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Advent 2021

by Eleanor Oswalt

Eleanor is 7 years old. She is a 1st grader at UMS-Wright. She enjoys gymnastics, dance, and soccer.

FOREWARD What is Advent? Advent is a special time during the church year. Advent consists of the four weeks leading up to Christmas. The word “Advent” means “coming” or “arrival.” At the beginning of Advent, a wreath with four candles will be added to our sanctuary. The candles represent a different theme for each Sunday. These candles represent, hope, love, joy and peace. Advent is a time during our church year in which we talk a lot about waiting. Throughout Advent we are awaiting and anticipating our savior, Jesus Christ’s birth. The Advent season culminates on Christmas when we celebrate and remember Christ’s birth.

How to use this book In this book you will find scripture, reflections and prayers written by the members of GSPC. There is a devotion for each day of Advent. These reflections are based on the daily Advent lectionary texts as well as Sunday lectionary readings. My prayer for you as you work your way through these reflections is that that you might experience Advent in a new way this year. May you receive a spirit of hope, love, joy and peace that will not only carry you through this season but throughout the whole year. Grace and Peace to you this Advent season,

Alexandra Hutson Advent 2021

The First Week of Advent Sunday, November 28 - Saturday, December 4

The Hope Candle Advent is a time for God’s people to re-awaken their longings. We long for every hurt to be healed, we long for every tear to be dried. We wait in hope for the Lord. We long for every injustice to be made right, and we celebrate God’s promises and long for those yet to unfold. We wait in hope for the Lord.

Prayer God of grace, ever faithful to your promises, the earth rejoices in hope of our Savior’s coming and looks forward with longing to his return at the end of time. Prepare our hearts to receive him when he comes, for he is Lord forever and ever. Amen.

This week at GSPC Sunday, November 28 | Advent I Sunday School all ages Worship

9:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m.

Next week Sunday, December 5 HOMECOMING: 190 Years 4

Hymn: Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus

Sunday, November 28

Linda Reynolds 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.” Once again we see prophecy of a Messiah in the Old Testament. The Prophet Jeremiah gives hope to the beleaguered citizens of Judah and Jerusalem, who have suffered greatly because they did not listen to Jeremiah’s admonishment of their wicked ways. In spite of the sinners’ transgressions, Jeremiah tells them that a Branch of righteousness will spring up for the house of David. That branch is, of course, the Messiah. This “branch” will execute judgment and righteousness and save the sinners. Isn’t this true today? Regardless of the many sins we commit and the fact that we do not always follow God’s path for us, He forgives us. Regardless of the everyday trials and tribulations we face: loss of jobs, a pandemic, family problems, etc., He gives us hope for the future. As we observe this Advent Season, particularly this first Sunday in Advent, we need to remember that we are never beyond redemption and that there is always hope. The Lord of Righteousness is with us.

Prayer Dear Lord, help us keep our hearts and minds turned toward You this Advent Season. At this busy time of year please help us remember we are celebrating Christmas, the day that the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ, was born. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

My husband Lewis and I joined Government Street Presbyterian 22 years ago. Lewis passed away in 2011 and I miss him every day. Dallas, Texas, is home to our two sons, Gavin and Myles. Myles’s wife, Lauren, and their three children, Max, Madeleine, and Pearson, complete our family.

Monday, November 29

John Browning Psalm 26

Vindicate me, O Lord, for I have walked in my integrity, and I have trusted in the Lord without wavering. Prove me, O Lord, and try me; test my heart and mind. For your steadfast love is before my eyes, and I walk in faithfulness to you. I do not sit with the worthless, nor do I consort with hypocrites; I hate the company of evildoers, and will not sit with the wicked. I wash my hands in innocence, and go around your altar, O Lord, singing aloud a song of thanksgiving, and telling all your wondrous deeds. O Lord, I love the house in which you dwell, and the place where your glory abides. Do not sweep me away with sinners, nor my life with the bloodthirsty, those in whose hands are evil devices, and whose right hands are full of bribes. But as for me, I walk in my integrity; redeem me, and be gracious to me. My foot stands on level ground; in the great congregation I will bless the Lord. Our family’s prayer last year was that we would soon meet together (in person) to glorify God’s love in “the house where you live, the place where your glory dwells.” Now that our church has reopened, and we made it through another wave of COVID madness, we feel blessed that our prayers have been answered. This does not mean that our world is free of misdeeds and misgivings. The nightly news and social media appear intent on keeping us in a state of frustration and stress over the “wicked schemes” of those who would do us harm. We are so inundated with “deceitful men” and hypocrites, aren’t we glad we have the refuge of the church? Aren’t we filled with joy knowing that we worship a God who promises to save us from the chaos of the world? Are we not ready to praise the living Son of God who came to us as an innocent child, yet turned the world upside down?

Psalm 26 is a song of such praise. Its author calls out to God, thankful for his many gifts. He relates to us that he has sought the good life and the straight and narrow way, but the sinful still surround him. He makes every effort to correct his life, and others, but knows that it is God, not him, who eventually provides the ultimate resting place “in the house where you live.”

Prayer Our prayer for you this year is that you may find time to rest and to seek God’s glory. We must remember we are not meant for worldly possessions, and the trappings of the season could very well convince us otherwise. But let’s pray that those who dwell with the evil doers be kept far away from us, and that we may find grace, love, joy, and happiness in the days to come. John P. and Margaret Sue Browning live in Mobile and have two children, Margaret (9) and Katherine (3). Margaret Sue is a lifelong member of the church, having volunteered with Urban Ministry and the Children’s Ministry. John is currently serving as an Elder, was a past Deacon, and enjoys participating in various GSPC Bible studies and Sunday school classes through the years. He has also served as “Head Chef” on the GSPC Chili Cook-off Team, which is always a fun event for the members.

Tuesday, November 30

Marcia & Wesley Wyatt I Thessalonians 1:1-10

Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace. We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. For we know, brothers and sisters beloved by God, that he has chosen you, because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of persons we proved to be among you for your sake. And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for in spite of persecution you received the word with joy inspired by the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place your faith in God has become known, so that we have no need to speak about it. For the people of those regions report about us what kind of welcome we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols, to serve a living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath that is coming.

“Hope” While the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be suffocating, 1 Thessalonians: 1-10 shows us just how our hope and faith (the real reasons for the season) can take us from experiencing overwhelming affliction into beings of “joy inspired by the Holy Spirit.” Paul is astounded as he writes to the Thessalonians, who have transformed from idol-worshipers to missionaries like night into day, giving thanks to God and praising the Thessalonians for their “work of faith,” their “labor of love,” and their “steadfastness of hope” that have brought them into God’s light. Because through their faith, and love, and hope, the people Paul is addressing are living, breathing embodiments of the Word of God that was delivered to them “in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction.” Rarely has Paul seen recipients of the Word of the Lord quickly and dramatically change his audience to “become an example to all believers” as he has with the Thessalonians, who have done Paul’s job for him and spread Christ’s lessons throughout Macedonia and Achaia after being reborn in the Light of the Lord. What caused these people who worshipped idols to turn to “serve a living and true God?” Hope. Hope that by believing in the Lord that they are saved. Hope that they will be delivered from the wrath to come by the Son of God. And, like the Thessalonians, so must we also hope for our salvation. We must also turn away from the idols of our day and age, from hoisting the pedestal that elevates the material and mundane, the secular distractions that hide us from God. We must believe that through our own works of faith, labors of love, and the steadfastness of our hope, that we may change as the Thessalonians, that the Son of God, whose birth and second coming we celebrate and gladly anticipate with abundant hope, will deliver unto us the infinite blessings of our souls.

Prayer Dear Lord, thank you for Hope. Thank you for your Word which shows us the way to be an example to all believers. As we are surrounded by distractions from your light, help us remember your grace and the love for us shown by your Son, whose birth is the source of all our hope. Amen. Marcia Wyatt is a fifth generation, lifelong member of GSPC. An elder, she serves GSPC and her faith through her efforts on the staff committee, teaching Sunday School, and assisting with PYC. She and her husband, Mark, are the devoted and loving mother of three children, Sage, Wes, and John, and grandmother to one, Lizzie. She enjoys spending her time with family down at the family bay house on Hollinger’s Island. Wesley Wyatt, a lifelong member of GSPC, is the Membership and Grants Coordinator at Mobile Baykeeper. His hobbies and interests include boating, fishing, and relaxing on the water, whether it be the Delta, the Bay or the Gulf, reading and writing, photography, Alabama Crimson Tide football, random trivia, and finding new shows and movies to enjoy.

Wednesday, December 1

Susan Miller I John 4:11

Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another.

At this busy time of year, it is hard for me to think of all that I might do to show love for other people; I’m too tied up in my own life and preparations for the holidays.

But last week I ran into a friend and GSPC member who had brought an elderly neighbor to CVS for her Covid vaccine booster. We chatted while they waited the required fifteen minutes after her shot. On my way home, I thought about the Bible verse printed above, and decided to try harder to think about ways I can show my love for others. I always participate when GSPC has an angel tree at Christmas. Actually, I enjoy buying a few clothes and a toy or something similar for a child I do not know. I participate when we put together clothes for the needy, wherever they might be. I buy poinsettias in memory of family members, and every year I plan to go down to the church to help arrange them in the Sanctuary before Christmas services begin, but I rarely make it. I focus more attention on my Meals on Wheels folks, trying to take more time to visit with each one each week, and I try to buy a little gift for each of them—usually a small plant or some Christmas chocolates. In my neighborhood, I make banana nut bread for my best friends—my across-the-street neighbors give me a tin of pecans each year, and I put them to good use! I order ginger cookies from North Carolina, and share them with friends and family as well. I stay too busy doing things for my family—like making gumbo for Christmas Eve and dressing for Christmas Day—and very little for other people. My focus is almost entirely on myself and I ask God to please help me see more that I can do. After I left CVS the other day, I thought about what a poor job I actually do of loving others and resolved to look for more opportunities to do better. As I dashed through Publix last December, I passed a quite elderly lady in the pet food aisle. She was standing in front of the tins of cat food, softly singing “Joy to the World” to herself—and, I felt, to me.

Prayer Dear Lord, Help us to focus on how we can love one another. Give us the insight to see opportunities to show your love and to take advantage of those opportunities. Let us see what we can do besides the little things we do now. Amen.

Susan Miller enjoys contributing time and energy to Urban Missions. In addition to delivering Meals on Wheels, she has cooked for our monthly McKemie Place lunches. She has children and grandchildren in Atlanta, Tuscaloosa and over the bay in Daphne.

Thursday, December 2

Jeanie Heltzel Lindsey Isaiah 2:1-4

The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised above the hills; all the nations shall stream to it. Many peoples shall come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.” For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. He shall judge between the nations, and shall arbitrate for many peoples; they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more..

The Age of Peace The prophet Isaiah envisioned a time when all nations would come to the new Jerusalem, on the highest mountain of the Lord, where He would teach them His will and His way. Then the nations will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Today we long for the promised future when war will be no more and the sovereignty of God will be acknowledged. During Advent we wait to celebrate the birth of the Baby Jesus, the very presence of God with us on earth.

Prayer Heavenly Father, we wait with hope and joy in our hearts for a future God-centered earth. May we always follow Thy will and Thy way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Jeanie Lindsey was born and raised in the Presbyterian tradition. She has been a member of GSPC for five decades.

Friday, December 3

Buzzy Riis I Thessalonians 3:11-13

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.

When I first received this assignment, I was panicked. This is not a reading from Paul’s letters that I personally remember, and I do not believe I have ever heard a sermon that mentioned it. While I began to panic and seek research and information related to the topic, my wife, God bless her, saw my confusion and panic. She pointed out to me that I was simply to read the verses and discuss “my feelings” from them …. not write a research paper. So, I read, contemplated, prayed, read, prayed, and read again. What I finally realized is that these verses call for Paul and his followers to take an action: “Come to the Thessalonians.” It also calls for the Thessalonians to take two actions: i) “Love one another and everyone else,” and ii) “be blameless and holy.” For Paul and his followers to get to Thessalonica seems to be a relatively simple task. However, at this time, Paul was establishing new Christian churches throughout the region, they were under severe persecution, and he may have even been imprisoned. Under these circumstances, that action may very well have been impossible!

As for the Thessalonians, my first reaction was that what Paul asked them to do was truly impossible …. i) love everyone and ii) be blameless and holy in the presence of God. Those are two very tall orders. But …. with all my repeated readings of these verses, I finally realized Paul was not saying he would come to Thessalonica or that the Thessalonians should “love everyone” and “be blameless and holy.” He says in these verses that he will pray to God and Jesus to clear the path for him to come to Thessalonica. He is also asking the Lord to “make the Thessalonians’ love overflow for each other and everyone else,” and he was asking God to make them blameless and holy. Paul understands that with God all things are possible. Therefore, when we cannot love everyone, pray for God to help us love everyone. When we sin, pray for God to make us blameless and holy. When I could not stop drinking alcohol, 24 years ago, I prayed to God to remove my alcoholism. When I was diagnosed with cancer, three years ago, I prayed to God to remove my cancer. If we ask God, in complete faith, to help us, cure us, guide us …. do the impossible, no matter how big, He will give us the strength to make it happen, just as He plans, and we will find joy in the result, because it is God’s will. Our God and Father brought a child (His Son) into this world, born of a virgin. That child was killed as an adult and was raised from the dead. Impossible …. NO! With God, all things are possible. With the birth of Christ, hope was born for you and me. All we have to do is believe, pray, have faith, and do God’s will, and the miracles will happen. So as we prepare ourselves for the miracle of the birth of Christ, we should pray with one another, pray for one another, with faith, and we shall find hope in all circumstances. Happy are those whose health is in the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God. (Psalm 146:5)

Saturday, December 4

Ann Adams Psalm 122: 1-9

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” Our feet are standing within your gates, O Jerusalem. Jerusalem—built as a city that is bound firmly together. To it the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord, as was decreed for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the Lord. For there the thrones for judgment were set up, the thrones of the house of David. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, and security within your towers.” For the sake of my relatives and friends I will say, “Peace be within you.” For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your good. This is a pilgrimage Psalm, and surely it resonates with us after our pandemic journey. After their wilderness wandering, the Israelites have arrived in Jerusalem. They break into joyful song because of having reached their destination, the place which is for them a symbol of the Lord’s presence. After their song of gladness, they offer praises of thanksgiving for this place of refuge and security. They turn to prayer for a harmonious unity, which has been lost in ordinary life. They pray for justice, and they pray for peace. Can we not relate to the Israelites’ feelings? After these long months of confusion and anxiety, we have undoubtedly felt the need for refuge and a sense of order and peace. Amidst this unsettled life, my two most helpful constants have been the church and music. My involvement in the church has given me a sense of stability and meaningfulness. The worship services have strengthened my faith and assured me of God’s presence, while reminding me of the need to reach out to others. Music has always been my stronghold, feeding my soul in dark times and helping my heart to saor in times of joy. Music is a marvelous enable for expressing one’s inner feelings, for pouring out one’s needs, and for receiving in turn a sense of calmness. Through music, we find beautiful way to praise God, who assures of his never-ending love and presence with us. How timely for us to be entering the season of Advent with its spirit of hope and anticipation. We will celebrate God’s miraculous gift of that child born in a manger, through whom we can find assurance of a life filled with peace. He gives us hope for world filled with compassion, justice, and love. So may we go forth with hope in our hearts as we joyfully sing, “Let us go into the house of the Lord.”

Prayer Almighty God, may we find respite from our wandering by entering into your presence. May we enter with glad songs in our hearts, feeling the peace which comes from knowledge of your ever-abiding love, shown to us by the Christ-child, in whose name we pray. Amen.

The Second Week of Advent Sunday, December 5 - Saturday, December 11

The Love Candle Advent is a time for God’s people to re-awaken their longings. When we longed for the silence to be broken, when we longed for the light that shines in the darkness, when we longed for the peace that surpasses understanding, God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son.

Prayer God of grace, you so loved the world that you gave your one and only son to all who believe. Jesus is the true gift of Advent, shining forth your glory and grace. As the light has grown brighter through the season, we pray that you would shine forth the promise of your hope, love, joy, and peace within our world. Amen.

This week at GSPC Sunday, December 5 Homecoming: 190 years Sunday School all ages Worship Luncheon & Entertainment

9:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m.

Hymn: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

Sunday, December 5

Charlotte Crockett II Peter 3:11-18

Since all these things are to be dissolved in this way, what sort of persons ought you to be in leading lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set ablaze and dissolved, and the elements will melt with fire? But, in accordance with his promise, we wait for new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness is at home. Therefore, beloved, while you are waiting for these things, strive to be found by him at peace, without spot or blemish; and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation. So also our beloved brother Paul wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, speaking of this as he does in all his letters. There are some things in them hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other scriptures. You therefore, beloved, since you are forewarned, beware that you are not carried away with the error of the lawless and lose your own stability. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. The second coming of Christ will bring the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat! Since this has been prophesied, WHAT KIND OF PEOPLE ARE WE TO BE? As Christians, we believe in a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness. There are many who find this prophecy hard to believe. They stray from God and thus, their secure position. Never forget that God has shown us, in Noah’s day, his displeasure with evil and unbelievers by a flood.

Since we already know everything will be destroyed by fire, we should strive for holy and godly lives and look forward to this second coming, making every effort to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with God. By the grace of God, we have been given salvation through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As Christians, we are called to live a Christ-like life as a loving example to show His love to others. Christ lived a life of service even to the cross, so that we might receive salvation. Today’s world encourages us to serve ourselves first and to be continually busy. Who has time to be still and know that He is God? Who takes time to be in awe and wonder of this incredible creation in which we live? Who actively looks for opportunities to serve others? Who spends time thinking about being truly at peace with Him when He comes again?

Prayer Gracious God, help us to be mindful of your second coming. Help us to strive for a Christ-like life and peace within our hearts. To You be all the Glory. Amen

I joined GSPC in 1979 along with my daughter, Danielle. My husband, SP, joined in 1983 after we were married and our son, Trey, was baptized in 1986. My heart has been in service to the children of our church and in enhancing services in the sanctuary with poinsettias, lilies and floral arrangements as well as serving on the PWCT.

Monday, December 6

Jim Van Haneghan I Thessalonians 5:1-11

Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers and sisters, you do not need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. When they say, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them, as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and there will be no escape! But you, beloved, are not in darkness, for that day to surprise you like a thief; for you are all children of light and children of the day; we are not of the night or of darkness. So then let us not fall asleep as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober; for those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who are drunk get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, and put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. For God has destined us not for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep we may live with him. Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing. “At first blush, it seems odd to be talking about eschatology (end times) during advent. We anticipate the coming of Christ and the transformation he makes in our world. We think of beginnings, not endings when we think about Christmas. In 1 Thessalonians we see Paul writing to a church that has faced opposition and persecution. Thessalonica, a port city dominated by pagan religions, is so hostile to the message Paul brought, that he and Silas had to flee. Yet this church persists, even with the toll on its members from others not convinced by the message Paul brought. Paul writes to them after Timothy visits to check in on them. In chapter 4, Paul talks to them about their grief concerning those who have died in the establishment of their church. He assures them that they are with God and will be reunited when Christ comes again. This leads us into Chapter 5 where the first 11 verses consider this second coming. One aspect of this second coming considered by Paul is when it will occur. Paul does not talk about signs or prophets, but how the time will come unexpectedly, “like a thief in the night”. The other aspect he talks about is how living a Christlike life will help assure that they will be there with Christ when he comes again. He points to living a life in the light, supporting others, not getting lost in the “drunkenness” and not living life in darkness. Not knowing when Christ will come, Paul points to staying in the light of day and maintaining a Christ-like life as an assurance. Live every day as if Christ were coming today. We often view Advent as a time of preparation for our renewed recognition of Jesus’s coming. We spend time reflecting on the significant event of Jesus’s coming, we give to charities, we fill food banks, and often revel in the “awesome” significance of Christ’s coming. On the other hand, the commercialization of the Christmas season often takes us out of the light and leads us to miss that awesome significance. This passage reminds us that year round living that prepares us for Christ’s coming provides the assurance that we will be with God in those days. As Paul points out, there are no worries about the day “sneaking up like a thief in the night,” if we live in the day.

Prayer Lord, help us to show your love and live in your light all year round. May we show love, build up others and continue to do your will in the world. As we approach the Christmas season, help us to sustain and grow in Christ so that we may live in the day and be an example to others of your love. Amen.

Tuesday, December 7

Susan Ashbee I Thessalonians 5:12-22

But we appeal to you, brothers and sisters, to respect those who labor among you, and have charge of you in the Lord and admonish you; esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. And we urge you, beloved, to admonish the idlers, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with all of them. See that none of you repays evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise the words of prophets, but test everything; hold fast to what is good; abstain from every form of evil. For two years now, we have all lived in a state of heightened fear. We face our own mortality as we struggle with the Covid -19 Pandemic. Brother has turned against brother and nations against nations over blame for the spread and mere existence of this virus. Many say we are in End Times. In times such at these, where do we find Peace, our own personal peace? Because as believers in Christ, we are children of the light and need not worry about when the day of the Lord will come. Through prayer and thanksgiving, with the Holy Spirit’s presence, we can put our fears aside, knowing that Christ Jesus is Peace.

Prayer Heavenly Father, bring back joy to our lives, trusting in you to show us the good that surrounds us. Lead us to right living, showing compassion and love to all, even when we find it difficult. Help us to find Peace in you alone. Amen.

I have been a Pediatrician at The Mostellar Medical Center in Bayou la Batre since 1981. I am a mother of two fine grown children. Outside of the office, my passions are gardening and medical missions to East Africa. A life long Presbyterian, I find my strength in our Risen Lord.

By Henley Akers

Henley Jean Akers is a six-year-old first grader at Mary B. Austin Elementary. She loves to snuggle, build forts, and collect rocks, sticks, flowers,

and

other

things

she

probably shouldn’t pick up off of the ground.

Wednesday, December 8

Sally Heltzel Pearsall I Thessalonians 5:23-28

May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this. Beloved, pray for us. Greet all the brothers and sisters with a holy kiss. I solemnly command you by the Lord that this letter be read to all of them. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

How beautiful this passage is, and how encouraging! As we approach the celebration of the coming of God into our world, these words bring peace to our hearts and souls. Paul’s message to the Thessalonians blesses us even now, 2000 years later. “May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely...The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.” How great is that! We can look ahead joyfully, fearlessly, knowing we have a Savior who is faithful and loving.

Prayer Dear God, we thank you for your faithfulness, and your great love for us that caused you to send your beloved son to live among us, and show us how to live, and die. Amen.

Sally Heltzel Pearsall has been a member of GSPC for 61 years. She and her husband, David, have two daughters and four grandchildren.

Thursday, December 9

Brent Ericson Psalm 126

When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” The Lord has done great things for us, and we rejoiced. Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like the watercourses in the Negeb. May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy. Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves. Psalm 126 reminds us that we can be filled with joy and peace after experiencing great adversity. In “A song of ascents,” the people of Zion are celebrating because the Lord has restored their fortunes. We can all certainly relate to this as we take stock of our nation and world in the wake of the pandemic. This feeling of peace and happiness also reminds me of the anticipation that we experience during Christmas. We look forward to being with friends and family, and to have time off of work. We can also use this holy season as a time to focus on having more peace and reflection in our lives. This is the kind of joy that brings heightened emotions to all of us as we prepare for Advent.

Prayer Restore our fortunes, Lord, that we may come back with shouts of joy. Amen.

Brent Ericson has been a member of GSPC since 2001 and has served as an elder and head usher. He is married to Sally Pearsall Ericson and has two children, Emily and David. He is an Eagle Scout and a graduate of the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.

Friday, December 10

Tom McGehee Luke 22:24-30

A dispute also arose among them as to which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest. But he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. “You are those who have stood by me in my trials; and I confer on you, just as my Father has conferred on me, a kingdom, so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

Who Is the Greatest In this scripture we find the disciples arguing once again about who among them was the greatest. Rather than arguing this question out of earshot of Jesus as happened in Mark 9:33-35, the disciples are doing it in front of him and at all times, on the very eve of his death. Are these men ever going to get it? Despite repeated lessons, they are still expecting a kingdom based on earthly ideas. They are still thinking the way the earthly world around them thinks and acts: a worldly kingdom with all the pomp and pageantry that goes with it. Jesus tells them: “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors.” Benefactors gave gifts but there were always strings attached. He admonishes them by saying “The greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves.” This is exactly what he told them in Mark: “Whoever wants to be first must be last and servant of all.” This is a lesson in humility and selflessness. Aren’t the greatest in God’s sight those who humbly serve? True greatness is not achieved by the compulsion of the power of a worldly king or gifts from benefactors. It can only be found by serving others. Great people do the work others don’t want to do and do it behind the scenes, not in the limelight. Humility and selflessness are the marks of a believer in Jesus Christ.

Prayer Dear Lord: Recognizing your love and faithfulness in each of us, help us to be just as faithful in using your many gifts to us to serve others with a willing heart.

Tom has served as Museum Director for Bellingrath Gardens and Home since 1994. In that capacity he oversees the Bellingrath Home and its collections as well as its historical archives. He currently serves on the boards of the Friends of Magnolia Cemetery, the Historic Mobile Preservation Society, the Friends of the Alabama Governor’s Mansion, the Historic Restoration Society (Cotton Hall), the Mobile Medical Museum, the Rotary Children’s Foundation and is a past president of the Rotary Club of Mobile. Tom has been a member of Government Street Presbyterian Church for 30 years where he has served as a Deacon, Elder, and Clerk of Session. He is married to Ceil and has a daughter, Megan, currently living in Athens, Greece.

Saturday, December 11

William Jameson Psalm 72:1-7

Give the king your justice, O God, and your righteousness to a king’s son. May he judge your people with righteousness, and your poor with justice. May the mountains yield prosperity for the people, and the hills, in righteousness. May he defend the cause of the poor of the people, give deliverance to the needy, and crush the oppressor. May he live while the sun endures, and as long as the moon, throughout all generations. May he be like rain that falls on the mown grass, like showers that water the earth. In his days may righteousness flourish and peace abound, until the moon is no more. For hundreds, if not thousands of years, people waited on the arrival of their king. This king would be far different than the ones that they knew, replacing tyranny with love, cruelty with justice, chaos with prosperity. This ideal king was Christ, who would bring a new age upon the world. Christ, the King of kings, would be the one to elevate the Lord’s people, freeing them from the injustice of old rulers like the rain, leaving nourishing growth in its place. The Lord granted Christ his righteousness, so that he can judge us, his people, and uplift those in need. This coming age was to last with the sun and the moon, showing that while the kings of old may come and go, succumbing to the human condition, Christ’s kingdom will be unending. The prosperity brought will flourish in the God’s people until the end. Peace will be the way of life, as we follow Christ’s example for our eternity. It is this coming, the dawning of the Age of Christ that we celebrate on Christmas. Jesus, King of kings, is the king that the Lord’s people were waiting for, and today we still live in his kingdom.

Prayer Thank you Christ for becoming our King, raising us to new heights that we could never reach without you. Thank you for bringing life to our spirits and judging us with righteousness, so that we can continue in our imperfect attempts to follow your example. Amen.

William Jameson- I am a senior at St. Paul’s. I run cross country and swim for St. Paul’s and CMSA.

The Third Week of Advent Sunday, December 12- Saturday, December 18

The Joy Candle Advent is a time for God’s people to re-awaken their longings. In the darkness, we long to see the light. In the silence, we long for a comforting word. In hardship, we long for an act of love. Sorrow may last for a night, but joy comes in the morning. In Christ, we celebrate and rejoice in the promise of joy.

Prayer Gracious Lord, our joy is found in you, for not only did you enter into this world, but you became the hope of the world. From the cradle to the cross, you invite us to share in your victory. This is the fountain from which our joy flows. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

This week at GSPC Sunday, December 12 Children’s Christmas Pageant Worship

9:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m.

Hymn: Savior of the Nations, Come

Sunday, December 12

Houston Jones John 3:22-30

After this Jesus and his disciples went into the Judean countryside, and he spent some time there with them and baptized. John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim because water was abundant there; and people kept coming and were being baptized —John, of course, had not yet been thrown into prison. Now a discussion about purification arose between John’s disciples and a Jew. They came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, the one who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you testified, here he is baptizing, and all are going to him.” John answered, “No one can receive anything except what has been given from heaven. You yourselves are my witnesses that I said, ‘I am not the Messiah, but I have been sent ahead of him.’ He who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. For this reason my joy has been fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease.” In my darkest hours, in my lowest moments, I see a tunnel. A tunnel that leads to despair and sadness. A road paved with failure. Bricks of sorrow. My arrival to the end is close. I feel the days slept, the months isolated, the years wasted. I am so close to my inevitable fate, but something pulls me back. A hand of friendship holds my hand, an embrace of family hugs, and the whisper of my conscience tells me, “It will be okay.” There, I remember the things I have. The love and care given towards me, and the love and care I gave towards others. Even if I face hard times, I can still find joy somewhere in life. There is always joy to be found.

Thanks be to God.

Prayer Dear Lord, thank you for the lives we live. For the good things that happen to us. Even in our darkest hours, you shine us a light, guiding us towards happiness. Thank you for the family who supports us, the friends who love us, and those who simply want to help us. Thank you for all the happiness in our lives. Amen.

Houston Jones is the grandson of Bligh Jones and great-grandson of Martha Tissington. He’s a fifth generation member of the church. He attends Davidson High School where he’s a junior. In his spare time, he waxes philosophical about pop culture and his place in the universe.

Monday, December 13

John Moses II Peter 1:1-11

Simeon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have received a faith as precious as ours through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ: May grace and peace be yours in abundance in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has given us everything needed for life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Thus he has given us, through these things, his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may escape from the corruption that is in the world because of lust, and may become participants of the divine nature. For this very reason, you must make every effort to support your faith with goodness, and goodness with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with endurance, and endurance with godliness, and godliness with mutual affection, and mutual affection with love. For if these things are yours and are increasing among you, they keep you from being ineffective and unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For anyone who lacks these things is short-sighted and blind, and is forgetful of the cleansing of past sins. Therefore, brothers and sisters, be all the more eager to confirm your call and election, for if you do this, you will never stumble. For in this way, entry into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be richly provided for you.

Joy For Christians Throughout The World! Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, wrote a letter to the Christian community proclaiming the joyful news of God’s promises to his people. He states God and the Savior Jesus Christ have given us a “precious faith”. By knowing God who called us to his own glory and excellence, we are given divine power providing us grace and peace as well as all necessary requirements for a full life and godliness. Once we have accepted “precious faith,” God and the Savior Jesus Christ promised we will be granted divine nature. God so loves us that He is willing to share his life with his people. We are called to integrate these elements into our lives to prevent them from being ineffective or unfaithful in our faith journey with our Lord Jesus Christ. Our “precious faith” (1) must be supplemented with virtue by showing high moral standards; (2) virtue must be combined with knowledge gained through life’s experiences or education; (3) knowledge must be blended with self-control to surrender to God for help and guidance; (4) self-control must be merged with steadfastness to be firm and unwavering in our faith; (5) steadfastness must be combined with godliness to conform with the laws and wishes of God; (5) godliness must be merged with brotherly affection for the greater community of fellow believers; and (6) brotherly affection must be blended with love which is shown by unqualified concern for others. In the Advent Season, rejoice in God’s and the Savior Jesus Christ’s gift granted to us! Spread the good news of our “precious faith” throughout the world.

Prayer Heavenly Father, we pray that your wisdom be bestowed on our local and national leaders. In these troubled times, give them, regardless of party or belief, the ability to seek solutions for the problems, whether social or climate, faced by our communities and nation. Ultimately, we are all your children who should seek social justice, security, and welfare for all. Amen. I was raised in Ashland, VA and educated at the College of William & Mary and the Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy. I served three years in the U.S. Navy as a line officer in the Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, Western Pacific, and Mediterranean Sea. While at the Fletcher School, I met and, later, married my wife, Marilyn. In 1975 I accepted a position with Citibank and worked in New York, Manila, and Hong Kong. Our daughter Lin was born in Hong Kong. I then entered the automobile industry and managed Bay Chevrolet in Mobile for thirty-six years. In 1983, our daughter Jennifer was born here in Mobile. I retired in December, 2018. 25

Tuesday, December 14

Guy Helmsing Isaiah 9:2-7

The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight,’” John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” The prophet Isaiah was called by God to tell of the coming of the Christ, the Savior of the World, the Deliverer of God's people. The book of Isaiah, and the prophet Isaiah, uses the idea of light throughout his messages to the people of God and to the Gentiles, who were at the time not the people of God and Isaiah was sharing with them the coming light of God, the light of the World, life-giving Light. In Isaiah 9:2, it says this, "The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; Those who live in a dark land, The light will shine on them." This Light, which we now know is the Messiah, the Christ, Jesus, was going to cross through all nations, to all people and would shine in the dark world. The world of Isaiah and the people Isaiah was talking to back then, lived in a dark time. And, this darkness continues in our world today. But this darkness, Isaiah is telling us, will be overcome. This darkness will not be the end of the story. Light can always win in darkness. Life-giving Light. You flip a switch in a dark home and light fills the place. You shine your flashlight on your phone when you feel lost or when you have lost something and the light will help you find your way and will help you find what is lost. When the storms of the world, this life, come at us and the power fails and the darkness falls on the world and we feel scared, alone, and desperate, it is the light of a candle that brings peace in the storm, calms the fears, and guides us to where we need to be, where we should be. The Light, as we know, will be the birth of Jesus as he comes to this world and brings with Him, a light that we know will win. It will overcome all darkness and will bring peace and will guide us to the way things should be. The Light of the World that Isaiah is talking about becomes Jesus and we celebrate that light. When Jesus and Darkness intersect, Jesus shines and brings hope and joy into every corner of our lives. It is not surprising, that joy is the result of His light coming to a world that does not deserve His Love but He has and will always love us.

Prayer Heavenly Father – we thank you and praise you for the light you give us in your son Jesus Christ. Please help us to continue to always seek Him and His joy especially in this season of Advent. In your son’s holy name we pray. Amen.

The Helmsing family are fifth and sixth generation members of GSPC.

Wednesday, December 15

Dorothy Morrison & Ava Stinson Mark 1:1-8

A Song by Ava John came from the wilderness Hear the good news

In Jesus Christ you are forgiven Hear the good news Hear the good news All your sins you have will be forgiven Because of God Creator of Life AMEN

Prayer Heavenly Father, as we come together after our travels in the wilderness, help us see the joys of your grace, as we learn from our journey to hear the Good News. Amen and amen. I am Ava Stinson… I am 8 years old in the 3rd grade … I live part of the week with my Mom, Shelby, and my Stepdad, Jansen… And the other part I live with my Dad, Steven, and my YaYa… I go to Government Street Church…

Thursday, December 16

John & Susan Holler Psalm 147:1-11

Praise the Lord! How good it is to sing praises to our God; for he is gracious, and a song of praise is fitting. The Lord builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the outcasts of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted, and binds up their wounds. He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names. Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure. The Lord lifts up the downtrodden; he casts the wicked to the ground. Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make melody to our God on the lyre. He covers the heavens with clouds, prepares rain for the earth, makes grass grow on the hills. He gives to the animals their food, and to the young ravens when they cry. His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the speed of a runner; but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.

The focus of Psalm 147 is on God as both the agent of creation and the ongoing active agent in the healing of the world. God who is the mighty and powerful creator of the world is also the one who heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds. He determines the number of stars and calls them by name. Despite the creative powers found in verses 8-9, God’s pleasure is not in the usual ways the world expresses power. Instead God delights in those who fear him and who put their hope in his unfailing love - people who are in awe of God will obey him and trust in him that he will do what he has promised to give - his unfailing love. Psalm 147 is the second of five Hallelujah Psalms giving praise to our Lord for he is very great. The Psalm tells us about God’s love and his power - God rules over everything and is very strong. It is through God’s love and power we as a people have hope. God has the power to give to his people what they need hope.

Prayer Let us pray: Dear God of hope and power, please open our hearts and minds to follow in the ways you would have us live. Allow the Holy Spirit to live in our hearts and let us be a beacon of your love and hope to others. In your Son’s name we pray. Amen.

Friday, December 17

Shawn Walker Matthew 11:2-15

When John heard in prison what the Messiah was doing, he sent word by his disciples and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?” Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them. And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me.” As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed shaken by the wind? What then did you go out to see? Someone dressed in soft robes? Look, those who wear soft robes are in royal palaces. What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written, ‘See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’ Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John came; and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. Let anyone with ears listen!

During the Christmas season, we see the word “JOY” all around us. We find it on wrapping paper, greeting cards, decorative pillows and often it is accompanied by the words “Love” and “Peace”. Every time I see the word “Joy”, I immediately recite in my head the following: Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself last. I don’t remember where I first heard the word broken down in this way, but I’ve passed these words to my children and young students over the years. It is not hard to remember or recite back but more difficult to follow through with its meaning. In the book of Matthew, chapter eleven, John the Baptist sends a message to Jesus through His disciples. He wants to know if Jesus is really the Messiah. At first, we see his question as an expression of doubt but maybe John was wondering why Jesus hadn’t yet done what John had expected him to do. How often do we find ourselves in John’s shoes? We often make decisions without taking them to God in prayer. And when He does guide us, we try to take a different path…sometimes and more often the easier path. However, even when God does not meet our exact expectations, we can be confident that He’s fulfilling His promise. The promise to always be with us, to love us deeply and to forgive us no matter what we do. He promises that He created us for a purpose and he will give us strength, wisdom and joy. During this year’s advent season, let’s remember to celebrate Jesus’ birth and encourage each other to spread the true meaning of JOY.

Prayer Our gracious heavenly father, as faithful believers and witnesses of your love, may we work together this coming year to fulfill your plans for this church and its members. To nurture and strengthen one another so that all may have a closer relationship with you, Lord. Guide us and direct us to always put you and your son first, others second and ourselves last. In your precious name we pray, Amen.

Saturday, December 18

Lisa Goodloe Isaiah 11:1-5

A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. The spirit of the Lord shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. His delight shall be in the fear of the Lord. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear; but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. Righteousness shall be the belt around his waist, and faithfulness the belt around his loins.

Lift this heavy load Lord, help me breathe life from this old stump. For I am a fragile seedling that yearns to reveal to the world a new beginning. A Giving Tree with strong branches for my people to reach for and deep roots for them to be anchored to in their faith journeys. Let the fruits of the Spirit be reflected in all who rest under my canopy growing in holiness, wisdom, love, compassion, and mercy in reverence to you, Lord.

Prayer Dear Lord, as Advent season approaches and another growth ring encircles our tree, please let us tend to the seedlings in our hearts and look for opportunities to break through any hardness and spring forth fertile ground. We know that you will always sit with us on our stump while nudging us to plant new shoots. In your name we pray, Amen.

Lisa Goodloe has been a member of GSPC for the last 25 years with her husband Trav. They have two adult children, Travis and Emma, and a daughter-in-law, Sally. Lisa is an Elder and has served as PW Moderator.

The Fourth Week of Advent Sunday, December 19 - Thursday, December 23

The Peace Candle Advent is a time for God’s people to re-awaken their longings. Where there is division, we long for unity. Where there is hostility, we long for resolution. Where there is separation, we long for reunion. Let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts.

Prayer Gracious God, you are the Prince of Peace who lives and reigns forever. As we journey together, we pray you would still our fears, heal our wounds and fill our spirits. Shine forth your perfect peace in our unsettled world throughout this Advent season. Amen.

This week at GSPC Sunday, December 19 Sunday School all ages Lessons & Carols Friday, December 24 Nativity Service with Holy Communion

9:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m.

5 p.m.

Hymn: Watchman, Tell Us of the Night

Sunday, December 19

Sarah Otts Isaiah 11:6-9

The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. The cow and the bear shall graze, their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. The nursing child shall play over the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put its hand on the adder’s den. They will not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain; for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.

At first approach, this scripture seems to reference a future place, not Earth. Heaven, maybe? Because, how could this refer to our natural life on Earth? The reality is that our existence is nothing like Isaiah describes. It’s ruthless and dangerous out there. We live with the fear of being eaten because that seems to be the natural order. But, a second approach, a more prayerful one, allowed me to visualize this verse. I saw the full knowledge of the Lord as a liquid, and it covered the earth like waters cover the sea. I imagined the awareness of God’s overriding love figuratively coating the planet; a smooth, cooling material filling every crack and crevice, putting out fires and softening sharp edges. If the knowledge of God’s love washed over the earth in such a way, what would become of it? How would it change? What would be smothered out, and what would remain?

In a world fully consumed by Love, there would be no fear or hate, no doubt or rank or judgement. We would coexist and lie down as lambs and wolves. The weak would be level with the strong. There would only be one understanding, one knowledge. The most powerful thing on Earth would be love, and love would rule over all. It would be here, on Earth, as it is in Heaven. When love rules there is: No self service, only service to God. No one assuming the right to place judgment. No one leaning into fear rather than faith. No eat or be eaten mentality. No hustle to prove worth. On an earth that has been fully blanketed by God’s love, all are worthy. When the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord the world will be consumed by love.

Prayer Lord, we ask you to fill our hearts with love. Let us each recognize the unique gifts and opportunities which you have given to us so that we may pour your love into every crack and crevice of the earth. Give us the diligence to stay focused on love, even when hate is present, to have faith even when fear is tempting. Help us to stay reminded that love is the most significant act we can perform, the most purposeful way we can use our lives. Be with us as we do what we can to love others as You have loved us. Amen.

Sarah Haas Otts; an artist and writer from Mobile. My work as an artist has a great deal to do with my faith. Everything I create stems from the heart, from moments in time when I felt fully present and aware, and from the raw emotions I experience. I work with color, to represent life’s hopes and joys, and light, to represent God’s love. My husband, Robert, and I have three children, Lelia, Sonny, and Josephine. Robert and I are members at GSPC where we were both baptized, confirmed and raised. We were married here, and now we are raising our children here, too.

Monday, December 20

Jacob Hutson Luke 1:5-25

In the days of King Herod of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly order of Abijah. His wife was a descendant of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. Both of them were righteous before God, living blamelessly according to all the commandments and regulations of the Lord. But they had no children, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were getting on in years. Once when he was serving as priest before God and his section was on duty, he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and offer incense. Now at the time of the incense offering, the whole assembly of the people was praying outside. Then there appeared to him an angel of the Lord, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was terrified; and fear overwhelmed him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John. You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He must never drink wine or strong drink; even before his birth he will be filled with the Holy Spirit. He will turn many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. With the spirit and power of Elijah he will go before him, to turn the hearts of parents to their children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” Zechariah said to the angel, “How will I know that this is so? For I am an old man, and my wife is getting on in years.” The angel replied, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. But now, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time, you will become mute, unable to speak, until the day these things occur.” Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah, and wondered at his delay in the sanctuary. When he did come out, he could not speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He kept motioning to them and remained unable to speak. When his time of service was ended, he went to his home. After those days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she remained in seclusion. She said, “This is what the Lord has done for me when he looked favorably on me and took away the disgrace I have endured among my people.”

Zechariah and Elizabeth wanted children, but were barren, and suffered disgrace among their people. They were righteous before God and people of faith, yet had their share of hardships. When the time comes, an angel appears to Zechariah. The angel, Gabriel, tells him that Zechariah and Elizabeth will bear a son, named John, who will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. “How will I know that this is so?” Zechariah questions Gabriel. Zechariah’s skepticism is met by God gently. Unable to speak until John is born, Zechariah leaves the temple and is unable to tell anyone of this good news. Elizabeth would go on to give birth to John, who was all that Gabriel promised he would be. They remained faithful for so long and did not lose hope. My question is, why did their faith persist? Every day we struggle with similar situations. Our faith is tested because we long for one thing and are so impatient. Zechariah and Elizabeth wanted only one child. Only one, when so many others have children. Similar to how some people in our modern world want a child, yet it feels like all of their friends and everyone they know have no issues with bearing a child. It is during this time that we can do as Zechariah and Elizabeth: pray. Praying does not grant instant gratification. It is clear in the scripture that God answers prayers, although Zechariah and Elizabeth had to be patient. You are patient not only for answers, but also faith to accept the answers. I have a unique wording with my prayer and it stems from having faith. When I pray, I am not so specific to the point that it is exact down to the minute detail. I trust in God’s love and know God will answer my prayers because God loves us all. God sent us Jesus to show us that love. Remember this scripture. When you feel your prayers are not being answered, know that God answers our prayers. A simple prayer for a child was answered, and that answer gave us John, who would go to show the path to many of the love of Jesus Christ.

Prayer Dear Lord, thank you for the love you have given us. Give us patience to know that you will answer our prayers. Give us faith that you will deliver on your promises. In all things, let us know your love is bigger than anything we will encounter. Let us always remember that your love is eternal and always. Amen. Jacob Hutson is Alexandra’s husband. He works at Veryable as a Team Support and Development Specialist. During his free time, he enjoys playing tennis or spending time with their dog, Brinley.

Tuesday, December 21

Sallye Irvine Luke 1:26-38

In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” The angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.” Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her. This is a classic scripture reading, yet one that I have always found rather unsettling. The angel Gabriel appears to Mary, as he has previously appeared to Elizabeth’s husband Zechariah, to announce that an unexpected birth shall occur. Both times the announcement is met with surprise, skepticism and trepidation. Both impending births seem impossible, implausible and utterly, truly miraculous. Both births also represent hardships for the couples as they are forced to confront their own disbelief and face potential societal scorn and judgement. In the end they have no choice but to rely on the Lord and trust in his plan for them. Upon reflection, that is what stands out to me in this scripture - primarily, that “nothing is impossible with God,” and secondly, that often the plans for our lives are not our own. Let us learn from this lesson to be patient and aware as we wait and watch for the miracles occurring daily all around us that are all too often overlooked. Let us also try to relinquish our desire to have such tight control over all aspects of our lives that we miss the opportunity to blossom with the potential the Lord wills for us. In this sacred season, as God makes all things possible, it is my fervent hope that in a world filled with strife and division that we may all turn to the Lord and seek to find paths to peace, unity and joy. We are all children of God and thus we rejoice in the miraculous birth and the everlasting reign of the Prince of Peace.

Prayer Dear Lord, during this season, as we celebrate the miracle of your Son, help us to look for and expect miracles and to accept your plans and your will for us. Help us all to strive for lives filled with peace, unity and joy. Give us strength and steadfast faith, O Lord, and help us to be the people you want us to be!

Sallye Irvine, a native New Orleanian, was raised at St. Charles Avenue Presbyterian and has now been a member of GSPC for almost 30 years. Sallye, a longtime food writer, is currently the chair of Congregational Care, a deacon, and does weekly bread delivery and Meals on Wheels. She spends a lot of time “plawking” (picking up litter whilst walking) and baking quiches for friends and family. She and her husband, George, have four grown children, Isabel, Richardson, Phineas, and Sullivan.

Wednesday, December 22

Corinne & Mickey Lorge Luke 1:39-56

In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.” And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has 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 forever.” And Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home. While reflecting on the passage, I couldn’t seem to get the picture of my Mom’s Trunk or Treat costume out of my head. I’m sure you are wondering what her Halloween costume has to do with Luke’s story about Mary and Elizabeth. It started with the large tattoo she plastered on her face to adorn her tie-dyed head band and mirror sunglasses. It read “LOVE” in big bubble letters. I failed to separate the two contrasting elements, so I gave in and concluded that Luke…was a hippie! You read that correctly. One of the common threads in Luke’s gospel is love. In this scripture, Mary was informed that she would carry the Holy One. Her relative, Elizabeth, much too old for conception, would also bear a child. Mary went to Elizabeth. They both spoke of the miracles. Neither had social standing in society, so both had good reason to be scared. Instead, they rejoiced and remained faithful. We honor this true discipleship, but I wondered how they were able to be so courageous. I believe the short answer is “love.” Love is more than just a feeling. The apostle Paul promotes faith, hope, and love as the values that define our relationship with God; and love is the greatest. It is the foundation for faith and hope. A deep sincere love does not occur when things are good. It is our response when things fall apart…when we struggle to see the point. Consider a time you might have disappointed your parents. It was their support, in spite of your misdoings, that generated the deepest love. We are able to grow by accepting risk and remaining supportive of one another. When God chose to interact with us he too was vulnerable; not to sin, but to our rejection. He gave us the choice to love him back, or not. Likewise, God doesn’t want our love for Him to be a given, but a choice.

Luke promoted the harmony and humanity of Jesus. So, while he might have been a hippie, his use of the teachings/life of Jesus allow us to be able to redefine love. Mary and Elizabeth teach us that when events happen, it is our opportunity to be a part of His doing. God reminds us that no matter what, in our darkest hour, when we are alone, and have lost everything, He will always be there. Hopefully, God’s words will echo for generations to come. Maybe, just maybe, our love will also have a domino effect. Now thinking back to Luke and my Mom’s goofy Halloween costume, I have decided that both of these hippies weren’t far from the mark after all!

Prayer Dear Lord, today in my prayer I strive to rejoice with Mary, for whom the Lord has done great things. Her ever present loyalty to You is a reminder that there is hope for us too, and for that we rejoice. We can live life knowing that your love is constant. In Your name we pray, Amen.

Corinne is a fourth generation, life-long member of GSPC. She considers it her home away from home. No matter where in the world she is sent for work, she can always find peace in 15 minutes of Bible meditation daily. She loves anything historical; and can frequently be found merging Theology and History among her studies, just for fun. Mickie is a fifth generation member of GSPC, and the eldest daughter of Toby and Corinne Lorge. She is currently in eighth grade and attends school at Episcopal Day School in Pensacola, Florida. She is an inductee of the National Junior Honor Society, a cheerleader, and a member of the Pensacola Ballet Youth Ensemble. Most of all, she enjoys horses and aspires to be a veterinary surgeon.

Thursday, December 23

Tommy Watts Luke 1:57-66

Now the time came for Elizabeth to give birth, and she bore a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to name him Zechariah after his father. But his mother said, “No; he is to be called John.” They said to her, “None of your relatives has this name.” Then they began motioning to his father to find out what name he wanted to give him. He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, “His name is John.” And all of them were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue freed, and he began to speak, praising God. Fear came over all their neighbors, and all these things were talked about throughout the entire hill country of Judea. All who heard them pondered them and said, “What then will this child become?” For, indeed, the hand of the Lord was with him.

“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” -Romeo & Juliet; Wm. Shakespeare The Scripture from yesterday’s lesson is commonly referred to as the “Magnificat.” In it, we learned that Elizabeth, who is expecting a baby, felt the baby leap in her womb and she became filled with the Holy Spirit when Mary, the expectant mother of Jesus, arrived for a visit. Earlier in Luke, we learn that Zechariah, Elizabeth’s husband, is a prophet and priest. Customary in that day, the priest serving Solomon’s temple was chosen by lottery. On Zechariah’s appointment, he enters the temple and the angel Gabriel comes to him to announce that he would be a father, and that his son is to be named John. Because of his and Elizabeth’s advanced age, Zechariah challenges Gabriel’s message that Elizabeth could conceive. Because of his doubt, the angel seals his speech. The time comes for Elizabeth to give birth, and on the eighth day thereafter, the couple, as per custom, have the child circumcised. At this occasion is when it was customary to name one’s child, and his mother announces his name will be John. Confusion ensues with those around inquiring as to why the name “John”? It isn’t a generational name for this family. Zechariah hasn’t spoken since he left the temple, and the only connection between him and Elizabeth is the Holy Spirit and the angel, Gabriel (and one must understand the implication of how these two are connected). When those present turn to Zechariah for his clarification, he corroborates the name, and miraculously his speech returns. The child’s name is John. While this may seem business as usual, it is not. The greater happenings are the ones our cast of characters do not realize have happened. While you and I have the great gift of Holy Scripture to connect the dots, these folks did not. When they heard Zechariah speak, their assumptions turn to the person of this child: John, the child that leapt in-utero when Mary, the mother of Jesus, came to visit. Who is John? What is special about him? If we look at the timeline, John is about three months older than Jesus, which would place John in the direct path of Herod’s order to slaughter the firstborn males. Our assumption that Elizabeth took John and fled to safety would be correct as John doesn’t meet Jesus until Jesus’ baptism, some 30 years later. Even then, he is skeptical of whether or not Jesus is the Messiah. One of the leading threads in the whole of Scripture is the naming of people and places, often followed by a definitive explanation of why the name was chosen. In Proverbs, Solomon offers the wisdom that “a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches...” When Jesus’ lineage through the line of Jesse is established by the prophet Isaiah, he elaborates further that [Jesus] will be called “Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace.” Mary, the mother of Jesus acknowledges his work in her life and refers to him as “Holy One.” Even those who witnessed the miracles surrounding the naming of John are no wiser of Mary’s own visit with Gabriel. In the account we’re given, we focus on Zechariah, Elizabeth, John, and Mary. Yet, the common denominator of the events accounted for is Jesus Christ. Even pre-natal, Jesus carries the power and glory that God instilled in his person. From Genesis to Revelation, Jesus is called many different names in many differing contexts. By any other name, Jesus is still the Son of God, and his glory and grace remain unchanged and available to anyone who will call on him.

Friday, December 24

Rev. Alexandra Hutson Luke 1:67-80

Then his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke this prophecy: “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, 75 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 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. The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day he appeared publicly to Israel. On this Christmas Eve, we find ourselves upon the time that we have all been awaiting. Throughout Advent we are called to wait and watch- to be patient. This idea of watching and waiting is counterintuitive to a society that thrives on staying busy and instant gratification through services such as Amazon that provide next day shipping. We are not used to having to wait but yet God calls us to do just that. In the days of Zechariah, there was talk about a coming Messiah. The world was in turmoil and day by day they awaited this Savior. It would be easy to simply lose faith. John the Baptist was sent so that God’s people would be able to sustain their hope. He was sent at the perfect time to shine light in the darkness and to guide God’s people toward the way of peace that Jesus would soon teach. I believe that even today, God sends us the people that we need to light the way for us and to restore our faith. When we are in times of darkness, God gives us exactly who we need to lean on. Perhaps for you it is a friend, a parent, a sibling or a church member. We each have people in our lives who guide us towards peace. On this evening, as you light your candles and reflect on the coming of Christ into the world, give thanks for those people in your life who light the way. Send them a card or a text. Let them know that you are grateful for them. How can you light the way for someone else in this season?

Prayer God of Grace and Light, we thank you for the people that you place in our lives to shine light in our darkness. Help us to be your light to others. Surround us in your love, light and grace this night and forevermore. Amen. Rev. Alexandra Hutson is the Associate Pastor for Children and Youth at GSPC. She is married to Jacob Hutson. Together they have a fur-baby, their golden retriever, Brinley.

Saturday, December 25

Rev. Rebekah Abel Lamar Luke 2:1-21

In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. After eight days had passed, it was time to circumcise the child; and he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb. “to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.” “But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” In all the times I have heard and read this passage, I don’t think I have ever before been struck by the stark contrast in settings. The scene begins as wide as most dared to think: an imperial decree for the whole of the Roman Empire--the whole of the known world.

The scene then narrows to a young, peasant couple having a baby amid livestock, even to the details of how the child is wrapped and where the child first sleeps. A seemingly unrelated scene with shepherds on a hillside is interrupted by heaven breaking into human life in the most unexpected of ways. The scene has suddenly become larger than we could have imagined with angels of heaven singing and joyfully sharing good news that the Son of God has been born, breaking the barrier between heaven and earth in ways the shepherds cannot understand but must see for themselves. Which leads to the shepherds barging in on this exhausted family to see God’s very self lying in a feedbox, wrapped lovingly in bands of cloth, and carrying the hope of the world in his tiny, fragile hands. And finally, the scene moves to the heart of Mary, where all these unusual and expected events are treasured and held. I pray that this Christmas you and yours will find the holiness of God breaking into your own lives in grand and glorious ways and in the quiet and still moments. Joy to the world! The Lord is born! Thanks be to God!

Prayer Enter our lives on this Christmas day, O Christ, and show us the ways of heaven so that we may know your hope, peace, love, and joy. Our hearts overflow with gratitude for the great gift of Christmas. Amen. Rebekah Abel Lamar is Senior Pastor of Government Street Presbyterian Church. She, along with her husband, Ashley, and her children, Sam, Ann Thomas, and James, wish you and yours all the blessings of Christmas. 40

Hymn: Joy to the World!

Acknowledgements Editor ............................................................................................... Sally Pearsall Editor & Publisher .............................................................................. Tommy Watts Artwork ................................................. Trisha Hawkins, Eleanor Oswalt, Henley Akers Contributors ............................................................................... Members of GSPC

Expressions of gratitude are offered to: Rev. Rebekah Abel Lamar Rev. Alexandra Hutson

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