Hark, the Herald Angels Sing

Hark, the Herald Angels Sing

DEVOTIONS FOR THE SEASON OF ADVENT 2022

Introduction

This year there are 29 days from the first Sunday of Advent up through Christmas. That gives us four full weeks to prepare our hearts for the celebration of Jesus’ birth.

We are grateful for staff members of Pinnacle Presbyterian Church and congregation members who have created these devotions to share with you. Each entry comes from a place of faith experience, exploring the major themes of how throughout Advent we prepare for Christmas itself and for living in the Christmas spirit throughout the year.

In the Gospels of Luke and Matthew angels are mentioned throughout the stories of Jesus’ birth, doing the work of predicting, announcing, warning, and celebrating. There are four main angels mentioned by name in biblical literature: Michael (Daniel, Revelation), Gabriel (Luke), Raphael (Tobit, 1 Enoch), and Uriel (2 Esdras).

Each of these angel names says something about who God is. (Did you notice the -el ending in each name? El is Hebrew of “God.”) The name Michael asks, “Who is like God?” and speaks to the sovereignty of God. Gabriel means, “God is my strength” and brings messages of hope. Raphael means “God Heals” and speaks of God’s restoring and healing a world gone astray. Uriel means, “God is Light” and signifies the light of God having come into the world in Jesus.

These four angel names will be our guide through the four weeks of Advent, leading us to the important themes of light, salvation, healing, redemption, reconciliation, hope, joy, love, and peace that are recounted each year as we relive the time of preparation known as Advent or “the Coming of the Lord.”

On each of these 29 days you will find a scripture reference and a reflection related to the themes suggested by our angel names. Take time each day to read, reflect, meditate, pray, and share. A devotional booklet such as this can be used for individual time of nurturing the soul or for times with family and friends. Read the scriptures and reflections quietly or out loud. Pray the prayers that end each section. Pray your own prayers too. Entrust your day and your heart to God. And may joy, peace, hope, light, faith, love, and salvation fill your days.

Hegeman

Rev. Michael

Hark, the Herald Angels Sing

WHO IS LIKE GOD?

The first week of Advent traditionally brings us the themes of faith and hope. Such trust is put in the one who is faithful, our God in whom we hope. The Archangel Michael, who asks, “Who is like God?,” is often depicted as slaying a dragon or even the devil itself. God is the one who vanquishes the darkness, preparing the world for the light, born among us, whom we call Emmanuel.

Genesis 1:1-5

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. ~ Genesis 1:1

“Who is like God?” the Archangel Michael asks. From the first verse of the first book of the Bible, we are introduced to the God who is like no other. In the beginning of all things we learn of the Being who creates, shapes, and forms all things, and calls them all good. This God is like no other god that the world makes, that human beings, with human hands, “shape” in their own image. The God of Genesis is incomparable. In calling all of this creation “good,” we know that God is intimately involved with creation, in relationship with what God has made. Yes, human beings do come into the story; these are the ones into whom God has breathed the breath of life (the Spirit). At the beginning of Advent we pay attention to the God who made all things, who is interested in the goodness of all things, and who cares enough to intervene in human history by coming to us as “Emmanuel,” God with us. The human story is one of brokenness. In the midst of this shattered existence God comes to rescue, redeem, liberate, free, save, heal, and make whole. God “tears open the heavens” which God has made, and comes down in the form of the Spirit. The Advent cry is, “Make straight the way of the Lord! Every valley shall be lifted up and every mountain made low!” Who can do this enormous task? Certainly not human beings. Only the God who made all things is capable of “making straight” the pathway for the coming of the Lord’s Anointed and the righteousness this Lord brings. Who is like God? Only God.

Prayer: God, as we prepare our hearts and minds for your coming, send out the bulldozer of your love to level the path, and rescue us from ourselves. Amen.

Michael Hegeman | Associate Pastor in Education

Rev.

John 1:1-5

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ~ John 1:1

The opening verses of John introduce us to The Word, The Logos, the very order and integrity of creation. The immensity is staggering, almost beyond our ability to comprehend.

But, try to imagine the whole of God’s creation as a single powerful atom particle out of your high-school science text. This passage from the Gospel of John would place The Word as the positive nucleus at the very center of it all; the light, the life, the power, the cohesive force. Always present, all powerful, holding creation in balance from the very beginning. We would be the protons acting in a supporting, important, but minor role… all working together, necessarily for the common good, God’s ultimate plan.

Matthew tells a nativity story sensitive to ancient Jewish tradition, Luke writes for the gentiles’ understanding of the world, and Mark is completely silent about the birth. John is different. He paints a picture of Jesus as the apex of creation, God becoming human to act as the ultimate high priest, as a continuous presence in creation, the sustainer of life, the rock and cement of our salvation, the illuminator of the human soul, and our present shield opposing the dark forces. The Word is our amazing shepherd leading us into the light.

Prayer: God, our Creator, Father, Sustainer, and Protector, we give you glory and thanksgiving for the eternal presence of your Son and our Savior, Jesus. The scope of creation is far beyond our capacity to comprehend, but we do perceive a piece of the “why.” Your presence as Word is always with us; it took human form as our Savior Jesus and will be our guide into the world to come. We thank you, as we prepare for the celebration of the birth of the Christ Child, son of God and son of humankind. Amen.

Phil Branson

|

Elder on Session

Mark 1:1-5

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.’ ~ Mark 1:2b-3

The prophet Isaiah foretold the coming of the Messiah centuries before Jesusʼ arrival on the scene. Our first gospel, Mark, tells of Jesus’ arrival, not as a newborn baby, but as an adult at the beginning of his ministry.

Isaiah tells us this messenger, a voice in the wilderness, is there to proclaim Jesusʼ arrival. He was John the Baptist and did the warm-up spot for Jesus. In Luke chapter 1, Johnʼs father Zechariah prophesies of his son’s role as a messenger, citing Isaiah as well. This John the Baptizer was a well-known person and a prophet himself. His role was that of a forerunner; he gathered folks and told them of the coming kingdom, preaching repentance and baptism. Mark then tells us of Jesusʼ baptism by the Holy Spirit and God’s pronouncement of his role as a son of God.

Jesusʼ life, death, and resurrection was the pinnacle event of human history, restoring humankind to God and teaching love.

Who is like this God, who prepares the way for salvation through such figures as John the Baptist? Who is like this God who fulfills scripture and does more than we were planning on? Who is like this God who would come to us in human form and call us to “repent, turn around!”? The God who made us and loves us. The God who redeems us and reconciles us. The God who is like no other. This is our God.

Prayer: Dear Lord, as we await his coming we are called as part of the body of Christ to be a forerunner of the gospel. During this season help us to reach out to those with love, compassion, and friendliness; living a life of faith each day. Amen

Branson | Congregation Member

Sue

Romans 15:13

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

~ Romans 15:13

During these days of Advent, we often hear of the trouble that people of Israel were experiencing 2000 years ago. At the time of Jesus’ birth, and even during the first days of his ministry 30 years later, Israel was an occupied land where the people were living under Roman laws and customs. Some Jews considered their time to be completely irredeemable. They were living in hope that God would do something about the collapse of good in the world. The questions those Israelites may have asked about their own time sound a lot like the questions we might pose today, “Our beloved country does not seem like our country anymore. What happened to the values we grew up with? Many people do not respect each other, nor feel accountable for their actions, nor accept responsibility. We begin to feel hopeless! How will we ever get through this?” But now more than ever is when we must remind ourselves of God’s deep love for us. We must call upon our faith to remind us that God, our great Creator, is aware of what is happening and is in control. Let’s feel God’s love surging through us and help to spread that love every day in all we do. Surely as we live that way, we will spread God’s love and will feel our hope for a more stable future growing again. As you feel that sense of hope flow inside you, you will sense peace, and your hope will be renewed!

This is who our God is: the one who restores and builds up. Our God is the one who brings order out of chaos and brings us hope for a future.

Prayer: God of all times and the ‘here and now,’ break into this crazy world of ours. Let your love pour out so that we see your salvation come. Let our joy be coupled with the hope you bring! May this be so in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thompson | Congregation Member

Connie

Luke 1:46-55

My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowly state of his servant. ~ Luke 1:46b-48b

I am here, alive today, because God sent His angels to revive me when my heart stopped, yes, stopped beating. Not just once, but twice. Once while driving home on Rio Verde Drive where we all go 55 mph. I was enlivened back to consciousness a mere eight feet from crashing into trees. Somehow I did not hit the brakes, nor swerve and roll the car. I simply turned my steering wheel and drove back onto the pavement saying, “Thank you, God! Thank you, thank you, thank you, God,” all the way home. I assumed that I had fallen asleep at the wheel, but I have since been told that five angels came to alert me, and they warped both time and space, so that I could live and safely drive home. Amen!

A week later at my regular doctor’s appointment, my doctor told me to go right now to the emergency room. They discovered I needed a stent, due to 98% blockage in a major artery that cares for the heart itself. I was placed in the ICU where hours later I went “code blue:” no heartbeat at all…before the stent could be put in place. I clearly recall two male nurses who were doing chest compressions on me all the while loudly calling to me, “Keep your eyes open! Diane, look at me. Stay here. Open your eyes! Look up here! Diane!” And on and on and on. This was indeed the most difficult challenge I have ever faced. Hard, soooo hard to do. I was seeing only shards of reality. I was in a very strange state of being. Thankfully, all the while those two lifesavers called to me and pounded my chest, there was a bright blue light shining behind them. This is Archangel Michael’s color. Jesus had assigned him to save me.

I know this to be true. I’m alive. I know that God’s angels are ever present, sometimes even archangels are called by Jesus, who is LORD over all on earth. My faith is strong, and stronger now. Yes, “my soul magnifies the LORD, and my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior, for He looks with favor on the lowly state of His servant,” me. I am ever so grateful for my life!

Prayer: Thank you, Jesus, for our lives. We are ever so grateful! Amen.

Wenger | Stephen Minister

Diane

Luke 1:46-55

God 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. ~ Luke 1:52-55

Mary’s head had to be spinning. She was a virgin Jewish girl, betrothed to Joseph, and no doubt focused on her upcoming marriage, new husband, and hopefully children. A good solid Jewish life. No indications that God would lift up the lowly and fill the hungry using this unexceptional, young girl.

Imagine the scene. The angel, as terrifying as he was glorious, reassuring her saying, “You are going to be the mother of the Son of God, the heir of the throne of David, and He will reign forever.” Incredible news but a drastic change of plans for the bride-to-be, not to mention the prospective groom! Oh and one more thing the angel added to let Mary test his word. Her old and childless relative Elizabeth was also having a son and is in her sixth month!

Luke tells us in response to the visitation that Mary arose and went with haste… and entered the house of Zechariah and greeted the pregnant Elizabeth, who had hidden her pregnancy until Mary walked through the door. Mary, like Zechariah and Elizabeth before her, beholding the pregnant old woman, could only think, “Who is like God?”

She exploded in praise in today’s reading that is often called The Magnificat: her song of praise upon the full realization that she was indeed to be the mother of the Messiah, the Son of David, who would, and still does today, deliver the people of God into restored relationship with Him.

Prayer: Dear God, we are amazed by Your goodness to us. You use the common and ordinary, who are willing, to do the extraordinary. May we respond to your call on us as Mary did: “I am the servant of the Lord.” Amen.

Bryant | Congregation Member

Ralph

Luke 1:67-80

Because of the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to shine upon those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. ~ Luke 1:78-79

Right after Zechariah hears from the angel Gabriel that his wife Elizabeth (who Luke describes as “getting on in years”) is going to have a baby, Zechariah responds by questioning whether this is possible. Then the angel renders Zechariah unable to speak! Zechariah tries to use hand motions to explain what has happened to him, but how do you describe, especially without words, an encounter with an angel, an angel with news beyond comprehension and belief? It seems that Zechariah’s silence is in itself a gift – a strange gift, as sometimes the most important things need to be left unspoken. Words sometimes don’t do justice to the most holy experiences of life. Even more so, perhaps his long silence allowed him time to prepare for the birth of his son who will become known to us as John the Baptist – the untamed prophet who will prepare the way for Jesus. Zechariah has months to consider what he’ll say when he is able to speak again. And after the birth of John, he does just that. His beautiful words are our text for today in which he declares the wonder of the coming Christ and the wonder of God’s mercy on God’s people. After the long silence, Zechariah has words of prophecy. Sometimes I wonder if we, too, are called to be expectant, and maybe even silent, so that God can place on our heart a better understanding of God’s greatness and so that we, when we do speak, might proclaim God’s transforming love and power to all whom we encounter. May God speak to us all in new ways this Advent as we anticipate the coming of the one who will shine light upon those who sit in darkness and may we be guided into the way of peace.

Prayer: Gracious God, speak to us that we might declare the mystery of your love to a world so in need of your light and your peace. Amen.

Rev. Erik Khoobyarian | Executive Associate Pastor

Hark, the Herald Angels Sing

I BRING GOOD NEWS

The second week of Advent traditionally bring us the theme of love. The Archangel Gabriel, whose name means, “the strength of God,” brings the message of God’s love for us. God’s strength is shown in great love. This is good news. When Jesus is asked to read scripture, he proclaims from the scroll of Isaiah, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me to announce good news to the poor.”

Listen for the Spirit’s good news this week.

Luke 1:8-20

Do not be afraid. ~ Luke 1:13b

Whether it be waiting for water to boil, test results, or for your child to return safely home, waiting is hard. As the time passes, we busy ourselves and continue with our routine to distract our minds. Or if you’re like me, depending on what I’m waiting for, you fill the space with anxious thoughts, fearful for the future. Doubt might even start to sink in.

Imagine waiting nearly 400 years. That’s about the wait God’s people endured since they last heard from God through the prophet Malachi. Zechariah and Elizabeth lived in a time of waiting, all the while continuing the rhythm of their faith, holding out hope. One day Zechariah is chosen to be the priest who enters the temple to burn incense. While inside, Zechariah’s personal prayers are answered. The wait is finally over.

Gabriel appears saying, “Do not be afraid.” Angels must have been terrifying because they always calm the person in front of them. But there is no fear needed because Gabriel brings good news! Their prayers have been heard–they will have a son. The wait to hear from God is finally over. And the wait for their prayers to be answered is too! Zechariah has a hard time believing it. But nine months later, he will rejoice at the sight of his son John. What's more, John will prepare all hearts for the long awaited Messiah. So what are you waiting for this year? Is it to hear good news? To feel God’s presence? For prayers to be answered? Do you find yourself waiting fearfully for what’s to come? The challenge this season is to be faithful in the waiting. The good news we hear is to not be afraid. For God is present with us in the waiting and does indeed answer prayers.

Prayer: God of peace, you break into our world with good news through your son Jesus Christ. When fear and anxiety threaten to take hold of us, when we doubt you’re here with us, when we haven’t been able to hear from you for some time, break in again with a message of good news. Open our lives to the awareness of your life giving presence and our ears to receive your good news once again. And while we wait to hear from you, give us the gift of patience and peace. Amen.

Rev. Leah Quarles Associate Pastor for Family Ministries and Congregational Life

Luke 1:8-20

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. ~ Luke 1:19

Once upon a time, I was a harried mom with three boys to get to weekend sports practices and intramural games. One Saturday morning I was hurrying to get one boy to the gym and two boys to the practice field … on time. It was not going well, and I must have worn a very crabby Mom face. I remember this all these years later because I believe an angel came to comfort me. As I was watching my son’s basketball game and worrying about staying on schedule, a small boy about 3 or 4 years of age caught my eye. He looked right at me and then came to where I was. He beckoned me to lean down as if he wanted to tell me something. When I did … he grinned like he had a happy secret and he kissed my cheek! Then he disappeared and I never saw him again. There were no angelic pronouncements that day, but I felt pure love. God’s pure love sent Gabriel to tell Zechariah and Elizabeth that their prayers would be answered. They would have a child. A son who would be called John. Gabriel tells Zechariah he is sent by God to tell him the good news. Just as wondrous to me is that Gabriel tells Zechariah, “I am Gabriel, that stands in the presence of God.” An angel directly from God. I can hardly imagine it. We may never be in the presence of a heavenly angel, but God’s good news is ever available to us through Scripture. In today’s scripture we are given good news right along with Zechariah which is that new life will come even when there seems to be no hope.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for earthly angels that help us to heal when our wings are broken and we are weighed down by life. Amen.

O'Connell | Elder on Session

Roselyn

Luke 1:26-38

Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you. ~ Luke 1:28b

Imagine how startling it would be if an angel suddenly appeared before you and said that you would have an important role to play in God’s plan. This might be a lot of work. Would you want to get involved? This passage from Luke is the account of the angel Gabriel appearing before the Virgin Mary and telling her she would conceive and give birth to a child to be named Jesus. He would be the Son of God and would inherit the throne of his ancestor David for all time.

Mary was engaged to Joseph of the house of David. Even though most of us would appreciate the honor bestowed upon us, there is little doubt that the enormous responsibility implied would create a great deal of pressure and stress and could be seen as a tremendous burden. Imagine the thoughts going through Mary’s head. How would she explain her pregnancy? Giving birth out of wedlock would have been shameful in the traditional Middle Eastern culture. Would Joseph still want to marry her?

The key to this passage is in the message from Gabriel that she has been favored by God and that nothing would be impossible with God. What Gabriel actually says is that Mary has been “graced” by God. That’s why the “Hail, Mary” prayer begins, “Hail, Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you.” Mary understood this message, that God was with her no matter what may come. And this was grace. So, she knew she would be given the strength to do anything required of her. Mary accepted her role and declared herself to be a servant of the Lord and pledged her willingness to fulfill her purpose in God’s will.

Prayer: Lord, give us the strength to fulfill our role in Your purpose. We never know when You will give us an important duty to accomplish. When the call comes, we know You will always be with us and at our side, and we will have the necessary support needed to accomplish our role in Your purpose. Amen.

Schaller | Congregation Member

David

Luke 1:26-38

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. ~ Luke 1:31-32

There doesn’t seem to be anything extraordinary about Mary. She’s a teenage girl, living in Nazareth, betrothed to a carpenter. No doubt, there were other girls in the community like her, all virtually unnoticed. The expectation was they all would marry, leave their parents’ home, and be cared for by some hard-working member of the community and bear his children. They all lived quiet, unassuming lives. No wonder she is troubled when someone on the street stops her and says, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you.” Who has singled her out and why? Why has someone noticed her? The person (whom we know is Gabriel) goes on to tell her that she has found favor with God, that she will conceive and bear a son who would be called Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.

Amazingly, Mary is not startled or troubled by this news. Without hesitation, she trusts him, believes, and says, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.”

There is nothing special about Mary on the outside, but God knows that inside, she is an extraordinary person of faith. Mary has no fear of what the future holds for her because she knows God will give her the strength and ability she needs to overcome all obstacles. The angel Gabriel’s words give her strength to face all that is about to transpire in the months and years ahead.

The same is true for us. If we have faith, there is nothing we need fear, for God and His angels will surround us, protect us, and provide for all our needs.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for the assurance that you are with us in all our trials. May we possess Mary’s extraordinary faith and be obedient to all that you command us to do. Amen.

Nancy Lipscomb | Stephen Minister

Luke 1:26-38

The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born[d] will be holy; he will be called Son of God. ~ Luke 1:35

We are thankful for “good news” that nothing is impossible with God. At a time when much of our work and life was becoming more difficult and feeling nearly impossible, we are entrusted with this scripture passage of angel Gabriel’s message to Mary, a message of good news. How humbling indeed for a reminder of God’s message we received 44 years ago. That message came early in our marriage when Tomás decided to shift from his education career to join Donna’s consulting practice saying, “I like what you’re doing more than what I’m doing.” When seeking advice from the Lord about this potential decision, Donna heard the words, “Positions and Patterns of People in Organizations,” and then shared with Tomás. We did not understand what these words meant but knowing they came from God, we said, “We obey.”

Like Mary, we did not know our obedience would lead us on an unbelievable journey and become our purpose and life’s work. While we have experienced personal, business and financial disappointments and challenges, the Holy Spirit has guided, sustained, and blessed us and many others as those four words from the Lord have taken shape. What seemed impossible has gone beyond our imagination. We encourage you to prayerfully reflect on this passage from Luke and listen for the good news God has for you even if, like Mary, it may seem impossible. Our experience showed us that the impossible may actually become a most amazing opportunity.

Prayer: Lord God, during these times of confusion and divisiveness, may you, the Most High, overshadow all our doubts and fears with the assurance that with You, nothing is impossible. And through the Holy Spirit guide us how to share the good news of your love for all! Amen.

Donna & Tomás McIntosh-Fletcher | Congregation Members

Matthew 1:18-25

Look, the virgin shall become pregnant and give birth to a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means, “God is with us. ~ Matthew 1:23

As with many scriptures, Matthew 1:18-25 has much to say with just a few words. The scripture is much more than confirming the Old Testament’s prophecy that the Lord is coming. The passage emits feelings of the name Emmanuel “God is with us” in multiple ways. Imagine the feeling of joy that Mary had, knowing her child is the One. But, at the same time Mary probably was feeling the fear of being "worthy" and had uncertainty of how to raise such an amazing child. Certainly, God rescued her by calming her concerns with an abundance of joy.

Another observation is that God is with us through miracles which are performed in the least expected ways. We have the luxury of hindsight, but I would imagine in those days the expectation of the Lord coming was that God was going to appear out of thin air in some theatrical event, but instead the Lord came in a simple, peaceful, and quiet setting. God’s miracles are continuous and are sent to rescue, redeem, liberate, free, heal us throughout our lives. All we must do is open our hearts to His love and see them clearly.

My personal favorite when reading Matthew is to immerse myself in the healing power of unconditional love portrayed by God, Gabriel, Mary, and Joseph. God’s unconditional love for us to become human, Joseph’s unconditional love for Mary to stay with her, and obviously the unconditional love that Joseph and Mary had in God to trust Him against all odds.

Yes, “God is with us” to rescue, redeem, liberate, free, save, heal, and make whole. What are your feelings as you celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Emmanuel?

Prayer: Dear Lord, as we celebrate your coming, we give thanks for your unconditional love and trust in us. We ask for strength to follow your examples and teachings and to share the gifts you have bestowed upon us with others. Amen.

Joe

Kaiser | Elder

on Session

Luke 2:8-14

The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see - I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people. ~ Luke 2:10

This passage from the book of Luke is often recalled in sermons, Christmas choral celebrations, and children’s pageants at this time of the year. We can all picture the first and second graders dressed up as shepherds, and sheep, and there’s always the lucky youngster that is adorned in a white gown, halo, and feather-covered wings, who portrays the Archangel Gabriel. It warms our hearts as we hear their little voice proclaim the Good News! But can you imagine what this scene really looked like?

Nearly thirty years ago I had the pleasure of visiting Israel for the first time and spending a few days in Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Tel Aviv, and Tiberias on the Sea of Galilee. Whether walking through the Old City of Jerusalem or along the shores of Galilee, I couldn’t help thinking that I was walking where Jesus had walked.

In the same fashion, this passage causes me to think about the shepherds and what this experience must have been for them. We read that the shepherds were tending to their sheep at night to keep them safe from harm. All of a sudden, they are surprised by an angel of the Lord. Now I’m guessing this wasn’t a typical occurrence in the middle of the hills around Bethlehem. They were frightened! But Gabriel saw that they needed reassurance and quickly proclaimed the Good News! “Do not be afraid, for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people.”

What Good News do you most need to hear from God? Where are you being called to “walk in the steps of the shepherds” to see God’s salvation come in Jesus Christ?

Prayer: God, thank you for angels among us who bring good news of great joy. Hallelujah, Amen.

Shirley Norris | Director of Communications

Hark, the Herald Angels Sing

GOD IS HEALING

The third week of Advent traditionally brings us the theme of joy. The Archangel Raphael brings to us God’s healing. Healing and salvation are closely related actions of God, and both bring us joy. We have put our faithful trust in a God who knows who we are and is concerned about our welfare, who has plans to prosper us and not to harm, to give us hope and a future. God is our healing, our wholeness, and our joy!

Psalm 107:19-22

Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress; he sent out his word and healed them and delivered them from destruction. Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wonderful works to humankind. And let them offer thanksgiving sacrifices and tell of his deeds with songs of joy. ~ Psalm 107:19-22

I often remind people that they hold within them the fingerprints of God. As ones created in the divine image, each of us has something to share about what God’s creative hand looks like. The psalmist also reminds us today that the stories of our lives bring with them more evidence of God’s grace and love. Your stories. Even in the midst of pain and struggle – and perhaps especially in the midst of pain and struggle – the psalmist both acknowledges our need for God’s healing and declares thanksgiving for God’s goodness. What might this look like in our lives as we reflect on the ways that we have experienced God’s works in our lives? Perhaps it starts with our own looking back to see the ways that God has delivered us, the ways that God’s love has been made more clear in our lives. And then we share our stories because doing so is an act of worship, and it is our act of thanksgiving as we “tell of God’s deeds with songs of joy!” When I worked at a summer camp, our director would ask us this simple question each week: where have you seen God? As we sat around the circle we heard stories punctuated with laughter and tears, stories of doubt, stories of love, but most of all, we heard stories of people in need of God’s healing and God’s deliverance from so much in their lives. We knew the question was coming on Sunday morning and it attuned us to be both ready to experience God’s presence and to recognize God throughout our week. This Advent season, where do you see God?

Prayer: God of the Ages, we come before you with thanksgiving for the ways you have stirred in our lives. May we find joy in praising you and in sharing with others the stories of our lives, and may we be attentive to seeing you in the stories of others. Amen.

Rev. Erik Khoobyarian | Executive Associate Pastor

Matthew 1:18-23

She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save* his people from their sins. ~ Matthew 1:21

* the word save can be translated as heal

What’s really in a name? Our culture tends to produce perfectly fine names, but most of us don’t worry too much about what a name means. Meaning is not generally at the top of our selection criteria for a good name.

But in God’s revelation to us through the Bible, names often carry deep meaning that is intended to be understood as a core message of the revelation itself. Probably the greatest example of revealed meaning in a name is of course “Jesus.” The footnote in my Bible growing up offered “God saves” as an alternate translation. We are reminded in classes here at Pinnacle that “God heals” and “God saves” are both equally good translations. Isaiah 53, for example, prophesies of Jesus that “with his wounds we are healed.”

The message of the angel to Joseph and the message of God’s word to us today is made clear and vivid in the Messiah’s name. Jesus, the Healer and Savior King, was to dwell among his people Israel and ultimately all who have faith in his…name. God saves. God heals. God with us!

Prayer: Our Healer and Savior - you came near and dwelt among us. You dwell within us now having healed us and saved us. And you are continuing to deliver us and heal us as you transform us into the very image and likeness of Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank you for saving, healing, and transforming your saints! Amen.

Ralph Bryant | Congregation Member

Luke 4:16-20

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. ~ Luke 4:18-19

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me...” So much is packed into these verses. But Luke makes one thing very certain, Jesus is here to spread the good news, and sometimes even our Savior had to depend on the Spirit for guidance and power. He knew he needed guidance for this task. “Because he has anointed me to bring good news...” The poor, the blind, the oppressed, those held captive, they are all specifically referenced in these verses, but does that mean those that are physically poor, blind, oppressed or held captive? Or those who are spiritually poor, blind, oppressed and held captive? The fact is, we are all sinners. And we are all in need of the good news of God’s divine grace, Jesus paying the price and taking our place for our sins. And as we know, this news isn’t easy to hear or accept for some people. But it is God’s mission and his mission for the church. And as Christians we should always be looking for opportunities to share this good news with those spiritually AND physically poor, blind, oppressed, held captive. What does this look like today? It can be sharing the good news with your career-driven brother who seeks money and power over everything else. It can be sharing the good news with your children, who desperately want to do good but who are naturally made to test boundaries and feed their curiosities for all things good and bad. It can be sharing the good news with your father who never wanted to hear the word God uttered in his presence. We all need and deserve to hear the good news, but we can’t hear it until it’s been shared with us. Sometimes, many, many times!

Prayer: God, give us the guidance and strength to share the good news with someone who really needs to hear it. And give us the patience to share it again and again until it is received. Amen.

Mitchell | Graphic Designer

Suzanne

Isaiah 40:28-31

Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. ~ Isaiah 40:31

This passage from Isaiah inspires us in times of loss, offering hope to those who wait in illness, or mourning, or addiction.“Those who wait” will see renewed strength and energy. Advent is a time of waiting for us all. The Archangel Raphael, whose name means “The Lord heals,” is not specifically named in the Christian Scriptures. How does he proclaim Jesus? We might see reference to him in John 5:2-9. In Jerusalem was a pool called Bethesda (“Place of Grace”); it was believed that an angel periodically stirred the water there. One who entered the pool while the water was stirred would be healed. Could this stirring of the water and healing be the work of Raphael? One man, a paralytic, had waited at Bethesda for 38 years; every time the water was stirred up, people went in ahead of him, keeping him from entering the healing waters. Jesus appears, asking the man if he wants to be healed. The man explains that he has had to wait. Jesus says, “Stand up, take your mat and walk.” The man is instantly healed. After all that waiting, it must have felt like a renewal of strength and ability, like he was raised up and soaring.

Waiting for healing is hard. It can challenge us in our trust in God. The story in John points to a God who enters our world, who with a Word can make us well. Raphael may have occasionally stirred the waters at Bethesda, but Jesus will stir the healing waters for all of us. And so we wait. With hope and expectation.

Prayer: God of Grace, grant us patience. Grant us assurance as we wait that You have and will step into the world. We wait on Jesus, knowing that He will bring us healing. May it be so in our lives. Amen.

Ben McConoughy | Friend of Pinnacle

2 Kings 20:1-7

I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears; indeed, I will heal you.

~ 2 Kings 20:5

Over a 100-year period of Judah’s history, Hezekiah was the only faithful king, but what a difference he made! Knowing that Jerusalem would eventually be subject to siege, Hezekiah had been preparing for some time by fortifying the walls of the capital, building towers, and constructing a tunnel to bring fresh water to the city from a spring outside its walls. He made at least two major preparations that would help Jerusalem to resist conquest: the construction of the Siloam Tunnel, and construction of the Broad Wall.

One day the prophet Isaiah went to him and told him that the Lord wanted him to put his house in order because he was going to die. Hezekiah prayed and wept bitterly. Because of Hezekiah’s faith and prayer, God healed him and saved his city from the Assyrians.

Each of us can make a difference too, even if our faith puts us in the minority. Faith and prayer, if they are sincere and directed toward the one true God, can change any situation. Hezekiah’s faithfulness is remembered 2,700 years after him. How will historians remember our faithfulness? Thanks be to God, who is faithful, we live in undeserved grace, a grace that heals us and makes us whole.

Prayer: Thank you so much, Father God, that You love us so much. Help us to trust in You in all things. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Sheaffer | Administrative Assistant

Dawn

Jeremiah 17:14

Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for you are my praise. ~ Jeremiah 17:14

In the book of Exodus, Yahweh declares, “I am the Lord, your Healer.” Yahweh Rapha is the name of our ‘Lord who Heals.’ In Greek, Rapha means “to cure, to repair, to heal, to make whole.”

Our Lord can and does provide physical, spiritual, and emotional healing. But more importantly, our Lord provides complete and total healing from sin. This healing leads to eternal life. This healing makes us whole. This healing transforms us into His Likeness.

Raphael is the name of the angel many believe stirred the waters at the Pool of Bethesda. The man was an invalid for thirty-eight years who had been unable to access the healing waters of the pool. Enter Jesus and Raphael. Jesus asked the man: “Do you want to be healed?” The man said, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going, another steps down before me.” Jesus said to him, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.” And at once the man was healed, and he took up his bed and walked.

Prayer: Yahweh Rapha, Lord Jesus – I ask, I seek, I knock. I trust, I believe, and I receive. I am being healed. I am being made whole. I am being transformed into Your Likeness. Thank You. Amen.

Alyce Bryant | Congregation Member

Matthew 11:28-30

Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. ~ Matthew 11:28-30

With just about one week left before Christmas have you completed an inventory? I’m not talking about whether or not all the presents are purchased and wrapped nor if the stockings are all hung with care. Have you checked in with your soul? One of my favorite hymns asks, “O soul are you weary and troubled? No light in the darkness you see?” While many look forward to the holiday season, gathering with family and friends and extra events, it can also be a time that has us feeling not so holly-jolly. We may feel as tangled up as our Christmas lights in the chaos of the season, hustling from one task to another. We may be wrapped in anxiety or worry about gathering around the Christmas table; either because of who will be there or who won’t be. Some of us may feel left out alone in the cold. There’s no doubt about it, sometimes the most wonderful time of the year can be the most complicated time too. So how is it with your soul? As you read this, how are you feeling? What are you excited for? What are you worried about? What is weighing you down? What do you want to focus on this Christmas season? What can you let go? Where do you need to ask for help? What would make your soul sing? The hymn continues, “There’s a light for a look at the Savior, And life more abundant and free! Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in His wonderful face, And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, In the light of His glory and grace.” Despite the many things that compete for our attention this season, the Good News of Christmas is that our Messiah is born. The weary world rejoices! May you turn your eyes toward Jesus once again this season. Towards the one who invites you to come to him if you’re feeling weary and burdened. If you're feeling overwhelmed and downcast. Jesus comes into the world, bringing healing for our souls.

Prayer: Jesus, you break into the darkness of the world with your light. You invite us to lay down our burdens and to share with you how it truly is with our soul. As we do, Lord pour out your healing. Help us to fix our eyes upon you this season. Help us to discover the lightness of your yoke. May we discover a life of abundance and freedom in you. Amen.

Rev. Leah Quarles Associate Pastor for Family Ministries and Congregational Life

Hark, the Herald Angels Sing

GOD IS LIGHT

The fourth week of Advent traditionally brings us the theme of peace. The Archangel Uriel points us to the God who is light and who created visible light as the first act of creation. The crowning of creation is the shalom or peace that God enacted, so that all creation would know rest and restoration. In the birth of Jesus we hear the whole multitude of angels proclaim, “Peace on earth and good will to all whom God shows mercy.” May you know God’s peace in this time.

1 John 1:5

This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him there is no darkness at all. ~ 1 John 1:5

How do you unwind after your work day? For me, it is walking. Typically alone and without listening to any music. Even if it is just for a short time, I will sometimes leave my phone at home in an effort to totally disconnect. Although I change my route quite a bit, there are a couple of places that I frequently walk to. One is a large grass field near my apartment. Another staple to my route is walking on the winding path through the buildings on the northwest side of my apartment complex. Right next to the path is a large tree, and at various times throughout the year, someone nails a note to the tree. These notes offer words of encouragement and an uplighting greeting for all those who pass by and take a moment to read. Reading these notes always cheers me up and brings a smile to my face.

We look forward to the incarnation celebration that is to come! For the birth of our savior who is light in the darkness. The one who gives us something to celebrate and smile about every single day. O come, O come, Emmanuel!

Prayer: God, help us to find enjoyment in the little things in life, like a note on a tree. As people who know of your love and grace, be with us in our sharing of it with the world. Amen.

Huenemann | Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Brandon

John 1:1-14

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. ~ John 1:6-9

Iʻve often been perplexed about John, the Baptizer. What a life he led – knowing that his cousin was destined to be “the light of the world.” They had to have known each other growing up, don’t you think? Their mothers were cousins. Lived not too far apart. Yet the track that John took was one of a predictor, the advance man of his day.

I wonder if I could be a faithful disciple in the manner of John, leading what was certainly a rough life, eating only a subsistence diet, living off the land. Yet he spoke to all who might listen, “There is One coming who will change the world. One who is before me, though born after me. The One who will make the light shine to any who will listen to what He has to say.” Wow – all this and still baptizing any who were sorry for their sins.

In this day and age of instantaneous communication, is there anyone claiming to be a voice crying in the wilderness? Or are we so insulated from hearing the promise of God, that those who speak John’s truth of the coming of the true light of the world are drowned out by the noise of today? I would hope that I might recognize the passion and true calling of a modern John. And, would see the light of the promise of Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Dear Lord, open our ears and hearts to John’s witness to the glory that lives in Christ Jesus. Lead us to a renewal of our baptism vow and help us to make the way straight for Jesus’ coming glory. Amen.

Rooker | Congregation Member

Paul

John 1:1-5

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life,[a] and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. ~ John 1:1-5

“It's not where you are, but what you do there that matters.” In late April of 2020, as the pandemic was beginning to unfold and the reality of the long haul we were facing started to become clear, my “quote-a-day” calendar yielded that little gem. Where I was, was where I would be for quite a while. And what I would do... well... that's a subject for a different reflection. At that particular moment I was simply reminded that it was not the circumstances, but my reaction to the circumstances that was important. A few months after flipping the calendar, I flipped through a song book and found this old chestnut...

Brighten the corner where you are!

Brighten the corner where you are!

Someone far from harbor you may guide across the bar, Brighten the corner where you are!

God is light! And, like Mary, we are called to bear that light to the world. The place to begin is right where we are. From that point forward we may journey, but if we begin by looking for the best place to bear Christ’s light, we will never find it. We are all in the best place right now, right where we are. I can hear some disagreeing voices. Afterall, how could I know your circumstances? Nevertheless, here in December of 2022, I encourage you not to be afraid of the light! The light of Christ brings peace, love, joy, harmony, creativity, inspiration; the light of Christ brings vision and new perspective. “In Him there is no darkness at all.” When Christ’s light shines, where we are takes on a whole new look. So brighten that corner!

Prayer: I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light, by Kathleen Thomerson

I want to walk as a child of the light, I want to follow Jesus. God sent the stars to give light to the world. The star of my life is Jesus.In Him, there is no darkness at all. The night and the day are both alike. The Lamb is the light of the city of God. Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Belmonte | Friend of Pinnacle

Dana

Isaiah 9:2-7

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined. ~ Isaiah 9:2

God is Light and the Archangel Uriel, signifies the light of God having to come into the world in Jesus.

For decades, my husband Marvin and I have taken a lengthy early morning walk after our first cup of coffee. In the beginning, that walk was brisk and we went at least three miles. As of late, that distance has been shortened and the briskness has waned, but the practice continues. Fourteen years ago we got our first dog, and walking her –and her future siblings – has helped to keep this ritual alive.

During the winter hours, we would start the walk in darkness with lights on our dogs, a headlight on our hats and a flashlight in our hand. Then as the days lengthened, we were out there to experience our gorgeous Arizona sunrises and the true light from God. I would sometimes need to walk backwards on the path to take in the glory, but often that light and its reflections would totally surround us. It gave me such a feeling of warmth and wonderment. Starting my day relishing in God’s rising light gives me the impetus to thank Him again for all He has given us and renew my intention to be a light in my world… trying to act and react as Jesus would do.

We live in the reality that there is both light and darkness around us. This world has both good and evil, right and wrong. As believers, we must grow in both our acceptance of this reality and our pursuit of the light. We must allow God to mold and shape us and allow his light to transform us into reflections of his Son.

Prayer: Dear God, help me to live as the light of the world and experience the joy that comes from being used by God to advance his kingdom. Amen.

Bower | Congregation Member

Carol

Matthew 2:1-12

They set out, and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen in the east, until it stopped over the place where the child was.

~ Matthew 2:9

Life is one big journey, isn’t it? It’s a gift, a blessing and with it comes great responsibility. We must honor the earth, our families, ourselves, our work, and most importantly, God. It’s a hefty balance and prioritizing all of these important values is challenging.

Every day I strive to walk in the light, to walk to God. I feel privileged to be alive and today when I am reflective, I am clear. I am mindful that the road behind me is winding with some rocks and dusty potholes. On that road, there were some tears and struggles, but also lots of joy and laughter. All of these elements are important for our journey.

As I pivot, I see the road continuing with more mindfulness to a fuller journey with lots of light and lots more learning. I want to be a better version of myself, full of curiosity, growth and compassion. I hope to slow down, to find patience so I can fully absorb the light. It’s everywhere we look, when we do, indeed, look.

May we all find God’s light this holiday season and throughout the year. I pray that we can all reflect on the road behind us, but can pivot with hope toward brightness.

Prayer: Dear God, please be with us as we all strive to walk toward your light. Be with us when the light is dulled and when it’s shining brightly. When it’s a beautiful day or a terrible night. Please know we need you in our hearts and in our lives. Your love is ALWAYS our brightest starlight. In Christ we pray, amen.

Kelly McGinn | Park Center Administrator

Luke 1:68-79

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. ~ Luke 1:78-79

With Uriel’s message, God is light, as the frame for this devotional, I am struck by how God’s presence courses through Luke 1:68-79. It feels appropriate, too, that this devotional entry will be read on one of the shortest days of the year, December 23rd, when the natural light nears its lowest point. During this time of Advent, I find that my inner world remains faithfully lit—no matter what darkness or doubt is encountered there—so that God may map the way.

God is light. And there is comfort in knowing that the brightest light is nearing.

I’m amazed by how, even in the reading of this passage, the Spirit finds me and fills me. How Christ’s love is ever-present, even as I contemplate dwelling in “the shadow of death,” in that place where God’s guidance moves “one foot at a time” toward “peace.”

God is light. A light that offers comfort that comes from trusting Him. I can feel the light nearing in this passage, readying me to stand and see. I find solace in believing that there is a holy current that binds each of us together as we make our preparations—each of us who is enlivened by life at Pinnacle, and all of God's congregants who will open their hearts for Christ. I am moved to remember that God is light, and He is not alone.

Prayer: May loving intentions and guidance of God transcend these words so that the Spirit may take you closer to yourselves, your faith, and the joyous light that moves within you. Amen.

Tugendhat | Congregation Member

Michael

Luke 2:8-14

Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them. ~ Luke 2:9

The scene must have been truly incredible! Two thousand years ago, long, long, long before electric lights, the nighttime was indeed dark. I remember once traveling through the very rural countryside of East Africa. At night, sometimes all the paltry electricity would just peter out, and we would be left in utter darkness. There was nothing to do at that point. Just sit around and talk, not being able to see the faces of those around us, old friends and new ones. Just the sound of voices and the whir of insects.

I can only imagine that those shepherds out on the hillside late at night could only hear the voices of other shepherds and the bleating of the sheep and goats around them. Utter darkness. And then suddenly the heavens were lit up with dazzling light! I picture it like a sports stadium when someone suddenly turns on all the incandescently bright lights. Blinding! And then the unearthly sounds of voices that had no bodies. They seem to come from everywhere and nowhere at the same time. And the music! Music that sounded like fire and a thousand spinning prisms!

Such a glorious light!

Speaking of glory, the scripture says that “the glory of the Lord shone round about them.” The word used in Hebrew scripture is kavod, and it means something like, “heaviness.” This light that shone on the shepherds was so “weighty” that they could feel the light pressing in on them…and this heavy light compelled them to run and see the dawn of God’s salvation, light birthed in a humble animal stall.

Scripture says of Jesus, “Take my yoke upon you…my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Prayer: May God’s glory, that shone down like a light, be not heavy but light! May God’s salvation illumine our dark nights, that we may see God face to face. Amen.

Rev. Michael Hegeman | Associate Pastor in Education

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. ~ Isaiah 12:2-3

Joseph, take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, (which means “salvation”) for he will save his people from their sins. ~ Matthew 1:20-21

“God is Light.” The angels proclaim it this Christmas Day.

My wife is an amateur photographer. She loves it. When I’m watching her compose a shot I sometimes comment on the thing I think she’s taking a picture of. I often ask why she chose that. And often she says, “I didn’t. I’m not taking a picture of the thing. I’m taking a picture of light.” She sees how light dances and illumines, reflects and refracts, and reveals things in new, well . . . light. And later, when I see the photo, I see what she means. She sees things by light moving at, on, around, and sometimes through them. And so, it’s not the thing she’s picturing. It’s the light. On this Christmas Day, may you see God in that way. Light. May you see more of the Light of God shining at, on, around, and through. Like Rembrandt’s paintings of the Nativity, with the baby in the manger as the only source of light in the space, may you see life illumined by Christ. May Light save you from the fear of night. May Light save you from losing your way. May Light reveal the texture of God for you.

Prayer: God of Light, on this day of celebrating you with us in Christ Jesus, may he be our Light. Amen.

Rev. Wes Avram | Pastor and Head of Staff

Hark, the Herald Angels Sing

About the Mosaics

The Four Archangels

St. John's Church, Warminster

The beautiful images throughout this Advent devotional are mosaics that adorn the front of St. John’s Church in Warminster, Wiltshire, England. The mosaics at St. John’s were made by James Powell and Sons of the Whitefriars Foundry, London between 1888 and 1915. Whitefriars produced handmade glass which was exported throughout Europe.

These mosaics are made in a style known as Opus Sectile, popularized in the ancient and medieval Roman world where materials were cut and inlaid into walls and floors to make a picture or pattern. Although some of the backgrounds are made with small, regular pieces of glass, the figures are made of larger, irregular pieces. So, an angel’s wing or a fold in a robe might be one piece of mosaic. The areas of gold, use a technique called ‘smalti’ in which pieces of gold foil are sandwiched between tiny pieces of glass.

The development of mosaics on biblical themes coincided with the Victorian era's focus on epic and heroic themes, and the colorful and detailed pictures had great appeal. Wealthy Victorians liked to donate a mosaic either as a memorial or simply as a present to their local church. Ancient churches, therefore, often have a mosaic, usually an altarpiece, made by Powell, installed in the Victorian era. Churches actually built in the Victorian age, like St. John’s, would be more likely to have a collection of panels around the walls donated by enthusiastic patrons.

To learn more about the mosaics and the archangels scan the qr code on the right to view a short video.

Photos are courtesy of St. John’s Church in Warminster. Special thanks to our friends across the pond for sharing these stunning images and teaching us more about them.

For Pinnacle travelers, if you find yourself nearby, we encourage you to visit St. John’s which is located 149 kilometers (93 miles) southwest of London.