2018 Advent Devotion

2018 FREDERICKSBURG

advent

ADVENT | A TIME OF WAITING AND LIVING IN BETWEEN

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DEVOTIONAL

BAPTIST

CHURCH

Dear Friends, In our world today, we are aware that physical safety is fleeting. In the Old Testament, assurance of safety emanating from confidence and trust in God was a highly-prized perspective for lifelong relationships with God and others (Proverbs 3:23-26). It is a fact that our relationships, our economics, our health, and others’ treatment of us can be beyond our complete control, resulting in fear, anger, doubt, mistrust, and a dread that no matter what we do no positive change is possible. We can especially doubt that anyone cares or hears us when we cry out, “How long?” (Psalm 80:1-7).

Our spiritual safety, on the other hand, can be something that grounds us in times of hurt, confusion, and chaos. The New Testament focuses more on spiritual safety, often shorthanded as salvation (John 3:17; Acts 2:21, 4:12; Romans 10:9; Ephesians 2:8). Salvation or spiritual safety casts out fears that could keep us from reliably loving God and others. If we can come to trust in God’s being for us with a covenant love that will not let us go, we may get to a sense of peace beyond all understanding and grow in reliable love. Again, and again, in the Bible, those who know exile and loss but remain with God also come to know God’s care that may be hidden but is still active in such times. Peace in our hearts only comes, though, over time, in prayer, with help and interest from friends and strangers who remind us that the love of God is still present and active in the world around us. In Christ, then, we are given the ability to develop ears to hear, hearts to be concerned, voices to plead God’s help for others in their distress, and hands to address physical and mental assaults of friends, family, and strangers that could diminish awareness of and belief in God with us.

Advent is a time of waiting and living “in between.” At the time of Jesus’ historical birth, the people were waiting for a Messiah to save them from the oppressions of daily life. Their lives were moving ahead but their desire was for a greater peace and sense of God with them. God sent them a baby who would teach them how to weather life’s storms together, how to increase their love of God and others, and how to defeat the fear and anxiety of death through the hope of resurrection. Jesus came affirming that in this “in between” life there will be trouble, but, if we can hang on to God and one another in the Spirit, God is powerful to save and restore us. Rejoicing and peace will return!

Participating with the Spirit This year’s lectionary readings aim us toward

Each Saturday, after you have had the time to

remembering and yearning for the peace that

reflect and live into the sense of the scriptures

God promises for the world, especially in the

studied, we encourage your taking some time to

midst of trouble. Our writers have vulnerably

write about your experiences. What have you

shared their true stories of living “in between.”

learned? How has your perspective about God and

They have written about their times of personal

others been challenged or confirmed? What is

upheaval to encourage our growth in yearning

your role in affirming another’s hope in God? Can

for God’s peace to come to us and all the world.

you say with the psalmist (Ps. 80:1-7), restore us,

Each week’s writings will move the writers’

shine on us, save us and sincerely cry out “How

stories along. Each same weekday (Monday-

long?” with those who suffer? Will you realize you

Thursday), the same writer will share another

have a part to play in making living “in between”

episode in their journey that challenged their

not only bearable but also joyous?

faith but eventually led them on to know their hope is in the Lord. A teenager, a twenty-

On Sundays, we will gather around the week’s

something, a forty-something, fifty-something,

Scripture for worship. Each Sunday’s joint, voiced

and sixty-something will offer their sacrifice of

prayer for realizing our need of God’s mercy is

praise, connecting their story with God’s story,

included for each week. Enter into the prayer

for your growing to trust and hope in the Lord

yourself ahead of time in preparation for Sunday’s

in the “in between.”

prayer together. In worship we will participate in being re-created as a people who desire to

On Fridays, we will encourage your acting as a

worship God, a people who know and trust God’s

result of the week’s times of devotion. In week

love to forgive and make new, and a people who

one, you will be encouraged to consider how

are seeking to become reliably loving and peace-

you can help another or yourself know God’s

restoring in the relationships of their daily lives.

safety. In week two, you will be encouraged to assess your relationships and do something to

Time is precious. What redeems its loss or waste

support them in reliable love, like Jesus’

is our participation with the Spirit on our way

reliable love that is self-giving. In week three,

home to God. Becoming better, more reliably

you are encouraged to think about rejoicing in

loving friends of God over a lifetime is our goal

God’s steadfast love by bringing the celebration

(John 15:15). In the meantime, we are living the “in

of the season to another. In week four, the

between” times of disharmony and disordered

beauty of God’s peace comes through the

love together. This Advent season, let us aim at

passages, for encouraging our helping others

helping one another and our neighbors know God

to recognize and proclaim the excitement of

with us for their knowing and welcoming God’s

God with us.

ultimate peace and perfecting love when it comes.

Family & Faith "Talk with your child about when they feel safe and unsafe. Ask them to whom they’d go when they are afraid. Offer God and yourself as listeners who they trust with their thoughts and feelings."

try this!

NOVEMBER

26TH

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DECEMBER

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November 26 JEREMIAH

33:14-16

The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land.

In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is the name by which it will be called: 'The Lord is our righteousness.'

I wanted to have friends who liked me, and I thought the new school would be safe. I never thought that the way God made me would cause me so much trouble. Saying mean things, making fun, being scary, and taking things from someone else aren’t things I would ever do to anybody. Why me, God, and why doesn’t anyone listen?

Jeremiah 33:14-16 talks about the Lord’s justice as something that is coming and will restore safety. I don’t want anything bad to happen to anyone, even someone who has hurt me. What I do want, though,

Reflect on this When have I known a loss of safety? How did I feel?

What did I do?

is that no one would disturb my peace on purpose.

I’ve cried a lot waiting to feel loved and not hated.

Feeling loved just as I am is all the justice I need.

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, we turn our eyes to you and your steadfast love. In times of trouble, teach us to wait and seek the return of your peace in our lives. I need you to hear me about… and

safety [noun] /ˈsāftē/

bring some light and love for change to...

the condition of being protected from or unlikely to cause danger, risk, or injury.

MONDAY

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November 27 PSALM

25:1-10

Of David.

To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.

O my God, in you I trust; do not let me be put to shame; do not let my enemies exult over me.

Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame; let

I HAD TO BELIEVE THAT GOD WOULD KEEP MY SON SAFE AND KEEP ME SAFE AND GIVE ME STRENGTH TO CONTINUE TRYING TO FIND HELP FOR HIM.

them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous.

Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths.

Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long.

Be mindful of your mercy, O Lord, and of your steadfast love, for they have been from of old.

Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for your goodness' sake, O Lord!

Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in the way.

He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way.

All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep his covenant and his decrees.

My son’s brain was on fire! Many years of untreated depression lead to anxiety which led to psychotic thoughts. Overnight, my normal life as I knew it became a minefield. I longed for a safe place to hide from the craziness.

Psalm 25:1-10 says to put your trust in the Lord. I had to believe that God would keep my son safe and keep me safe and give me the strength to continue trying to find help for him. I had other responsibilities that needed me to carry on as normal. It was a very scary and lonely time. I cried out to God many times asking “why me” but I always trusted in him.

Reflect on this

Prayer Focus

What difference does my trusting God to bring

Living the “in between,” dear God, we need your

peace to a situation make? How am I using worry

help. Increase our trust in you. Teach us to be

free times to build up my trust in God?

honest with you and with others about our fears and pain. Nudge us in the right directions. Restore to us a sense of safety. We yearn for your nearness.

I need to hear you speak into my life about…

TUESDAY

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November 28 1

THESSALONIANS

3:9-13

How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy that we feel before our God because of you?

Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith.

Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you. And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.

Growing up in Fredericksburg Baptist, an ideal was formed on what church looked like for me as an adult. It was family. Not unlike many who have to navigate divorce, I was hurt, I was confused and the world was now going to be different for me. In this time of my life, I had a great deal of stress and was unsure of most things. Church was one of them. I was surrounded by so many people whom I had known for years, but I felt alone.

In 1 Thessalonians 3 9-13, Paul is writing about how we can return thanksgivings to God and how to fill gaps in our faith. Paul also asks how we can love one another in an unbounded way.

Reflect on this When have I been disappointed in a close relationship? How did this affect my relationship with God and being with people at church?

When I think of this time in my life, it is hard for me to see myself reconciling my feelings with these words. Even though I still had tremendous blessings, such as my supportive family and daughter, I was not feeling thankful for much. My love for others was very guarded. I just wanted to protect myself from pain. It was

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, help us to

hard to turn to God. I had the attitude of ‘What do I do now just to make it through the day?’

recognize your presence with us. Let us sense your love. Increase our gratitude for things that remain when all else may seem lost. Help us to find your comfort. We anticipate the return of your peace and safe living without anxiety. I am anxious about… but am grateful for…

WEDNESDAY

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November 29 LUKE

21:25-36

'There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.

Then they will see "the Son of Man coming in a cloud" with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.'

Then he told them a parable: 'Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near.

So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have

He was screaming in agony, repeating again and again, "I can't feel my legs!" I stood beside him, trying to comfort him and make him feel safe. It was all I could do until the ambulance showed up. God prepared me for this moment. He kept me calm and collected. I kept telling myself "he is alive and that's all that matters. Whatever else comes of it, O Lord, I trust you."

Luke 21:25-36 says to be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down [..by] the worries of life and that it doesn't catch you unexpectedly.

Although I prayed for my (now) fiance's safety and health everyday, I was prepared when tragedy struck. I was still terrified, but I felt so calm - I had to be for his sake.

taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.'

'Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day does not catch you unexpectedly, like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.'

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, it is sometimes hard to know how to spend our time.

Our love for you can become disordered, and when it does, we need the Spirit’s help to sort things out again, to see a way forward, to make room in our lives for the coming of your peace in Christ again. I know I need to…

Reflect on this How do I deal with a crisis? How have previous conversations and experiences with God prepared me? Can I remember a time that my trust in God has calmed me? How is a sense of calm and the peace of God similar? Do I equate God’s being near with a sense of peace, and, if not, will I begin to do so?

THURSDAY

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November 30-December 2

Activity

Reflect

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Pray

Worship

FRIDAY

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November 30 Spend time this Friday engaging in activity around our theme and devotions for this week. This Friday, you are encouraged to consider how you can help another or yourself know God’s safety.

As you are participating in the activities of the week, pay attention to how you experience safety with all 5 of your senses. Your physical and spiritual senses work together to increase your awareness of God in the ordinary acts of each day.

try these!

Purchase socks for Micah Clients.

TOUCH

Purchase underwear for Micah Clients.

SIGHT

HEARING

safety

Purchase blankets for Micah Clients.

Tell someone how they make you feel safe.

What is your comfort food, blanket, location?

TASTE

SMELL

List ways you make others feels safe.

How do others make you feel safe? – Write them a note or send a text letting them know.

Pay attention to how you experience safety with all 5 of yours senses.

share your adventures with us!

#FREDBAPADVENT2018 FRIDAY

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December 1 Take some time to reflect and write about your experiences. What have you learned? How has your perspective about God and others been challenged or confirmed?

December 2 JEREMIAH PSALM

Will you make time to join us in worship?

33:14-16

25:1-10

O Holy God, you have told us that the days are surely coming when we will proclaim that you are our righteousness, that you are our peace and safety. Christmas joy and peace will be every day, but, until that time, we persevere together in hope. We know in our persons, in our homes, in our schools, on our streets, at our work, and in our world that we need your peace and safety. We know that all your paths are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep covenant with you. Lead us in this Advent season to yearn for the fullness of you and your ways in Christ to come upon us. Make us signs of your love along the way.

Forgive me for the ways I have disturbed your intentions for a world of wholeness and perfect love. I lift up my soul to you, O LORD. Holy Spirit, come to challenge and to comfort. [pray silently]

SATURDAY

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try this!

Family & Faith "Talk with your child about how we are in

relationships as friends and as family and how we sometimes hurt one another and need to heal. Ask them what helps them feel better when they are hurt. Ask them if they know that God and you love them and are there for them.

Remind them that God will never leave them and is always there for them even when their parent cannot be there."

DECEMBER

3RD

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December 3 MALACHI

3:1-4

See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. But what can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears?

For he is like a refiner's fire and like fullers' soap; he

Reflect on this What has caused or could cause me to doubt myself and doubt God?

will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years.

relationship [noun] /rəˈlāSH(ə)nˌSHip/ the way in which two or more concepts, objects, or people are connected, or the state of being connected.

I tried telling teachers, counselors, and the principal. There was no evidence so nothing to be done, but my hurt was real. Every day they picked at me until I couldn’t stand it anymore. I couldn’t

Prayer Focus

concentrate in school or on schoolwork. Finally, I

Living the “in between,” dear God, it can feel

didn’t even want to tell my family about things

like you aren’t here. We can lose our sense of

that kept happening. All I had left was to pick at

your being with us and for us. While I may be

myself.

stronger and better for going through difficulties, I need your help to keep loving

Malachi 3:1-4 is a reminder that Jesus will come

myself like you love me. God, help the people

in judgment. I’m okay with that. I’m kind and

around me to know how to love me by… Help

gentle. I love God and others. Where I may fall

me to turn to you more and more while I wait.

short, though, is in the love I have for myself. If God would come and wanted to talk about how I’d done at loving myself, I’d have to say that the world really got me there. I’d have to say that I needed God’s help in loving myself again.

MONDAY

• RELATIONSHIPS | WEEK II

December 4 LUKE

1:68-79

'Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has looked favorably on his people and redeemed them.

He has raised up a mighty savior for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we would be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us.

Thus he has shown the mercy promised to our ancestors, and has remembered his holy covenant, the oath that he swore to our ancestor Abraham, to grant us that we being rescued from the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.

And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins.

By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high

I found that most people (friends or acquaintances) wanted to help but had no idea how to help. I would always suggest that they pray for my family without giving more details. I found that if I mentioned that my son was mentally ill, most people assumed he was crazy.

Some days I felt so alone in the world.

Luke 1:68-79 encourages us to have patience. I struggled being around people whose lives seemed to be perfect. I found comfort in being around those who were struggling as I hoped I could help them since I couldn’t help my own son. Instead of focusing on the big unsettled picture, I found comfort in small things, such as a kind police officer who treated us with dignity and respect.

will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.'

Reflect on this

Prayer Focus

What am I doing now to learn patience when I

Living the “in between,” dear God, your words

encounter small irritating circumstances? Am I

of promise to restore peace can become

giving voice to my life by praying to God morning

muffled and even lost to our hearing. Being

and night, already sharing joys and

with others can be painful. Make us aware of

disappointments and asking for God’s transforming

your presence in them through love. Remind

love in my life? Am I beginning to mark small

us of your coming peace. If someone would

changes, to see tiny glimpses of God’s light of peace

only …, then I think I could …

when they occur, while I wait for God’s fuller peace to come at Christ’s return?

TUESDAY

• RELATIONSHIPS | WEEK II

December 5 WHILE THE PAIN WAS PHILIPPIANS

1:3-11

LESSENING I STILL FELT VOIDS

I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. l am confident of this. that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to

AND LONELINESS; IT JUST WASN'T CONSTANT NOW. HOW DO I FILL THE VOID I FEEL?

completion by the day of Jesus Christ. It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because you hold me in your heart, for all of you share in God's grace with me, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the compassion of Christ Jesus.

And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight to help you to determine what's best, so that on the day of Christ you may be pure and blameless. having produced the harvest of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God. Reflect on this How have I or do I navigate relationships when I’m in pain? Do I place myself in positions with people and God to move forward or do I withdraw? What could I do differently that could be more positive for my returning to life in God and others?

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, your words of promise to restore peace can become muffled and even lost to our hearing. Being

I tried to be as normal as what I thought the new normal was going to be. I was seeing a counselor. I was talking with Larry. I was establishing new friend groups because those changed, too. I was trying to figure out my role at church. I started teaching Sunday morning Bible Study and became a Deacon. While the pain was lessening I still felt voids and loneliness; it just wasn’t constant. How do I fill the void I feel? I found temporary relief with family and friends, but the loneliness would always come back when I was by myself.

As I read Philippians 1:3-11, I wish I had the confidence in God that Paul expresses in these passages all the time. Paul’s thanksgiving and solace in God is unwavering. While I was healing, felt accepted and moving forward in my life, there were still times of doubt and pain. I think of Paul being persecuted and imprisoned and he was able to be thankful and faithful. Looking back, I wonder if I could have had the same unwavering faith, how would that time look to me now?

with others can be painful. Make us aware of your presence in them through love. Remind us of your coming peace. If someone would only …, then I think I could …

WEDNESDAY

• RELATIONSHIPS | WEEK II

December 6 LUKE

3:1-6

Reflect on this Sometimes we fail one another in the very

In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius,

times when we need one another most. Am I

when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod

aware of others’ needs during extended times

was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the

of difficulties? How well do I do at letting

region of Ituraea and Trachonitist and Lysanias ruler

others know they can rely on my love for them?

of Abilene, during the high-priesthood of Annas and

How can I prepare the way for the return of

Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of

peace in their lives?

Zechariah in the wilderness. He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah. The voice of one crying out in the wilderness "Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, we strain to hear your words of life. Encourage our prayers for knowing you and seeing Jesus with us always, no matter what. I know I need to straighten out…for the sake of love and life together with you and …

ways made smooth; and all flesh shall see the salvation of God." I had always relied on God, until I fell in love with someone who had a distant relationship with Him. I wasn't listening to His nudges or His guidance, and I felt like this accident was a "wake up" for both of us. I truly believe that my fiance's accident was a defining moment in our relationship. The people we thought were friends never visited or offered help. It was a very lonely, exhausting journey for us. But, it allowed us time and space to strengthen our relationship with God as a couple.

Luke 3:1-6 teaches us that no matter what path you're on, if you call on God he will set your path straight. That if you place your trust in Him, he will make the rough ways smooth.

THURSDAY

• RELATIONSHIPS | WEEK II

December 7-9

Activity

Reflect

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Pray

Worship

FRIDAY

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SUNDAY

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December 7 Spend time this Friday engaging in activity around our theme and devotions for this week.

This Friday, you are encouraged to assess your relationships and do something to support them in reliable love, like Jesus’ reliable love that is self-giving.

As you are participating in the activities of the week, pay attention to how you experience relationships with all 5 of your senses. Your physical and spiritual senses work together to increase your awareness of God in the ordinary acts of each day

try these!

TOUCH

Have a Family Game Night.

Host a Friend Game Night.

SIGHT

Go on a Date night.

HEARING

relationships

Record a message and send to someone letting them know how important they are to you.

TASTE

SMELL

Write a note to someone about the importance of your relationship.

Draw a picture for someone.

Pay attention to how you experience relationships with all 5 of yours senses.

share your adventures with us!

#FREDBAPADVENT2018

FRIDAY

• RELATIONSHIPS

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December 8 Take some time to reflect and write about your experiences. What have you learned? How has your perspective about God and others been challenged or confirmed?

Will you make time to join us in worship?

December 9 MALACHI

3:1-4

PHILIPPIANS LUKE

1:3-11

1:68-79

Our LORD, in this Advent season, you seek to turn us from our indifferences. Turn us to you and to others as we see our common need of Jesus and the peace he brings. You have raised up those like John the Baptist who teach us to be accountable to you and to others from a sense of duty and obedience. You have also raised up Jesus and disciples following him who teach us that love of God and others may begin in obedience but should result in joy.

Increase our compassion. Grow our concern for you our Maker, O God, and for all of Creation as your concern. In this life, make the high places of joy and the low places of sorrow also places where we accept your shaping for becoming safe and straight signs of love and peace, useful to others Forgive me for the times when I have forgotten that all people and things are related. In relationship with you our Maker, all is of one beginning and one end. Save me from indifference. Let my sufferings and my joys be useful.

Holy Spirit, come to challenge and to comfort. [pray silently].

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Family & Faith "Talk with your child about how we should expect that our feelings can change. From the Bible, God teaches us that we should believe and hope in God's promises to save us and restore us to peace and joy.

Help your child know that you are there to help them move through difficult days and look forward to better days to come."

try this!

DECEMBER 10TH-

DECEMBER 16TH

• REJOICING

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WEEK III

III

December 10 ZEPHANIAH

3:14-20

Sing aloud, O daughter Zion; shout, O Israel!

Reflect on this

Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter

How do I return to trusting God and others?

Jerusalem!

What if it takes a really long time? Can I be

The Lard has taken away the judgements against you, he

faithful in hoping?

has turned away your enemies.

The king of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you shall fear disaster no more.

On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands grow weak.

The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness. he renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing as on a day at festival.

I will remove disaster from you, so that you will not bear reproach for it.

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, we sometimes think that joy will never return and that sadness is forever. We seek a sliver, an instant of light in the darkness. I recall the feeling of light and joy when … and I want to feel something like that again. Lord, make me ready to hang on to your light when I sense it!

Ready me for rejoicing again.

I will deal with all your oppressors at that time.

And I will save the lame and gather the outcast, and I will change their shame into praise and renown in all the earth.

At that time I will bring you home, at the time when I

rejoicing [noun] /riˈjoisiNG/

gather you; for I will make you renowned and praised

great joy; jubilation.

among all the peoples of the earth, when I restore your fortunes before your eyes, says the Lord.

My family wouldn’t let me go; they asked for help, and I opened up to someone we trusted. For now, so that I can heal, I’m taking a break from things and people who have made me afraid. I’m letting God know, too, that I’m sorry that I ever let anyone or anything make me doubt God’s love in making me like I am.

The prophet Zephaniah writes about being hopeful and gives encouragement for looking ahead to a good future (3:14-20). I want to expect that for myself. Maybe, with God’s help and the help of those who love me and love God, there will be a time when I can know the joy God wants me to have in spite of what people in the world try to tell me or do to me. I’m praying for that.

MONDAY

• REJOICING

| WEEK III

December 11 ISAIAH

2:2-6

Surely God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid, for the Lord God is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation.

With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. And you will say on that day: Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known

Reflect on this After loss, rejoicing isn’t something that comes back overnight. It helps to remember that gratitude is at the root of rejoicing. Can I always think of some reason to praise God, some small something? Is there, in the midst of difficulty, any good that continues?

his deeds among the nations; proclaim that his name is exalted.

Prayer Focus

Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let

Living the “in between,” dear God, we

this be known in all the earth.

sometimes go too far in the wrong direction.

Shout aloud and sing for joy, O royal Zion, for great in

Turn me toward life and living, Lord. Today I

your midst is the Holy One of Israel.

will sing and shout, recalling what joy feels like. Maybe, I’ll even whistle and call it a joyful noise to you, God. The glad song I

After years of sleepless nights, I found help for my

remember and give to you is …

son. He had to accept the help, which he did. Thank you, God! He is now safe, happy and healthy. I can look around and see what I couldn’t see when my life was in crisis. I met so many caring people during this journey, and I realized how many people are searching for help.

Isaiah 12 2-6 encourages us to praise God and sing out loud! So many people ask me how I continued to live my life while my son was in crisis. I always say I prayed, but I also talked to God. I formed a relationship with God and although I did ask numerous times, “Why me God?”, I never turned away from God.

TUESDAY

• REJOICING

| WEEK III

December 12 PHILIPPIANS

4:4-7

As time moved on, I was healing. I had built a significant support system which included

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say. Rejoice. Let

my family (who were awesome and

your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.

extremely supportive) and friends. I had

Do not worry about anything, but in everything by

also made a connection with a church small

prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your

group. One year we were asked to

requests be made known to God. And the peace of

participate in a Lenten discipleship study,

God which surpasses all understanding. will guard your

and I was asked to join a small group. This

hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

group supported me and loved me. Most didn’t even know they were filling a

Reflect on this Spiritual friends can help guard our lives while we are on our way back to remembering rejoicing. Am I developing spiritual friendships with a few close people with whom I can share “in between” life events? How can I begin or go deeper into these relationships? Who do I think my spiritual friends are or could be?

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, it can be difficult to love when we are struggling to feel loved. We are sometimes harsh to others because we feel like life has been harsh to us. Put the disposition of gentleness back into my words and ways. I want to trust again, Lord.

Work with me about my anxiousness concerning… and let me rejoice in small victories of trusting in you more than I trust in myself, anyone, or anything else.

significant role in my life and showed me another aspect of God’s love. My family loved me unconditionally and basically carried me through days I thought I would never make it through. But, the group made me feel normal in the world again. They accepted me and showed me it was going to be ok.

As I read Philippians 4:4-7, verse 7 really stands out to me. “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” I think of my family. They lived this alongside me and at times carried me when I thought I had no strength. My new small group did the same. I am thankful for both.

With my family and the small group surrounding me in God’s love, I knew I was going to be fine. I can only hope God can use me in the same way for someone else.

WEDNESDAY

• REJOICING

| WEEK III

December 13 LUKE

3:7-18

Our journey of healing has been a remarkable one. My fiance made a full

John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, 'You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, "We have Abraham as our ancestor"; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Even now the axe is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.' And the crowds asked him, 'What then should we do?' In reply he said to them, 'Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise.' Even tax-collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, 'Teacher, what should we do?' He said to them, 'Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you.' Soldiers also asked him, 'And we, what should we do?' He said to them, 'Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.'

As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah. John answered all of them by saying, 'I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing-fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing-floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.'

So, with many other exhortations. he proclaimed the good news to the people.

recovery; despite all odds. Our journey of healing with God ultimately led us back to church where we've been incredibly welcomed at FBC. Luke 3:7-18 encourages us to share what we've been given. We have been given a second chance at life, love and happiness we hope to share that blessing with anyone and everyone we meet.

Reflect on this Life with God is a journey of waiting for and then responding to the good news of God’s peace that comes through Jesus. In what ways are you still waiting for God’s peace to come to you? In what ways are you responding to God’s peace that you know is already with you? Who do you know who needs to hear the good news of God’s peace through you?

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, it is easy to become fixated on self-interest and selfsurvival. Remind us that you made us to be in relationships with you and others. I need your help, Lord, in helping me to … for growing in loving relationships with … Help me to become more interested in giving than receiving, more interested in relating than controlling. Teach me to love like you, God— unconditionally, reliably, abundantly. Make me to know that just as I have needed others they have need of me. Make me ready to help someone else rejoice again.

THURSDAY

• REJOICING

| WEEK III

December 14-16

Activity

Reflect

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Pray

Worship

FRIDAY

-

SUNDAY

• REJOICING

| WEEK

III

December 14 Spend time this Friday engaging in activity around our theme and devotions for this week. This Friday, you are encouraged to think about rejoicing in God’s steadfast love by bringing the celebration of the season to another.

As you are participating in the activities of the week, pay attention to how you experience rejoicing with all 5 of your senses. Your physical and spiritual senses work together to increase your awareness of God in the ordinary acts of each day

try these!

TOUCH

SIGHT

HEARING

rejoicing

Tell someone the top 5 best things about your relationship.

Have a special dessert with a friend, family, spouse or neighbor.

TASTE

SMELL

Take a walk and notice all God has created.

Pay attention to how you experience rejoicing with all 5 of yours senses.

share your adventures with us!

#FREDBAPADVENT2018 FRIDAY

• REJOICING

| WEEK

III

December 15 Take some time to reflect and write about your experiences. What have you learned? How has your perspective about God and others been challenged or confirmed?

Will you make time to join us in worship?

December 16 ISAIAH

12:2-6

PHILIPPIANS LUKE

4:4-7

3:7-18

In this time of Advent, the “in between” of our lives, dear God, we grow impatient and sometimes lose hope. In the midst of it all, though, you are always working to remind us that there is more here than we can see, that you are at work to restore us from worry and mourning to singing and rejoicing. Increase our faith.

The ax of my own making is at the root of my persevering and growing in hope. Forgive me for accepting what the world and others tell me about my situation. Help me to grow in trusting you and in sharing my story of needing you. Allow your peace in me to overflow to those around me. Holy Spirit, come to challenge and to comfort. [pray silently].

SATURDAY

+

SUNDAY

• REJOICING

| WEEK

III

Family & Faith Talk with your child about looking to Jesus’ way of loving God and others as the real gift of Christmas.

God, made flesh in the baby Jesus grew to be a man who would teach us what it meant to grow in selfgiving love over self-interest. Consider this week, how you are teaching your child to be committed to the way of Jesus. Perhaps, you will ask them to help you keep your commitment to loving God and others, letting them make you accountable to them as you live your lives together. try this!

DECEMBER 17TH

-

DECEMBER 23RD • COMMITMENT |

WEEK IV

IV

December 17 MICAH

5:2-5A

But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days.

Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labour has brought forth; then the rest of his kindred shall return to the people of Israel.

Reflect on this If peace is the gift we give to one another while we wait for Jesus’ return, How am I doing at growing in peace for the sake of the world?

And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall live secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth; and he shall be the one of peace.

If the Assyrians come into our land and tread upon our soil, we will raise against them seven shepherds and eight installed as rulers.

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, we realize you are not finished with us or the world and that all things will one day be perfected and whole in your love. We yearn for your coming in Jesus, the good shepherd who will lead us on in peace! Increase my commitment to waiting

So, now, after some time, I’m beginning to remember

in faith. This Christmas, my gift of renewed

what it’s like to be peaceful and without fear. I smile

commitment to Jesus will be …

more. I laugh. I hope these feelings last. I need God to help me make it last.

Micah 5 tells us to keep our eyes on the coming shepherd, Jesus. When I see Jesus in my head and heart and can keep my eyes on Jesus when I’m out in

commitment [noun] /kəˈmitmənt/

the world, I feel a sense of safety and know that God

the state or quality of being dedicated to a

wants all people to live in peace without hurting each

cause, activity, etc.

other. I try to live that way. I’m committed to living that way no matter how others treat me. Maybe you will, too. That way there will be fewer of us hurting and more of us helping God’s peace to last. I’d like that. I need that.

MONDAY

• COMMITMENT| WEEK IV

December 18 PSALM

80:1-7

Helping others get through mental health crises is now my passion. I can emphasize

To the leader: on Lilies, a Covenant. Of Asaph. A

with their struggles and not judge. I can pray

Psalm.

with them. I can be available to talk or laugh

Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph

or cry with them. I can let them know that

like a flock!

one way I survived was to always remember,

You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine

“This too shall pass.”

forth before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh.

Stir up your might, and come to save us!

Psalm 80:1-7 encourages us to find God’s

Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may

peace. I want others to see the peace in me,

be saved.

and to know that it is through God that I survived. I want them to know it was not easy,

O Lord God of hosts, how long will you be angry with

but it was possible.

your people's prayers?

You have fed them with the bread of tears, and given them tears to drink in full measure.

You make us the scorn of our neighbours; our enemies laugh among themselves.

Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved.

Reflect on this The psalmist uses the cry, “How long?” Am I preparing myself for a long, lifetime commitment that will allow me to trust in God and wait on God’s coming peace? God loves me no matter what. Can I love God and trust God to make a way through difficulty no matter what? How can I see myself letting God redeem and use my painful experiences?

HELPING OTHERS GET THROUGH MENTAL HEALTH CRISES IS NOW MY PASSION. I CAN EMPHASIZE WITH THE STRUGGLES AND NOT JUDGE. I CAN PRAY WITH THEM.

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, we admit that getting through this life with our trust intact is hard. We cry out to you, “How long?”

We can say, though, that if we will participate with you in anticipating your coming again and again to save us and restore us, the tension of living in loss can become bearable.

Lord, I want to hold up, but … can seem unbearable. Increase my hope. Restore me and those I love. Shine on us. Save us. Let us know your day of peace is coming.

TUESDAY

• COMMITMENT | WEEK IV

December 19 HEBREWS

10:5-10

Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said, 'Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body you have prepared for me; in burnt-offerings and sin-offerings you have taken no pleasure. Then I said, “See, God, I have come to do your will, O God” (in the scroll of the book it is written of me).' When he said above, ‘You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt-offerings and sin-offerings’ (these are offered according to the law), then he added, ‘See, I have come to do your will.’ He abolishes the first in order to establish the second.

And it is by God’s will that we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

While we all have good days and bad days, it is comforting to know we will always have God’s love. In my life today, when I have a bad day, that is what it is just a bad day. For me, it is easier to talk to God when you know the problem is shorter term and, in some cases, just fleeting. But, what do you do when you know the pain, loneliness, suffering or uncertainty is not going to be fleeting? When you see no end in sight? How do you lean on God? In Hebrews 10:5-10, we are reminded of days past when sacrifices were made to absolve our sins.

But now, Jesus Christ has sacrificed himself for us and our sins. While Jesus absolved us of sin, he also commanded us to love our neighbor as we

Reflect on this

love ourselves. To me a piece of this is what I saw

What do I do to regularly to remind myself of God’s

in my own journey. Others loved me as they loved

covenant commitment to reliably, steadfastly love

themselves, my family, my small group and the

me? How am I developing my trust in God? Can I

body of Christ at Fredericksburg Baptist Church. I

see myself becoming an instrument of the coming

only hope that I can become more committed to

Christ, the prince of peace, in my own life and in

that love, that is, Jesus’ type of love, to someone

the lives of others?

else.

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, it is much easier to be obedient to you than to develop relationships with you. Relationships with you take time and honesty and a desire to love like you love. I know that my will to … gets in the way of your will. I know that I substitute … for having a relationship of prayer and presence with you. Increase my love for you. Change my heart of stone commandments to one of flesh. Help me use my waiting for your peace to grow in committed, reliable love for you and others.

WEDNESDAY

• COMMITMENT | WEEK IV

December 20 LUKE

1:39-45

(46-55)

Our loneliness has been replaced with loving In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a

people. Our brokenness has been replaced

Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the

with strength. After committing ourselves to

house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When

God, we have found our deepest desires

Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the child leapt in her

becoming a reality. Darkness filled our lives

womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and

a short time ago and it's incredible to realize

exclaimed with a loud cry, 'Blessed are you among

how much things have changed. We still

women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why

have our challenges, but with God - they

has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord

don't seem nearly as daunting.

comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leapt for joy. And blessed

Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) reminds us of the Holy

is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of

Spirit and allows us to know and experience

what was spoken to her by the Lord.' And Mary

Jesus' presence. When we started to listen

said, 'My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices

and react to the nudges of the Holy Spirit,

in God my Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the

when we committed to hearing God first,

lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all

was when we felt an overwhelming amount

generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has

of love and forgiveness.

done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.

He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.

He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.'

Prayer Focus Living the “in between,” dear God, we often miss your appearing. We can get so wrapped up in life that we overlook your coming to us for restoring our peace. Daily, I will look for you, Jesus. In … I will look for you. And, I will celebrate your coming in small ways. I will mark the relief you offer. I will know that you are “God with us” now, but I will not

Reflect on this Hurt and healing propel us forward on a journey. Can I remember my own departure

stop hoping for your perfect peace and perfect love to come again and reign forever on earth as it is in heaven.

into loss that was eventually replaced with new possibilities? How have I been weakened but then strengthened as a result? How can my experience help me to grow in knowing better how to love God and others?

THURSDAY

• COMMITMENT | WEEK IV

December 21-23 Spend time this Friday engaging in activity around our theme and devotions for this week. This week, the beauty of God’s peace comes through the passages, for encouraging our helping others to recognize and proclaim the excitement of God with us.

Activity

Reflect

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Pray

Worship

FRIDAY

-

SUNDAY

• COMMITMENT

| WEEK

IV

December 21 Spend time this Friday engaging in activity around our theme and devotions for this week. This week, the beauty of God’s peace comes through the passages, for encouraging our helping others to recognize and proclaim the excitement of God with us.

As you are participating in the activities of the week, pay attention to how you experience commitment with all 5 of your senses. Your physical and spiritual senses work together to increase your awareness of God in the ordinary acts of each day

try these!

TOUCH

SIGHT

commitment

HEARING

Spend one-on-one time with each member of your family, a special friend, your neighbors.

Commit to giving to the church.

TASTE

SMELL

Mark Worship on your calendar for 2019 first.

Find a ministry within the church to serve in 2019.

Pay attention to how you experience rejoicing with all 5 of yours senses.

share your adventures with us!

#FREDBAPADVENT2018 FRIDAY

• COMMITMENT

| WEEK

IV

December 22 Take some time to reflect and write about your experiences. What have you learned? How has your perspective about God and others been challenged or confirmed?

Will you make time to join us in worship?

December 23 MICAH

5:2-5A

PSALM

80:1-7

LUKE

1:39-55

Through a long Advent journey, often more in the dark than in the light, LORD, we are traveling toward you.

How long, O God, must we wait to know the fullness of your peace, the resolve of our life stories? We are coming to realize the commitment it takes to remain focused on you in our hearts and souls, the commitment it takes to seek to believe you are with us when all seems lost. Yet, there you are in small moments. Like the silent, unseen yet awesome movement of a child in the womb, you surprise us with a mysterious, unexpected joy. Our hearts leap at your presence. Keep us aware, looking for your light and sensing your nearness, so we will always be anticipating the return of your peace to our lives.

LORD, forgive me. Sometimes pain, worry, discontent, boredom, loneliness, and other self-concerns turn my attention from you. Without anticipating your good future, I become stuck in the present. I forget your faithfulness to restore. Set me among my neighbors. Let me find you and serve you in them. Quicken my heart so that Christmas peace and joy can be felt again in me. Believing your covenant, steadfast love comes to save, I ask you to strengthen my commitment to continue this life with you. Holy Spirit, come to challenge and to comfort. [pray silently] FRIDAY

-

SUNDAY

•

COMMITMENT

|

WEEK

IV

Thank you for joining us!

We’re here, we’ve arrived at the end of Advent, and from the stories our writers have shared, we have seen that living “in between” the two comings of Jesus can be hard. While we have been freed from our sins for building up perfect love, that is, whole reliable, self-giving love and peace between us, the fullness of God’s perfect love and peace has not yet overtaken the world. We yearn for that to happen, don’t we? With the psalmist, we cry out, “How long?” Don’t you yearn for the time of no more death, no more mourning or crying or pain (Rev. 21:4) when you read and hear and are invited into others’ difficulties?

This Advent journey was meant to help us see our togetherness in our struggles, to know God’s reaching out to each one of us at all times, and to help us anticipate and experience the joy of realizing that together with God and others we will ultimately overcome whatever may come. The more we know that we need God’s peace in our world, the more we pray for peace to come. The more we can see our parts to play in God’s plan of bringing peace and joy, the better we participate in making the reality of God’s perfect peace and joy more palpable for ourselves and others. So, do you now know what good news Jesus’ coming can bring in our every day “in between” life? Where is it then that the Christmas joy we celebrate can be found?

December 24 ISAIAH

9:2,

6-7

From decades of living I’ve learned that no matter who we are or where we are in life, at some point in time we will all find ourselves walking in the dark. I’ve known

The people walking in darkness have seen a

fear and I’ve felt the loneliness fear brings, but, just as

great light; on those living in the land of deep

our Advent readings have reminded us, we are not really

darkness a light has dawned… For to us a child

alone. Our condition is the human condition. In that

is born, to us a son is given, and the government

fallible and fragile condition, though, if we will allow

will be on his shoulders. And he will be called

ourselves to believe God is here with us in the darkness

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting

and fear, most often a light will at least shine weakly,

Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his

some glimpse of hope will find us. If we stop running

government and peace there will be no end.

from the darkness, God is waiting to reach out and walk with us through change, confusion, fear, suffering, and

Reflect on this We can learn to walk in the dark if we embrace the darkness as part of our journey toward knowing and trusting God’s presence.

Who has held up the God Light for you when you were struggling? How can God use you to hold up that light for someone else who needs to feel God’s presence?

grief, leading us to the light. It is true God comes to us in times of difficulty and joy, sometimes small and seemingly weak like a baby in the manger, but then God’s presence can grow up in us, returning our light in the darkness, our peace and joy even in chaos.

Long before he knew how or when, Isaiah was anticipating illumination, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. At the

Prayer Focus In my life, Lord, I need your help to get through the darkness of …. I will anticipate your light. I will begin to expect your peace to be birthed in me. I will make a permanent place in my heart where your light always resides and waits to be known again. My friends, my family, and

Christmas Eve service, we anticipate the dimming of the lights and the moment when darkness overtakes the sanctuary. We embrace that darkness, because we know the light which the darkness cannot overcome is coming. We know the darkness prepares us for the awe of receiving and sharing that light with others until the sanctuary glows with the light of God’s love.

strangers I meet need to see your light of peace, too. I will be an instrument of your coming light and peace by …

MONDAY

• CHRISTMAS

EVE

December 25 PSALM

96:1–3

Isaiah proclaimed, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”

Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.

The relief of tension, the embrace of a new way of living after loss, embracing and making the best of life changes, and the return of health are all occasions for the return of rejoicing. The waiting is over! Christmas is here! But the manger is not the end of the story, nor is it the beginning. It is a chapter in the ongoing story of how God so loves the

Reflect on this Singing is good for the soul. Sometimes our heart can sing songs that are beyond mere words. What kind of songs—remembering, celebrating, questioning, grieving, praising, longing, loving--does your heart sing? Can you sing out loud; sharing your song with others? Can you sing in unison and harmony with a chorus of fellow travelers as we journey together through life?

world He created. But even on this day of joy and celebration there are others alongside us who are traveling through some dark places in their lives.

Isaiah understood that as well and he offered assurance that “Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” (Isaiah 30:5) The Christmas story is joyous for us because we know how it ends. But for those who lived it, it wasn’t that simple. When an angel told a teenage girl she was pregnant, she must have been confused and scared, but she sang a song of acceptance and

Prayer Focus

wonder anyway. When shepherds in a field were

Holy God, you bring heaven to us when we

blinded by light and were sore afraid, a heavenly

know peace. Thank you. Birth your love in

host of angels came to them singing a new song of

me for being your peace to others. Make me

joy and peace. Good news has arrived in a manger.

the Christmas present that keeps on giving

Good news is with us by our participation with the

this year to … Fill me with your love for

Spirit. Good news will come again if we can wait and

growing to show my love to … by … I’ll be

use our time to increase our hope and the hope of

looking for your light in the darkness,

others.

knowing that you are always there, just waiting to bring Christmas peace and joy

Let us anticipate and participate in preparing for the

into my life again and again. Increase my

return of God’s perfect peace to the world. Come,

hope and strengthen my faith for this

Lord Jesus, live in us and bring your reliable self-

lifetime “in between” spent loving you and

giving love to the world.

others. Help me sing!

So sing! Sing your song!

TUESDAY

• CHRISTMAS DAY

Mark your calendars!

DECEMBER 2, 9, *16, 23 • FOUR SUNDAYS OF ADVENT

8:30 am Worship 9:45 am Sunday School 11:00 am Worship

DECEMBER 16 • CHRISTMAS CANTATA

8:30 am 11:00 am DECEMBER 24 • CHRISTMAS EVE

5:00 pm • Family Christmas Eve Worship Service 7:00 pm • Christmas Eve Communion Worship Service DECEMBER 25 • CHRISTMAS DAY

10:00 am • Worship and Fellowship (Causal Attire. Please bring Christmas goodies to share.)

Fredericksburg Baptist Church 1019 Princess Anne St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 (540) 373-4402

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