Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! While shepherds kept their watching, o’er silent flocks by night, behold throughout the heavens, there shone a holy light. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! The shepherds feared and trembled, when lo! above the earth, rang out the angel chorus, that hailed our Savior’s birth. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Down in a lowly manger, our humble Christ was born, and God sent us salvation, that blessed Christmas morn. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! 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The shepherds feared and trembled, when lo! above the earth, rang out the angel chorus, that hailed our Savior’s birth. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Down in a lowly manger, our humble Christ was born, and God sent us salvation, that blessed Christmas morn. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! While shepherds kept their watching, o’er silent flocks by night, behold throughout the heavens, there shone a holy light. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! The shepherds feared and trembled, when lo! above the earth, rang out the angel chorus, that hailed our Savior’s birth. 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Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born!
Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! While shepherds kept their watching, o’er silent flocks by night, behold throughout the heavens, there shone a holy light. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! The shepherds feared and trembled, when lo! above the earth, rang out the angel chorus, that hailed our Savior’s birth. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Down in a lowly manger, our humble Christ was born, and God sent us salvation, that blessed Christmas morn. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! 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The shepherds feared and trembled, when lo! above the earth, rang out the angel chorus, that hailed our Savior’s birth. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Down in a lowly manger, our humble Christ was born, and God sent us salvation, that blessed Christmas morn. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! While shepherds kept their watching, o’er silent flocks by night, behold throughout the heavens, there shone a holy light. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! The shepherds feared and trembled, when lo! above the earth, rang out the angel chorus, that hailed our Savior’s birth. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Down in a lowly manger, our humble Christ was born, and God sent us salvation, that blessed Christmas morn. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! While shepherds kept their watching, o’er silent flocks by night, behold throughout the heavens, there shone a holy light. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! The shepherds feared and trembled, when lo! above the earth, rang out the angel chorus, that hailed our Savior’s birth. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Down in a lowly manger, our humble Christ was born, and God sent us salvation, that blessed Christmas morn. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! While shepherds kept their watching, o’er silent flocks by night, behold throughout the heavens, there shone a holy light. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! The shepherds feared and trembled, when lo! above the earth, rang out the angel chorus, that hailed our Savior’s birth. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! Down in a lowly manger, our humble Christ was born, and God sent us salvation, that blessed Christmas morn. Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born!
2025 ADVENT DEVOTIONAL
Dear friend in Christ,
One of the most recognizable (and fun!) Christmas Carols is “Go Tell It on the Mountain.” It’s a song to which you tap the steering wheel or hum the melody after it’s over. Throughout the Advent and Christmas season, we’re hoping to uncover the “it” and challenge you to be a person who goes and tells it. To do so, we’ll use themes from the song.
This Advent devotional book is written by Salem staff spanning our Church, School and Preschool who wrote these devotions based on five themes:
• Go tell it
• The humble Christ is born
• Salvation
• Over the hills and everywhere
• Keep watch
We’ll dive deeper into each of these themes on Sunday mornings at our 9 and 10:30 a.m. worship services. You can also watch our services online at salem4u.com or on our YouTube channel at youtube.com/SalemTomball.
May God bless you with His peace and joy during this season, and we pray you are blessed and encouraged by these devotional thoughts. Happy reading (or listening)!
On behalf of our entire Salem family,
Jason Schleicher Spiritual Formation Pastor
ISAIAH 52:7
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”
PRAY WITH ME...
Heavenly Father, as we enter into this season of Advent, we often find ourselves weary from many different things. But nothing renews a weary spirit more than good news. May the reminder from the prophet Isaiah that “Our God reigns” and the angel chorus that “Jesus Christ is born” refresh our souls. Fill our hearts with peace and joy this Advent and give us courage to GO TELL this good news with others. Amen.
TIM NIEKERK Senior Pastor DECEMBER 1
Before angels sang in Bethlehem or shepherds hurried to a stable, God had already spoken words of hope to a weary people through the prophet Isaiah. He promised that one day messengers would race across mountains to proclaim peace and salvation. Centuries later, that promise came true when the cry rang out: “Jesus Christ is born!”
Advent calls us to both remember that promise and share it. It’s not just about waiting. It’s also about witnessing. The good news of Jesus’ birth, as well as His life, death and resurrection, isn’t meant to stay silent or private. Like those beautiful feet on the mountains, we’re called to GO TELL IT!
We’re called to announce God still reigns, His peace is real, and His love and grace have come for us.
As we light candles of peace, joy, love and hope together in worship this season, we remember each flame represents a message the world needs to hear. Though we may sometimes believe no one is listening or even cares, the world still longs for what only Jesus brings.
May we be bold messengers through our words, our actions, and our worship, as we share the good news that changes everything. Let’s begin Advent with hearts ready to GO
LAURA CARLISLE
Associate Director of Worship
I love stories. I love big, epic novels and short, simple poems. I love movies, memoirs, classics, and new books. I love being totally enveloped in the world of a story and the characters. For all my love of stories, there is one thing I am so careful to avoid: spoilers. They seem to lurk around every corner, on social media, and in conversations with friends. How am I supposed to fully invest in a story when I know how it ends?
Ironically, my very favorite story of all time is chock-full of spoilers. It has everything: history and poetry. It’s about love, forgiveness, and sacrifice. And each page points to the final, epic battle between life and death. Have you guessed what the story is yet? It’s the Gospel! It’s the only story that includes all of us, from the beginning of time to the days that haven’t yet happened. The best part happens in the middle: Jesus puts on human flesh and is born as a baby, lives a perfect life, goes to the cross, takes on the sin of all humankind, and dies in our place so we can receive forgiveness and the gift of everlasting life.
The Gospel is the most important, beautiful, awe-inspiring story ever written. It isn’t fiction; it really happened! And it continues today. Each spoiler—a hint toward what happens at the end—is a glimpse into the real, true future. It’s the only story where the listener becomes a part of the story…forever! As a lover of stories, I give you full permission to spoil the ending of this story to everyone you meet: Jesus lives!
ROMANS 1:14-15
I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome.
PRAY WITH ME...
God, thank You for making me a part of Your story. Open my eyes to continue to see Your story unfolding all around me. Help me to be eager to share Your story of love, grace, and forgiveness with everyone I meet, until the day You call me home. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
ACTS
8:4
Those who had been scattered preached the Word wherever they went.
PRAY WITH ME...
Lord Jesus, give us the courage of those who suffered for Your name. Strengthen our faith so we will not be silent even in seasons of pressure or pain. Help us to speak Your truth with love, to worship without fear and to trust You more than comfort or approval. May the legacy of believers like István inspire us to stand firm and shine for You. Amen.
DECEMBER
3
STEVE PERKINS Director of Communications
The early church didn’t grow in comfort; it grew in crisis. After Stephen’s death, believers were scattered, not by choice but by persecution. Yet, today’s Bible verse says wherever they went, they preached the Word. The enemy tried to silence them. Instead, the Gospel was carried farther than ever before.
I remember my friend, István Bojtor, a humble pastor from Hungary. Under communist rule, he was arrested for preaching Christ. In prison, he was beaten every day by his captors trying to force him to renounce his faith. But he never did. He would ask quietly and courageously, “If praise and worship meant torture and death, would I still believe?” That question has stayed with me ever since I heard his story.
István was released from prison when communism fell in Hungary. Though free in body, his faith had always been free in spirit. He passed away in the mid-1990s, but his testimony still speaks to me every day.
We may never face prison walls or daily beatings, but we live in a world that urges us to keep our faith quiet. But the call of Christ is not silence—it is witness. In workplaces, homes, schools and in suffering, may our lives preach the Word wherever we go.
ERIKA WEGENKE
Co-Director of Kids Ministry
When I read today’s Bible verse as a child, I pictured myself heading to a faraway land proclaiming the gospel in remote villages. After all, Jesus told us to go into all the world and spread the good news that our sins are forgiven and we get to spend eternity with Him! That is big news that should be shared to ALL creation!
This verse hits me differently now.
The song “Go Tell it on the Mountain” is a Salem Kids Ministry favorite. We’ve had a few opportunities where our PreK-6th grade kiddos sing this song in big church with their powerful voices and actions. Our kids might not venture too far beyond our community to be a witness, but they sure boldly share the good news of Jesus and His birth through a simple song. Many adults (including me!) have been moved by their sweet voices and bold proclamation to “GO tell it on the mountain…”
The whole world needs Jesus, but we often forget that there are people in our midst who are hurting and lost—the neighbor who lost a spouse, the mom in car line struggling with her kids, or even the person next to us in our pew on Sunday. This Christmas season, let’s slow down and really take a look at those we encounter each day. Let’s not shy away from uncomfortable situations but use our words and actions to boldly tell the good news of Jesus.
MARK 16:15
He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.”
PRAY WITH ME...
Dear God, thank You for sending Your Son to us at Christmas. Thank You for all the joy and excitement that comes in this Christmas season. Open our eyes to those hurting around us and show us ways to boldly share Your love in our words and actions. May we spread the great news of Your Son in our community, state, nation and beyond! In Your name we pray, Amen.
LUKE 4:43
But He said, “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.”
DECEMBER 5
PAUL CHENEY Director of Missions and Outreach
If you ask most Christians (and Google, ChatGPT, or Alexa) why Jesus came to earth, the answer you’ll almost always get is: “to save us from our sins.” I know that’s not incorrect, but it sure does limit what we mean when we go tell others the good news of the Gospel. If Jesus is just the get-out-of-hell-free card we give people, then it’s really easy for them to think, “I believe that. I’m good now. I’m in! I don’t need anything else, and there’s nothing else expected of me.”
PRAY WITH ME...
Jesus, You are so much more than a sin-forgiver. You came to tell us about the life we are called to live right now and the life we look forward to in the future. Send Your Spirit to fill us with words and actions that are full of grace, compassion, and sensitivity to those who don’t know You yet. May we bring You glory as others see You in us. Amen.
In today’s Bible passage, Jesus gives us a much richer reason for His coming. He says that the good news He was sent to proclaim is actually about the Kingdom of God. It isn’t just the good news of sin being defeated. It’s the good news of how we will live together in the Kingdom of God AFTER sin is defeated…and how we are to live NOW.
According to Luke 4, Jesus spent countless hours healing people one night. Sickness doesn’t belong in the Kingdom of God! Then, Jesus spent the next three years giving the world a taste of His kingdom. He also taught His disciples (and us) to live life and treat others now as if the Kingdom has already come.
Believing the good news of Jesus does not mean it’s time to relax in the promise of eternity. It’s time to get to work, grow in our relationship with God, and demonstrate the good news of God’s Kingdom by loving and serving others, even before we get to tell them with our words.
DAVID BOLDT
8th Grade Teacher
Have you ever been to a family reunion? I don’t mean when the five of you get together. I don’t even mean when Grandma and Grandpa show up with the cousins. I mean when you have to meet at the farm or rent the pavilion at the park because dozens of cousins are coming from multiple states and you see family you’ve never met before! Can you picture it? The youngest ones are running everywhere playing games. The middle agers are gathered to discuss their kids, jobs, and politics. The senior set is on lawn chairs under the trees fanning themselves. Barbecue is on the grill. Everyone has a smile on their face, and hugs and laughter are abundant.
This is the scene John is describing in heaven. It’s the ultimate Christian family reunion! People of every generation and every corner of the globe are gathered as one family in the presence of God. What a glorious scene God provides for believers through John! It’s another reason why we look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. But it isn’t an easy path.
A few verses after today’s Bible passage says: “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” (Revelation 7:14) It is true what Jesus tells us through John’s gospel: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) This only makes looking forward to the heavenly family reunion more exciting! To God be the glory. Amen.
REVELATION 7:9
After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.
PRAY WITH ME...
Dear Heavenly Father, I know in this season, I don’t always put You first in my life. Please forgive me when I get sidetracked by the things of this world. Help me focus my eyes on Christ, my Savior. Thank You for giving us a picture of our eternal life with You in heaven. It gives me hope for the future. Amen.
ISAIAH 12:5
Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.
PRAY WITH ME...
Lord, thank You for doing exciting things — in Your world and in our lives. Thank You for trusting us with Your powerful message. Please give us the courage of the shepherds, to go immediately and let Your love be known to all the world. Amen.
SARAH WALQUIST
Pre-K Teacher DECEMBER 7
When was the last time you couldn’t keep something to yourself — the kind of good news that just had to be shared?
I remember hearing some exciting news regarding my co-teacher one morning. I was so overwhelmed with joy that I found myself tearing up in the middle of a quiet classroom. I couldn’t wait to share the news. It was too good to keep in.
That’s how the shepherds felt on the night of Jesus’ birth. Luke 2 tells us they didn’t wait, second-guess, or overthink — they ran immediately to find the baby and then “spread the word concerning what had been told to them” (Luke 2:17). These weren’t influencers or public speakers. They were ordinary people, chosen to carry the extraordinary message of the newborn King.
It’s not surprising that after He died and rose again, Jesus asked His followers to go into the world to share the good news of what God had done. Jesus didn’t ask the elite, educated, or most influential members of society. Instead, He chose imperfect people who didn’t have it all together to spread His important message. Today we’re reminded that He asks us to do this too! Not because we have the right credentials, but because God’s Spirit lives inside of us. We can go out confidently and share Jesus with those around us! Today’s Bible verse reminds us of our role: “let this be known to all the world.”
What God has done is too glorious to keep quiet. Jesus didn’t come in secret — He came to be known. And we, like the shepherds, are invited to share that joy!
JOHNATHAN HAALAND
Associate Director of Technical Arts
Go and make. Jesus ascended into heaven after saying today’s Bible passage. It has truly left its mark on the world. You may know it as the “Great Commission.” Jesus doesn’t just call us to go; He calls us to make disciples. Making disciples is more than just sharing a Bible, a verse, or a story. It’s a lifelong mission that means walking with people, sharing life with them, and showing others what it looks like to follow Jesus through our words and actions.
Notice Jesus says: “all nations.” God’s heart has always been for the whole world — every tribe, language, and person. The Gospel isn’t limited by geography or culture; it’s for everyone. And we get to be a part of that story — bringing light where there’s darkness, hope where there’s despair.
But Jesus doesn’t send us out alone. He ends this charge with a promise: “I am with you always.” The same power that raised Christ from the dead goes with us. Whether we’re serving across the ocean or across the street, His presence empowers, guides and comforts us.
As we walk through this Advent season, take a moment to reflect: Who has God placed in your life to disciple? How can you live out His mission right where you are? Remember, the call to “go” begins wherever your feet are right now — and Jesus will be with you every step of the way. Go and make disciples of all nations. Be the light in the darkness. Go tell it.
MATTHEW 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
PRAY WITH ME...
Lord Jesus, thank You for coming to us at Christmas— the light of the world bringing hope and salvation. As we celebrate Your birth, help us carry that same light to others. Give us courage to go, love to share, and joy to make disciples in Your name. Remind us that just as You came near to us, You are with us always, even to the end of the age. Amen.
GENESIS 12:1
The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.”
PRAY WITH ME...
Dear Heavenly Father, You call us to do extraordinary things even when we do not know what is planned for us. In times of uncertainty, You always make a way. You are faithful through all our days and circumstances. Help us to be faithful all our days and trust where You lead. Amen.
MARILYN DEWULF
Art Teacher DECEMBER 9
The soldiers came to my dad’s workshop. They started to remove everything - the wood, the tools, my piece of wood, and my little hammer dad had made me. I cried. It was 1966 in Güines, Cuba.
My dad was given an exit visa by a soldier. He had 24 hours to pack a bag and be at the airport or he would be imprisoned again. In Castro’s Cuba, exercising your free speech got you a prison sentence. Dad did not want to go back, so he left. I was three years old, and my brother was only one.
My dad experienced what God told Abraham: “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.” He left Cuba for Spain and later immigrated to the United States and freedom from the communist regime. He was in a new land, with a new culture, and new language; a place better than his homeland. He trusted God through it all.
I wonder if that’s how Jesus felt when He left heaven’s throne to come to our earth. Jesus was born in a new land with a sin-filled culture, riddled with hurts and struggles. He traded perfection for pain, and He walked all the way to a cross so we could have a story to tell. I love telling the story about how God was faithful to my dad on his journey to America. An even better story is our Savior leaving heaven to go to the land God showed Him. It all started at Christmas.
JORDAN MILLER Director of Worship
As I was growing up, I remember one Christmas when all I wanted was a Nintendo 64. It looked so cool, and it had so many fun games that you could play with your friends. Christmas morning came, and I couldn’t believe my eyes when I unwrapped it…my very own Nintendo 64! I could hardly contain myself. I told everyone. I told the neighbors, my friends at school, and my teachers all about the games I could play and invited them to come play them with me. I have so many great memories of playing games with my family and friends.
Playing the games was fun, but the greatest part about receiving that wonderful gift was telling people about it. I wonder if that is the meaning of today’s Bible passage. The reason we celebrate Christmas and the reason we sing is to tell others about the greatest gift we have ever received— salvation in the form of a baby named Jesus. We have the privilege of doing just as these verses remind us. Let’s proclaim the salvation God has won for us every day like we just can’t contain it. Let’s declare to the world all His marvelous deeds, such as His miracles, wonders, and the very breath we breathe. Just as the shepherds heard what the angels told them and saw Jesus with their very own eyes, now we go and tell (or sing and declare!) how our Savior Jesus came to save us and is coming back soon.
1 CHRONICLES
16:23-24
Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. PRAY WITH ME... Heavenly Father, we can’t thank You enough for the gift of Your Son. Help us this season to be filled with so much joy that it spills over to moments of praise and declaration, telling others about Jesus. Remind us to sing out joy to the world and hallelujahs in response to Your great gift of love for us. Amen.
MATTHEW 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, 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.”
PRAY WITH ME...
Jesus, thank You for revealing the Father’s heart through Your gentleness. Teach me to come to You with childlike trust, even when I’m weary and afraid. Let Your humility soften my pride and quiet my striving. When I feel burdened, remind me that You’re near and that Your rest is real. May my life reflect the peace that comes from walking beside You. Amen.
DECEMBER
11
CHANCIE BOWERS
Kingdom Kids Teacher
Before Jesus called the weary to come, He praised the Father for revealing truth to those with childlike hearts. In a world that chases power and pride, God chose to make Himself known through gentleness.
At His birth, Christ revealed the very heart He would later proclaim: humble before the Father and near to His people.
The humility that began in Bethlehem continued through every moment of His life. Jesus doesn’t meet us with judgment, but with compassion. He invites us to lay down our burdens, not because they disappear, but because He carries them with us. His gentleness is the rhythm of rest our hearts long for.
When I lost my son, I met that heart firsthand. Christ didn’t demand strength from me; He simply stayed. His humility held space for my sorrow, and His gentleness began to heal what grief had broken.
The gentle and humble Christ still invites us to come. His presence is close, and His rest is real.
LISA STETLER
Executive Assistant
Advent is a season of waiting and preparation, but Isaiah reminds us what God seeks isn’t splendor—it’s humility. The Creator of the heavens looks with favor on those whose hearts are tender and open to Him.
A few years ago, I hosted Christmas for the first time in my home. I spent weeks decorating and cleaning, wanting everything to be perfect—but my attitude wasn’t. I was tired and distracted until I sensed God whisper, “You’re preparing your home, but have you prepared your heart?”
That moment shifted everything. I realized true preparation isn’t about perfection; it’s about making space for God. The first Christmas wasn’t celebrated in splendor but in a lowly manger - the perfect place for His presence.
Maybe God is inviting us this Advent season to clear away the clutter, noise, and perfectionism in our minds so there is room for Him to dwell. He doesn’t require a perfect life, just a humble one. May God give us the strength to pause amidst the chaos and welcome Him into our lives, making room for His presence to flourish.
ISAIAH 66:2
“Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?” declares the Lord. “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.”
PRAY WITH ME...
Lord, teach me to prepare my heart with humility. Let my life become a quiet space where You are welcome to dwell. Amen.
MATTHEW 20:26-28
“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
PRAY WITH ME...
Holy Spirit, guide us to not be quite so self-seeking. Tame our inner need to be recognized. Instead, birth in us a desire to be more like You, Jesus—humble, servanthearted, and joyful in the act of serving others even when it isn’t noticed or appreciated. And when we fail, because sometimes we will, wrap us up in Your forgiveness and remind us of Your grace again and again. Amen.
PETER BURROUGHS
Missional Engagement Coordinator
Who doesn’t love to be recognized for their efforts? It feels good! Some of us love to be publicly recognized while others enjoy being quietly recognized. The desire for our efforts to be seen and appreciated by others is universal.
Picture this, married people (I bet it won’t be hard): you have been working yourself to the bone and, frankly, you are pretty overwhelmed. Yet, you know your spouse has been doing the same. You want to relieve their burdens a bit, so you go the extra mile. Maybe you clean the bathrooms, or wipe down all the counters. You fold and put away all the laundry. You mow and trim the lawn. You replace the light bulbs. You prepare a delicious meal - their favorite. And then your spouse comes home, looking exhausted, and says… nothing. No gratitude, no exclamation of amazement. All that effort… and for what? Couldn’t they at least say thank you?
James and John’s mother must have felt similarly. I can picture her saying, “C’mon Jesus, You’ve got to see that my boys are killing it as Your disciples - so which one will be standing next to You at Your throne? Did You notice their efforts?” Jesus’ response is hilarious: “You don’t know what you are asking.” Then, He flips the script and says that He didn’t come to be served but rather to serve. It isn’t about the glory. Recognition isn’t part of the equation. Just serve.
Wow. Humility like that? That’s hard. But, what a worthy challenge, and one we don’t take on alone. Praise God for His grace, powerful example, and Spirit who guides us.
EMILY
GARNER
Director of Adult Ministry
How many different sayings can you think of that share the idea of putting others first? Things like:
“Treat others the way you want to be treated.”
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
“What would Jesus do?”
How often do you actually put those types of sayings into practice? Honestly, I’m fairly selfish. I like my routine. I like the comforts of life, and I get wildly uncomfortable when anything threatens that. My 8-month-old still isn’t sleeping through the night, so my husband and I battle over who is taking the 2am shift with her so the other can get some sleep. In group photos, I only look at myself to make sure I look decent before posting. I love sitting in a booth, so when I’m out to eat with a group and only half the table is booth seating, I’ll try to slide into the booth first.
However, we have a Savior who left all comforts of equality with God, for us. He humbled himself by taking on the nature of a servant, so that we may have eternal life. He’s a Savior who loves us so much more than we can even imagine. He took on flesh and our sin, and He conquered death on the cross so we can have salvation, be in relationship with Him, and enter heaven.
This is a love that compels us to “Go Tell It.” We can tell everyone about our humble Christ who was born in a lowly manger and sent for our salvation. What amazing news we get to celebrate and share each Christmas!
PHILIPPIANS 2:5-8
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!
PRAY WITH ME...
Heavenly Father, thank you for Jesus who took on flesh, lived a perfect life, shouldered our sin, and conquered death so that we may have eternal life with You. Guide us as we aim to have the same mindset as Christ. Cultivate in us a heart that looks more like Yours, where we glorify You in how we serve and love others. We love You, but thank You for loving
JOHN 13:5
After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
PRAY WITH ME...
Heavenly Father, we thank You for this time of Advent, where we have the opportunity to grow closer to You and Your Son. Help me to see others as You see them, to love as You would love them, and to serve as You would serve them. May all that I do be done to bring Your Kingdom to earth and done in a way that glorifies You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
SHARI ALLRED
1st Grade Teacher
Jesus washes the feet of His disciples before entering into His passion. Our Lord humbles Himself, going onto his knees to clean the dirty feet of His friends. This action is so outside the realm of our daily lives. We rarely serve one another in such an intimate and personal way. I can relate to this more as a parent caring for my children. Jesus models for us how to love, lead and serve each other.
Our God humbled Himself by coming into the world as a needy infant, born in the poorest of circumstances. Jesus, the King of Kings, surrendered His splendor and power to come to us as a baby. He took on human form, humility and poverty because He truly wanted to walk with His people and lead them to their heavenly home.
So how do we imitate our Savior? How is He calling us to love and serve Him? As He showed us, by loving and serving one another. We should put on humility, putting our preferences last, taking on tasks no one else wants to do. I think we could get our hands “dirty”, give of our time, or listen to someone who is struggling. I am sometimes tempted to just go through the motions and get tasks done in this busy time of year. Picture the tenderness of Jesus, washing those feet. Make your love of others shone in a sweet, personal way as He would. As we ponder the miracle of the birth of our Lord, take some time to contemplate true, self-sacrificing love—how it was given to us and how we can give it to others.
JASON SCHLEICHER
Spiritual Formation Pastor
The Christmas season creates a certain mood. It’s in the music, movies, baked goodies, and pile of wrapped presents under a decorated tree. The mood is anxious excitement. It’s anticipation at its finest. Any of the verses in Micah chapter seven could put a damper on such a Christmas mood. Verse six feels like it can only be redeemed as a Christmas comedy that ends with family members laughing around a candlelit table full of food.
For a son dishonors his father, a daughter rises up against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law—a man’s enemies are the members of his own household. – Micah 7:6
That’s the Christmas spirit, right? Not! Maybe your family is experiencing tension. Thanksgiving might not have gone so well this year. Perhaps you haven’t spoken to a family member in a while, and you can’t fathom this Christmas will bring any change to the strain. Or maybe you feel all alone. Whether or not your connections with family or friends are strong right now, today’s Bible verse helps us experience the Christmas mood again.
Read today’s Bible passage one more time. Do you feel how personal the phrase “as for me” is? While you write a few more Christmas cards, watch another Christmas classic, or sip something while listening to Christmas tunes, watch in hope for the Lord. Wait in wonder for God our Savior—Jesus, Immanuel, God with us—to come. He came to earth for you and me. He’ll come back again, just as He promised. May you feel the Christmas mood growing.
MICAH 7:7
But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior.
PRAY WITH ME...
Lord Jesus, You came to our earth to be Savior for us. You were born in a stable, placed in a manger as Your first crib, and You grew up serving and showing love in a way this world had never known. Help us to anticipate the celebration of Your birth with joy even as we watch in hope for Your return. We love You, Lord. In Your saving name we pray, Amen.
MATTHEW 24:44
“You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.”
PRAY WITH ME...
God, You planned far in advance when You set the world in motion and sent Your Son, Jesus, to save us. There is not a person on this planet for which You haven’t prepared for. Lord, be with us while we wait. Lead us not to waste our waiting, but instead to start preparing. Let our lives be a reflection of Jesus and the hope, grace, and love shown to us. Make us bold in sharing! Amen!
ARLEAH LORENZ Associate Director of Student Ministry
How far out do you prepare? My procrastination vs. promptness often fluctuates based on the day, task, and my priorities. For groceries, I shop every Friday with intentions to stock up until the following Friday. When I fly, I like to show up at least two hours before departure. Getting dressed for the day looks like whatever I can find fifteen minutes before I need to walk out the door.
I’m writing this devotion four hours out from the deadline. If you’re reading this, we made it!
You get the point. Sometimes I’m all over the place, and most times it works out in the end.
But how do you prepare for something you can’t see coming? The return of Christ isn’t something we get a say in calendaring, and yet, we’re asked to be ready for it. Jesus goes as far as to say to be ready ALL the time. This ask has always sounded extremely intimidating to me, and to be honest, above my abilities.
So how do we prepare? The answer is not as shrouded in mystery as I once thought. It’s much simpler, and it looks a lot like Jesus. We remain faithful. We pray fervently. We are radically generous. We love without limits. We don’t give up in sharing the Gospel. We stay ready when we show up each and every day and live bold lives of faith and commitment to our coming King, Jesus. We can’t be perfect, but we can be persistent. Expecting the unexpected can feel uneasy, but with Jesus, it’s different. With Jesus, it’s purpose-driven and hope-filled. With Jesus, it always works out in the end.
AMY BOATMAN
Head of School
Have you ever had one of those moments when someone asks you why you believe what you believe and suddenly your mind goes blank? Maybe you stumble for the right words, and later you think, “I wish I’d said that differently.” Peter understood that feeling and wrote this verse to remind us where our confidence really comes from. Peter writes: “In your hearts, revere Christ as Lord.”
Our hearts must know, deep down, that Jesus really is Lord. That truth shows up in how we live, how we think, and where we place our hope. When we believe this truth deep down, it changes how we see everything. It gives our words meaning and helps us live in a way that naturally stirs curiosity about our faith.
When Peter says, “Always be prepared,” he’s not saying we need to have every theological detail memorized. It’s more about being ready to respond, knowing why we trust Jesus and being willing to share it when the opportunity arises. Sometimes that means a deep faith conversation. Other times, it’s simply saying, “Honestly, I don’t know how I’d get through this without God.”
Peter closes with this advice: “Do this with gentleness and respect.”
Sharing our hope isn’t about winning arguments; it’s about representing Jesus well. Gentleness shows humility, and respect shows love. When those two things shape our words, people are far more likely to listen and catch a glimpse of the hope we have in Him.
If someone asked about your hope — why you believe, why you trust, why you have peace — what would you say?
1 PETER 3:15
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.
PRAY WITH ME...
Jesus, help me keep You first in my heart and remember that You are Lord over everything. Give me confidence in my faith and the right words when someone asks about my hope. Teach me to speak with gentleness and respect, showing Your love in every conversation. Let my words and life reflect the hope I have in You. Amen.
1 CORINTHIANS 16:13
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.
PRAY WITH ME...
Lord Jesus, thank You for coming to be God with us, our constant light and hope. Help us to stay watchful, not for mistakes, but for moments to share Your love. Let our eyes see as You see, our hands serve as You serve, and our voices tell the good news that You have come for all. Amen.
SARA LARRAZOLO Co-Director of Kids Ministry
‘Tis the season! We live in a world where people love to share their opinions about everything, especially how the Christmas season should roll out! When should the décor go up? When is it acceptable to start playing Christmas music? And should your home host that mischievous Elf on the Shelf—that little elf who’s “watching” to see if children are being good and then reporting back to Santa. Kids are reminded, “The elf is watching!” But that little elf only shows up for one month out of the year in December.
The real message of Christmas isn’t about being watched for mistakes, like the Elf on the Shelf, but about knowing that Jesus came to be God with us. His loving presence isn’t limited to a season, it’s constant. Instead of hiding and waiting for us to slip up, Jesus came to bring forgiveness, light, and new life. He invites us to live purposefully in His love and His hope. We are called to go and tell that “Jesus Christ is born!” The watchful care of our Savior brings comfort and guidance, not fear.
I love Paul’s short reminders in today’s Bible verse. When we’re watchful in faith, we notice the lonely, the hurting, and the overlooked—people Jesus deeply loves. Being watchful means looking beyond ourselves and reflecting His compassion to others. Like the shepherds who were visited by angels, we’re called to go and tell it—not just on the mountain, but across our streets, our schools, and our workplaces—that Jesus Christ has come for all!
TYLER TOLLEFSON
Director of Student Ministry
I pulled into a gas station and leaned against my car as the pump finished. In that quiet moment, I talked to God, asking him to use me in a meaningful way. A man in his midtwenties appeared and looked like he had walked to the gas station from down the road. He kindly asked me for some money to help him fill up his gas. I quickly declined and told him I didn’t have anything for him.
Driving away, it hit me like a ton of bricks. The very thing I asked God for just a few minutes before was right in front of me, and I missed it. I missed it so hard that I still think about it twenty-five years later.
As you consider today’s Bible passage, it’s like Paul was saying: be prepared when you’re “supposed” to preach and when you’re “not supposed” to preach. When you’re out pumping gas and when you’re sitting in the church pew. While this young man didn’t question me about Jesus, I wasn’t ready with a response. I was not prepared to say, “I’m happy to help, what’s your name?” Or “Unfortunately, I don’t have cash, but there might be something else I can do.”
Jesus, the hope of our salvation, our Emmanuel, invites us into His mission of rescuing and redeeming the lost and broken of this world. May we be ever so faithful to practice and be prepared in season and out of season to share the hope that we have with the world.
2 TIMOTHY 4:2
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage— with great patience and careful instruction.
PRAY
WITH ME... Lord, open my eyes to the opportunities You place before me each day. Give me compassion, courage, and wisdom to serve others and share your hope, both in expected and unexpected moments. Forgive me when I miss your invitations and help me to be ready—heart and hands prepared—in season and out of season. Use my life to bring light and comfort to those around me, reflecting the love and grace of Jesus. Amen.
ISAIAH 19:20
It will be a sign and witness to the Lord Almighty... he will send them a Savior and defender, and he will rescue them.
PRAY WITH ME...
Dear God, thank You for Your steadfast love. We thank You for knowing our need for a Savior and for sending Jesus. Please help us again this Christmas week to spend time anticipating the birth of our Savior and the joy of Your presence. You are truly our greatest gift. Amen.
DECEMBER 21
MICHELE SNOW
Kindergarten Teacher
Isaiah was writing in 8 B.C. to warn Judah and the surrounding nations, like Egypt, of the upcoming judgment that would be the consequence for their constant rebellion against God. God had made a covenant with Israel in which He promised to lead them into the Promised Land and to bless them and be in their midst. They only had to trust God and obey His commandments. Sadly, Israel repeatedly broke their part of the covenant and openly rebelled against God. Instead of being His chosen people drawing the surrounding nations to follow God, Israel followed the other nations in idolatry, greed, and oppression of others. God, with an amazing steadfast love, used Isaiah not only to warn of the impending disaster, but to give His people hope that one day they would be rescued.
In 2025, it’s easy to say that we would do things differently, but sadly we wouldn’t and we don’t. Just like the Israelites, we choose to do things our way and follow our sinful nature daily. All too often we blend in with the world around us instead of being the salt and light we are called to be. But our God has an amazing steadfast love that endures for us too! He never gives up on us and planned for our rescue. That is the joy of Christmas! God sent the promised Savior because He knew we needed to be rescued too. He continues to lead us, bless us, and be in our midst. As we count down the days to Christmas, we look forward to celebrating Immanuel—our God who is with us—this Christmas and every day.
TONYA DAVIS
2nd Grade Teacher
Wow! What a wonderful reminder of how much God loves us! Today’s Bible verses tell us that God saved us, not because we did anything to earn it, but simply because He is kind and full of mercy. That means we don’t have to try to be “good enough” to make God love us—He already does!
What a relief it is to know that our salvation doesn’t depend on how perfect we are. We all make mistakes, but God still chooses to love and forgive us through Jesus. Jesus came to earth to take away our sins and give us the gift of eternal life. That gift is free—it’s not something we have to work for or add to our to-do list.
Because of this amazing love, we get to show kindness and care to others. When God fills our hearts with His love, it overflows so that we can share it with our coworkers, friends, and family.
As we get ready to celebrate Christmas, we remember that Jesus’ birth is proof of God’s love for us. During this special season, let’s thank God for sending Jesus and look for ways to share His love—by helping others, saying kind words, or showing forgiveness. God’s kindness changes us so we can help others see His love too!
TITUS 3:4-5a
But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.
PRAY WITH ME... Dear God, thank You for showing us Your kindness and love through Jesus. We know we don’t have to earn Your love—it’s a free gift! Fill our hearts with joy and thankfulness each day. Show us ways to share Your love with others. Thank You for sending Jesus to be our Savior. In His name we pray, Amen.
2 PETER 1:1-2
To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours: Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.
PRAY WITH ME...
Heavenly Father, as we enjoy the precious moments of the Christmas season, help us to always remember that the most precious gift of all was the one that You sent for us that very first Christmas. Amen.
DECEMBER 23
LAUREN EICKEMEYER
Athletic Director
For many Christmas holidays, I celebrated the birth of Jesus in Ohio while visiting my mom’s family. Christmas up north was filled with glorious snow, delicious treats, and time with family that we only saw once or twice a year. The gifts we received were often simple as they had to fly back to Texas, but they were always heartfelt and often homemade. The handmade ornaments that were once gifts from my Grandmother now adorn my tree and are some of my most precious Christmas decorations. This is especially true this year as it is my Grandmother’s first Christmas in heaven.
The word precious means: of great value, not to be wasted or treated carelessly. The handmade gifts from my grandmother do not hold significant earthly value; they hold great sentimental value and are carefully wrapped and stored each year.
No earthly gift can compare to the precious gift that Peter writes about in today’s Bible verses. These precious gifts are faith and salvation that flow from our Heavenly Father. It is easy to become so wrapped up in the gifts of the season that we lose focus of the precious gift of salvation who was born that very first Christmas. God, who hand-crafted and created the world, sent His one and only Son for us. Jesus is the most precious handmade gift we could ever receive. As we near Christmas day, I pray that you enjoy the precious time with loved ones and gifts that you may give or receive. More importantly, I pray you find time to thank God for the precious gift that He sent us in His Son.
SAMANTHA BOATMAN
Kindergarten Teacher
Have you ever noticed how music and joy come naturally when God does something amazing? That’s exactly what happened in today’s Bible verse. The Israelites had just walked through the Red Sea on dry ground, and when they reached the other side, they couldn’t help but sing. They had seen God’s hand move powerfully for them, and their hearts overflowed with praise.
Fast forward to Bethlehem. Once again, heaven breaks into Earth’s story. Angels sing, shepherds rejoice, and wise men travel far to worship. God has come, not just to rescue a nation, but to save the whole world through Jesus Christ. In that manger lies the fulfillment of every promise, the answer to every prayer, and the hope of every heart. When Moses said, “The Lord is my strength and my song,” he was celebrating deliverance. At Christmas, we celebrate the same truth: God is still our strength when we feel weak, our song when joy feels far away, and our salvation when life feels broken.
Maybe this season isn’t picture-perfect for you, and that’s okay. The first Christmas wasn’t either. But God showed up then, and He still shows up now. His presence is the greatest gift of all, and He was the same God then as He is today—a God of love and deliverance. So let your heart sing this Christmas. The Lord is our salvation, and He is worthy of all our praise.
EXODUS 15:2
The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise Him, my father’s God, and I will exalt Him.
PRAY WITH ME...
Lord, thank You for Your unwavering love. You are my strength, my song, and my salvation. Fill us this Christmas and beyond with Your joy and peace. Amen.
PSALM 13:5
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
PRAY WITH ME...
Lord Jesus, when the world feels weary and our hearts feel thin, remind us of Your “But.”
But—You came. But—You love. But—You stay.
Cut through our chaos with Your steady light. Teach us to trust Your unfailing love, rejoice in Your salvation, and carry Your hope to everyone we meet. In Your name we pray, Amen.
25
Executive Pastor DECEMBER
VINCE PARKS
It’s remarkable that David wrote today’s Bible passage in the middle of an apparent breakdown. Psalm 13:1-4 is a lament: “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?” He’s worn out and discouraged. And yet, right in the middle of his ache, he says, “But I trust.”
Christmas is that same holy contradiction. The world feels dark, anxious, and uncertain. The headlines don’t sparkle. Even our own hearts may be heavy or just plain tired. Personally, I’m at the stage where Christmas morning involves less toy assembly and more trying to remember where I hid the receipts. The “how long, O Lord?” moment now comes somewhere between hunting for batteries and searching for the last clean coffee mug. And yet Christmas cuts through all of it with that same word: “But.”
But—the Word became flesh. But—a Savior is born. But—God’s love has not failed.
The angels didn’t appear to people who had everything perfectly wrapped. They showed up to shepherds on the night shift—ordinary folks whose best sheep probably wandered off five minutes before the choir arrived. That’s how God enters our stories—quietly, mercifully, right in the middle of the mess. David clings to this promise: “I trust in your unfailing love.” God’s love isn’t seasonal or sentimental. It’s steadfast. It’s a Bethlehem love that took on skin, risked rejection, and went all the way to the cross for us.
So, whatever you’re carrying today—joy or exhaustion, wonder or worry—trust His unfailing love. Rejoice in His salvation. And then, don’t keep it to yourself. Go tell everybody! Love has come, and He isn’t going anywhere. Merry Christmas, Salem!
Down in a lowly manger Our humble Christ was born And God sent us salvation That blessed Christmas morn.
Please be our guest at one of our unique services.
Coffee, Cookies and Carols • December 9 • 10am
Ugly Sweater Sunday • December 21 • 9 & 10:30am
Christmas Eve Service • December 23 • 6pm
Christmas Eve Services • December 24 • 2, 4, 6 or 7:30pm
