2011
Advent DEVOTIONALS
PICKENS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 311 West Main Street Pickens SC 29671
WHAT IS ADVENT? Advent is a season of the church year beginning four Sundays before Christmas Day. The word advent means “coming,” and the season of Advent is a time of waiting and preparation for the coming of Christ. It is a time of reflection, repentance, anticipation, and celebration. During Advent, we remember that the Israelites were waiting for the Messiah. During Advent, we rejoice that the Messiah was born in Bethlehem centuries ago. We remember the story of Christ’s first coming as we look forward to and pray for Christ’s second coming. We read in Scriptures that when Jesus returns to earth all his promises will be fulfilled. The earth will once again be as God created it to be − without sin, evil, injustice, war, sickness, grief, or suffering. In the meantime, we wait, and we prepare for Jesus to come again. We work to live the way he taught us, and we work to share with other people the good news of Jesus. This devotional guide is designed to help as you wait and prepare this Advent season. Each week you may light another candle on your Advent wreath, and each day you may read the devotional provided. There is no right or wrong way to use this booklet, but we pray that it draws you closer to Christ during this special season.
May the peace of Christ and the joy of Christmas be with you as you wait and prepare this Advent season!
THE ADVENT WREATH One of the beautiful traditions of Advent is the lighting of the Advent wreath. The wreath is a circle of evergreens with three purple candles and one pink candle around its edge and a white candle in the center. From the first Sunday in Advent to Christmas Eve, the wreath grows in beauty and light as it helps us recall God’s gracious gift of Jesus Christ.
Each part of the wreath has a special meaning: The round shape symbolizes the eternity of God. It is a reminder that God lived before there was a world; God lived in Jesus; God lives now and always will live. Evergreens are used for the wreath because they live all year and never lose their needles. They testify to the continuation of life. The candles represent the One who said, “I am the light of the world.”
First Sunday –
The Candle of Hope reminds us of the hope found in Christ’s birth and in the promise of his return.
Second Sunday – The Candle of Peace reminds us of the peace found in Christ through acts of repentance and service. Third Sunday –
The Candle of Love reminds us of the amazing and unending love of God.
Fourth Sunday –
The Candle of Joy reminds us of the joyful news that God is with us and encourages us to have joy in working with God to restore all creation.
Light the candle(s) each week at the beginning of your devotional time. We pray its light will be a blessing to you this Advent season.
THE FIRST WEEK OF ADVENT The Hope Candle Light the first candle and say: We light this Advent candle today as a reminder of the coming of Christ, the light of the world. We light the Candle of Hope as we continue to wait for Christ’s return. We remember the anticipation which each of us have felt when we wished something would happen. The Israelites had a long wait for the Messiah. Hundreds of years before Christ was born Isaiah gave them a promise of the Messiah’s birth and the people waited in hope. Christ has promised that he will return to the earth to restore the world to the way God created it to be. As Christians, we have hope as we wait for this time. Where in our world do you see a need for Christ to restore the world? What is not as God created it to be? Almighty God, in Your great mercy, forgive all the things we have done; and all things we failed to do that we should have done. Teach us to live as children of God. Keep us awake and alert, watching for Your Kingdom. Make us strong in faith, so we may glorify Christ as we wait for His return. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
HOPE
Sunday, November 27, 2011 Oh, that you would rend the heavens and come down, that the mountains would tremble before you! As when fire sets twigs ablaze and causes water to boil, come down to make your name known to your enemies and cause the nations to quake before you! For when you did awesome things that we did not expect, you came down, and the mountains trembled before you. Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him. You come to the help of those who gladly do right, who remember your ways. But when we continued to sin against them, you were angry. How then can we be saved? All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away. No one calls on your name or strives to lay hold of you; for you have hidden your face from us and have given us over to our sins. Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Do not be angry beyond measure, LORD; do not remember our sins forever. Oh, look on us, we pray, for we are all your people. Isaiah 64:1-9
If there was ever a time for God to make an appearance, it would be NOW! However, as I write these words, I imagine they have been said many times throughout the ages. Even before the prophet Isaiah said them, Moses must have said them as he lead the Hebrews out of Egypt; Abraham must have said them as he was about to sacrifice his own son; Noah surely thought them as the flood waters covered the earth. Isaiah puts it very frantically when he begs God to "tear open the heavens and come down." Come to save us, NOW! Remember the heroic movies- the cowboy, superman and batman movies- when the hero arrives in the nick of time to foil the villain? I think of that when I read this passage. I love the idea of God bursting into my life, breaking all the speed limits to come to my aid when I need God most. I love the idea of God arriving in the nick time to foil the villain! Hot dog! But what if we are the villain? What if it is us who have not followed the rules to love one another, to do the right thing, to remember to follow the ways of the Lord? What if it is us who have not learned to live in peace with all of God's children? Who will save us? We need God to make an appearance right now. In these times of economic crisis, corruption, moral degradation, and natural disasters, we who believe in the Triune God, ask God to be known to us and help us to get out of this mess! We believe that even in these times, and all times, God is with us. There is a hymn we sing that says, "I need thee every hour, in joy and in pain; come quickly and abide, or life is in vain." Isaiah reminds us that God works for those who wait for the Lord. In this Advent season, once again we wait for God to make His presence known. We believe we can count on a God who has forever kept His promise to love us, provide for us, and guide us. This helps us to wait. Questions: How do you think God will appear? How do you look for God's presence now? Where do you see God working in your home? School? Community? Nation? World? Awesome God, when we least expect it, you do great things. In the nick of time, you come to be with us. Forgive us when we do not recognize you in others, for we are all your children. Help us to wait for your guidance in all that we do. Amen. Rev. Beverly J. Kelly
HOPE
Monday, November 28, 2011 He will arbitrate among the nations, and dictate to strong nations far away. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks, nations shall no longer fight each other, for all war will end. There will be universal peace, and all the military academies and training camps will be closed down. Everyone will live quietly in his own home in peace and prosperity, for there will be nothing to fear. The Lord Himself has promised this. Micah 4:3-4
Advent is a very special season as it leads us forward in a time of preparation to the Christmas Season and more specifically to Christmas Day. We all feel the pull of Christmas, but so much of that pull comes to us through the media preparing us and encouraging us as to what we should buy and give. All of this brings with it excitement and anticipation. We become torn between the real meaning of Christmas and all that surrounds us. One brings HOPE, the other brings stress. It is HOPE which the Advent season reminds us to anticipate. It is HOPE, in the midst of all the turmoil of getting ready for the big day and preparing for our Christmas Trees and toys, which allows us to see and understand that God is still actively at work in our lives and in our world. We have HOPE that God is always up to something for and in our lives and for and in our world. I like to think of HOPE as an acronym: "Heart Open Peace Enters!" Micah reveals to us that God promises GOOD NEWS. A gift is being prepared for us and has for us been given. The gift is a Savior with a promise for us and for the world and what that gift will do for us. Questions: Think about that wonderful gift of a world where everyone will live quietly in his own home in peace and prosperity, for there will be nothing to fear. God has promised this. Ask yourself and discuss if you can you understand that? Can you even imagine that? Most of all, have you accepted God's gift of Jesus so that promise can begin to live in you? While we see a lot of Santa as Christmas approaches, Santa comes but once a year; JESUS is our ever present help and is always with us. Santa lives at the North Pole; Jesus is everywhere. Santa greets us with HO, HO, HO; Jesus offers us health, health and HOPE. Santa provides a Christmas Tree and puts gifts under it; Jesus is our true gift who keeps on giving because He died for us on the CROSS. JESUS IS STILL THE REASON FOR THE SEASON! “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life!� John 3:16. God prepare us to receive YOUR true gift of Jesus! Amen.
Charles J. Dougherty / Dr. D
HOPE
Tuesday, November 29, 2011 On that day, says the LORD, I will assemble the lame and gather those who have been driven away, and those whom I have afflicted. The lame I will make the remnant, and those who were cast off, a strong nation; and the LORD will reign over them in Mount Zion, now and for evermore. Now why do you cry aloud? Is there no king in you? Selected verses from Micah 4:6-13
Why do we observe Advent? Why do we celebrate Christmas? Why do we call ourselves Christians at all? Is it so we can feel powerful? Righteous? Popular? More American? Should we, instead, refocus ourselves as participants in the great change that God is working among us? Should we be less concerned with power and popularity and more concerned with the plight of the lame, or the widowed, or the powerless? In The First Christmas, John Crossan and Marcus Borg assert that we are called by Advent, and then compelled by Christmas, to take part in God’s change in our communities. They say, in effect, that there IS a King in us, and we should act accordingly. God with Us, Help me to see the opportunities for service to others that are all around me. I know that your harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Help me be a means of Your grace in Pickens, and make me a part of your plan to heal the nations. Amen.
Ken and Karen Roper
HOPE
Wednesday, November 30, 2011 Marshal your troops now, city of troops, for a siege is laid against us. They will strike Israel’s ruler on the cheek with a rod. “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor bears a son, and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites. He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth. And he will be our peace. Micah 5:1-5a
When you were a child, were you ever told “you’re too little?” You can’t ride that ride at the fair – you’re too little. You won’t understand – you’re too little. There are some things you just can’t do when you are little, like stay up late or watch certain movies. Even so, sometimes those who are little can surprise everyone! Micah calls Bethlehem small among the clans of Judah. The city’s claim to fame was being the birthplace of King David; however, Bethlehem played an insignificant role in the politics of the nation. Surely nothing of great importance would come from Bethlehem, and certainly not the promised Messiah! What a surprise to be told “out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel.” Micah was a prophet in Judah. During Micah’s lifetime, God’s people were not living as God wanted them to live. God was not pleased with their behavior-they worshiped idols, allowed injustice, and simply went through the motions of their rituals without truly worshiping God. Micah prophesied the destruction and exile the people would face because of their rebellion against God. Yet, Micah had a message of hope for the people of God- hope that a ruler would come from the little town of Bethlehem. This ruler would be great! He would be a shepherd protecting his flock. He will bring security. He will bring peace. What a wonderful message of hope! Jesus is the promised Messiah. Just as Micah foretold, Jesus was born in Bethlehem. He was born in a lowly place and laid in a manger. The Lord of lords had such a humble beginning. What a strange and unexpected way for the King of kings to enter the world! At times we feel small and insignificant. We may feel that we don’t matter, but God is always using unexpected people in great ways. You don’t have to be big, important, or perfect. You just have to be willing. No one is too little to do big things for God’s Kingdom. Questions: Have you ever felt small or insignificant? How can you do something to please God this Advent season? Thank you, Almighty God, for using us, small as we are, to do great things. Help us to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with you, our God. Amen. Anonymous
HOPE
Thursday, December 1, 2011 I, Paul, together here with Silas and Timothy, send greetings to the church at Thessalonica, Christians assembled by God the Father and by the Master, Jesus Christ. God's amazing grace be with you! God's robust peace! Every time we think of you, we thank God for you. Day and night you're in our prayers as we call to mind your work of faith, your labor of love, and your patience of hope in following our Master, Jesus Christ, before God our Father. It is clear to us, friends, that God not only loves you very much but also has put his hand on you for something special. When the Message we preached came to you, it wasn't just words. Something happened in you. The Holy Spirit put steel in your convictions. You paid careful attention to the way we lived among you, and determined to live that way yourselves. In imitating us, you imitated the Master. Although great trouble accompanied the Word, you were able to take great joy from the Holy Spirit! -taking the trouble with the joy, the joy with the trouble. 1 Thessalonians 1: 2-10
The book of Thessalonians makes it clear that Paul had an abiding love and affection for this community. In this place, he had witnessed the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul moved into this busy urban center and set up shop as a tent maker, while the people there were worshipping idols and did not yet know the saving grace of Jesus Christ. As he lived and worked alongside them, Paul proclaimed the good news and practiced the spiritual disciplines of study, prayer and fasting. He lived a simple life of self sacrifice so that the Spirit could shine through. In this passage, he rejoices and marvels at the work of the Holy Spirit among them, Paul explains something that they may not be able to see in themselves; God in his love had set them aside for special work. The Holy Spirit had put steel in their convictions, love in their lives that toils, faith that has work in it, an event that happens and energizes their community, and hope that stays and endures. As we walk through Advent together, we thank God for the witness of the Scripture to the energizing and enduring work of the Holy Spirit, and pray that Pickens Presbyterian can join with the Thessalonians with steel in our convictions. Questions: How can you allow the Holy Spirit shine through in your life? Dear God, thank you for the ways in which you show us your love each day. Thank you for showing us that your love and work in us through the Holy Spirit draws us close to you and to one another. Show us how to put our faith to work today to praise and honor your name. We pray in the strong name of Christ our Savior. Amen.
Rev. Kathy Chamlee
HOPE
Friday, December 2, 2011 Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that took place over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, and they spoke the word to no one except Jews. But among them were some men of Cyprus and Cyrene who, on coming to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists also, proclaiming the Lord Jesus. The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord. News of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he came and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast devotion; for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were brought to the Lord. Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for an entire year they met with the church and taught a great many people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called “Christians.” Acts 11: 19-26
We may be asked by a neighbor, “What religion are you?” Usually the answer is Baptist, or Methodist, of course we may say Presbyterian. But those are denominations not religions. Whether we are Presbyterian, Baptist, Catholic, Methodist, Lutheran, or Wesleyan, we are, first and foremost Christian. We believe that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. That statement separates us from other religions. That is our commonality. The Lordship of Jesus Christ is what unites us as the body of Jesus Christ. The first people who were called Christians met in a church in Antioch and taught a great many people. This was after the big event, which is the persecution of Stephen. Stephen was killed because of his belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, his Lord and Savior. After that event many became believers. They were excited about their faith and eager to share that good news with others. Do we get excited about our faith? Over 2000 years later, denominations and church polity seem to have taken the umph out of our Christianity. This Advent season it would be a true blessing to regain the spirit the early Christians had in Antioch. It would be joyous to see the grace of God and share that grace with others. The world can change by teaching many others about Christ Jesus. As we enjoy “Christmas” this season, let us reclaim that wonderful spirit of sharing the true Christ with others. Let us get back to our roots of what Christmas really is, the birth of love, hope, peace, joy and grace of God! Questions: What excites you about being a Christian? Have you shared the joy and good news of Jesus Christ with others? Loving God, we thank you for your church. Help us to remember that we are believers in your son Jesus Christ, first. Help us to live the life honoring our Lord and Savior and teaching others about him and You! In Christ’s name, Amen. Anonymous
HOPE
Saturday, December 3, 2011 They arrived again in Jerusalem, and while Jesus was walking in the temple courts, the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders came to him. “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you authority to do this?” Jesus replied, “I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John’s baptism was it from heaven, or of human origin? Tell me!” They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin’ …” (They feared the people, for everyone held that John really was a prophet.) So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.” Mark 11:27-33
Who are these people questioning Jesus? The scribes are the oldest teachers of the law, believing that Moses received 2 forms of the law, both written and oral. They are considered the “authority” on Scripture and interpretation of Scripture. All three groups, the chief priests, teachers of the law, and elders, were members of the Sanhedrin, which is a political and spiritual group that lead the Jewish people and enforced their laws. The chief priests serve in the temple. Therefore this group was very interested in issues of authority. Typically Jesus would respond in these situations to a question with a question. This form of discussion is typical of the time, especially of the intellectual elite of Judaism who spent their time discussing the implications of Scripture passages. Questions: What do you think is the intent of the question, ‘By what authority are you doing these things? Who gave you this authority to do them?’ Who did Jesus come to share his message with? a.) The leaders of the Jewish faith so they would make him King. b.) The Jewish people. c.) All of humanity. Let this Scripture speak to you today. One family member read it again out loud, reflect on it for a minute and then share a word or phrase which attracts you, or seems to resonate with you. Read the passage a second time, sit quietly for a minute and answer this question, ‘Where does the content of this reading touch my life today?’ Read it a final time, and complete this sentence, ‘I believe God wants me to ………………………… this week. Dear Lord, the beauty of your Scripture is that it teaches us lessons for our lives, gives examples of how your people have lived, loved, struggled, and persevered with your constant protection and can teach me today. As a conduit of your spirit let your Scripture speak to me, right now with the issues I face. Thank you for your eternal presence. Amen.
Leslie Flynn
THE SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT The Peace Candle Re-light the first candle. Light the second candle and say: We light this Advent candle as a reminder of the coming of Christ, the Light of the world. We light the Candle of peace as we pray for the peace of Christ in our hearts and in our world. The light of peace must brave great darkness, just as Jesus did when He came to earth. In an age when people struggle to find peace within them, we worship the Prince of Peace. Christ has promised to return and restore the earth to the way God created it to be, a place of peace. Where are the places and situations in your life and in the world where you see peace? What makes that place or situation peaceful? How can you help bring peace to places where there is anger, conflict, or violence?
Dear God, we thank You for Your gift of Jesus to the whole world. We pray that You will bring peace in our lives and in our world. Please show us ways to act as Your disciples and show others the way of peace. In the name of Christ, the Prince of Peace, Amen.
PEACE
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the LORD’s hand double for all her sins. A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken. […] You who bring good news to Zion, go up on a high mountain. You who bring good news to Jerusalem, lift up your voice with a shout, lift it up, do not be afraid; say to the towns of Judah, “Here is your God!” See, the Sovereign LORD comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11 Christmas is a time for good news. We find that this passage gives us good news in many ways and this good news brings us peace. We can take comfort in the fact that God “rules with a mighty arm” (Isaiah 40:10). We can trust that he will protect us like a shepherd watching over his flock (Isaiah 40:11). God keeps us safe. God protects us. He holds us close to his heart. He treats us like his children in all situations. This passage of Scripture makes everything better. It gives us peace because of the comforting words that God is always there. This Scripture lets us have peace as we look forward to Christmas because it lets us know that God has made everything alright. “Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain” (Isaiah 40:4). Questions: How does God comfort you during the Christmas season? How does this Scripture give you peace? Dear God, we pray to you during this Christmas season that you lead peace into our lives. We thank you for giving your Son to us so that we may have comfort and peace. Amen.
The Confirmation Class of 2012: Claire Kaplan, Carson Roper, April Simms, Kaity Stokes, and Carole Thomas
PEACE
Monday, December 5, 2011
The path of the righteous is level; O upright One; You make the way of the righteous smooth. Yes, Lord, walking in the way of Your laws, we wait for You; Your name and renown are the desire of our hearts. My soul yearns for You in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for You. […] Lord, You establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished You have done for us. Isaiah 26:7-9a, 12 As I write, Bill and I are on Hunting Island with friends for a few days of rest and relaxation. Today, it is indeed a place of warmth and beauty and the peace that we came to find, the tide endlessly rolling in, bathing the beach in sparkling spray. But yesterday, on a walk down the road, we came upon a picture of much different days on this barrier island. Our cabin is one of two remaining on Cabin Road. The many others have been eroded away and fallen, storm by storm, from pounding surf. We had seen the remains of those cabins lining the beach, along with the ghostly specter of once stately palmetto, slash pine, and oak, strange sentinels among the tidepools. As we walked down the now-closed road, damage and debris increasing with each step, we were met with a road barrier telling us to “Keep Out.” But we were curious. We chose to ignore the sign and edge around the barrier, and a bend in the road brought us face to face with the terrible aftermath of recent storms. The road was completely destroyed – buckled and broken and awash in downed trees, uprooted brush plants and rubble. The sea was still relentless in its pounding, moving and changing rhythm. There are reasons for barrier islands like Hunting. There are reasons for barriers in our roads that say “Keep Out.” There are reasons for the laws God has put in place that in our human curiosity and bravado we want to slip around. Questions: What do you think those reasons are? What should be our response to the barriers we encounter in our lives? Dear Lord, help us to be thankful for signs in our paths that make us stop, look, and listen for Your voice and Your will. Help us to take time to choose the ways in which we walk, that they might be Your ways, level and smooth, as we wait for You and yearn for the peace of your Presence. Amen.
Barbara Caruthers
PEACE
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
The LORD is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid? […] Teach me your way, LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors. Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, spouting malicious accusations. I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. Psalm 27 Waiting. No one really likes waiting - waiting in line at the grocery store, waiting at a red light, waiting in a doctors’ office ‘waiting’ room. We are impatient people. Often, when we want something, we want it right away. We don’t want to wait. How many times have you said, or at least heard someone else say, “I can’t wait until Christmas!” Yet, that is the opposite of what we are to do. Advent is about waiting for Christmas. We await and prepare for the birth of Jesus. This Psalm of David is also about waiting. David was no stranger to waiting, as we can read in 2 Samuel 7. David wanted to build a Temple for the Lord, but God told him to wait. God promised David’s son would be the one to build his Temple, and his son Solomon built it. God also promised David’s house would endure forever and his throne would be established forever. This promise was fulfilled through Jesus’ birth, because Jesus was from the house and line of David. David had to wait for this promise, too, and a thousand years is a long time to wait! Still, David was confident, “I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” We are told to “wait for the Lord.” This kind of waiting is different. We don’t just passively wait. We are to wait in hope. We prepare for what we are waiting for, and we live in a way that shows we fully expect the fulfillment of our hope. During the Advent season our lives and calendars are packed full of special events and activities. In the hustle and bustle, it can be easy to forget the reason we celebrate at all. So, while you’re standing in line at the check-out counter waiting to purchase Christmas gifts for family and friends, remember while you wait. Let us all wait for the Lord and prepare our hearts for the coming King. Questions: What can we do as a family to prepare for the fulfillment of God’s promise? What can we do as individuals? What are some things that are hard to wait for? Precious Lord, we realize sometimes we get impatient. We look ahead at all the things we have on our schedule and get caught up in the business of the season. Help us to remember the love you have for us, a love so great you sent your only Son into the world so that the world might be saved through him. We have the hope of new life in Christ. Let us all be strong and take heart and wait on the Lord. Amen. Matt and Jessica Varney
PEACE
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
“Have we not all one father? Has not one God created us? Why then are we faithless to one another, profaning the covenant of our ancestors? Judah has been faithless, and abomination has been committed in Israel and in Jerusalem, for Judah has profaned the sanctuary of the Lord, which he loves, and has married the daughter of a foreign god...” Malachi 2:10-3:1 The Book of Malachi was written after the temple was rededicated in the late 500s BC. Prior to this point, Jerusalem had been destroyed by the Babylonian army. The walls of Jerusalem were gone; the temple burned to the ground. Then, the Babylonians picked the strongest, healthiest, smartest people and held them in captivity. With the best people out of the picture, the people who remained in Judah had no hope of rebuilding their nation. Eventually, the Babylonians were conquered by the Persians and the Persians were not interested in keeping “the best.” Instead, the Persians returned to their native lands and controlled Judah from afar. They sent the best back home. They even allowed Judah to rebuild the temple. The Persians provided Judah with “peace.” It sounds like a good arrangement, doesn’t it? The best of Judah was back in their hometown. The temple was rebuilt. The priesthood was restored. Life was good? But it wasn’t. The new temple wasn’t as glorious as the previous temple. The city was still in ruins. There was no wall to protect Judah against outsiders. Although Persia was more tolerant, Judah wasn’t the same. In addition to the political and economic crisis, the people worshipping in the new temple were just “going through the motions.” Their hearts weren’t in it. They simply showed up and did what they were “supposed to do,” and, most of the time, they didn’t even do that right! They started bending the rules and making some pretty poor decisions. As a result, God’s glory never returned. Even though Judah experienced the lack of war, they didn’t experience peace. True peace, biblical peace, not the world’s definition of peace, is based on completeness, wholeness. Peace is not simply the absence of war. Peace is a result of a life that is complete, a life with God. If God is not present; wholeness, completeness, TRUE PEACE will never be experienced. But Malachi made a promise, “See, I am sending a messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord who you seek will suddenly come to his temple.” John the Baptist would prepare the way for Jesus, and Jesus would bring peace to God’s people. Questions: Do we have anything in common with the people mentioned in Malachi? How can we worship God completely and not just “go through the motions?” Father, we thank you for your many blessings. Please forgive us when we simply “go through the motions.” Help us worship you more completely, and bless us with true peace that can only be experienced by a life devoted to you. Amen. The Haines Family
PEACE
Thursday, December 8, 2011
But Christ has shown me that what I once thought was valuable is worthless. Nothing is as wonderful as knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. I have given up everything else and count it as garbage. All I want is Christ and to know that I belong to Him. I could not make myself acceptable to God by obeying the Law of Moses. God accepted me simply because of my faith in Christ. All I want to know is Christ and the power that raised Him to life. I want to suffer and die as He did, so that somehow I also may be raised to life. Philippians 3:7-11 Some background on Paul might help us to better understand what he is telling us in the above verses. Paul was a devout Jew and led a deeply religious life. He was strict in following the Law of Moses before he met Jesus on the road to Damascus. That encounter with Jesus completely changed his life. He realized that just following the law was not the way to really know God and Christ. Paul finally found peace with “knowing Christ.” According to Paul, “God accepted me simply because of my faith in Christ,” and “What I once thought was valuable is worthless.” Knowing Christ so far exceeds all other things in value that their net worth is zero. Everything that others might consider to have value, your present age-religious advantages, status, material things, honor, comforts, appear to Paul as a total “loss” in light of knowing Christ. As verse 10 will tell us, “knowing Christ” does not mean to have head knowledge about him, but to know him personally. It means to know him as a child and a parent know each other knowledge based on personal experience and knowing one’s character. “The power that raised Him to life” was very real to Paul. Remember, he was claimed by the Risen Lord on the road to Damascus, so he knew that Christ’s resurrection from the dead guaranteed his own life, if he accepted the righteousness, which is God’s gift, offered on the simple condition of believing. So whatever suffering Paul endured, he was at peace knowing he had found a much better way to live out his life. Questions: Do you know Christ? Do you know Christ as your Lord and Savior? Dear God our Heavenly Father, You sent Your son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to show us how to live our lives. We pray that we get to know him so that we may get to know You and be with You forever. Amen. Capt. Roy Stoddard
PEACE
Friday, December 9, 2011
I don’t mean that I am exactly what God wants me to be. I have not yet reached that goal. But I continue trying to reach it and make it mine. That’s what Christ Jesus wants me to do. It is the reason he made me his. Brothers and sisters, I know that I still have a long way to go. But there is one thing I do; I forget what is in the past and try as hard as I can to reach the goal before me. I keep running hard toward the finish line to get the prize that is mine because God has called me through Christ Jesus to life up there in heaven. All of us who have grown to be spiritually mature should think this way too. And if there is any of this that you don’t agree with, God will make it clear to you. But we should continue following the truth we already have. Philippians 3:12 – 16 As Christians we are blessed with the opportunity to forget our past mistakes and shortcomings. Because we are called as God’s own, we are able to have unlimited chances to redeem ourselves. Billy Graham wrote, “We cannot overlook the advantage that the Christian will have for all eternity. Job said, ‘If a man dies, shall he live again?’ He answered his own questions when he said, ‘For, I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth. What a prospect! What a future! What a hope! What a life! I would not change places with the wealthiest and most influential person in the world. I would rather be a child of the King, a joint-heir with Christ, a member of the Royal Family of heaven! I know where I’ve come from, I know why I’m here, I know where I’m going – and I have peace in my heart. His peace floods my heart and overwhelms my soul!” Questions: Why do you think God is willing to give us so many chances to reach the goal? How can we forget mistakes that we and others have made at our expense? Dear Lord, please help us to be at peace in the midst of confusions, bewilderments and perplexities of this life. Do not let us get bogged down in the past. Give us the strength to reach the goal so that we may claim our prize, and live with you, and all the company of the angels and saints in Heaven. In Jesus Holy name, Amen.
Nancy Goldsmith
PEACE
Saturday, December 10, 2011
You came out to deliver your people, to save your anointed one. You crushed the leader of the land of wickedness, you stripped him from head to foot. With his own spear you pierced his head when his warriors stormed out to scatter us, gloating as though about to devour the wretched who were in hiding. You trampled the sea with your horses, churning the great waters. I heard and my heart pounded, my lips quivered at the sound; decay crept into my bones, and my legs trembled. Yet I will wait patiently for the day of calamity to come on the nation invading us. Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights. Habakkuk 3:13-19 “Hard times are real. There’s dusty fields no matter where you go.” So go the lyrics of the song, “Where Corn Don’t Grow.” These lyrics came to mind as I read this passage of Scripture, a psalm written by the prophet Habakkuk. For Habakkuk, the fig trees without buds, vines without grapes, pens with no sheep, and stalls without cattle, were all signs of the economic hardships of his day. The olive crops failed and the fields produced no food. Hard times were real for God’s people when Habakkuk wrote these words. In the midst of the troubles and trials, Habakkuk wrote, “Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior.” Habakkuk had peace knowing that the LORD was his strength. He had peace as he waited patiently for God to carry out his plan for his people. Hard times are real for us today, too. Even though we may not be farmers, metaphorically there are dusty fields no matter where we go. In our lives we will experience all kinds of hardships. We may experience times when money is scarce, and a trip to the grocery store may cause us anxiety as we look at the price of milk and bread. We may experience times in our spiritual lives when we feel that our fields are especially dry and getting faith to grow seems like an impossible task. Whatever our “dusty field” may be, we can still find peace in God our Savior. Questions: When have you experienced a hard time in your life? How did you get through that hard time? God our Savior, remind us we can have peace because you are our strength. Renew our spirit this Advent season, so that we may be joyful in you. Amen.
Anonymous
THE THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT The Love Candle Re-light the first two candles. Light the third candle and say: We light this Advent candle today as a reminder of the coming of Christ, the light of the world. Today we light the Candle of Love. We see reflected in the glowing of the candle the message of a wondrous love – the kind of love which . . . . . . God showed by sending his Son to earth for us; . . . Christ had when He died on the cross for us; . . . Is eternal and promises that Christ will come to earth a second time; . . . God gives to us to share with one another. Dear God, help us to have room in our hearts and in our homes for other persons who need us. We thank You for friends and strangers who have received us when we were lonely or afraid, tired or depressed. May we be ready to receive the love God offers us in Jesus. We pray in the name of Christ our Lord, Amen.
LOVE
Sunday, December 11, 2011 For I the Lord love justice, I hate robbery and wrongdoing; I will faithfully give them their recompense, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them. Their descendants shall be known among the nations, and their offspring among the peoples; all who see them shall acknowledge that they are a people whom the Lord has blessed. I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my whole being shall exult in my God; for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation, he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with garland, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. For as the earth brings forth its shoots, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to spring up, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring up before all the nations. Isaiah 61: 8-11
This Scripture reminds us of God’s unconditional and never-ending love for his people. As children of God, we are blessed beyond measure through the salvation of His son, Jesus Christ. During the Advent season, let us remember to respond to God’s commandment to love one another by spreading grace, peace, and love where ever we may go. Questions: How will you spread grace, peace, and love? Heavenly Father, we come to you as your children, and we are grateful for your boundless love. We thank you for the most awesome gift of your grace and salvation through your son, Jesus. May everything we do during this sacred Advent season be pleasing to you. In your holy name we pray, Amen.
Ashley and Grayson Lamb
LOVE
Monday, December 12, 2011 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Ephesians 6:10-11
In his letter to the Ephesians, the apostle Paul sends them - and us - an extremely important message. BE STRONG! All right, but how can we do this? Paul realizes that we cannot be strong against evil by our own power. So his whole message is BE STRONG IN THE LORD AND IN THE POWER OF HIS MIGHT. Our only hope is in the mighty power of the Lord! Do we need help? Definitely - but why? Let us never forget that we live in a spiritual world as well as in the physical world more obvious to us. In this spiritual world, a battle is going on for our minds and our souls. Only through God's mighty power is there a way provided to enable us to stand against the strategies the devil uses to try to defeat us. Read verses 14 - 18 and do a treasure hunt. Search out the armor God provides for our use in fighting the attacks of Satan. Do you see that as armor (protection), God has given us the truth about Jesus, the gift of God's righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith in Christ, and salvation through Him? What fantastic treasures! Also note that the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, is a vital part of our protection. Knowing God's words, given to us in the Bible, and applying them in our lives is a very real weapon against evil in its various disguises. All of these provisions are to be strengthened through a continuing attitude of talking with God. Questions: The pieces of armor in Ephesians 6 are symbols of God's gifts for our protection. Think about each piece individually. How can we use that piece in our everyday lives as we encounter difficult situations? Why do you think Paul chose armor as a picture of the ways in which God can help us defeat the devil? In thinking about these weapons against evil, which one seems most important to you? Why did you choose that one? Dear Lord, thank you for loving us so much. Thank you for sending Jesus to the earth to give his life for our salvation. Today we especially thank you for supplying these gifts for our use in fighting against the enemy of our souls. Help us day by day to depend on you for our strength by using these methods of protection you have supplied. Through the Holy Spirit, give us the power to keep our minds and our lives centered on you daily. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Gaye Mouritzen
LOVE
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
While the man held on to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and came running to them in the place called Solomon’s Colonnade. When Peter saw this, he said to them: “Fellow Israelites, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go. You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this. By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has completely healed him, as you can all see. “Now, fellow Israelites, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders. But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Messiah would suffer. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, and that he may send the Messiah, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus. Heaven must receive him until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets. For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from their people. “Indeed, beginning with Samuel, all the prophets who have spoken have foretold these days. And you are heirs of the prophets and of the covenant God made with your fathers. He said to Abraham, ‘Through your offspring all peoples on earth will be blessed. When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways.” The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. They seized Peter and John and, because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day. But many who heard the message believed; so the number of men who believed grew to about five thousand. Acts 3: 11-4:4 Peter has been speaking to the onlookers after a man was healed of his inability to walk. He is reminding the group of when they turned Jesus over to Pilate and Jesus being killed. But Peter assures them Jesus rose again and his ability to heal comes only from his faith in Jesus. He continues with the teaching that Jesus was crucified in ignorance but that this had been foretold by the prophets of old. It was foretold that prophets like Peter and John would be raised up. They were sent to bless the people by turning them from their wicked ways. The authorities were greatly disturbed by the speaking of Peter and John and his healing the man and telling the people about Jesus. They seized the two and put them in jail until the next day. In the meantime 5,000 believed in the message of Peter and John about Jesus. Questions: If you had been there would you have believed the good news that Peter and John were preaching? Why did the people who came to hear Peter and John still doubt when they saw the healing of the man? Oh! God, how we thank you for your word found in our Bible! We are so glad we have been told and believe the message of Jesus. When we doubt please remind us of your ever redeeming love for mankind. Amen. Bonnie Henderson
LOVE
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 And as they were coming down the mountain, he charged them to tell no one what they had seen, until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what this rising from the dead might mean. And they asked him, "Why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?" And he said to them, "Elijah does come first to restore all things. And how is it written of the Son of Man that he should suffer many things and be treated with contempt? But I tell you that Elijah has come, and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written of him." Mark 9:9-13
On the way down from the mountaintop experience, Jesus commands these three disciples not to tell anyone what they had seen “until the Son of Man had risen from the dead.” It would not really be understood until after the resurrection, which would be proof that Jesus was truly the Son of God. These disciples had been so completely schooled in the idea that the Messiah would set up His kingdom on earth that they could not take in what Jesus had said. The disciples still had to learn what Messiahship meant. There was only one thing that could teach them that—the cross and the resurrection to follow. When the cross had taught them what Messiahship meant and when the resurrection had convinced them that Jesus was the Messiah, then, and then only, could they tell of the glory of the mountain top. We need to be careful that we are not blind to what God wants to do in and through our lives because we have already decided how we want things to turn out. It is so easy to be blind to the truth when we already have a preconceived idea of how we want certain things to be. Questions: What can we do daily to focus on what God wants in our lives? How do you think you would have done if you had been a disciple? Have you ever heard God tell you what he wants you to hear? Father in Heaven, please speak to us and have us hear what it is that you want for our lives. It is hard for us not to focus on what we want but strive for what you want. Please bless us with the ability to listen to your word and hear your voice and not be blind to what you need us to do. Amen.
Tina and Emily LaFoy
LOVE
Thursday, December 15, 2011 Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. He is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. When he had made purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. Hebrews 1:1-4
Many times in life we may not understand something important. Then a caring person will try to explain it slower and slower so hopefully we will understand. It may take a lot of explaining for some people. God sent many wonderful messengers to teach us humans about God’s word. But like normal folks, it was too hard to understand. Then finally, God sent God’s son, Jesus Christ, to live the ‘perfect life’ of obedience to God. Jesus is the imprint of God’s very being. If we want to know about God we just need to look at the Christ we see in Holy Scripture. Christ is our ultimate teacher! Christ is our way for us to personally know God. During this Advent season, let us take time to study Scripture not about issues or political topics, but let us study Jesus Christ. Jesus is the way, the truth and the light. Let us get to know the truth better. On Christmas day God gave us a special gift. That gift was more miraculous than anyone could have fathomed. Today, we know that gift and each day we have opportunity to know God’s gift of Christ better. Let us take this opportunity to allow the gift of Christ to expand in our hearts and lives! Questions: What do you do each day that contribute to knowing Jesus Christ? What can you change in your life to follow Christ better? Dear God, thank you for your wonderful gift of your Son, Jesus Christ. Please empower us to learn from Your Son. Please help us to live each day following the teaching of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Anonymous
LOVE
Friday, December 16, 2011 And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says, “Let all God’s angels worship him. But about the Son he says, “Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.” Hebrews 1:6, 8-9
I enjoy talking to my grandchildren during this special time of Advent. We talk about Jesus coming to earth as a baby and what that must have been like for His heavenly Father. We talk about the love that God showed us on this earth when baby Jesus was born in the manger. I asked Mills “what do you love?” Can a ten year old understand the love of a heavenly Father? I believe he senses this love when he and Keller visit Pickens Presbyterian Church and eat snack outside with Caleb, sitting on the railroad ties, not caring what his Sunday pants look like, discussing football and basketball and soccer, experiencing the fellowship of believers. I watch from the other side of All Saints Hall as Ward sits at a table with Britton, separating his Oreo cookies and licking the icing, having a great conversation even though I didn’t think they knew each other! Showing love to one another…a joy which will last forever! Questions: How can we show love to others when they aren’t nice to us? What does it mean that God’s love will last for ever and ever? Dear Loving God, we thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus. He showed us the power of your love on this earth. Help us to love others even when we don’t feel like it. We worship and adore you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Kay Rentz
LOVE
Saturday, December 17, 2011 Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus before, and who was one of the Pharisees, asked, “Our law does not judge people without first giving them a hearing to find out what they are doing, does it?” They replied, “Surely, you are not also from Galilee, are you? Search and you will see that no prophet is to arise from Galilee.” John 7: 50-52
John’s Gospel mentions Nicodemus three times. John 3: 1-21 records that Nicodemus came to Jesus by night, saying, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do apart from the presence of God.” Here Jesus taught him, “… God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but may have eternal life.” In John 7: 50-52, we read that Nicodemus in a meeting with other Pharisees cautiously defended Jesus, saying, “Our law does not judge people without first giving them a hearing.” This mild public defense of Jesus brought a wrathful response from his colleagues, “Surely you are not also from Galilee, are you?” (Pharisees in Jerusalem considered Galileans to be uneducated fishermen.) Finally, after Jesus had been crucified, Nicodemus brought a hundred pound mixture of myrrh and aloes and assisted Joseph of Arimathea in laying Jesus in the tomb (John 19: 38-42). John chronicles the story of Nicodemus’ faith journey from hesitant seeking to firm commitment. Nothing more is known about him. We would like to believe that he (and Joseph) learned about the resurrection and joined that diverse group of disciples, women and men who waited in Jerusalem for the coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1-2). But perhaps Nicodemus (and Joseph) lived to witness bravely to fellow Pharisees. Questions: Where do you have the opportunity to witness to your Christian faith? Have you ever been openly criticized for your faith? Have you ever been silent in order to avoid being criticized? Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of your Son and the continuing presence of the Holy Spirit. We pray that your Spirit will help our faith to grow and help us boldly witness to your glory. Amen.
Jay and Dot Pence
FOURTH WEEK OF ADVENT The Joy Candle Re-light the first three candles. Light the fourth candle on the outer circle and say: Today we light the Candle of Joy. Today we remember the joy of the first Christmas. We are thankful for Christ’s coming to earth, for God’s great love for us, for Christ’s promise to return again. We are joyful as we realize the amazing good news of Christ’s birth. As the light shines brightly, we rejoice that Jesus came and Jesus will come again. How can we show the joy of Christ to those around us? How can we share joy when there is so much sadness in the world? Come, Lord Jesus, into the darkness of the world! May Your light shine brightly, and may we be faithful as we await Your return. Renew us, so that we may welcome You with joy! Amen.
JOY
Sunday, December 18, 2011 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, ‘Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you. ’But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob for ever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.’ Mary said to the angel, ‘How can this be, since I am a virgin?’ The angel said to her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.’ Then Mary said, ‘Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.’ Then the angel departed from her. Luke 1: 26-38 ‘Do not be afraid’ says the angel. ‘Yes, Lord. I am listening.’ ‘Do not be afraid.’ ‘I will not be afraid.’ ‘Christ comes to me.’ ‘Do not be afraid.’ ‘Yes, Lord. I am here.’ ‘Come, Holy Spirit.’ Nothing is impossible with God. Yes. The power of the Lord Comes over me and in me, beside and before and behind and all around me. ‘Do not be afraid.’ ‘Yes, Lord. I am here.’ ‘Do not be afraid.’
Questions: What does God want me to not be afraid of? What does God want me to say ‘Yes’ to? What a joy it is, Lord, to know that you are with me and I do not have to be afraid. Thank you. What a joy it is, Lord, to say ‘yes’ to your Holy Spirit. I love you. Amen.
Jo Anne Marr Gessell
JOY
Monday, December 19, 2011 Now the first covenant had regulations for worship and also an earthly sanctuary. A tabernacle was set up. In its first room were the lampstand and the table with its consecrated bread; this was called the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place […] When everything had been arranged like this, the priests entered regularly into the outer room to carry on their ministry. But only the high priest entered the inner room, and that only once a year, and never without blood, which he offered for himself and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance. The Holy Spirit was showing by this that the way into the Most Holy Place had not yet been disclosed as long as the first tabernacle was still functioning. This is an illustration for the present time, indicating that the gifts and sacrifices being offered were not able to clear the conscience of the worshiper. They are only a matter of food and drink and various ceremonial washings—external regulations applying until the time of the new order. But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that are now already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made with human hands, that is to say, is not a part of this creation. He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption. The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that they are outwardly clean. How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God! Hebrews 9:1-14
In Sunday school class we learned the book of Hebrews was written to talk about the glory of Jesus Christ, his place in God's kingdom and what he did for us on the cross. It really is as simple as he died for our sins. The author of this book goes into detail of how sacrifices were made by the priests. Today, it seems weird for us to think about this. This passage really shows us the Amazing Grace that Jesus Christ brings - the need for a priest to offer sacrifice on our behalf is no more... the need for a Holy of Holies where only the High Priest can go with his sacrifice is no more... the need for curtains dividing the people from God Himself is no more... the need for fear and trembling before God is no more... because God Himself as revealed in his Son for US, for OUR SIN, has covered every sin, every blemish, every wrongdoing, every mistake. Our access to God, our loving God is open - without fear, knowing the grace and love that God has shown to us and made our relationship with God possible. Thanks be to God for his great sacrifice and for opening to us the freedom to enter the Holy places, and to be in the presence of God ourselves with Jesus Christ. Questions: How did things change when Jesus came and died on the cross for our sins? How do old Scriptures from ancient times apply to us today and why should we care? What can we learn from these old Scriptures? Dear God, we thank you for all you have given to us, especially your Son Jesus Christ. Because you sent him to die for our sins we no longer have to make sacrifices to you. Your Son was enough. We thank you by sacrificing our time and thoughts to you now and focusing on you. Amen. Children’s Sunday School Class
JOY
Tuesday, December 20, 2011 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me- holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.” Luke 1:46b-55
JOY: a state of happiness. Rejoice! I love this definition, “a state of happiness.” Joy is a positive attitude or a pleasant emotion. Joy brings contentment and cheerfulness. We who have the Holy Spirit in our hearts have experienced this joy which is holy and pure. God gives us this gift so it can carry us through all circumstances. We need to stay focused on what is important and share this wonderful gift with others. Even something as simple as a smile, can show others that you have joy in your heart. Smiles can even be contagious. Our Scripture today is called “Mary’s Song.” It is also called Magnificat, the hymn of the Virgin Mary. Magnificat means glorifies or an utterance of praise. Mary had joy and praise in her heart. In Luke 1:46 it says, “My soul glorifies the LORD and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” I am sure that Mary had other feelings at this time when she learned what God’s plan was, but she focused her energy on praising God. We don’t always understand what God’s plan is for us, but through our faith we can praise God and have Joy and happiness like Mary did. Questions: How can you show joy to other people? During this busy Advent season, what can we do to help others? Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of joy that you have provided for us. Help us to stay focused on you and share this wonderful gift with others. Amen. “Be joyful always; Pray continually; Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus,” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.
Sylvia Erickson
JOY
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 Then Hannah prayed and said: “My heart rejoices in the LORD; in the LORD my horn is lifted high. My mouth boasts over my enemies, for I delight in your deliverance. “There is no one holy like the LORD; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God. “Do not keep talking so proudly or let your mouth speak such arrogance, for the LORD is a God who knows, and by him deeds are weighed. “The bows of the warriors are broken, but those who stumbled are armed with strength. Those who were full hire themselves out for food, but those who were hungry are hungry no more. She who was barren has borne seven children, but she who has had many sons pines away. “The LORD brings death and makes alive; he brings down to the grave and raises up. The LORD sends poverty and wealth; he humbles and he exalts. He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor. “For the foundations of the earth are the LORD’s; on them he has set the world. He will guard the feet of his faithful servants, but the wicked will be silenced in the place of darkness. “It is not by strength that one prevails; those who oppose the LORD will be broken. The Most High will thunder from heaven; the LORD will judge the ends of the earth. “He will give strength to his king and exalt the horn of his anointed.” 1 Samuel 2:1-10
Hannah had no children and this made her very sad. Year after year, she cried because she wanted to have a child. Once, when Hannah and her husband went up to worship in the house of the Lord, Hannah stood up. She was so deeply troubled, and she poured out her soul to the Lord. Hannah made a vow that if God gave her a son, she would give that son to the Lord for all the days of his life. God answered Hannah’s prayer. God gave her a son. She named him Samuel. She dedicated Samuel to the Lord just as she promised. When he was grown, Samuel became a judge over Israel and anointed Israel’s first king, Saul. Samuel also anointed David as king. Hannah was thankful and praised God for answering her prayer. Hannah’s joy does not come from the simple fact that she now has a son. Her joy is in the God who answered her prayer. Her joy is in the God who works differently than we think he would. God humbles the exalted and exalts the humble. God breaks the bows of warriors, but those who stumble, God gives strength. God fills the hungry. God gives the barren woman children. Hannah knows that in life or in death, in all circumstances, her joy is in the One who set the foundations of the world. She is confident “it is not by strength that one prevails.” During Advent, we await the coming of the prophesied Messiah --the Messiah who rode into Jerusalem not on a triumphant war horse but on a donkey; the Messiah who came not to lead a revolt against Rome but to bring the Kingdom of God. Jesus was not the kind of Messiah many people thought he should be, but he was exactly the Messiah all of humanity needed. Question: Hannah’s song has been called the “Magnificat of the Old Testament” because of its similarities to Mary’s song in Luke 1:46-55. What similarities do you see between these two songs? Almighty God, there is none like you. You are our source of joy. Our hearts rejoice in you. Amen. Anonymous
JOY
Thursday, December 22, 2011 That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. For the Scripture says, "WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED." For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for "WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED." Romans 10:9-13
The New Testament has many references about the joy of confessing and the joy of salvation. People were confessing their sins and were being baptized in the Jordan River by John the Baptist, including Jesus. We see God’s joy when Jesus was baptized and a voice from heaven pronounced, “This is my son in whom I am well pleased.” In the story of the 10 lepers who Christ healed, only one of the 10 (a Samaritan) came back glorifying God and fell on his face giving thanks. Jesus told him, “Thy faith hath made you whole.” Zacchaeus, the tax collector, ran ahead of Jesus and climbed a sycamore tree for a better view. Jesus called him by name and asked him to come down. Then, Jesus invited himself to Zacchaeus’ house, and he took Jesus to his house with great excitement and joy. After Zacchaeus offered to give half of his money to the poor and pay anyone who he may have cheated four times their loss, Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today.” While Jesus was hanging on the cross, one of the criminals said, “We deserve to die for our evil deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong.” And Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Questions: Can you recall other Bible stories of confession, salvation and joy? Reflect back on your confession and salvation. Can you recall the situation and the joy you felt? Our dear heavenly Father, we thank you for Jesus and his suffering on the cross to cleanse us of our sins so we can have the wonderful gift and joy of salvation. We thank you for your love and your many blessings. Please be with our families and our church as we celebrate the birth of Christ. We ask these things in the name of our savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Ralph Perkins
JOY
Friday, December 23, 2011 And I will save the lame and gather the outcast, and I will change their shame into praise and renown in all the earth. At that time I will bring you home, at the time when I gather you; for I will make you renowned and praised among all the peoples of the earth, when I restore your fortunes before your eyes, says the Lord. Zephaniah 3:19b-20
God had made a promise to the people of Israel. He wanted very much for them to have a home, a place where they could worship and show their love for Him and one another and be His family. But so many times they wouldn’t listen, and they would wander off and forget the commandments. Then God would send a prophet to remind them that if they obeyed, God would keep His promise. The Scripture you have read for today is the words that God told the prophet to say to the people of Israel. These words remind us that God keeps His promises. Questions: Have you ever been away from home? How did you feel? What did it feel like when you returned? Think about what home feels like to you. It’s the place where we feel safe, and warm, and well loved. God’s love is like that, so in a way, being loved by God is like being home. God’s love makes us part of His home and His family no matter where we are. That is one of His many promises to us. Dear God, thank you for providing us with so many wonderful things, a home and people who love us. But thank you most for keeping your promises, the promise that you will love us forever. Amen.
Liz Stokes
CHRISTMAS EVE The Christ Candle Re-light the first four candles. Light the Christ Candle and say: We light the Christ Candle today, knowing the Christ, the light of the world, has come to bring hope, peace, love, and joy to the earth. We remember the salvation that comes through Jesus Christ and pray that we may be faithful in serving the Christ child throughout the Christmas season and always. How will you celebrate the birth of Christ today and tomorrow? What can you do to keep your celebration focused on the Christ child? May the blessings of Christ be with you this Christmas Eve! Thank You, Lord Jesus, for coming to earth! Help us to spread the hope, peace, love, and joy of Your birth to the world. In Christ’s name, Amen.
JOY
Saturday, December 24, 2011 “In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be enrolled. This was the first enrollment, when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be enrolled, each to his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to be delivered. And she gave birth to her first-born son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” Luke 2: 1-7
Turning the ordinary into the extraordinary - God seems to be good at doing that. What could be more ordinary than following a government order to travel to your hometown to be counted for tax purposes? Yet, God turned this ordinary trip for a young couple expecting a baby into an extraordinary event – the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! What could be more ordinary than a drafty stable housing cattle and donkeys, and yet this became the birthplace of Jesus. Indeed, it was just an ordinary, chilly winter’s night in an ordinary little hill town in Palestine until the star shone above and an angel choir appeared in the heavens. Yes, God has a way of turning the ordinary into the extraordinary! So often on our life’s journey we are made sleepy by the ordinary tasks that repeatedly fill our life. As a result we have low expectations and fail to see the extraordinary in the ordinary – the marvelous things that God is doing in the world. The changing hues of the fall foliage, clothing provided at Winter Warmth for a family experiencing difficult times, fuel for heating the home of an elderly woman, extra food from the Gleaning House for holiday celebrations in a home where food is scarce. These events may seem pretty ordinary to us, but ask those families who have been served. This Christmas season and throughout the year, let us pray that God would open our eyes and our hearts so that we might see and know the extraordinary things that God is doing in our lives and the lives of others. May we be inspired to participate in the turning of the ordinary into the extraordinary! Questions: Share some examples of when the ordinary turned out to be extraordinary in your life. Were you surprised? How can you help make another person’s ordinary, and perhaps difficult, life become extraordinary by sharing the grace of God with him or her? Gracious and loving God, we thank you for the ordinary blessings of each day and for the ways in which you turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
The Ranson Family
JOY
Sunday, December 25, 2011 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see-I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. Luke 2: 8-20
This part of the Christmas story, after the Christ child was born, is an exciting, earth shattering story. Some have read it many times. Children listen to it in awe and amazement. Parents search for new and exciting ways to tell their children of this story when it is not necessary: the text speaks for itself! It is an exciting story. One cannot possibly feel more moved than to envision that sight – a glowing, heavenly host of angelic beings singing and praising God! Or can one? In order for us to be so moved today, why do we feel it necessary for the event to be so outstanding? Does it have to be so earth shattering to move us in such a way? At the end of a day, are you able to recall a moment when you glorified or praised God? At the end of a day, can you recall a time when you experienced the joy of Christ? We haven’t seen a miracle like a heavenly hosts praising God over the birth of God’s son, but don’t we see amazing miracle’s every day? Isn’t God a part of our life every single day! And since God is, those miracles can happen everywhere. The wonderful news about Jesus is not just his birth, but his life, death and resurrection. Every day, many times a day, if we look close enough, we should notice Christmas miracles, God’s precious love, around us. God’s Holy Spirit is everywhere we look. God’s love is in the innocent child who loves to give hugs to people. A lonely woman at the grocery store who misses her husband received that precious hug. For one moment, the woman thought about that precious gift and felt God’s love. A confused church member who is struggling in life with his relationship with Christ has another member say, “you have been in my thoughts, how are things?” All of a sudden this man who did not think anyone cared about his spiritual well-being has a new hope in life and relationships. Yes, there are little and big Christmas miracles everyday. Let us open our eyes to see them and then let us glorify and praise God for what we see and hear! Questions: What Christmas miracles have you noticed this week? How do you glorify and praise God? Gracious and Loving God, thank you for your miracle of the birth of Your Son Jesus Christ. We know he is still alive in your Spirit. Please help us to see his presence in our lives every day. For those miracles we glorify and praise you in all we do. In the name of Christ we pray, Amen. Nath and Amy Briley
Merry Christmas from the Staff and Session of Pickens Presbyterian Church! PICKENS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH STAFF Pastor – The Reverend Nath Briley Director of Christian Education – Jessica Varney Administrative Assistant – Mackenzie Owens Choir Director – Maria A. Kithcart Organist – Donna C. Nabors Director of Child Development Center – Karen C. Durham Nursery and Toddler Care – Jessica Anderson, Jessica Curlett, Portia Newman SESSION Class of 2011 Jo Anne Gessell Jim Kaplan William A Ranson Kay W. Rentz Leo Tilley Trustee: Betsey Chalmers
Class of 2012 Sylvia Erickson Joe Padgett Ralph Perkins Ken Roper Elizabeth Stokes Trustee: Ken Acker
Class of 2013 Bert Allison Leslie Flynn Tina LaFoy Paula Owens Trustee: Jeff Holder
Moderator: The Reverend Nath Briley Clerk of Session: Kay W. Rentz Assistant Clerk: Elizabeth Stokes Treasurer – Jonathan Haines Assistant Treasurer – George R. Reiter Pickens Presbyterian Church ◦ P.O. Box 834 ◦ Pickens, SC 29671 Office: 864-878-9422 ◦ Website: www.pickenspresbyterian.org ◦ Email: pickenspres@bellsouth.net