trials. This Christmas, let us remember our mistakes and missteps don’t stop God’s blessings, so let us praise God and be thankful.
Bless be the Lord, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things.
Blessed be his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his Glory!
Amen and Amen!
The feeling of thankfulness is wonderful, we are full of joy, we have just what we wanted. But how long does that joyfulness last?
Like so many Christmas gifts, we have waited expectantly, been dazzled by the wrapping, and were excited to reveal the wonderful thing inside. Maybe we are happy, grateful for the love and thoughtfulness expressed by our loved ones. Maybe it is one of those special gifts, the one we never thought we would ever get, because it is state of the art expensive, exquisitely and artistically crafted, and we jump up with shouts of joy.
Once the excitement is over, and it’s time to get back to the business of taking care of things, anywhere from seconds to minutes, maybe even as much as an hour later, we are complaining about the mess, the work, and the lack of help. Our gift is still there, put on a shelf, hung in a closet, and we are off looking for the next new thing, checking the fliers for the after-Christmas sales, rationalizing just a few other purchases put onto our credit card, extending the payments out just a couple of more months.
We don’t think of that emergency that is bound to come up, and when it does we cry and demand, “Why God! What am I going to do? How can you do this to me.” Not only do we rail against God, but forget our many gifts, including the gift of being able to make our own poor choices, and the gift of resources we have squandered. Resources that could have helped in our emergency. Instead of being thankful, we are complaining. Instead of being hopeful, we despair.
Some people just seem to know, beyond all reason it sometimes seems, that they are going to be okay. These people have faith, and are at peace, and instead of worrying they are joyful.
Our faith comes from the promise of the Bible. The promise of welcome and forgiveness. Instead of piling up gifts for ourselves we are called to share our gifts. Instead of squandering our resources we are called to share our resources. Instead of complaining we are called to give thanks for what we have. Instead of blaming God, or others, for the problems of the world, we are called to get to work, to feed the hungry, welcome the homeless, fight for justice, protect the weak, and share our hope.
No life is free of trials. This Christmas, let us remember our mistakes and missteps don’t stop God’s blessings, so let us praise God and be thankful.
April Sutton
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Devotional 11-30-16
Matthew 3:1-12
As a child, I loved Christmas. I looked forward to getting what I asked to get A letter was written to Santa Claus detailing just what I wanted for Christmas. I searched through catalogs and made my list. When a little older to see if I was getting what I wanted, I would sneak around searching closets and places I thought my parents were hiding my presents. Yes, I would even get under the tree, when no one was looking, untape some of my presents to see what they were. I just could not wait. Not much of a surprise on Christmas morning, though.
Oh, I knew the Christmas story and participated at church in the telling and celebrating, but mostly, it was all about ME and gifts. I thought Christmas would never arrive.
Now, decades later, I still love looking forward to Christmas and love giving more than receiving. At my age there is not much I need or want. I do look forward to the music of the season, the lighting of the Advent Wreath, family and friends, the outside lights around houses and on Christmas trees, Christmas Eve service ( hopefully in the sanctuary of JM) and much more.
But most of all, I love that I have been given the greatest gift. The gift of the forgiveness of my sins and eternal life with God’s gift to us all, His Son.
Let’s prepare our hearts and minds for Christmas. Our Lord and Savior is coming. Amen
As a child, I loved Christmas. I looked forward to getting what I asked to get A letter was written to Santa Claus detailing just what I wanted for Christmas. I searched through catalogs and made my list. When a little older to see if I was getting what I wanted, I would sneak around searching closets and places I thought my parents were hiding my presents. Yes, I would even get under the tree, when no one was looking, untape some of my presents to see what they were. I just could not wait. Not much of a surprise on Christmas morning, though.
Oh, I knew the Christmas story and participated at church in the telling and celebrating, but mostly, it was all about ME and gifts. I thought Christmas would never arrive.
Now, decades later, I still love looking forward to Christmas and love giving more than receiving. At my age there is not much I need or want. I do look forward to the music of the season, the lighting of the Advent Wreath, family and friends, the outside lights around houses and on Christmas trees, Christmas Eve service ( hopefully in the sanctuary of JM) and much more.
But most of all, I love that I have been given the greatest gift. The gift of the forgiveness of my sins and eternal life with God’s gift to us all, His Son.
Let’s prepare our hearts and minds for Christmas. Our Lord and Savior is coming. Amen
Kay Lewis
Tuesday, November 29, 2016
Devotional 11-29-16
A Christmas carol and nursery rhyme I remember from my childhood goes something like this:
Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat
Please put a penny in the old man’s hat
If you haven’t got a penny, a ha’penny will do
If you haven’t got a ha’penny, then God bless you!
I thought this was some little known British poem until I found out it has been recorded and/or performed by such notables as Bing Crosby, the Kingston Trio and John Denver.
In this Advent season perhaps we should consider it not only the COMING season (as in the coming birth of Jesus) but consider it also the GIVING season. Let’s not wait until December 25th.
So what can I do, what can you do, to make Advent not only the COMING season, but also the GIVING season? Perhaps this can best be summed up by reading Acts 20 verse 35. “.....remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, it is more blessed to give than to receive”. I don’t think it means prettily wrapped packages under the tree. Yes, it will be fun to exchange gifts with family and friends but perhaps there is more that we can do, something we can do now during Advent.
I do not know personally anyone in need of food or clothing, or children with no toys, but there are many and groups and programs can fill those needs if only we support them. I hesitate to name any particular group or program but you know them as well as I do, the groups who donate food, clothing, toys. In our own church we have programs to meet those needs but they need our support.
Let’s start the GIVING now!
Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat
Please put a penny in the old man’s hat
If you haven’t got a penny, a ha’penny will do
If you haven’t got a ha’penny, then God bless you!
I thought this was some little known British poem until I found out it has been recorded and/or performed by such notables as Bing Crosby, the Kingston Trio and John Denver.
In this Advent season perhaps we should consider it not only the COMING season (as in the coming birth of Jesus) but consider it also the GIVING season. Let’s not wait until December 25th.
So what can I do, what can you do, to make Advent not only the COMING season, but also the GIVING season? Perhaps this can best be summed up by reading Acts 20 verse 35. “.....remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, it is more blessed to give than to receive”. I don’t think it means prettily wrapped packages under the tree. Yes, it will be fun to exchange gifts with family and friends but perhaps there is more that we can do, something we can do now during Advent.
I do not know personally anyone in need of food or clothing, or children with no toys, but there are many and groups and programs can fill those needs if only we support them. I hesitate to name any particular group or program but you know them as well as I do, the groups who donate food, clothing, toys. In our own church we have programs to meet those needs but they need our support.
Let’s start the GIVING now!
Jean Dean
Monday, November 28, 2016
Devotional 11-28-16
Matthew 3: 1-12
People would pay any amount of money if someone really knew how to tell the future.
I am sure that most of us would be skeptical of anyone who we encounter on a day to day basis that would make that claim.
I wonder what the mood was among John’s disciples after they had heard his word and become baptized at his exhortations. These people were folks that were searching for something that John had connected with when they heard his word. They did this at some risk of being ostracized and judged by the present religious structure of the day and went to some measure of difficulty to get to where John was preaching.
Now he tells them he is not the One.
I believe the common expression is, “Say what?”
I am sure the inquisitor in all of us would be just as curious as they were.
The best prophets in our Bible are seen in the 21st Century through the rear view mirror of time. The people who heard John’s message and who waited with anticipation rather than skepticism should be our model for this Advent season. Faith, I believe, is defined as hope in things not seen. My hope for you this Advent Season is that each of us finds the hope in that faith throughout the season and new year.
People would pay any amount of money if someone really knew how to tell the future.
I am sure that most of us would be skeptical of anyone who we encounter on a day to day basis that would make that claim.
I wonder what the mood was among John’s disciples after they had heard his word and become baptized at his exhortations. These people were folks that were searching for something that John had connected with when they heard his word. They did this at some risk of being ostracized and judged by the present religious structure of the day and went to some measure of difficulty to get to where John was preaching.
Now he tells them he is not the One.
I believe the common expression is, “Say what?”
I am sure the inquisitor in all of us would be just as curious as they were.
The best prophets in our Bible are seen in the 21st Century through the rear view mirror of time. The people who heard John’s message and who waited with anticipation rather than skepticism should be our model for this Advent season. Faith, I believe, is defined as hope in things not seen. My hope for you this Advent Season is that each of us finds the hope in that faith throughout the season and new year.
Mike Bowen
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Devotional 11-27-16
NEVER GIVE UP!
I read Isaiah 2: 1-5 several times. I saw what he was saying but really did not get it. Thinking about the world today, especially this country’s political situation in the presidential election, I find that it has lost the dignity and moral characteristics that I deem is so important.
I am so negative and he is so positive. I know that by the time you read this, the decision will be made and I pray that the healing will start to take place. Maybe prayer is the answer.
Isaiah laid out the violence, unfaithfulness, bribery, and trampling of the poor. I see horrible happenings such as Aleppo, terrorist attacks, shootings. The list could go on. How could I expect weapons to become plowshares, spears become pruning hooks, peace on Earth?
Then I read a commentary by Barbara Lundblad. She created the lightbulb that went off over my head! She said that Isaiah was a realist. He saw what was happening. He was talking about the future. ADVENT SEASON is all about looking toward the future. But for now all we can do is pray:
God of Peace, bring an end to the war in Syria. HEAR OUR PRAYER
We can never give up. We can help the people see by looking at what people have accomplished when they never gave up. We can see this through our history, especially in this country. Prayer and standing strong for what is the right thing to do is the answer. During this ADVENT SEASON we look forward to the celebration of our God’s birth and the lessons that He will teach us. We must stand with Isaiah in placing our faith in Our God and in our Prayers for the future.
Let us pray:
God of Peace, Give us the faith and the ability to believe that the future that Isaiah saw for us will come to pass.
HEAR OUR PRAYER
Carolee Brown
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)