Advent Devotion Book - Central UMC

ADVENT DEVOTIONAL Central United Methodist Church

Behind the Cover Philip Maenza When Art Justice commissioned me for this project, I ended up getting a little ahead of myself.

As someone who appreciates art in all its forms, the first thing I thought about was the the cover for this devotional book. I felt that Advent Candles would best represent this devotion book. But why? Well, the four candles traditionally represent hope, faith, joy, and peace, and the fifth candle, placed in the middle and lit on Christmas Day, celebrates Jesus’ birth. Furthermore, the light from the candles signifies our prayer, which is offered in faith, entering the light of God. The intention for this devotion book is similar. It is our intention that these devotions bring you hope, faith, joy, and peace during this season as we prepare for the birth of our Savior. May these writings bring the light of Christ into your daily life.

The artwork itself was created by Central UMC member Allison Slice. Note by the artist: The Advent piece was part of a 5-piece Advent series that I created last year. The Christmas story is so beautiful and full of imagery that I have been inspired by it time and time again. I used color and patterns with paper and paint to express the joy and wonder that Christmas brings to me.

Advent Devotional Editorial Committee Missy Brown Renae Chadwick Mary Davidson Carlanna Hendrick Rev. Meg Jiunnies Art Justice Katri Skinner The Editorial Committee wishes to thank Rev. Thomas Smith for his guidance and Philip Maenza for his hard work in compiling the devotional book for publication.

Advent Devotionals Foreword The season of Advent is upon us. Advent is the season of preparation for Christmas, as Lent is the season of preparation for Easter. This season of preparation for Christmas carries with it themes of repentance, preparation, and anticipation.

The call to repentance is a call to reorient ourselves Godward. In so doing we create space to cooperate with God, allowing God to work both within us for our benefit and through us for God’s glory. The call to prepare invites us to open our hearts anew to receive the true gift of Christmas, Jesus Christ. The Advent call to anticipate invites to us to remember what God has done for us in the past, celebrate what God is doing now, and look forward to what God will do for us in the future. As Jesus came into the world to save the world, Jesus will return to finish his saving work.

As we journey through Advent toward Christmas, what more fitting way to answer the call to repent, prepare, and anticipate than to ground our communal life in prayer and the reading of Scripture. From the earliest days of God’s interactions with God’s people, Scripture has been read in the context of community. When we gather to read and interpret Scripture as a community of faith, we create space to experience God’s self-revelation. Reflecting on this idea, John Wesley wrote, “All Scripture is inspired by God – The Spirit of God not only once inspired those who wrote it, but continually inspires, supernaturally assists, those who read it with earnest prayer.” These pages invite you to live into Advent through an encounter with God’s word.

This Advent devotion book is an act of community. It is the shared effort of your brothers and sisters who make up Central United Methodist Church. I commend this work to you. Read the Scripture, read your brothers’ and sisters’ reflections, and pray, knowing all the while others are reading and praying with you. As God inspired the writers of Scripture, so may God inspire you as you encounter God’s word through this devotional guide.

I would be remiss if I did not offer a special word of thanks to the Editorial Committee for the many hours spent shaping and compiling this work. Thank you also to the many writers who share their experience of God’s word with us. Central is greatly indebted to all of these for their incredible work. Please extend a word of thanks when you see them.

Yours in Christ, Thomas

The Season of Advent The season of Advent, the name of which comes from the Latin word adventus meaning "coming" or "visit," begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. Advent is the beginning of the church year for Christians.

During Advent, we prepare for and anticipate the coming of Christ. We remember the longing of Jews for a Messiah and our own longing for and need of forgiveness, salvation and a new beginning. Advent is much more than just preparation for the birth of Christ. In Advent we do look back and celebrate the birth of Jesus in a humble stable in Bethlehem long, long ago, but we also anticipate and prepare for the second coming of Christ as the fulfillment of all that was promised by his first coming.

Advent can be called the “time between” because as people of God we live in the time between the first coming of Christ, his birth, and his second coming, when in His glory he will judge the living and the dead.

Thus, the seasons of Advent and Christmas are meant to be distinct seasons. That is why you do not hear Christmas music in our worship services during Advent. You hear Advent songs, like “Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel.” Our scripture and hymns focus us on expectant waiting for, The coming of the Messiah to the Jews; The coming of Jesus into the world at Bethlehem; The second coming of Jesus in final victory; and, The continual coming of Jesus into the hearts and lives of believers.

It is a balance of remembrance and anticipation. To help in this balance, the scripture for the first two Sundays in Advent look forward to Christ’s second coming, and the last two Sundays look backward to remember Christ’s first coming. Over the course of the four weeks of Advent, scripture readings move from passages about Christ’s return in judgment to Old Testament passages about the expectation of the coming Messiah to New Testament passages about the announcements of Christ’s arrival by John the Baptist and the angels. The passages chosen for Central’s Advent Devotional follow this pattern.

Beyond Comprehension First Sunday of Advent Isaiah 64:1-9 Rev. Meg Bryce Jiunnies We anthropomorphize God because we have no frame of reference for God other than humankind. The prophet, in best prophetic voice, puts this concept into action as Isaiah reminds us that all power is God’s. Power to rend the world in half, to intimidate any enemy, and destroy all that we see and know. And so, it is natural that when the Holy Spirit opens our hearts and minds to the sin that rules us, we acknowledge the terror of possible and just retribution.

Understanding this makes us marvel at the mercy that is shown to us.

God is all powerful, and that power includes the way God loves us. Beloved and called God’s children, we are forgiven even though there is no way we can earn that forgiveness.

The only example in my realm of understanding that comes even close to this kind of love is the love for my children. It makes me powerful, this love that possesses me to the point that I can physically and psychologically do things that I never imagined I would do. We have all seen those stories of parents doing superhuman things like lifting cars off of their children, or trekking over hostile territory carrying their child to safety, or even just going for days with only few hours of sleep to care for a sick child. Love has allowed me to do things for them that I never would have thought myself capable. This is the only thing I can imagine would account for the fact that God, with power beyond our comprehension, chooses to be born, live and die for our sakes. This makes me tremble.

Prayer: Almighty God, as we enter this season of preparing our hearts and minds for the miracle of your love evidenced in the birth of Jesus, we pray that you imprint the importance of this upon our hearts that we might truly be grateful and appreciate the gift of Jesus. The gift of your Love. In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit we pray. Amen.

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Peace, Joy and Safety First Monday of Advent Jeremiah 33:14-16 Rev. Dannye Bragdon Because Mom and Dad were not able to care for their son Kent, he went to live in a shelter home with other children. Shown to his room, Kent put his backpack on his bed and crawled under the bed. The counselor, Tom, came in to invite Kent to join the others for a Christmas party they were having, but Kent said he didn’t want to go since he didn’t know anyone and they didn’t know him.

Tom got down on the floor and crawled under the bed, too. He told Kent about himself and they talked for a bit. Soon Kent began crying; Tom reached out his hand and held Kent’s shoulder.

After a few minutes, Tom said, “Come with me; you know me and I know you. We’ll get out from under the bed and join the group.” Kent slowly crawled out - and they both went to join the others.

Kent began to find peace and joy and safety there.

In our scripture passage for today, it was a king from the family of David that was to bring in the promised peace, joy and safety. Jesus was “of the house and lineage of David.” During Advent we prepare and wait for the coming of Jesus to bring peace, joy and safety. Sometimes you and I bring in peace, joy and safety among those around us.

How did Tom bring in peace? How have you brought peace to where you live? How will we (individuals, family, neighbors, friends, our church) bring in peace during Advent?

Prayer: Small Savior, do not blind us with your transfigured brightness. * * * Continue to be born, laid, tiny and vulnerable on our inhospitable earth. * * * Be born anew in us, not only to save ourselves, but also that others might be saved through us. Help us to know that only as we keep close to you can we be at peace with ourselves and with others, fulfilling peace in our time. Amen.

(Prayer is from Central’s 1996 Christmas Eve Service)

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Reminders…

First Tuesday of Advent 2 Peter 1:12-21 Kari and Ben King In this Advent season, as we await Christ’s second coming, we can reflect on how we want to live our days in this world so that they have eternal value. In this passage, we find Peter facing his imminent death; therefore, time is a limited and a precious commodity for him. Peter is using his time on earth to remind us of an everlasting foundation - God’s Authoritative Word.

You can feel Peter’s sense of urgency to redirect our attention to this gift that God has given us in Scripture. It is in the scriptures that we see God’s Character, His Truth, His Promise, our Hope, and Comfort, and where everlasting life is revealed to us. We establish our foundation of faith and then we mold and nourish our personal relationship with Christ through the Word of God. In this world full of distractions and conflicting values, we often find ourselves going in the wrong direction or we get distracted and need to redirect our attention to truths that have everlasting value. God has given us His Word, so let us be reminded of His intentions for giving us this gift, and live as people prepared to die, and die as people prepared to live. As we stand in Peter’s shoes, let us ask ourselves - how am I using my time to reveal Christ and God’s Word?

Are my actions a reflection of His everlasting love?

Prayer: Dear God, as we await Christ’s second coming, please help us to listen intently to Your Truth and illuminate the scriptures so that our hearts are focused on You and our lives are transformed through Your Word. Please create a desire in our hearts to seek You. Help us use our time on this earth as a reminder of Your Love and the everlasting Hope we have in Christ.

Remind us Lord, of the purpose of Your Word and let our days be used to serve You so that You will be well-pleased. Amen.

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The Day of the Lord First Wednesday of Advent 2 Peter 3:1-10 Hank Leeke Peter’s second letter to the faithful believers reminded them of the source of their beliefs. The Bible we read today was not yet in book form, but was alive in the words of the holy prophets and the words of Jesus retold by His close followers, the Apostles.

Peter warned them that mockers will come and deny the Lord’s promised return. They believed the world was unchanging, so Christ’s return was impossible. Peter told them that they had forgotten how God destroyed the world with the flood of water. The changed world awaits a different judgement. This time by His word through fire. Those mocking the return of the Lord based their argument on the delay that their human understanding could not explain. “With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years is like a day.” God’s delay should be viewed as an illustration of His patience. Patience to give all believers, including you, a chance to repent and chose salvation. “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise…God is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we love you and we trust you. Thank you for your patience with our human frailty. Your kingdom come! Amen.

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Old People First Thursday of Advent 2 Peter 3:11-18 Mary Davidson A little over a year ago, my daughters initiated serious conversations about selling my home.

Within a flash the realtor came, the house sold in three days and the adventure began. Three weeks later, with enormous help from my children, I started the next, totally unexpected chapter of my life in a patio home located in a senior residential community.

Years ago, after a lifetime serving pulpits all over Virginia and Tennessee, my parents relocated to a home in a Methodist retirement community. I distinctly remember my 82-year-old mother, always immersed in women’s work and sewing and crafting, telling me that she was going to work with “old people.” Imagine my initial shock the first time I walked into the dining room of my new community. Wait…these are all old people. Indeed. And I was one of them.

Reality set in. I mourned the loss of my spacious screened porch…the loss of green everywhere…oaks, dogwoods, flower beds…the longer travel to be with my longtime friends…giving away many of my “things” …fearing becoming less capable, less resilient, less fulfilled…becoming diminished.

Early one morning I opened the blinds in my living area to be greeted by a vivid canvas of pink and gold sky ushering a huge ball of sun. Within a day I learned that I could watch from my back door an even more spectacular show- stunning shades of rose to pink, blue to gray, dusted with various tones of gold, framing a setting sun. New to me, since my lovely trees had blocked sunrises and sunsets. Friends old and new are helping me to establish a new flower bed with cuttings, seeds, and rooted plants. The hummingbirds have found me here. I am released from the weight of yard and home maintenance. I have become witness to the amazing dignity, courage, wisdom, and congeniality of my new friends. Above all, this is what I have learned God said to me, “I will give you something better than your screened porch, I will surround you with blooming things once again, I will give you new friends to supplement your old.

Getting older may present challenges, but I will be with you. Always.”

Prayer: God, remind me to always trust Your promises, to never doubt Your presence, to live a rich life. Amen.

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What Do You Believe?

First Friday of Advent 2 Peter 1:1-11 Harvey Senseney Consider when Jesus asked the disciples who they thought He was. Peter announced, “Thou art the Christ.” What gave Peter the confidence to make such a definite statement? Was he influenced by Jesus Himself? Jesus assured Peter that his answer was not his own reasoning but came from God. Jesus was confirming that God invades the thoughts of men in order to give His Word to the world.

Peter witnessed Jesus validate the authority of Holy Scriptures often. He knew that Jesus had defeated Satan in the desert by quoting God’s Word. Of the law and prophets, Jesus said that He had come to fulfill them. They were accurate! Who better than Jesus to lead us to trust, “the way of The Lord.”

Peter writes this letter to prepare us for Jesus’ promised return. He encourages us saying that we have the same faith as him and it provides everything we need to live for Christ. Therefore, we should work to strengthen the gifts of the Holy Spirit that come with our faith. The gifts will help us attract others to Christ and assure our great joy at Jesus’ return.

I believe the Bible is God’s Word. Isn’t it logical and reasonable to believe that if God created this beautiful world for us, who He created in His image, He would also create some instruction on how we should live in His world?

But logic cannot explain the Bible’s miraculous power to shape faith and change lives. Scripture says, “Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.” Peter writes, “above all you must understand that no prophesy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation on the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” Peter emphasizes this above all!

Prayer: Father, our prayer is for an increased reverence for your Holy Word and a true anticipation of our Savior’s return. In His name we pray. Amen.

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Cause for Pause First Saturday of Advent Jude 17-25 Tammy Pawloski Tree up? Lights working? Started baking? Resolved conflicts with family celebration dates?

What about teacher gifts, employee gifts, neighbor gifts? The list grows longer every day!

Even when mindful, seasonal tasks can quickly overshadow the preparation of our hearts that is the Christian focus of Advent. And, even in early December, the pressure is already mounting with a frantic sprint to the finish line of Christmas Day a real possibility!

Today’s scripture calls us to pause to consider instruction from Jude to prepare for the “last times.” We are cautioned that there will be scoffers who follow ungodly desires. We must build ourselves up in faith, pray, and keep ourselves in God’s love as we wait for our time of eternal life.

Our busy daily lives make today’s lesson a challenge every day, and even more difficult when life’s lists and distractions are longer than ever. How can we ensure that we are preparing our hearts for Jesus’ birth and all that it means for us now and forever? How do we avoid those ungodly desires that peer into our lives at every turn? How do we prioritize meaningful spiritual reflection along with cheer and anticipation?

This daily devotional book helps us be intentional in our reflection, as does the practice of prayer throughout each day. (What if we talked with God as often as we text or call a family member?)

We can execute simple acts of gratitude or service each day that are do-able, even in the busiest of times. Acknowledgment of the drive-through cashier with an authentic smile and eye contact, or allowing a car to exit the busy grocery store parking lot into Five Points traffic, can stimulate a chain reaction of love and good will. Science suggests that the great feeling that results is dopamine, a pleasure neurotransmitter, but faith tells us this is the Holy Spirit working in us and for others.

Prayer: Thank you for the promise of eternal life and for the special time of reflection, cheer, and anticipation that is Advent. Protect me from stumbling as I walk through the distractions of ungodly desires. Keep me in your love and as a messenger of your love every day. Amen.

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“Already But Not Yet” Second Sunday of Advent Isaiah 11:1-10 Rev. Tom Pietila “The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them.” (Isaiah 11: 6) I once read of a man who wept every time Isaiah 11 was read. And why not? These images of the peaceable kingdom are moving. We long for what Isaiah promises. The evils of war, violence, and oppression will be stomped out. The most vulnerable shall experience the bounty of God’s resources. Children will be safe in a world fraught with guns.

Edward Hicks, an early 19th century Quaker artist, created the famous painting, “The Peaceable Kingdom.” Art historians speculate that he created over one hundred different versions of this painting. Over sixty of them still exist today. One wonders why he painted so many versions of the same scene. Was he just trying to get it right, or is this the work of someone with a Quaker heart trying to decorate a lost world with as many visions of peace as he could?

Hicks saw around him the peacefulness of a new creation spilling into the world. The prophet’s vision is “already but not yet.” While waiting for that glorious kingdom to come, Christians are called to point out, work for, shout out, and claim the reign of God now. God does not want spectators or admirers. The Hebrew prophets are creating, shaping, and pruning, a kingdom people. This is what we do in Advent.

Prayer: Living God, you called your people to do more than wish for a better world. Help us to live bravely and faithfully in the prophet’s “already but not yet” new creation. We wait for a Savior who embodied what it means to live peaceful lives, filled with truth, impatient with injustice, and transformed by love. Amen.

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Succession Plan Second Monday of Advent Psalm 72:4-7 Will King According to the website Investopedia, the term “succession planning” refers to “a business strategy a company uses to pass leadership roles down to another employee or group of employees. Succession planning ensures that a business continues to run smoothly and without interruption after important people move on to new opportunities, retire, or pass away.”

In the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth, He devised the ultimate succession plan. He put in place all the necessary pieces and people to carry out this amazing plan. Once His plan was put in place, there would be nothing to stop His plan from being carried out exactly like He intended, despite our failing to ever live up to our end of the plan.

Today’s passage is from Psalm 72, King David’s prayer to God that David’s son Solomon would be a just and righteous king. How many times do we, as parents, pray to God that our son or daughter will be able to withstand the pressures of this world and lead a life of righteousness?

How much more so would we pray for her or him if we knew that she or he would become the leader of God’s people?

In this passage, the psalmist is lifting up not only his son, but also his people, that each of them do their part to create an environment of righteousness and peace. David stresses the importance of the leader to lead justly and mightily and that the people fear the Lord. This prayerful psalm also looks forward beyond the kingship of Solomon to the kingship of Christ. The phrasing, “while the sun endures” and “as long as the moon, throughout all generations” mandates that we see into a distant future beyond Solomon. The wording in verse 7, “til the moon be no more” suggests that David was inspired by God to envision a time beyond even the earthly kingship of Christ to the time between then and the eventual second coming of Christ.

Prayer: Father, in this Advent season, may we join with King David in joyfully awaiting Jesus’ return as we see the culmination of your succession plan! Amen.

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Waiting . . .

Second Tuesday of Advent Romans 15:5-7 Beth Ann Owen Advent is a season of waiting . . . to celebrate the birth of Jesus and to anticipate His return.

Waiting, of any sort, can be hard until we realize there is much we can ‘accomplish’ as we wait.

The inevitable times of waiting can be moments to contemplate and be introspective.

These verses by Paul to the church at Rome, encourage us to contemplate what it means to have the ‘same attitude of mind’ as Christ Jesus. Do we share His values and perspectives? And perhaps more importantly, through introspection, do our lives demonstrate the values Christ exampled?

The specific value Paul speaks of is unconditional love for and acceptance of ALL God’s children. Unconditional love for another does not mean you always agree with someone’s opinion or approve of the choices they make. But it does mean that, at the end of the day, you accept them; you love them as a brother or sister in Christ while respecting whatever opinion they’ve expressed or choice they’ve made.

These verses speak of endurance and encouragement. The things God asks of us aren’t always easy – loving unconditionally and accepting persons doesn’t seem to come naturally whatever the difference may be. How we relate to a fellow human being is a choice and invariably we will encounter setbacks due to poor choices. But we serve a God who loves us and who seeks to encourage us so that we are able to endure our Christian walk of faith. It is a journey as we learn from our choices, hopefully making better ones going forward.

Christ loves and accepts all persons including us and He asks us to do the same. It is only by His loving acceptance that we are able to let our differences fall by the wayside, uniting as one voice to praise our Lord and Savior.

Prayer: Father, as we wait this Advent season, may we contemplate what having the ‘same attitude of mind’ as Christ means for the 21st century Christian. Through our introspection let His message of love and acceptance permeate all we say and do. In Jesus name, Amen.

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True Repentance Second Wednesday of Advent Matthew 3:1-2 Julie Knight I can remember as a small child my parents telling me that God will always forgive our sins as long as we ask. When my own children were small, I found myself saying those same words, and realizing several times that as a parent I needed to practice what I preached. Life can become busy and we all are guilty of getting so wrapped up in our daily routines and habits, that we tend to forget what is truly important. God! Talking to him. Asking for forgiveness. Submitting ourselves to him and truly repenting, by changing our direction in life and saying that God is right and I am wrong!

As you begin each day, ask yourself if you are ready for him. Are you ready for him to bring a change in your life? Are you ready for him to guide and direct your life? When Jesus does return, he isn’t going to be looking at who attended Sunday school or worship service or who helped with Vacation Bible School, he is going to be looking for those who truly have faith in him. Be prepared for He is coming!

Prayer: Father, during these seasons of Advent and Christmas, help us not to get caught up in all of the lights, presents, and the festivities it brings, but to remember the true meaning of Advent and Christmas, the seasons of love, peace, joy, and hope. Amen.

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Moving Mountains Second Thursday of Advent Luke 3:3-6 Harper Smith In this passage of scripture, Jesus is preaching in the area around the Jordan River, putting a special emphasis on baptism and the forgiveness of sins. He preaches from scripture, specifically from the prophet Isaiah. The passage proclaims the power of God’s forgiveness, saying that it fills valleys, flattens mountains, and makes crooked roads straight. The passage from Isaiah ends with the words “and all people will know God’s forgiveness.”

One important thing to keep in mind is Jesus’ audience in the 1st century. In the 21st century, we can build roads through mountains and bridges that span valleys. In the 1st century, mountains and valleys were massive features of nature not easily conquered. This would leave an impression on Jesus’ audience not only of God’s power, but his love as well. Jesus is really telling his audience that God loves them, and by extension us, so much that he will go to any length for us. The words “and all people will know God’s salvation” would have resonated with his audience as well. Ancient Israel was divided into a rigid class system, based on a number of factors, including wealth, social status, and religion. At the time of Jesus’ ministry, these people also lived as subjects in the Roman class system. Society had very strict barriers and the reason that Christianity was able to grow so rapidly is because it lacked these barriers. Everyone was equally a part of the church.

Although Jesus is preaching in person to people two thousand years ago, his teachings are meant as much for us today as they were for his audience back then. We live in a world where it feels as though we are being pitted against each other. In the last year alone, we’ve witnessed a war in Ukraine, relations between countries breaking down, and violence and shootings in our own country. Jesus’ message in this passage, as well as the message of his entire ministry, one of love and togetherness, is as important now as it ever was.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to love each other, and to remember your teachings as we go through our lives. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

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Trusting Our Savior Second Friday of Advent Psalm 85:8–10 Connie Lee In this Psalm we read that when we listen to what the Lord is saying, we will be given peace that we can only receive from Him. We are living in a time of turmoil: the pandemic, political unrest, gun violence, and war.

Our country has seen its ups and downs. The pandemic has gotten better, but there is the uncertainty of what will happen in the future. Gun violence is at its worse in many states, and we could go on and on.

Changes come and go, that is life. We all have a choice: do we live life just holding on or do we live life with the Lord showing us the path to take?

Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, guide and direct us this day showing your love to all that we meet.

In your holy name we pray. Amen.

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Prepare the Way Second Saturday of Advent Mark 1:7-8 Renae Chadwick Unlike the other Gospel writers who begin with Jesus’ origin story, Mark first delivers the good news concerning the fulfillment of God’s salvation promises, as prophesied in the Old Testament. In the first few verses of Chapter 1, John the Baptist establishes Jesus’ identity as the Son of God, and declares himself the predicted messenger preparing the way of the Lord, as foretold in the book of Isaiah.

John had been attracting huge crowds of people responding to his persuasive call for repentance and water baptism - purification steps toward appealing to God for forgiveness. Despite John’s popularity, he announced that someone greater than he was anticipated. In today’s Scripture verses, John the Baptist clearly delineates between his human ministry and the divine ministry of the Coming One, describing the social distance between them as more than that between a master and servant, feeling unworthy to even untie Jesus’ sandals.

John acknowledged his baptism with water was a preparatory commitment of repentance and an outward symbol of the desire to break away from the sin that separated a person from God. Jesus’ baptism with the Holy Spirit offers divine grace and true forgiveness of sins, introducing the reality of the internal presence of God himself, the indwelling of his Holy Spirit. John’s baptism rites were transactional in purifying his followers. But Jesus’ baptism rites are transformational, changing persons from the inside out, purifying their hearts, and bringing them into fellowship with God – into a new dimension of existence.

Preparing the way of the Lord is a central focus of Advent readings. This account of John the Baptist asks us to consider what it means to prepare for the Lord’s coming. What is required of me? Is obedience to some ethical vision of Christianity enough? Or is it my posture in receiving divine grace that promises hope and renewal from a God who has already drawn near to me before I repent? Am I prepared to fully and humbly receive what God offers?

Prayer: Holy Spirit, soften our hearts, sharpen our minds, and awaken our souls, as we prepare for the second coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Are You He Who Is To Come?

Third Sunday of Advent Matthew 11:2-11 Carlanna Hendrick Today is the Third Sunday of Advent, traditionally called Gaulete Sunday – which celebrates our joy in the birth and salvation of Christ. We light a pink candle and rejoice in the good news of the Gospel confirmed in the life and teachings of Christ. As Paul admonished the Philippians (4: 4), we “rejoice in the Lord always.”

With this attitude in mind, re-read the scripture for today. To me it was a surprise selection for the Third Sunday of Advert. It is indeed a Gospel lesson but there is no baby Jesus, no shepherds with angel choirs, and no wise men.

Instead the scripture presents us with the mature Jesus with a focus on John the Baptist who, like so many of us, asks “Are you he who is to come?” Jesus responds and re-identifies John as one who came to prepare the way. In His answer, Jesus reminds us that we, like John, are to look at His life, look at His works and know Him for who He is.

Out of all the images and scriptures, we are left in the anticipation of Advent with the same question asked by John – “Are you he who is to come?” As we each answer that question for ourselves, we find the true meaning of Advent - not the baby Jesus, but the mature sacrificial Christ – the one for whom we, like other generations, wait.

Prayer: Oh Lord, on this Joyous Sunday as we anticipate the birth of Jesus help us to know and proclaim of the mature Christ that it is indeed He for whom we wait - the salvation promised by God. Amen.

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Why Are You Downcast, O My Soul?

Third Monday of Advent Psalm 42 Jay Jiunnies When I first read this passage I thought, "why is this Psalm being referenced during the Advent Season?" I had always considered the Advent season as a joyous time as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ. The anguish and longing for a relationship with God expressed by the Psalmist reminded me of the times in my life when loss overwhelmed most of my other emotions.

Early in 1997 my father passed away and after the initial mourning period, my life went back to normal. That year at Christmas time, when our family got together, I was driving to my family home and realized that Dad was not going to be there. I had never returned to that house without him being there and I was suddenly overcome with sorrow. Oh, how I wished I could see him again. It was such a comfort when I walked into that house and my mom, brother and sisters were all there to celebrate. I knew Dad was there too.

In the years since, our family has lost many beloved family members, with several of them passing in the Advent/Christmas Season. We grieve for their loss and we celebrate our memories of them. Each year as we remember, it becomes more and more of a celebration because we realize that through God's grace and love, the love of our families and Church family, and the gift of the Living Christ, we are saved.

Prayer: "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so Disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." (Psalm 42:11) Amen.

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In Christ Is Our Hope Third Tuesday in Advent Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 Ginny Hill In this passage, Isaiah is giving encouragement to the Israelites enslaved in Babylon. Their land and their religious traditions were taken away from them. The Temple was left in ruins. They were slaves and didn’t feel God’s presence and comfort. This passage tells them they will return to Jerusalem and rebuild. God will restore them. The time of rejoicing will come. He tells them the Savior will come to comfort them and heal them.

When Jesus reads this passage in the synagogue (Luke 4:18-21) he tells them that the prophecy has been fulfilled in Him. He then sits down without further words. Everything that needed to be said was in the prophecy of Isaiah. It details what His ministry on earth will be - preaching the good news to the poor, freeing the prisoners, giving sight to the blind, and so much more. Christ is the hope for the life they will have and the everlasting life to come. Isaiah’s prophecies gave hope for a people in exile and for generations to come. The hope is for us also.

The Lord who loves justice will renew His covenant to His people. They will be treated fairly in all they do. The nation will be recognized as God’s people and He will bless them for many generations. The time of mourning will be over and everlasting joy will come. As we progress through Advent, we prepare ourselves for the Savior that comes to be with us in this life and the life to come. The Bridegroom will come in victory for His bride.

Prayer: Redeeming God, thank you for sending your Son to save us. Help us hear the words of Isaiah promising comfort for the mourning, good news for the poor, and everlasting life for all who seek you. Amen.

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Prophecies Fill The Word Third Wednesday of Advent John 1:19-28 Aruna Sagar-Pulukuri The time, place, and prophesy mentioned here in this passage all have great significance. Our God, the Sovereign God of the Universe, is a God who is perfect in all of his ways. Every place, time, and person was chosen even before the world began. God comforts his people through His scripture. For example, in Isaiah 40:1-3, the “voice” in the wilderness heralds the Messiah to come. This prophesy is duly fulfilled after 430 years of silence.

John was the “voice,” but Jesus says in Matthew 11:14, “He is Elijah who is to come” that was prophesied in Malachi 3:1. John says that he is not worthy to even unstrap the sandals of the one who is coming. All of this happened at Bethany, also known as “the house of affliction.” John was baptizing in Jordan, (which borders the promised land of Canaan) and he replies to those who ask, “The one who comes after me will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” (Luke 3:16) Are you in the house of affliction with strongholds? Then step into Jordan and cross into the Promised Land in your life.

This passage builds our faith in the word, “All promises claimed in the name of Jesus are Yes, and Amen.” (2 Corinthians 10:20) The word sent out does not return to him empty, but fulfills its purpose. I encourage you to use the Word in your life. Declare it with your mouth, write it down, and memorize it (Kings of ages past would write it on their palms.) These words are words of power, and will give us strength, not just in times of trouble, but in all aspects of life. As Deuteronomy 30:14 says, “The word is in your mouth, and in your heart that you might obey it.”

Prayer: Lord help us to know that our time is in your hands, for we are created by You, and for You. Help us to read your word, and understand it through the Holy Spirit. Amen.

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Waiting Room Reading Third Thursday of Advent 2 Samuel 7:12-17 John Frank David knew his history, and Nathan tells him his future, as it was told to him in a vision - God speaking to Nathan. We are living in Nathan and David’s future. We don’t know our future, just like David did not know his future. The lifeblood of both their lives and ours today is the living, speaking God. God spoke then, telling them about Jesus being born in their future, and it came to pass. Their future is our history.

We all have our own history, and we all have our own story.

I have been blessed to be involved in archiving Central’s history and recently got to be part of a history/future event. Central is blessed with some recordings of previous pastors’ sermons on cassette tapes, and a previous pastor’s wife converted some of these tapes into today’s mp3 format. While listening to several of these, I heard a past member taking part in a service. Then, through Central connections, I met this past member’s grandson who never got to know his grandfather. I was led to copy the past member’s stewardship talk, put it on a flash drive and delivered to the grandson. By the way, the grandson is a pastor. This pastor of today got to hear his grandfather’s voice giving a stewardship talk, a voice he had not heard before, as far as I know.

From this experience I realized that history can be a living entity which gives me a new viewpoint of Advent this year. Our history was alive, is alive. Jesus was alive, is alive, and has sent the Holy Spirit to live within us to guide us into our future, just as He did when He walked beside our ancestors.

I will be experiencing this year’s Advent season with an expectancy of what is next, thanks to a lesson of what was our past. Won’t you have a seat with me in this waiting room called today, looking forward to our future, a beginning that we will celebrate on Christmas Day? Prayer: Lead on, Holy Spirit. Amen.

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An Isaiah Song Third Friday of Advent Isaiah 12:2-6 Betty Hester We are like the people of Israel. We have been through some of the worst times in all our lives due to the deadly virus that has taken so many lives and made others so very sick. But imagine a day when the Coronavirus is a thing of the past. That day is coming, can you picture it? Think of a day when all the disease in the world is gone, when all sickness, suffering and pain is gone… when all anger from the Lord against sin is done…there will be no sin. Can you picture that day?

This will describe the people’s joy when Jesus Christ comes to reign over the earth. We need to express our gratitude to God, thanking him, praising him, and telling others about him.

This is how I would sing my praise to him, “Surely it is God who saves me. I will trust in him and not be afraid, for the Lord is my stronghold and my sure defense, and he will be my Savior.

Rejoice from the springs of salvation, and on that day, we shall say, ‘give thanks to the Lord, and call upon his name.’ Make his deeds known among the people. See that they remember that his name is exalting. Sing the praises of the Lord, for he has done great things. Ring out your joy, oh Israel, for the great one, in the midst of you, is the Holy One of Israel.”

God sent Isaiah to preach redemption to his people. He had powerful messages of both judgement and hope. Many of the promises God gave through Isaiah have been fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Lord, we give you total praise, for we know our help comes from you. We give thanks for the peace you give us in times of our storms. You are the source of our strength. May we always glorify your name. Amen.

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God’s Covenant for His People Third Saturday of Advent 2 Samuel 7:23-29 Rick Knight In this scripture, we read about the covenant God made with David, promising to carry on David’s birth line forever. David humbly accepts God’s promise to extend his dynasty forever.

David realized these blessings were to him and his descendants in order that God’s purpose and promises would be fulfilled for all the nations of the world. We see this promise fulfilled through the birth of Jesus.

Throughout history God made covenants or promises with his people where he would keep his part of the agreement, if they would keep theirs. The issue of covenant is one of mutual responsibilities, but we humans often flee from God’s will for us. With the birth of Jesus, we know that by the providence of God, the goodness of God, and His guiding, sustaining care, we will be able to live a life knowing His grace and love lives within each of us.

In our times of uncertainly, we must remember that we are people of God and we are not alone.

God is with us! May we feel the comfort and peace of God’s grace through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Thank you for sending your Son to live and die and be raised from the dead. We know that through You, we can have eternal life, if we only believe. We do not know what tomorrow may bring, but we do know that you are with us and will guide us through the good and bad. We humbly ask that you forgive our sins and give us strength for each day. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

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Are You Insignificant?

Fourth Sunday of Advent Micah 5:2-5 Katri Skinner Micah thought he was insignificant. He was considered a minor prophet. What did he know?

Micah is stuck at the end of the Old Testament. A very short book, with just seven chapters. He thinks no one takes him seriously. Think about it for a minute. What do you know about Micah?

Can you even find that tiny book in your bible? Can you quote any scripture from it? Micah was certainly no Isaiah or Hosea, was he? And yet, minor Micah as we will call him, is the very one that pointed out there was more than one Bethlehem! The Bethlehem that Jesus was to be born in was the double name Bethlehem - Bethlehem Ephrathah, the one in Judea, not the one near Galilee.

We all know from the carol, “O’ Little Town of Bethlehem,” that it was a very small town, as the name indicates. To us Florentines, it would probably be about like Pamplico. And yet, Micah wants us to know that from this small town, “will come a great leader!”

As we continue to read this passage, Mary is not even called by name. Does this mean Mary is insignificant? Hardly! Mary is young, and certainly not from a prominent or wealthy family.

And yet, God chose her to be the mother of Jesus. Just like God chose Bethlehem Ephrathah as the birthplace of Jesus, and God chose Micah to tell the story of which Bethlehem the Christ Child would be born in.

God has chosen YOU for something special too! As we journey through Advent awaiting the gift of our Savior, do you need to search for the special gift that God has given you? You are not insignificant! Take some time during this waiting season and figure out what you can do for God’s kingdom, and then DO IT! Prayer: Lord, in our quiet time of waiting, help us to discern what gift you have bestowed upon us, and then help us to find exactly where we are to use it! Amen.

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Who Are You? Fourth Monday of Advent Romans 1:1-7 Philip Maenza I used to work at a local newspaper. Despite having a press badge, when I attended events, I was constantly asked “who are you?” The funniest of these instances was when I went to a local high school to report on a story and was asked by several teachers why I wasn’t in class. After that, I wrote and memorized a little self-introduction so I would always have an answer for the inevitable – “who are you?”

Paul started his letter with an introduction about himself. The first verse could easily sum up Paul’s life and ministry. He was a servant of Jesus Christ. As Christians, the same introduction could be used by us. Paul’s life purpose is also our life purpose. Now, Paul is a hard example to follow. We see that Paul answered the call and abandoned everything else in his life to follow Jesus. So, does that mean that God is calling you to leave your current job and serve Him in a new way? Maybe, but more than likely, God is calling you to remain in your current occupation and serve Him through that. There are no such things as secular jobs versus sacred jobs. We are all in full-time Christian ministry whatever our jobs may be. It is through Paul’s example that we can appropriate our own calling from God. To understand God’s calling, we must first realize who we are.

In his passage, Paul explains who we are as servants of Christ. First, we are loved by God. God’s love for us is boundless and an integral part of who we are. Secondly, we are saints. In this instance, the word ‘saint’ indicates that we are set-apart from others. You are not an individual just trying to get by – you are a saint, you are God’s. Lastly, we are recipients of grace and peace. Grace is what we receive, and peace is what we experience because of God’s activity on our behalf.

Included. Called. Belonged. Loved. Grace for you. Peace. That is who you are because of Christ Jesus.

Prayer: Dear God, I ask you to orient my life to you. I pray that through your Word and your Church here on earth that I will discover who I am because of you and what you have planned for my life. Thank you for loving me, setting me part, and for your grace and peace. Amen.

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An Angel on My Shoulder Fourth Tuesday of Advent Matthew 1:18-25 Frank O’Shea As a child, I loved watching The Flintstones. In almost every episode Fred had to choose between the angel or the devil perched on either shoulder, the angel trying to talk him into the good decision and the devil tempting him with the bad. As a Christian adult, I know this angel to be the Holy Spirit tugging at my heart and giving me a gut feeling as to what the Lord is calling me to do.

The first time I remember listening to the Holy Spirit was when I had just graduated college and was working my first “real job” in the insurance industry. The job promised to be lucrative, but it was commission-based, so I kept my part-time job from school as a waiter to hold me over until I started earning commission checks. When I made my first sale and earned my first check I just knew I wasn’t going to be waiting tables much longer! But that evening I humbled myself and went into the restaurant. I was hit with a dose of reality at the end of the night when my tips exceeded my commission check. Ouch! God wanted my attention and, at that moment, He got it.

I had always had a gut feeling that He created me to be a teacher, not a salesman, and this was the nudge I needed. I wasn’t visited by an angel like Joseph was, but I heard and I listened to the Holy Spirit, and today I’m proud to say I’ve been teaching for 13 years.

Matthew 1:18-25 talks about a tough decision Joseph had to make. Scripture tells us that Joseph was planning on leaving Mary when he learned that she was pregnant with a child that wasn’t his. An angel came to Joseph and reassured him that Mary was carrying the immaculately conceived Son of God and Joseph listened! He stayed with Mary and helped raise Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

Prayer: Father, we pray for discernment so that we can know what the Holy Spirit is calling us to do and, like Joseph, follow God’s plans for us. Amen.

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Let's Be Willing, Like Mary, to Serve God Fourth Wednesday of Advent Luke 1:26-45 Mary Wells This passage concerns Mary learning from God that she would become the mother of the son of God. Mary's only question of the angel was how this could happen since she was a virgin. There was no question about her willingness to fulfill this holy role.

We frequently question God after the Holy Spirit speaks to us about some action that we should take. We think that we know best through our earthly experience and “wisdom,” or we are just too lazy or busy. Let us be like Mary in submitting ourselves to the Lord and serving Him with our whole hearts instead of constantly questioning Him. We should remember during Advent that, although we should use our God-given minds, we should also be quiet, listen for God, and be His servant, like Mary. Our service probably won't be as dramatic as Mary's, but we can serve in the way that God calls us.

During our travels, we were on a tour in Budapest, Hungary. The local tour guide showed us several beautiful churches and said that she had one parent who was Catholic and one who was Protestant. She also shared that she didn't go to church because she grew up while the Communists were in power, and they discouraged church attendance. I felt God tugging at my heart to talk to her. I told her after the tour that she would be blessed if she found a church and encouraged her not to let the Communists win. She responded that she knew it was important and gave me a sweet smile. I continue to pray that she will find a church home.

Prayer: God, we pray that you will make clear how we should serve and that we will be willing to do what you ask us to do. Please give us your holy guidance and help us to stand on your promises that you will be with us as we follow you. Amen.

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The Magnificat December 22 Luke 1:46-55 Adriane Reynolds And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowly state of his servant.”

Known as the Magnificat (from the Latin for “magnify”), the Canticle of Mary, or simply Mary’s Song, today’s passage from Luke is best understood in context. In the preceding verses, Mary has traveled approximately 100 miles to Judea to visit her cousin Elizabeth, who is pregnant with John the Baptist.

When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud vice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” (Luke 1: 41-45) The Magnificat is Mary’s joy-filled response to Elizabeth’s declaration and blessing. Despite the difficult and potentially dangerous circumstances she finds herself in as a young, unwed Jewish girl, pregnant with a child of questionable parentage, Mary seeks first and foremost to magnify God and rejoice in Him as her Savior. She has willingly accepted God’s call. The magnitude of that call must have weighed upon her, yet she readily submits her will to that of the Father.

Mary’s story reminds us that God calls us – ordinary men and women – to serve in extraordinary ways. Our challenge is to answer that call, not grudgingly, but with joy, eager to magnify and glorify God. This Advent season, as we await the coming of Christ, what will your Magnificat be? How will your soul magnify the Lord? Like Mary, will you respond from the heart, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”

Prayer: My soul glorifies you, Lord, and my spirit rejoices in you, my Savior, for you have remembered me, your humble servant. You, the Mighty One, have done great things – holy is your name! Amen.

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The Breaking Of The Morning Light December 23 Luke 1:67-79 Art Justice What would it be like not to talk for almost a year? If, like Zachariah, you had not been able to speak for nine months and suddenly, you can? Zachariah bursts out in a song. His song, no doubt, formed in his heart during the long months of enforced muteness. It picks up where Mary’s song ends. Just as Mary’s song, the Magnificat, has always been part of the church’s evening prayer, Zechariah’s song, the Benedictus, has always been part of the church’s morning prayer.

Zechariah sings of the God who fulfills his promises. Jesus, the Savior, was not even born, yet Zechariah sings of thanksgiving to the Lord God for his past promises to save his people and for the salvation that was about to be accomplished.

Have you ever spent a sleepless night of worry or fear, when it seems the darkness will never end? But then, the light on the eastern horizon begins to break upon the darkness and slowly but surely, the darkness yields to the bright morning sun. In the light you find respite from your fears. Our suffering and sin sometimes seem like a night that will never end, but Jesus is like the rising sun that comes in the morning and drives out the darkness. Our lives are lived in the light of His love, because the Morning Star of Heaven has broken upon us. The light of Christ is here to guide our feet along the path of peace.

What Zechariah could not even say for so long, we now joyfully pray, with the Church around the world, at the dawn of each new day. To remind ourselves that the dawn brings light, and hope, and peace, because it brings the steadfast love of the Lord. New every morning.

Prayer: Lord, as I move into Christmas Eve, remind me again of how mercy is the dominant theme in how you walk with me. You are forever tender towards me. Help me to grow daily in the awareness of your mercy and tenderness, constantly at work in my life. Amen.

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Let the Light In Christmas Eve Isaiah 9:2-7 Rev. Ann Kovan I love peering deep into space, fitting stars into their familiar patterns, and pondering the infinite brilliance of God. Frustratingly, “light pollution” caused by the collective electric glow of highpopulation areas restricts the observable depth of space. One "star" that is accessible anywhere is the Christmas star, shining in our hearts to remind us of the freedom from darkness God gave us through his Son Jesus Christ. Revelation Chapter 4 captures the celestial light of the throne room where Christ rules today and from which he stepped away to incarnate God’s love as a human: glowing gemstones; emerald rainbow; flashes of lightening; flaming torches; a sea of glass, like crystal. God bottled up the divine heavenly light into flesh.

At Christmastime, spiritual, mental, and emotional “light-pollution” blocks the Light of Christ.

Our decorations captivate us, and our desire for bigger and brighter overshadows the more important lights of justice and peace. We yearn for our personal star to shine brightly in social orbits, dimming the light of Christ—the only orbit we need. Our desire for material things— shiny new cars, jewelry, appliances, and accoutrements—make us forget we live in a “land of deep darkness.” Our constellations of to-dos, agendas, and lists become boots that tramp our true Christmas priority: worshipping and incarnating Christ to unleash God’s kingdom of endless peace and righteousness for all people.

Now, withdraw to a silent, solitary place and imagine the scales of all that light interference dropping from your eyes. In your mind's eye, focus on the unmistakable Light of the World streaming from the throne room of heaven. Be still and breathe in the brilliance of this light.

Breathe in God's love.

Prayer: Prince of Light, make us aware of the light pollution in our lives today. Show us your love pouring into our bodies like a river of light. Leave no shadow of angst or worry, chase away the darkness of lust and greed and the disease of not enough. Forge in our minds and imprint upon our hearts what and Whom we celebrate this Christmas. Forgive us our grip and loosen our knuckles from all that is not Christ. Consume us with your light and your love. Amen.

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Merry Christmas!

Christmas Day John 1:1-14 Rev. Thomas Smith The Gospel of John presents a cosmic introduction to Jesus. John does not introduce us to Jesus in a particular place and time, as do Matthew and Luke with their birth narratives. Neither does John introduce us to Jesus at the beginning of his ministry, as does Mark. Rather, John presents Jesus as the Word of God, who existed before his incarnation as the human Jesus and is eternal as part of the Trinity. This sets the tone for the entire Gospel of John, which speaks to the character of God and how God reveals Godself to the world through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

The word Word in these verses is a translation of the Greek Logos, which John uses to refer to Jesus in his pre-incarnation, heavenly existence. In Genesis, God used words to speak creation into existence. God used the spoken words of the Old Testament prophets and the written words of the Ten Commandments to reveal God’s will to God’s people. God uses the written words of Scripture to speak to us now. By identifying the eternal Christ as the Word of God, John tells us God and the Word are One. When we see Jesus, we see God. When we hear Jesus, we hear God. The unity of the Word and God means that Jesus Christ is the self-revelation of God. What a fitting message for us at Christmas! The child of Bethlehem is the eternal Word of God, God’s self-revelation to the world, and the one through whom God redeems the world. It is tempting at Christmas to become lost in the sentimentality of the Baby of Bethlehem. Let us remember the cosmic ramifications of Christ’s breaking into the world when the Word became flesh. The eternal Word of God enters the created world by becoming a human being. Christ is born and the gulf between heaven and earth is bridged. Jesus’ story is the story of the Word made flesh. The Word made flesh is God with us and our lives are the stories of God and our relationship with God. God is with us and nothing is the same. In your prayer time, speak with God as you reflect on this wonderful mystery.

Prayer: Almighty God, who has poured upon us the new light of your Incarnate Word; grant that the same light enkindled in our hearts may shine forth in our lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

- From the Sarum Rite

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