December 2024 White Wing Messenger

WHITE WING

MESSENGER DECEMBER 2024

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY

Who Needs Revival?

BISHOP SCOTT GILLUM

The Greatest Revivals: When Were They?

BISHOP WALLACE PRATT, DMIN

Revival: Back to Pentecost

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WHITE WING

MESSENGER WE BELIEVE in the Holy Trinity—one God, eternally existing in Three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

We believe in one God, the Father, creator of heaven and earth, of all things seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father.

All things were made through Him and for Him. He is true God and true man. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and was born of the virgin, Mary. He suffered, died, was buried, and on the third day He rose from the dead. He ascended to the right hand of the Father, and He will return to judge the living and the dead. His kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord and giver of life, who eternally proceeds from the Father. He is Teacher, Comforter, Helper, and Giver of spiritual gifts. Through Him the saving and sanctifying works of Jesus Christ are applied to the life of believers. He is the empowering presence of God in the life of the Christian and the church. The Father has sent His Son to baptize with the Holy Spirit.

Speaking in tongues and bearing the fruit of the Spirit are New Testament signs of being filled with the Holy Spirit.

We believe that salvation is by grace through faith in the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross and that He died in our place. The believer’s sins are forgiven by the shedding of His blood. We believe that healing of mind, body, soul, and spirit is available to the believer through the blood of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. We believe in one baptism in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

We believe that the grace of God brings forgiveness and reconciliation to those who repent, as well as transformation in holiness, enabling them to live a Christ-like life.

Sanctification is both a definite work of grace and a lifelong process of change in the believer brought by the blood of Jesus, the Word of God, and the enabling power of the Holy Spirit.

We believe in one holy, universal church, composed of all true believers in Jesus Christ, offering fellowship and calling for service to men and women of all races, nations, cultures, and languages. We believe in the spiritual and ultimate visible unity of the church.

We believe that the Bible—both Old and New Testaments—is the inspired Word of God. The Bible is God’s revelation of Himself and His will to humankind, sufficient for instruction in salvation and daily Christian living. The Bible is the Christian’s rule of faith and practice.

We believe that God will ultimately reconcile all things in heaven and earth in Christ.

Therefore, we look forward to new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.

Executive Editor/Publisher: Tim Coalter Managing Editor: Marsha Robinson Copy Editor: Katherine Osborn, DMin Graphic Designer: Charlie Scruggs About the Church of God of Prophecy The Church of God of Prophecy is a vibrant, worldwide body of believers, united in worship, working hand-in-hand to share God’s love and a message of hope to the brokenhearted. The organization has more than a million members and more than 10,000 ministers, worshiping in more than 10,000 churches or missions in 135 nations of the world.

Church of God of Prophecy Core Values • Prayer • The Harvest • Leadership Development • Biblical Stewardship • Service Vision Statement Reconciling the world to Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit Mission Statement The Church of God of Prophecy is a Christ-exalting, holiness, Spirit-filled, all-nations, disciple-making, churchplanting movement with passion for Christian union.

General Presbytery: Tim Coalter: Presiding Bishop Brian Sutton: North America Clayton Endecott: Wider Europe and the Middle East Benjamin Feliz: Mexico/Central America/ Spanish-Speaking Caribbean Clayton Martin: Caribbean/Atlantic Ocean Islands James Kolawole: Africa Tim McCaleb: Asia/Australia/Oceania Gabriel E. Vidal: South America White Wing Messenger (ISSN 0043-5007) (USPS 683-020) is published monthly as the official publication of the Church of God of Prophecy, 3720 Keith St. NW, Cleveland, TN. Send all materials for publication to Editorial Department; PO Box 2910, Cleveland, TN 37320-2910; email: editorial@cogop.org; fax: (423) 559-5151. For a free subscription, email wwm@cogop.org, visit whitewingmessenger.net, or call (423) 559-5540.

Donations for the White Wing Messenger may be sent to the above address. All Scripture references are from the King James Version unless otherwise indicated. POSTMASTER: Send address change to White Wing Messenger, PO Box 2910, Cleveland, TN 37320-2910. Please submit all material to the White Wing Messenger; Managing Editor; PO Box 2910; Cleveland, TN 37320-2910; phone (423) 5595320; email us at editorial@cogop.org.

December 2024 • Volume 102, Number 4

F E AT U R E S 6 Waiting with Simeon: Discovering Hope, Peace, Joy and Love in Advent Albert Murza, MDiv 8 Reconnecting Kids with the Meaning of Christmas Rev. Joy Hensley 10 Christmas: A Social Priesthood Joseph Batubengele 11 Immanuel Changes Everything Mareleney Rodriguez 12 Celebrating Christ and Family Milly Medina 13 The Light of Christmas Alisah Dasher 14 This Is What We Know about Christmas: A Christmas Play Marsha Robinson 18 A Christmas Opportunity Patrick Bonhomme 19 A Family Celebration Simon Röck 20 Celebrating Christmas in Brazil Bishop Euler Cecilio, MDiv, DMin 21 A Christmas Legacy of Family and Faith Hillary Ojeda

COLUMNS 4 Facing Forward Bishop Brian Sutton, DMin

D E PA R T M E N T S 22 Children's Ministries

Celebrating Advent in the Home 28 Children's Ministries Advent Moments (An Advent Calendar) 29 Heritage Ministries

Gift of Light—Jesus Christ

30 Leadership Development & Discipleship

All the Ingredients Are Here

34 Global Missions

One Child Fund Christmas

Visit us online—whitewingmessenger.net The White Wing Messenger is a member of the Evangelical Press Association

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Joy WORLD FAC I N G F O R WA R D

TO THE

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (L U K E 2 : 1 0 – 14 N I V )

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n a world marked by pain, oppression, hopelessness, sadness, and lack, the angel of the Lord made a bold proclamation: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” This was not just joy; it was GREAT joy! That is the message: “Joy to the world, Jesus has come!” As we go into this Christmas season, I am reminded of my favorite Christmas song, “Joy to the World!” This song is heard all around the world in many languages. This bold proclamation made in Luke 2 by an angel is still being proclaimed today—we have joy, for Jesus has come!

We understand there is a great difference between joy and happiness. I often read surveys and statistics about happiness in society. In fact, many people in our world list “being happy” as the number one goal in life for them and their family. I have found that happiness can often be a fleeting concept. Many times, happiness is based on the events or circumstances of the day. Did I receive bad news about my job today? If so, I’m probably not happy. Did a family member or friend share with me today that they are sick or in pain? If so, I’m unhappy. Did it rain all day today when I had outside work or activities that needed to be completed? This also makes me unhappy. Happiness can slip away so easily.

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I asked ChatGPT a question about recent statistics regarding happiness. Here is the response I received: Recent statistics on happiness provide fascinating insights into how people around the world perceive their well-being. Here’s a summary of some key findings: 1. **Global Trends**: - According to the Ipsos Global Happiness 2024 report, 71% of people across 30 countries describe themselves as happy. This is an increase from 63% in 2020 but still below the 77% peak observed in 2011. The highest happiness levels were recorded in the Netherlands, with 85% of respondents describing themselves as happy, followed by Mexico at 83%.

2. **Top-Ranked Countries**: - Finland, Denmark, and Iceland remain among the happiest countries globally, with Finland scoring the highest at 7.7 on the Cantril ladder. These countries benefit from robust social systems, high trust in governance, and strong community support.

- Costa Rica leads in the Americas, emphasizing environmental sustainability and community wellbeing, while Australia and New Zealand show high happiness levels, partly due to robust healthcare and social safety nets.

3. **Challenges in Lower-Ranked Nations**: - Countries such as Afghanistan (2.4) and Lebanon (3.8) ranked lowest in happiness due to issues like political instability, economic hardship, and ongoing conflict.

4. **Generational Insights**: - The Ipsos study highlights a generational divide in happiness. Baby Boomers are more likely to feel in control of their lives (76%), compared to 65% of Gen Z. Mental health concerns also tend to be higher among younger generations.

These statistics reflect how happiness is shaped by a combination of personal, economic, and societal factors.

We recognize there have been times in our lives where we may not have been happy. However, if we ask ourselves the same questions about JOY, we may receive a different answer. We find that, according to God’s Word, JOY is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, meaning JOY can be implanted in our heart by the Holy Spirit when Christ dwells within us.

This JOY is not subject to circumstances or situations that

may thwart happiness. The joy that comes by the Holy Spirit, the joy proclaimed by the angel of the Lord, the joy we possess as children of the King of Kings, is great joy found in Jesus Christ alone.

I believe “Joy to the World” is our song for the world. It appears people all over the world are seeking. Many are seeking peace, acceptance, love, confirmation, happiness, stability, and a thousand other things. “Happiness” as something humanity seeks is often just a code word for “all of those other things” realized. This seeking takes us on a journey to fill a Jesus-sized hole in our hearts. We have the great news: Jesus is joy, and his joy supersedes any temporary happiness found in this world.

This Christmas season, let’s proclaim with the Psalmist, “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—shout for joy before the Lord, the King. Let the sea resound, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.

Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy. . . .” (Psalm 98:4-8) As we sing my favorite Christmas song this year, remember, we are proclaiming the joy that supersedes the temporary happiness found in this life. We are proclaiming joy found only in Jesus and freely available to all those who seek.

1. Joy to the world; the Lord is come; Let Earth receive her King; Let ev’ry Heart prepare him room, And Heav’n and nature sing.

2. Joy to the Earth, the Savior reigns, Let men their Songs employ, While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains, Repeat the sounding joy.

3. No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make his blessings flow Far as the curse is found.

4. He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove The glories of his righteousness, And wonders of his love --Isaac Watts, 1719

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WAITING WITH

SIMEON:

Discovering Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love in Advent Christmas is truly the most wonderful time of the year. Not only does it allow us to receive gifts from our loved ones, but more importantly, it allows us to remember the greatest gift that God has shared with us. Churches celebrate Advent prior to Christmas Day. While to some, Advent season can look like a Christmas countdown—and to be fair, we do have an Advent calendar—the Advent season is actually a time of waiting and preparation for the celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. I love an Advent calendar as much as the next person. I even have one next to where I drink my morning coffee, so I can have a small chocolate treat with my coffee each morning leading up to Christmas. But the essence of the Advent period is waiting and preparation before celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

A truly beautiful reminder of what it means to wait can be found in Luke in the story of Simeon. The theme of this story is simple: waiting with expectations and hope. I invite you to take a brief look at Simeon’s Advent story.

Hope

Simeon was a Jew who lived at the end of the 400 silent years, the time between the Old and New Testaments.

During this season, no prophecies were recorded. It is also commonly known that Israel was under the rule of the Roman Empire. In other words, the Israelites of Simeon's day were were captives, and they needed a savior. There were many prophecies foretelling that the Messiah was going to come

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and deliver Israel. This Messiah would rescue them. Of course, we now know that this Messiah came for the world, and not just to rescue the Israelites from the Romans. He brought salvation to the whole world. That said, just like every other Israelite, Simeon was also hoping to see the Messiah.

Simeon lived in deep hope of God’s promise that the Savior would come to redeem his people. This hope was active.

It was granted in prayer, faith, and anticipation. Simeon’s Advent began with hope that reminded him of God’s promise.

One thing I want to be sure to point out—after some time, Simeon received an answer from the Holy Spirit. “It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah” (Luke 2:26 NIV).

God had not left Simeon alone. He continued to be with Simeon and encouraged him. God showed his faithfulness to Simeon when he was hopeful about God’s promise. This was no longer a simple promise Simeon believed in because his ancestors had received it. The promise was given to Simeon personally.

Like Simeon, I invite you to place your hope in God’s faithfulness. I invite you to start this Advent season by trusting God to fulfill his promises. More importantly, Advent calls us to wait on God’s timing. Often, God’s timing is different from ours. But in the waiting, I want to remind you that God’s promises are “Yes” and “Amen” (1 Corinthians 1:20). He will not leave you.

Peace

Simeon began his prayer over Jesus, “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in PEACE” (Luke 2:29 NIV, emphasis added). There is no coincidence that Simeon met Jesus at the temple. It was not because he was some very important priest. No, it happened because the Spirit continued to be with Simeon. The Spirit led him, and Simeon responded to the Spirit’s moves. Simeon experienced peace because he simply continued to trust God to fulfill his promises. Beyond this, peace was also an answer to Simeon’s prayer. The Messiah Simeon saw was not the messiah people were expecting to see. Jesus was a newborn baby. Simeon’s story reminds us again that true peace comes from God, YHWH. Peace does not come from our own understanding or our own expectations. True peace comes when we follow the Holy Spirit just like Simeon. During the Advent season, Simeon experienced the peace that comes from God and not his own desires. Simeon’s story reminds us of the prophecy about Jesus in Isaiah—Jesus will be the Prince of Peace.

Joy

I will never forget the first time I was able to hold my babies.

Besides experiencing peace, my heart was full of joy. I can only imagine how Simeon felt holding Jesus as a baby, knowing that he was holding the promised Messiah. Scripture shows us that his heart overflowed with joy. He started praising God. Scripture does not tell us how old Simeon was, but most scholars believe he would not have been considered young. Regardless of age, Simeon was part of a nation that longed for an answer from God; and now, here Simeon is, standing and holding the answer to his prayers— and not only his prayers, but the answer to the prayers of his people. The Savior is here. God is faithful.

The third week of Advent provides us with an opportunity to reembrace the joy that Christ, the Savior, is born. The promise has arrived. Simeon’s joy reminds us again that, just as peace comes from the Lord and not from worldly possessions, true joy comes from God. As we reflect on God’s faithfulness during this Advent season, I pray that God will fill your hearts with joy, and it will overflow into every part of your lives. My desire for you is that you are so full of joy, people will still see Christ in you, even during this hectic season.

Love

As referenced earlier, Israel as a nation was expecting a messiah that would save them from the Roman Empire.

But the moment Simeon met Jesus, Simeon understood this Messiah was not just for the nation of Israel, but also “. . . salvation, which [God has] prepared in the sight of ALL

nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, . . .” (Luke 2:30–32). Simeon experienced a transformation in his heart.

His prayer now is a prayer of testimony that God’s love is for all people. The Messiah that he was hoping to see is not only for Israel, but the Messiah is for all of humanity. Advent concludes with the theme of love because it celebrates God’s unconditional love through the sacrificial gift of his Son, Jesus Christ. Simeon’s story reminds us that God loves all people.

Christ came to die for every person in this world. God wants to break the barriers that the enemy built to separate people.

God is extending his love to everyone in this world, not only to Israel. Advent calls us to reflect on how we can be the salt and light of God’s love to this world.

I genuinely believe that Simeon’s story captures the heart of Advent. It captures hopeful waiting, peace that comes with God’s presence, the true joy that we can experience through Christ, and finally, the transformational love for all people. As we go through Advent, I hope you experience these themes as Simeon experienced them in his life—not just as a tradition or a countdown for Christmas day—but as a period of transformation in our own lives and as preparation for celebrating the Messiah. This Advent season, let’s remember that the point of the Christmas season is not only about celebrating Christ’s birth, but also about letting God’s presence continue to transform us daily.

ALBERT MURZA, MDIV AMD ENDORSEMENT LIAISON AND SLS ACADEMIC DEAN Albert Murza is Endorsement Liaison for Accredited Ministry Development and Academic Dean for Spirit & Life Seminary. He grew up in Moscow, Russia, where his father serves as the national bishop for the Church of God of Prophecy. Albert attended European Theological Seminary in Germany, where he majored in Church Ministry with an emphasis in Christian Education, and he met his wife, Kristen. They were married in 2016 and soon moved to Cleveland, Tennessee, where they worked in youth ministries for several years. Albert graduated from the Pentecostal Theological Seminary in 2022 with a Master of Divinity degree and is currently pursuing an Ed.S. in Higher Education Administration at Liberty University. Albert and Kristen have two children, Analisa and Malachi. They are currently members of Hickory Valley COGOP in Chattanooga.

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RECONNECTING KIDS WITH THE MEANING OF

CHRISTMAS “Christmas is JESUS!” is a popular line in a children’s Christmas play we did at my local church many years ago.

All throughout the play, children would repeat this line. It seemed to be the main takeaway and teachable moment in every crisis and problem the characters faced. At the end of the play, it was the closing line that everyone, including the audience, was able to recite from memory.

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We know the holiday season is busy, and often we hear it preached and are reminded as believers that we cannot have Christmas without Christ. After all, his name is literally part of the holiday name, so how could we miss it? It may be cliché and overused, but for some reason, we use this time of year to remind ourselves and our children especially about the real meaning of the season. Perhaps we see the glimmer in their

eyes when we talk about presents or hear the excitement in their voice when they share all their hopes and desires for the holiday season. This can cause us to stop, pause, and evaluate if they are really getting it. After all, if following Christ is the most important decision a child could make, we do not want them to miss it. It is indeed something to be taken seriously. When we see kids excited about the decorations, treats, and presents, we can begin to place guilt and shame on ourselves for not “teaching them better” or “making them understand.” It can feel overwhelming, as if all our instruction has gone to waste.

rhythm, but they will develop deeper understandings and begin to ask questions to gain knowledge. We want kids to take ownership in their faith, and they do that by being active participants.

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Plan ways for kids to give rather than receive.

Children are naturally egocentric. It is not that they are intentionally trying to be selfish when moments in life come where they are given presents such as on a holiday or for a birthday, but their brains haven’t developed enough to realize that other people around them may have needs. Take time this holiday season to teach kids about the needs in their church, school, community, and world. Slowly, we can help them see the needs of humanity. Part of the mission of Jesus was to serve, and this should be modeled to our kids today. There is so much to be done; kids can serve with their families, their churches, or even find ways to give to others personally.

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Kids can still be kids. Having wonder and awe is part of their growth and development. In fact, sometimes we need to revisit that posture and attitude when it comes to our own experiences. It is okay for children to enjoy the holiday season and all the fun parts that come along with it. Surely, the Jesus in the Bible who blessed the children and told them to come to him would not want us rebuking our children for the same excitement the children had when they came to be with him then. All the anticipation and emotion that children have is part of their natural growth and development, not only physically and mentally, but also spiritually. Awe and wonder are connected to faith and hope; these are also direct results of the birth of Christ. As children experience these things, they are filled with faith in the God who loves them so much that he entered this world to have a relationship with even them.

Instead of entering the holiday season apprehensive and frustrated about what our children don’t know and don’t understand, let’s try to remember that Christmas is simply a time to reconnect our kids with the meaning of the season.

This means we are simply pointing our kids back to the foundation in Christ that they are already building, not trying to cram it into one week or month.

Here are some helpful things to remember: 1.

2.

You can, and should, teach Christmas all throughout the year. Jesus was born into a lineage. This means his family has roots that we can trace into the Old Testament and the New Testament before he made his earthly appearance. Our home and children’s ministries should be helping kids connect these dots all year long and year after year. The stories we tell and the lessons we teach were written as part of God’s story. The same Christ that came into the world as a crying infant was present in Creation. The Jesus that died on the cross was connected to the King David who defeated Goliath and killed lions and bears as a young man. We don’t have to wait until Christmas to tie all the pieces together. We also don’t have to wait until Christmas to tell the story of his birth. Look for the “Christ connections” in what you are teaching and sharing with your kids. If you are teaching the Bible, then you are teaching Christ. Not only is this reinforcing the story of Jesus all year, but it is practicing good theology.

Be intentional with your time together. Usually during the holiday season, although it is busy, families and ministries tend to spend more time together. Take time to create and cultivate teachable moments and experiences that engage children in focusing on Christ.

Christmas happens annually, so it is a great opportunity for churches and families to create traditions together.

As these traditions are repeated, not only will kids get in

Throughout this holiday season, remember that our children are already connected to Christ and his love. It is our responsibility as church leaders, teachers, and parents/ caregivers to simply help them to make a reconnection amid a busy time of year. With the right intention and purposely pointing them to Jesus throughout the year, the reconnection is simple, fun, and something to look forward to. Our desire should be to produce disciples of Jesus; disciples follow and journey together consistently and continually. Let’s get the kids, unplug for a bit, and reconnect this Christmas season.

R E V. J OY H E N S L E Y | I N T E R N AT I O N A L C H I L D R E N ’S M I N I ST R I E S E X E C U T I V E D I R E C TO R

Joy Hensley grew up in the rural hills of Huddleston, Virginia. At the age of 14, she said, “Yes!” to God’s call to serve and minister to kids. Since then, she has actively served in churches, camps, and various ministry environments both locally and internationally. In July 2016, Joy completed a Master of Arts degree in Ministry Studies through Lee University. Before serving as the international director of Children’s Ministries, she served as International Children’s Ministries English-language training specialist where she helped to train and develop resources and provide relevant content to churches and ministries. Joy lives in Cleveland, Tennessee, and enjoys traveling, reading, and being with the people she loves most.

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CELEBR ATING CHRISTMAS WITH WORLD LANGUAGE

CHRISTMAS : A Social Priesthood “And they will call him Immanuel (which means God with us)” (Matthew 1:23 NIV).

When the Magi visited the baby Jesus, they realized the importance and impact of his coming into the world. He was and is the Messiah who saves all peoples without distinction of race, origin, sex, or social status. The birth of Jesus confirmed the fulfillment of the long-awaited prophecy; it aroused so much hope and strengthened faith. The gospel found its earthly beginning in the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem and continues in our day.

Christmas, now celebrated among us, is a priesthood of all Christians and peoples intended for all. By singing the Christmas hymns and reading the prophecies foretelling the celebration, all participate in proclaiming the great message of salvation for humanity. There is no pastor or evangelist, missionary or minister of any kind, but all come together in one spirit to form a new cup—a new beverage, so to say—to save, heal, and bless the nations. Unlike Herod, who gathered the scribes and priests together for an evil purpose, Christmas opens the doors and lets all people in to join in the extreme joy of knowing Christ.

In popular social culture, especially in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a new birth is a special event. The whole family is joyful, and the entire village is excited to see the newborn and celebrate his coming into the world. They all prepare meals and gifts for the mother and child, and gifts also benefit other family members. In urban areas, the father’s and mother’s extended families prepare before the mother and child leave the maternity ward. Acquaintances near and far, and even strangers, are invited. On the appointed day, the people gather in the newborn’s home, shake his hand, carry him in their arms, caress him, and say blessings over him.

Sometimes the celebrations get out of hand.

In our local churches, the pastor and the church committee plan a budget for these events (and others) and extend

invitations to non-Christians and members of sister churches.

They provide for the administration of baptism and the covenant, the washing of the feet of the saints, and Holy Communion. Very often, the [unbelieving] guests respond favorably. The service is covered with a striking message.

And sometimes, the sisters in Christ busy themselves preparing a meal and refreshments for all. These events, like Christmas, are social events that bring the gospel message to all who participate.

Christmas is accepted by most of the population of my country, Christians and non-Christians alike, and it is an extraordinary event that cements interpersonal relationships and brings reconciliation. Yet, for the Christian, the celebration is quite distinct, as the birth of Jesus brings special benefits to humanity. If Jesus Christ had not been born, there would have been no gospel, no Pentecost, and no Easter; the Christian would not exist. The Bible would not have seen the light of day, nor would the church and its various denominations exist. Spiritual darkness would have wholly invaded the world, and eternal life in paradise would not have returned to the minds of humans. Christmas brought God down to earth with his love—Christmas, Emmanuel, God with us.

Christmas deserves to be celebrated, especially in our local churches, because it opens the doors to give people of different cultures access to the message of salvation starting from the manger. We find in it the joy that nourishes hope and confirms the promise of eternal salvation through Immanuel.

Those who reject Christmas have yet to experience the force of the nativity scene’s message. Christmas is a new hymn that changes hearts. Christmas is the power and greatness of the manger that breaks down barriers, reduces borders, and strengthens the hope of this eternal salvation for all in Jesus Christ.

J O S E P H B AT U B E N G E L E F R E N C H F R E E L A N C E T R A N S L ATO R F O R T H E W O R L D L A N G U AG E D E PA R T M E N T Joseph Batubengele was born in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). He holds a degree in personnel management and administrative organization from the Higher Institute of Personnel Management and a diploma in English from the School of Modern Languages of the University of Kinshasa. A member of the Church of God of Prophecy in the DRC for about 20 years, he was its secretary and national translator, national assistant manager of training, and assistant pastor in charge of the administration at the local church of Masina Q.3. He currently works with Global Communications as a freelance translator. Married, father of seven children, and grandfather of ten grandchildren, he currently lives in Kinshasa, DRC.

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CELEBR ATING CHRISTMAS WITH WORLD LANGUAGE

IMMANUEL

CHANGES EVERYTHING

I have lived in several countries, so I have had the opportunity to experience Christmas in different flavors and colors but with one common denominator: the celebration of the birth of Christ.

In these countries, Christmas Eve is the biggest celebration. Joyful music and traditional carols enliven the stores and neighborhoods, typical food and turrones fill the table, and decorations are put up well in advance and are not taken down until after Three Kings Day. Family and neighbors all come together to celebrate and share, and if someone cannot make it, a nice plate of food is brought home to bless them. That is the Spanish-speaking Christmas spirit I have experienced! The celebration begins at the beginning of December and ends after

Día de los Reyes on January 6. Christmas Eve is the celebration of the birth of the Savior of the world—joy and more joy.

Of all the Christmas Eves I remember, there is one in particular that I will never forget because it was the night my maternal grandmother and one of her granddaughters went to church and accepted Jesus as their Savior. That night marked my life forever, and every Christmas Eve I have lived since then, I always remember that redemptive experience. I saw the saving power of Immanuel, God with us, in action in the lives of two very dear people.

Thank you, Immanuel, because without you, Christmas would not exist!

M A R E L E N E Y R O D R I G U EZ S E N I O R S PA N I S H P R O O F R E A D E R F O R T H E W O R L D L A N G U AG E D E PA R T M E N T Mareleney Rodríguez serves as a senior Spanish proofreader for the World Language Department. She has been faithfully serving this department and the Church of God of Prophecy for over 25 years. She and her husband, Luis, are currently serving as overseers for the South Central Hispanic Region of the Church of God.

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CELEBR ATING CHRISTMAS WITH WORLD LANGUAGE

Celebrating Christ and Family Christmas in Puerto Rico is the happiest and longest season celebrated by all in my homeland! The Christmas spirit starts in November and lasts through January. It is lived in different settings by both the Christian and secular communities. Churches, shopping centers, public squares, neighborhoods, schools, and many other businesses like to decorate and make it all look beautiful. The festivities can quickly fill anyone’s calendar. There are Christmas concerts, plays, musicals, gatherings, and lots of opportunities to enjoy it all. For over 40 years, my family has kept the tradition of getting together on the closest day possible to Christmas Eve or Christmas Day so that we can enjoy a wonderful time of laughter, teasing each other, sharing jokes and stories, singing, and making great music together. We listen as several of my talented uncles and cousins play some of our typical instruments (cuatro puertorriqueño, güiro, guitarra, maracas, etc.) with elegance, while others join with their melodious voices. We also enjoy our traditional Puerto Rican Christmas meal (arroz con gandules, pernil, tembleque, and more) prepared to perfection by my aunts and helpers in the family. Making time to have a gift exchange can never fail among us. In short, this is a fun family time with no worries about the clock. We just want to honor Christ and celebrate his birth and life as a Christian family that has its own Puerto Rican style!

M I L LY M E D I N A S PA N I S H T R A N S L ATO R F O R T H E W O R L D L A N G U AG E D E PA R T M E N T Milly Medina was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in a Christian home where her parents served in ministry. She worked for 20 years as an executive secretary or administrative assistant in different offices for the Church of God. She currently serves as one of the Spanish translators and proofreaders for the Church of God of Prophecy International Offices. She and her husband of almost 26 year, Ruben Medina, have three awesome adult children: Ariana (23), Abdiel (22), and Daniel (18). To God be the glory!

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CELEBR ATING CHRISTMAS WITH WORLD LANGUAGE

The Light of

Christmas

Generally, it hits in November. Sometimes, it is a

bit sooner, when the cold and shortening of days make us painfully count each second walking in

the streets. Sometimes, a bit later, when the frenzy of Christmas is all you hear about wherever you go. But one thing is for sure—when December shows up, cities in France have on their sparkling coat. Just when all hope to see the sun seems lost, and shades of winter’s gray dye our days, the light starts shining. Wandering through what are most of the time only mundane alleys becomes an excitement for everyone when all the Christmas decorations invade town. Toddlers and elders stop their race against the clock to marvel at the new glow of their city. Magnificent lights cover our buildings and guide us during the oh-so-long nights. Whether it is a brilliant Christmas tree or a sheet of stars on top of our heads, these lights shine through the darkness as a symbol of what Christmas is about: the coming of a light pushing the darkness away; the coming of a light transforming our lens when looked at and through it—bad to good, mundane to glorious, hopeless to full of life; the coming of a light telling us that, even though winter remains, we don’t have to go through it in the dark.

E L I SA H D A S H E R F R E N C H / I TA L I A N T R A N S L ATO R F O R T H E W O R L D L A N G U AG E D E PA R T M E N T Elisah Dasher was born and grew up in France. After getting a bachelor's degree in medicine and studying for a year in Italy, she moved to the United States, where she serves as the French translator for the International Offices of the Church of God of Prophecy.

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THIS IS WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT CHRISTMAS A Christmas Play

(This play is designed to be read by two to 12 alternating speakers.)

celebrate about this worldwide party that happens every year?

What do we know about Christmas? Christmas is a happy time, a time for family and presents and special programs.

Like this one. Most of us know Christmas is about the birth of Jesus. Christmas happens all over the world as a time of celebration for Christians and non-Christians alike. The traditions are different from country to country, but they nearly always include a big meal, giving gifts or cards, enjoying church, or singing Christmas songs. But is there more than that? What should we know and remember and

The first people to know about Christmas lived long centuries ago before it even happened. They were called prophets.

In Old Testament times, God picked out one or two people to tell what was coming; Isaiah, Jeremiah, Micah, and even Moses wrote prophecies about the birth of Jesus. But despite all that advanced warning, not many people living during the time Jesus was born were ready for him or even recognized him when he came. One young girl was given a special message from God that he was going to be born. She was

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given the amazing news that she was going to be the one to give birth to him. I wonder if she knew just how magnificent this baby was going to be.

Mary had a conversation with an angel. She learned from him Jesus would be sent by God to save his people. The angel told her, “Don’t be afraid, Mary. You have found favor with God. You will give birth to a son, and name him Jesus. He will be a great man and will be called the Son of God. The Lord will give him the throne of his great, great-grandfather David.

Your son will be a king forever, and his kingdom will never end” (Luke 1:30–33, paraphrased). Yes, Mary and Joseph knew more than most people about this special child. Do you want to know more about him? If we could just travel with them to Bethlehem, experience the hustle and bustle, the uncertainty, and the miracle as God became a baby to live among us.

A little child, A shining star, A stable rude, The door ajar.

Yet in that place, So crude, forlorn, The Hope of all The world was born.

What do I know about Christmas? Christmas is full of a lot of hurrying and secrets and too many relatives in the house and strange food. That food! Is there a law that says we can’t have regular food for Christmas dinner? And having to spend all day with my cousins! Awkward and weird. But I get it. Christmas is extra special even with the mayhem. It’s not about the food or the presents or us anyway, right? I mean, it’s about Jesus. And on the night Jesus was born, there was no decorated tree or special food. It was pretty simple in that stable: a few people, a baby, some animals. But sometimes, Christmas is not so stable.

Even that night, just outside of town, it was a RIOT! It wasn’t kids or church folks singing that night; it was angels! Yeah, it was crazy on that hillside. Startled sheep, screaming shepherds, and a glowing gazillion shouting angels! Man! That would have been something to see!

What did those angels know about Christmas? They knew this was no ordinary night and that it was no ordinary baby over there in Bethlehem. The angels got so excited they ran right out of heaven to tell it! “Angel” means messenger, you know. God sent them with an astounding message for the whole world! He himself was making the way for there to be peace and compassion from God to people and from people to other people. His plan was to change history.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And,

lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, 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, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men. (Luke 2:8–14) Yes. Those angels knew plenty. And what they knew caused them to praise God! They sang, “Glory to God in the highest!”

That means they were praising God who lives in the highest place. I like to think it also means we should praise God in the biggest, most joyful way we can! Glory to God! So, what did the shepherds know about Christmas? Well, they would have missed it if they had not listened to God’s messengers. But wow! What they heard let them know something life-changing—world-changing—had just happened. After all, angel choirs didn’t sing every time a baby was born.

Well, I’m sure my dad heard angels singing when I was born, but he’d not had much sleep. Anyway, now those shepherds knew what the angels knew! This was an extraordinary night, and there was an extraordinary baby over there in Bethlehem. They decided to run and see it for themselves!

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord has made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

(Luke 2:15–20) Jesus spent his first night as a human in a stable, in the company of animals. I think it’s wonderful God included animals in the Christmas story. Even now, they’re everywhere at Christmas—camels and cows and donkeys and sheep—in outdoor plays, as decorations in our homes, on Christmas cards; even flying reindeer get to be part of Christmas stories.

What do the animals know about Christmas? Did those animals in the stable know the small human crying over there in the feed trough was the one who spoke the universe into W W M D E C E M B E R 202 4

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existence? Did they know he watches every bird and tenderly cares for all of his creation? After all, he made them, and they belong to him. On the day God made the animals, the Bible tells us that he pronounced it good. Did you know God is concerned about the way we treat animals? In Proverbs 12:10, the Bible says, “A righteous man cares for the needs of his animals.”

There’s even a funny, kind of silly myth about animals at Christmastime. Do you know about this? At the stroke of midnight on Christmas eve, animals TALK! Can you imagine?

If the myth were true, at the stroke of midnight, maybe you would hear your cat singing: “Oh, Christmas tree! Oh, Christmas tree! Your ornaments are history.” Maybe the dogs would talk among themselves: “Yeah, they call it a Christmas tree. I call it my very own, festively decorated indoor bathroom!” Maybe our pets would just address us directly: “Who knocked down the tree? Not me. It fainted.” The cat would definitely say something like, “Why are you in my house so much these days?” Or “Don’t blame the holidays; you were fat in August.” Well, let’s hope the animals continue to use nonverbal communication. I don’t think we want to know what they’re thinking. Let’s just keep the night silent.

We all know this about Christmas: There’s usually lots of visitors! Many people spend the Christmas season visiting neighbors and friends and family. They eat and sing loud and laugh. Baby Jesus had lots of visitors. On the night he was born, a group of noisy, excited shepherds came to see him, remember? Sometime later, several astronomers from another country showed up. Yep. Really. We hear them called wise men, magi. They weren’t your average working men.

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What did they know? A lot. See, these guys were like the college professors or scientists of their day. They studied and read, and then they talked among themselves about all the stuff they had studied and read. They understood astrology and astronomy, and everyone knew they were the smartest guys around.

They discovered a new, unusual star—St. Matthew’s account makes it sound like it was a comet. Those scientists knew the glowing object in the sky meant something, and they headed out to see what. Yeah, they knew a lot—about where they were going and what they were looking for—but they didn’t know every detail. So, being of superior intellect, they asked for directions. My mom says she knows a woman invented GPS because men think they have no need to ask for directions. Boom.

But these guys were not ordinary men. They asked. And WA LA! They found the house! They found Jesus! Sometimes you have to ask questions to find Jesus. And they were prepared to find him because they brought gifts. Expensive gifts: gold, incense, and a precious herb called myrrh—presents fit for a king.

“Heavenly Father, guide us, too. We need your light to shine and show us the way. Like those wise men, we need to find you. Like the shepherds, we want to listen for your message to us. Lord, what are you saying this Christmas, right now, to us? Help us to hear. Like Mary, we will respond, ‘Whatever you say, Lord, we will do.’ And we will keep all the things you say and ponder them in our hearts. Amen.”

Jesus Christ was born, and he is still alive! He lived, died, and rose again to conquer every obstacle between us and God. When Jesus said, “It is finished,” on the cross, he meant he had accomplished what he came to do—what he was born to do. Christmas is so much more than a day on the calendar. It was the beginning of a life lived to show us the way to love, to serve, and to really live the best life we can live.

So, what do we know about Christmas? A young girl said “yes” to God’s will for her life. Shepherds heard God’s messengers on a hillside and ran to see for themselves. The wise men launched out on a journey in search of Jesus and were rewarded with finding him. And the angels worshiped God and proclaimed his message of peace between God and mankind. Christmas brought joy to the world!

There is so much to know about Christmas. It is more than traditions, more than gifts and music. It is an annual invitation to learn more about Jesus. God did so much more when he sent Jesus than anyone expected. Jesus came to be Savior, Healer, Friend, Helper, Comforter. God with us. And even though they had heard he was coming for thousands of years, God still managed to do it so differently from what

anyone expected—so differently, they didn’t even recognize it. A virgin had a baby. Joseph was asked to believe the impossible. Shepherds saw things they had never imagined.

The wise men left their country not even knowing where they would end up. And the infinite, all-powerful God became a tiny, helpless baby. Yes, indeed, it was much more than anyone could have known. And even after all this time, Christmas is still more than we can fully know! The wonder of it moves us to think about it, talk about it, sing about it, and learn more about it every year. What do you know about Christmas? The real question is, what do you know about Jesus? He didn’t just come to lay in a manger; he came to live in your heart.

“Loving Father, we want to know Jesus. When this season is over, when the music is silent and the star has gone out, when the visitors are home and life returns to its ordinary rhythm, let what we have experienced and know about Jesus compel us to live the life he lived: to find the lost, heal the wounded, feed the hungry, release the captives, rebuild broken places, and make peace. Let us live forgiven and forgiving. For Jesus’ sake. Amen.” This is what we know about Christmas!

M A R S H A R O B I N S O N | M A N AG I N G E D I TO R Marsha Robinson is the managing editor of the White Wing Messenger. She is a contributing writer for the Regal Books anthology, I Believe in Miracles, and writes an online devotional, The Fragrance of Flowers. Marsha is an ordained COGOP minister actively working in prison ministry and community chaplaincy. She previously served on the Assembly Task Force and the International Assembly Expense Steering Committee, and is the current managing clerk for the International Assembly.

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CELEBR ATING CHRISTMAS WITH WORLD LANGUAGE In France, as in other parts of the world, endof-year festivities are being prepared earlier and earlier. As early as the All-Saints’ vacation, and even during the Halloween period, schoolchildren resting at home have the pleasure of discovering the first advertisements aimed at their dear parents. From dolls to board games to the latest video game, toy manufacturers are multiplying their advertising campaigns to reach as many children as possible and, in so doing, reap the greatest profits.

A Christmas Opportunity

But companies are not the only ones profiting from this period. For several years now, Christians in France have been using Christmas as an opportunity to evangelize. For example, attending a gospel concert in a shopping mall between two Christmas purchases or hearing a testimony from courageous Christians in the Parisian metro are not impossible things to experience.

It is also an opportunity for churches to organize special programs centered on the coming of Jesus, so they can invite family and friends to discover God’s love manifested in the person of Jesus. A time for exchanging gifts can be organized to foster brotherly love and tto ouch the hearts of young and old alike.

At a time when the Christian faith is increasingly under attack, Christmas in France remains a strategic time when Christians of all backgrounds can demonstrate their unity with love and wisdom and glorify Jesus Christ through evangelistic initiatives.

PAT R I C K B O N H O M M E

F R E N C H F R E E L A N C E T R A N S L ATO R F O R T H E W O R L D L A N G U AG E D E PA R T M E N T, PA R I S , F R A N C E Patrick Bonhomme grew up in the Church of God of Prophecy in the Paris region. He served faithfully for many years in his local church’s youth ministry and worship department. He has served as an evangelist and pastor and helped plant a local church. He is currently working on starting a new work. Whenever possible, he responds to invitations to sing and preach the Word of God in France and abroad. Patrick has been happy to work in the World Language Department for three years now.

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CELEBR ATING CHRISTMAS WITH WORLD LANGUAGE

A Family Celebration

For most Germans, and indeed, most people around the world, Christmas time is deeply connected to tradition and family. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, cities are decorated while Christmas markets set up show in the pedestrian zones, which are usually right in the heart of the bigger cities. But even smaller villages sometimes have their Christmas markets as well. The smell of sausages, mulled wine, and roasted almonds permeates the streets, while kids run around between the vendors’ stands, which are often decorated as small huts. It is a time to slow down and get into the Christmas spirit.

What is different from some other cultures is that Christmas in Germany is celebrated on the 24th of December. The morning is usually busy with work or preparations. In the afternoon, even people who normally do not go to church will often attend a service, so the churches are full. In the evening, the family gathers around the table, which often has simple food (a staple being potato salad and wiener sausages), since the day did not leave much time for preparation. After the food, the “Christ child” brings the presents, and the kids are allowed to open them.

Both Christmas and Boxing Day are public holidays in Germany, so there is ample time to spend with family, and this is where the more sophisticated meals are usually enjoyed. Here, the Weihnachtsgans (Christmas goose) is a staple, although a wide variety of food is enjoyed. All in all, as in many places, Christmas is a time to celebrate with family and enjoy the good side of life!

SIMON RÖCK E D U C AT I O N A N D T R A N S L AT I O N C O O R D I N ATO R F O R T H E C H U R C H O F G O D O F P R O P H E C Y I N W I D E R E U R O P E A N D T H E M I D D L E E AST Simon Röck is the education and translation coordinator for the Church of God of Prophecy in Wider Europe and the Middle East, co-pastor at the local COGOP in Erlangen, Germany, and instructor for Spirit and Life Seminary in Cleveland, Tennessee. He is married to Mutave and is father to three daughters: Cara, Talitha, and Alithia. Simon’s passion is to make room for the Holy Spirit to do what only he can do. He is also a passionate rock climber and runner.

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CELEBR ATING CHRISTMAS WITH WORLD LANGUAGE

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BRAZIL Christmas is a public holiday in Brazil, and being in the southern hemisphere, it takes place in the middle of summer.

As a holiday, Brazilians take the opportunity to spend time with family. The celebration takes place on Christmas Eve and lasts for hours. Giving Christmas presents is an important tradition in Brazilian culture, and people buy presents for the whole family, including uncles, aunts, and distant cousins. Gift exchanges take place after Christmas dinner, usually around midnight.

In Brazil, the Christmas tradition is to decorate homes with the Christmas tree, play Secret Santa, and to gather with friends and family around a bountiful table prepared with everyone’s help, where traditional dishes are anticipated throughout the year. These dishes include things like Brazilian sweetmeats like passion fruit mousse, Brazilian flan, pavé (a dessert similar to Tiramisu made using ladyfingers), rabanada (similar to French toast), and others, along with nuts (especially the Brazil nut) and tropical fruits (like mango, pineapple,

watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, papaya, orange, grapes, and banana). The main course usually comes with pernil assado (a type of a baked ham), turkey, arroz à grega (rice cooked with raisins and small pieces of vegetables) and white rice, beans, farofa (a traditional Brazilian side dish made with toasted yuca flour), salpicão (dish made with cooked shredded chicken and traditionally dressed with a mayonnaise base), and many other dishes.

Several towns and villages decorate the streets for the holidays. These decorations include flashing lights and some of the same traditional symbols popular in the United States and Canada.

Christmas is also a time to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and people are invited to attend the Christmas service celebration at church and to fellowship together.

B I S H O P E U L E R C E C I L I O , M D I V, D M I N

S PA N I S H / P O R T U G U E S E T R A N S L ATO R F O R T H E W O R L D L A N G U AG E D E PA R T M E N T Euler Cecilio serves as the Portuguese/Spanish translator for the World Language Department at the International Offices of the Church of God of Prophecy. He has a Master of Divinity, a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a Doctor of Ministry from Pentecostal Theological Seminary. An ordained bishop of the Church of God, he also serves as the overseer for the Portuguese-Speaking Ministry in the USA/Canada and pastors a local Portuguese-speaking church in Cleveland, Tennessee. He and his beloved wife, Sara, live in Cleveland, and they have two daughters and five grandchildren.

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CELEBR ATING CHRISTMAS WITH WORLD LANGUAGE Christmases in the southeastern state of Veracruz, Mexico, were a wonderful time for me to see family, to get in touch with my ethnic roots, and to learn more about my family’s culture. I was born into a COGOP family on my mother and father’s side, so our Christmases have been different from those of other Mexican families. In the downtown area of my parents’ hometown, Tres Valles, you could see the many wonderful decorations in the store displays and in the city square, and Christmas songs could be heard pouring out from homes and businesses. It was a marvelous display of colors, lights, and sounds.

While most families would celebrate the traditional posadas and go to evening mass, every Christmas Eve, my family and I would go to our local church for a Christmas Eve service where our pastor would preach on the wonderful coming of our Lord and Savior, and members of the church would share testimonies of the marvelous things God had done in their lives. After spending time in fellowship with our brothers and sisters at the local church, our family of 30-plus aunts, uncles, and cousins would head to my paternal grandmother’s house for Christmas dinner. As our main matriarch, her house was always our meeting hub. As a family, we would sit at the dinner table, pray over our meal, and give thanks to God for allowing us to spend time together. We would enjoy a delicious dinner of roast turkey with several fixings, and for dessert, we had the traditional manjar and hojuelas. While we enjoyed our meal, we would share memories, new stories, and a few jokes.

A Christmas

Legacy of Family and Faith

My grandmother has since passed away, but I still remember how welcoming her home was, and how she chose to decorate her Christmas tree with various types of chocolate candies and lollipops. That would ensure that her grandkids would help take down the decorations!

I cannot give an account of the “traditional Mexican Christmas” because mine was very different, and I am grateful for it. Through my grandmother, parents, aunts and uncles, and cousins, I learned to celebrate the season for its true purpose—our Father God loves us so much that he sent his only Son to come to this world to show us the Father and to suffer and die for our sins. What greater gift could we want?

The World Language Department wishes you blessings this holiday season!

H I L L A RY O J E D A

W O R L D L A N G U AG E D E PA R T M E N T C O O R D I N ATO R Hillary Ojeda serves as World Language Department coordinator for the Global Communications division at the International Offices of the Church of God of Prophecy and has worked for this department for 18 years. She has a tremendous passion to share God’s Word in every tongue in the world and is constantly seeking ways to bring this about. She lives in Cleveland, Tennessee, with her husband, Adrian, and has one daughter, Melina, and two sons, Adrian Vicente and Jared.

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CELEBRATING ADVENT IN THE HOME If there is one memory most children will remember, it is how they celebrated Christmas at home. It is usually a wonderful time of food, gifts, singing, and bonding together. My family and I celebrated Christmas as well, and I knew it centered on the birth of Jesus. At home, we had lights in our windows, a Christmas tree in our living room, and (best of all) presents under the tree.

When I had my children, I searched for a family Christmas tradition we could enjoy each year—one that moved us away from the commercialized version of Christmas to one deeply rooted in the Bible and Christian tradition. In my search, the Padron family encouraged us to adopt this rich tradition of celebrating Advent.

It started one Sunday in late November. The Padrons asked me if

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they could share their Christmas tradition with our church family throughout December. They brought an Advent wreath with colorful candles to our church and explained that Advent is a season of worshipping Jesus, the promised Savior who has come, and will come again.

What is Advent?

Advent means “coming” or “arrival.” It is a special time when the church remembers the promises of Jesus’ first coming and looks forward to his promise to come again. Just as John the Baptist told the Jewish people to “prepare” for the Lord’s coming, we are to encourage one another to be ready for his second coming. The

Christian church has observed the Christmas season since the 4th century, and this observance always included a preparation period before Christmas Day. In the 10th century, the Christian community settled on the four-week Advent pattern of preparation, which means we have been doing this for 1,000 years!

Why do we celebrate Advent?

This celebration is a powerful opportunity to rekindle or begin a devotional life for ourselves and our families. Advent can help us restore Jesus to the center of the Christmas celebration as we read, sing, and talk about the need for a Savior. The season is a time for remembering and rejoicing, watching and waiting. It is a time to reflect upon God’s promises and anticipate the fulfillment of those promises. We celebrate that God is faithful, he has been faithful, and he will always be faithful.

When is Advent?

The season begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and, depending on the year, can last from 22 to 28 days. Each of the four weeks features a different liturgical theme. However, the best celebration is the one that matches your family’s rhythm.

What do we need to celebrate Advent with our family?

It depends on how you want to celebrate. There are several different traditions people use to celebrate the Advent season. One popular tradition we have adopted in our family involves using our Bible, Advent wreaths, and candles. This symbolic tradition mirrors multiple expressions of light in the Old and New Testaments, and more importantly, Jesus being the light of the world. A new candle is lit each week in anticipation of the final lighting on Christmas Eve. Other helpful items include Christ-centered children’s stories for younger children and Christmas music.

What do the candles mean?

Laura Richie, author of The Advent Storybook, provides the following explanation: ●

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The first candle, the “Prophet’s Candle,” symbolizes hope.

The Old Testament prophets, especially Isaiah, hoped for the Messiah’s arrival.

The second candle, called “Bethlehem’s Candle,” represents faith. Micah had foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, forging a connection between Kind David and his coming descendent whose kingdom and throne would be established forever.

The third candle, the “Shepherd’s Candle,” symbolizes joy.

To the shepherds’ great joy, angels announced that Jesus came for humble, unimportant people like them.

The fourth candle, the “Angel’s Candle,” represents peace.

The angels proclaimed that Jesus brought peace on earth and brought people closer to God and each other again.

The (optional) fifth candle, “Christ’s Candle,” represents purity and light. It is placed in the middle of the wreath and lit on Christmas Day to commemorate the arrival of the Light of the World.1

Are there additional ways to use the Advent season to help us focus on Christ and others?

Yes! We have created this Advent Moments resource (located at the end of this article) to help turn everyday moments into memorable moments with God. Do as many of these activities as you want with your family.

An Opportunity for Discipleship In Psalm 78, the writer reminds us to “tell the coming generation [about] the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done . . . so that they should set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments (Psalm 78:4, 7 ESV).

Curriculum Developer Shawna Murlin writes, As we show our children God’s plan of redemption through a promised Savior, we pray they will see the glorious deed of the Lord. When we read about the multitude of angels, shepherds and magi worshiping Jesus, we show our children the might of our King. When we praise God for sending us Jesus, to save us from our sins, we can marvel with our children at the wonders He has done in saving us while we were yet sinners.

Let’s use the season of Advent to help our children in setting their hope in God, not forgetting His works, but keeping His commandments. Let’s start a new tradition . . . and set aside time each week around the table, before bed or even in the car to lead your family in purposefully reflecting on God’s greatest gift, our Savior, Jesus Christ!2 December is notoriously the busiest month of the year. Christmas programs at school and church, family gatherings, and last-minute preparations crowd out any free time. Creating space for your family to remember Jesus’ coming to earth to be with us is an opportunity for discipleship, not a task to be completed. With just a little bit of intentionality, start a conversation with your kids about Christ. You won’t regret it!

ADVENT CANDLE READINGS3 (Written by Dr. Andrew Gabriel, an ordained minister from the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada; shared by permission per his website, https://www.andrewkgabriel.com/2017/11/27/advent-candlereadings-families-children/) “Child 1” is a young child who needs help reading. Each reading will take approximately five minutes. _________________________________________________________

Week One, Advent—Hope Parent: Today is special because it is the beginning of a new season.

We call this season “Advent.”

Child 1: What does that mean?

Parent: “Advent” is a word that means “to come.” It is a time when we get ready, preparing ourselves for the coming of Jesus Christ. Jesus came when he was born on Christmas day.

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Child: What are some things that we might do to get ready?

Child: We should get our hearts ready by thinking about him.

Parent: What we are doing right now around our Advent wreath is a way of preparing for Christmas. This is the first Sunday of Advent.

Child 1: Today, we light one purple candle.

Discussion: ● ● ●

What is hope?

What are the hopes we have for our world today?

How does God give us hope?

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Week Two, Advent—Love

Parent: The traditional color for Advent is purple, which refers to the coming of the royal King, Jesus Christ. Purple is also a deep color that symbolizes spiritual darkness outside the light of Christ.

Parent: This is the second Sunday of Advent. Do you remember why we are taking time to be together around our Advent wreath?

Child 1: The first candle is the candle of hope.

Child: To remember that Advent is a time of preparation. During these days we are getting our hearts ready for the coming of the Christ Child. Today, we light two purple candles.

Child: (Light the first candle.) I lit this candle to remind us that we wait with hope for the day when we celebrate again the birth of Jesus. We hope that everyone will come to know God and worship God. All: Sing: “O Little Town of Bethlehem” or “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus.”

Parent: Hundreds of years before Jesus was born, God spoke through prophets in the Old Testament to tell people that the Messiah, Jesus Christ, would come. This candle of hope is symbolic of the long years of waiting and hoping for when Jesus Christ would come to save the people from their sins. Listen to the words of the prophet Isaiah.

Child 1: Last time we lit the candle of hope. (Light the first purple candle.)

Child: I will light another candle today, on the second Sunday in Advent, to remind us that Jesus came to earth to show and tell us of God’s love. (Light the second purple candle.)

Parent: During Advent, we remember again God’s gift of Jesus to the world and know that God’s love for all people is the reason for this gift.

Child: Love comes at Christmas in Jesus Christ.

Child: Isaiah 7:14- “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”

All: Sing: “Away in a Manger” or “Angels we have Heard on High.”

Child: Isaiah 9:2- “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.”

Parent: The prophet Isaiah reminds us of the hope that God gives us in Jesus Christ. We have many lights around us at Christmas time.

Parent: Matthew 1:18- “Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph.

But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Child: In Matthew 1:20 an angel told Joseph: “The child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. And she will have a son, and you are to name Him Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”

Child 1: The lights can remind us that Jesus is the light of the world.

Child (Prayer): Thank you, Jesus, for coming to earth, just like the prophets said, and for your promise to come again. Thank you, Jesus, for being our light so we know how to live. AMEN.

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Child: When we look at the second candle, we remember God’s love.

Child: John 3:16- “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Child 1: During Advent we remember God loves us.

Parent (Prayer): Thank you, God, for your Son, Jesus. Thank you that you love us so much that you sent your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to love one another, our friends at school, and people everywhere we go. AMEN.

Parent: When we look at the third candle, we remember God’s promise of joy. God promised to send a Savior to the people.

Discussion: ● How does God show us love by sending Jesus? ● Who are people we know that need the message of God’s love? ● How do we help others know God’s love?

Child: Luke 1:46-47: Mary said, “Oh, how my soul praises the Lord.

How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!”

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Child: When Jesus was born, the angels comforted shepherds with the joy of the good news.

Week Three, Advent—Joy Parent: This is the third Sunday in Advent. Do you remember why we are taking time to be together around our Advent wreath?

Child: To remember that Advent is a time of preparation. During these days we are getting our hearts ready for the coming of the Christ Child.

Child 1: On the first Sunday we lit the candle of hope. (Light the first purple candle.)

Parent: We wait with hope for the day when we celebrate again the birth of Jesus.

Child: On the second Sunday we lit the candle of love to remind us that Jesus came to earth to show and tell us of God’s love. (Light the second purple candle.)

Child: Today, on the third Sunday of Advent, I will light the candle of joy. (Light the pink candle.) Pink symbolizes a break in the darkness and a time of joy as Christ’s birthday gets closer.

Child: We have joy as we remember God’s gift of Jesus to the world.

Child: Rejoice!

Child 1: In the Bible, we read of Mary’s joy.

Child: Mary’s words can guide us to look for the joy of God even when things may be uncertain for us.

Parent: Luke 2:8-11: “There were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them.

‘Don’t be afraid!’ he said. ‘I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!’”

Child 1: During Advent, we rejoice.

Child (Prayer): Lord, today we rejoice. We rejoice because our Lord and Savior, Jesus, was born. Fill our hearts and our days with joy. We rejoice that you are with us always. Help us live in such a way that our words and actions help others know of the joy you give. AMEN Discussion: ● What is the difference between happiness and joy? ● What are our hopes for joy in our world today? ● How does God give us joy? _________________________________________________________

Week Four, Advent—Peace Parent: This is the fourth time we are celebrating Advent. Do you remember why we are taking time to be together around our Advent wreath?

All: Sing: “Joy to the World” or “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen.”

Child 1: To remember that Advent is a time of preparation.

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Parent: During these days we are getting our hearts ready for the coming of the Christ Child.

Child: The first time we lit the candle of hope. We wait with hope for the day when we celebrate again the birth of Jesus. (Light the first purple candle.)

Child: The second time we lit the candle of love to remind us that Jesus came to earth to show and tell us of God’s love. (Light the second purple candle.)

Child 1: We lit the third candle to remind us that the angels told the shepherds “good news that will bring great joy to all people.” (Light the pink candle.)

Parent: Today, we light the candle of peace. (Light the fourth purple candle.) Our world is not always a peaceful world. People sometimes hurt other people. But God promises peace. During Advent, we pray that we, as well as all people, will seek God’s peace.

All: Sing: “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” or “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear.”

Child 1: When we look at the fourth candle, we remember that the angels told the shepherds about the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ.

Child: Luke 2:13-14: “Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.’”

Child: Isaiah 9:6: “For a Child is born to us, a Son is given to us.

The government will rest on His shoulders. And He will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Parent (Prayer): Thank you, Father, for sending your Son, Jesus.

Thank you for those in our world today who seek to act for peace.

Help us look for ways to be peacemakers at home, at church and at school. AMEN. Discussion: ● What is peace? ● How does Jesus bring peace to the world? ● What are our hopes for peace in our world today?

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Christmas Day Reading Parent: Today is Christmas. The day we have waited for and prepared for is finally here!

Child: Today we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

Child 1: As we waited for this day we lit four candles.

Parent: The first candle we lit was the candle of hope. (Light the first purple candle.)

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Child: The second time we lit the candle of love. (Light the second purple candle.)

Child: The third time we lit the candle of joy. (Light the pink candle.)

Child: The fourth candle we lit was the candle of peace. (Light the fourth purple candle).

Parent: Today, on Christmas, we also light the center white candle.

This candle represents Jesus. When we light this candle, we remember Jesus’ birth. Our waiting has ended. (Light the center white candle.)

Child: Matthew 2:1-2: “Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, ‘Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw His star as it rose, and we have come to worship Him.’” Child: Matthew 2:10-11: “When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house and saw the child with His mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”

Child: Luke 2:11: “The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!”

Child: God used a star to guide the wise men to Jesus.

All: Sing: “Silent Night” or “Angels from the Realms of Glory.”

Parent: God has guided us to the true meaning of Christmas during Advent. God has come into the world in Jesus Christ to be with us so that we will experience God’s hope, joy, love, and peace.

Parent: When we look at the center candle, we remember that Jesus is the light of the world.

Child: John 8:12: “Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow Me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.’”

Child 1: God sent Jesus to give hope, peace, joy, and love to all people.

Parent: Far away from Bethlehem, wise men saw a star in the sky.

They remind us that the gift of Jesus was not just for the people in one place, but for all people.

Parent (Prayer): Thank you, God, for your Son, Jesus. Thank you for sending Jesus for all people. On this Christmas Day, help us remember and rejoice again because Jesus was born. Help us live every day remembering your love and care and showing that love and care to others. AMEN. Discussion: ● Why is it important that Jesus came into the world? ● How should this cause us to treat other people?

J O N AT H A N O L AVA R R I A C H I L D D I S C I P L E S H I P A N D FA I T H F O R M AT I O N S P E C I A L I ST Pastor Jonathan Olavarria serves as Child Discipleship and Faith Formation Specialist for COGOP International Children’s Ministry.

He is responsible for developing resources and coordinating training events that aid local church congregations and parents/ caregivers in sharing their faith and values with their children. Jonathan also serves as pastor of The Hub Church in Jersey City, New Jersey, a ministry of the Church of God of Prophecy. He and his wife planted this growing congregation in 2016. In addition to his church leadership, Jonathan has 15 years of experience in urban public education, having served as a teacher of history, special education, and bilingual education with middle and high school students. Most recently, he has served as a vice principal of a grade school in Newark, New Jersey, serving children from preschool through 8th grade.

Jonathan earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Kean University; a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University, and a Master of Arts in Religion concentrating in Urban Ministry and Christian Leadership from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He is pursuing his Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Leadership, also with Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.

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Laura Richie, “How to Lead Your Kids’ Ministry Through a Beautiful Advent,” Ministry Spark, updated April 20, 2021, https://ministryspark.com/ advent-in-kids-ministry/.

Shawna Murlin, “5 Ways to Have Advent Conversations with Your Family,” Awana, November 22, 2021, https://www.awana.org/2021/11/22/5ways-to-have-advent-conversations-with-your-family/.

Andrew K. Gabriel, “Advent Candle Readings for Families with Children,” Andrew K. Gabriel: Pentecostal-Charismatic Theologian, May 19, 2024, https://www.andrewkgabriel.com/2017/11/27/advent-candle-readings-families-children/.

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ADVENT MOMENTS TU R N E VE R Y DA Y MOME NTS INTO ME M O R ABL E MOMENTS WITH GOD

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LI G H T H OPE C AND L E D U RI NG D EVO TI ON MAK E S OMEO NE L AU G H

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MAK E A CH RI S TMAS CARD S

WRITE A THAN K Y OU NO TE TO S O MEO NE WHO H ELP S YO U A LOT

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SAY A PRAYER F O R EV E R Y O N E IN YOUR FAMILY

READ THE STORY O F JE S U S ´ B I R T H A L O U D O V E R H OT C O C OA

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L IG HT F A IT H CANDLE D UR IN G D E V O T IO N

DONATE TOYS TO A CHARITY

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A C T O UT T HE N A T IV IT Y HAVE A FAMILY GAME NIGHT

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MA KE HO M EM A DE ORNA M ENTS MAKE S OM ET HIN G Y UMMY T O T AKE TO A N EIGHBOR

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LI GH T J O Y CA NDLE D U RI NG D EV O TI O N COLOR OR PAINT CHRISTM A S P ICTURES F ROM THE B IB LE

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DO NA TE FO O D TO H O M ELESS SH ELTER

C REA TE A C H RI STM A S WI NDO W DI SPLA Y

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D O S OMETHING KIND F OR S OMEONE OU TS I ME YOU R F AMI L Y

REA D A C H RI STM A S STO RY

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D O S OMETHI N G KI N D F OR ANOTHER P ER S ON I N Y OUR F AM I L Y

WA TC H A C H RI STM A S MOVIE

10 15 MAKE A CHRISTMAS PLAYLIST & SING IT AS A FAMILY

H I DE A ND SEEK WI TH C A NDY C A NE S

LI GH T PEA C E C A NDLE DU RI NG DEV O TI O N

LI GH T PU RI TY C A NDLE DU RI NG DEV O TI O N

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20 25 O PEN PRESENTS ON C H RI STM A S M O RNI NG

Gift of Light—Jesus Christ A Savior has come: a Savior who brought light to the darkness, a Savior who brought grace to the graceless, a Savior who brought hope to the hopeless.

Reflecting on the coming of the Savior as a babe in a manger, we are reminded of the very reason He came—we needed a Savior. Humanity was lost and could not find its way to truly understand who God is; it could not understand the depths of His love and grace. And so, the God of heaven sent His only Son to come to demonstrate to us the width, height and depth of God’s love.

From His coming, we have been left with a ministry as Paul calls it in 2 Corinthians 4: Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart. But we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake. For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:1-6 NKJV)

Christ came to declare the glory of God the Father. Christ came to give knowledge to those who could not fully grasp an understanding of who God is. Christ came to give light in the darkness. Christ came to give us the gift of grace so that we, too, may share that gift with a world that needs to know God. Paul says that God has “shone in our hearts to GIVE the light.” We have been given light that we in turn might give light. The light is not for our own reception, though we receive it. The light is not for our own hiding it under a bushel. The light given to us is so that we, too, might give the light of the knowledge of who God is in Jesus Christ to a world that needs to know Him. Our message is not a message of self-gratification, self-glorification, or self-exaltation. Our message is a message of gratifying the Father, glorifying God, and exalting the King of kings and Lord of lords, with the hope that “the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should [would] shine on them [the lost of this world].” As we lift Him up, He has promised that He will draw all of humanity to Him (John 12:32).

And so, we manifest the truth of who Christ is—a Savior born to redeem humanity from sin and separation from God, and to bring us back into knowledge of who God is. We handle the Word of God with intention and care, allowing the Word to speak life into the lives of others, allowing the Word to demonstrate grace to those undeserving, allowing the Word to cleanse of all shame and regret, and allowing the Word to fill with hope and assurance.

We have a ministry. So, keep on sharing the ministry of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The gift we have to give today is this ministry—this hope—that Christ was born, Christ lived, Christ died, and He rose again so that we too might have life and have it in its fulness.

Give light to this dark world— the light of Jesus Christ.

He is our light, and He is our hope.

Bishop Todd D. Bagley Executive Assistant for Finance & Administration Heritage Ministries Coordinator Assembly Force W W MTask DEC E M BMember E R 202 4

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All the Ingredients Are Here During the Christmas holidays in North America, and particularly in the southern states, many people enjoy a good homemade dessert. One of the all-time favorites is the pound cake—that sweet but simple goodness that brings the taste buds alive and lingers on the back of your tongue even after you have swallowed. It makes my mouth water just thinking about it. You know what I’m talking about. Wow! It is sooooo good!

But making the pound cake is a process. Getting the crust of the cake just right and getting the right consistency and texture with just enough moisture and density to make it melt in your mouth requires skill and process. For many people, it takes a few times trying to get it just right. It also requires having and adding the right ingredients at the right time and

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in the right measures to produce a cake that makes everyone want another slice. Thus, it is extremely helpful to have someone who has baked the cake before to show you the ropes.

What are the main ingredients in a pound cake? There is flour, butter, eggs, and sugar. Some bakers add sour cream and various flavors like vanilla, almond, lemon, or even chocolate; but without the main ingredients, it will never work. For example, try making a pound cake without the flour (the character of the cake), and what you end up with is sweet, scrambled eggs—not too appetizing! It takes all the ingredients in the right measures to produce the perfect pound cake. And it requires the right environment, process, and patience.

Pound cakes, because of their girth, require a little more time in the oven at a lower heat than the ordinary cake. And the oven temperature can vary based on the shape of the cake you bake (bundt or loaf), as well as elevation, varying climates, and context. The oven must be preheated and ready to receive the batter before it can become a cake.

Missing any of the ingredients and/or not following the outlined process will give you a different result than the one you desire. Done correctly, not only does the cake taste great, but it also fills the house with an irresistible aroma.

God is a God of plans, process, and skill (Jeremiah 29:11).

He designs and plans, intending to bring our lives to the end that he created us for (Jeremiah 1:1–6). This “end” is for us to be his disciples. He calls us (Mark 3:13–14; Matthew 4:18–22) to be with him as his disciples, and to go and make disciples (Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 1:4–8). He provides us with all the ingredients necessary (Matthew 5:3–11; Acts 2:1–2, 42–47; Galatians 5:22–23; 2 Peter 1:3–8) so that nothing is lacking, and he places us in the environment that needs us most. There he grows and develops us, and makes us his irresistible, sweet-smelling savor (2 Corinthians 2:15–16), meet for the Master’s use.

This Christmas season, take some time and consider the main ingredients (characteristics) of a disciple. See Matthew 5:3–11, Acts 2:42–47, Galatians 5:22–23, and 2 Peter 1:3–8. Make notes about what you see in the Scripture. Then consider which of these characteristics you have felt God helping you to grow in over the past year. Which of these characteristics challenge you the most? Now, take these challenges to God in prayer. God is ready to help us to be more like him, and he has provided all the ingredients we need. Remember, his plans for you are perfect, so . . . “go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19–20; Mark 16:14–18; Luke 24:44–49; John 20:20–21; Acts 1:4–8). Go and be that irresistible aroma in this world.

B I S H O P J E F F E RY D AV I S L E A D E R S H I P D E V E LO P M E N T AND DISCIPLESHIP EXECUTIVE D I R E C TO R Bishop Jeffery A. Davis serves as the executive director of Leadership Development and Discipleship for the Church of God of Prophecy and is a member of the Corporate Board of Directors. He has served as state bishop of North Carolina and California. Prior to becoming state bishop, he pastored in California for 17 years. For 25 years he worked full time in the multicultural, multi-ethnic communities of Los Angeles, California for the Pacific Asian Consortium of Employment as a teacher, Parent Education coordinator, and Family Literacy director. Bishop Davis is a graduate of Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts degree in Religion.

He is married to Terry, and they have two adult children.

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Merry Christmas!

Fields of the Wood staff and Bishop Todd Bagley extend a heartfelt Merry Christmas to all of you.

We appreciate you and are thankful to those who have given gifts this year of finances, time, and energy. Our park is being revitalized because of your generosity. May your time of celebrating our Savior be joyous, and may the New Year bring the blessings of God upon you as you serve Him.

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OCF Christmas Just about all of us are familiar with the Operation Christmas Child shoebox drive. Perhaps you have even filled a shoebox yourself for Christmas. It’s so fun going to the store with our kids, letting them pick out little gifts and items to add to the box. We love sharing this time with our fellow church members, coming together to pack the boxes and praying over them before they go out around the world. It is a great ministry!

There are over 800 children that are a part of the One Child Fund ministry.

As much as we would love to, we are not able to do a similar ministry with shoeboxes due to shipping costs and shipments being seized by customs.

However, each year we do send enough funds to provide each child with a gift, a new outfit/jacket, and a special dinner. Over 500 of these children are living directly under the umbrella of a Church of God of Prophecy sponsored orphanage and children’s home. These kids are our family.

Both ministries are important to needy children around the world. During this season of giving, we ask that you don’t forget our own kids who desperately need the reminder that they are loved and cared for by their church family. If you would like to help provide Christmas joy to our kids, please send your donation in by December 9th.

Shelly

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OCF Christmas P.O. Box 2910 Cleveland, TN 37320-2910 423.559.5209 www.globalcogop.or/donate

Merry

Christmas FROM THE CHURCH of GOD of PROPHECY INTERNATIONAL OFFICES

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