Welcome to Advent 2016! As a gift to the congregation, the staff of Church of the Servant has assembled an Advent devotional designed and intended to help focus our hearts and minds on the blessings this season holds. With Advent, the Church’s hopes and dreams are renewed as we anticipate again the celebration of Christ’s birth. This devotional is particularly special, as the daily readings were primarily written by the staff of Church of the Servant. These devoted men and women, who week after week invest their lives in service and ministry, are often invisible on Sunday mornings. Yet, while they are often unseen, they are indispensable to the ministries of Church of the Servant, and each individual bears within them a heart that beats for Christ and his mission within the world. We wanted to provide a platform where you have the opportunity to learn their names and be profoundly blessed by their faith. By benefit of our baptism, each of us are ministers of the Gospel. I pray you will be both inspired and challenged by the words you will read in this devotional. I look forward to reading alongside you each and every day. God’s blessing be upon you this Advent. May our hearts be as one, as we count the days to Christmas. Come, Lord Jesus! Rev. Randy Shrauner Executive Minister
SOAP BIBLE STUDY PLAN Scripture: Take today’s Bible reading, pray over it, and then read through the scripture slowly. God will direct your attention to certain verses or sections. Write these down in your journal.
Observation: What is God showing you in this passage? Write down in your journal any words or events that stand out. Are there any truths God wants you to learn? Warnings? Commands? Guiding principles? Record those in your journal. What is the message God has for you in this passage?
Application: How does this passage affect your life? Does God have instructions for you today? Encouragement? Correction? Write God’s personal message to you in your journal.
Prayer: Prayer is a two-way conversation with God. You may find that as you pray over what God has shown you, He will reveal even more that He is wanting to show you. Listen for Him… and then write your prayers in your journal.
day 1 ADVENT
November 27
Reading: Isaiah 1:1-9 The Wickedness of Judah The book of Isaiah begins with a very depressing view of the nation of Israel — things were probably at the bottom of the barrel for the people with very little hope of getting any better. Honestly, I can’t relate to this very much — I have not had many really ‘low’ days in my life, until…. I was always a “Daddy’s Girl” growing up, very close to my dad. So when his health rapidly deteriorated to the point he didn’t know me or anyone else in our family, I was devastated. My husband Hank and I had to move him to a hospital 200 miles from our home, where there were facilities that could ‘handle’ him. We had to leave him in a hospital emergency room waiting to be admitted to a ward where he could be cared for and drive 200 miles back home, at night, not knowing what was going to happen. The next Saturday, we drove back to the hospital to spend time with him. When we found his room, he was sitting in a chair, in a hospital gown, with a blanket over his lap. When we walked in the door he looked up, smiled at me and said, “There’s my girl!” Those were the only words he spoke that day and his last words to me, but those sweet words were directly from one of God’s angels and they were enough. He died a few days later, very peacefully; and to this day I still hear those words in my mind and am thankful for the angel that spoke to me that day so many years ago. Listen for the angel’s proclamation—it’s worth the effort!
Becky Kittrell Administrative Assistant to the Executive Minister
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day 2 ADVENT
November 28
Reading: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 The Thessalonians’ Faith and Example I am always moved by the warm greeting when I read this scripture. This is exactly how I feel at the church. Whether passing folks in the hallway or out in the community, everyone seems to be glad they are a part of Servant. I am a part of a large group of happy Servant people awaiting the birth of the Christ Child. This is such a busy time for the Music Ministry folks, we seldom have time to think or reflect on what is coming next. I am always so concerned that I get everything done that needs to be done, I often let my joy slip away during this festive season. I am also in such a hurry that I often don’t have time to listen for the cry of a baby that will change the world. I pray for you during this time of happy greetings and joyful busyness that you will make time to reflect on why this is such a special season for us all. Don’t miss the small cry of a newborn babe.
Chuck Weatherford Director of Music and The Arts
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day 3 ADVENT
November 29
Reading: Isaiah 5:8-23 Christ the Eternal This Isaiah passage reminds the reader that when one places hope and identity on things that are temporary, one is left desolate in the end. If someone turns to drunkenness to mask their hurt deep inside, the hurt comes back the next day. If a person places career advancement over all other values and decides to excel (in the eyes of the world) despite the mistreatment they inflict on others along the way, that person soon learns how lonely it is at the top. By then, their dog-eat-dog approach has driven all well-meaning allies away. I remember talking to a close friend when I was in high school and telling him I’d decided to become an ordained pastor as my life’s calling. He gave me a confused look and queried, “Why would you want to do that? You could do anything you want--and get much richer!” I replied that success in those ways could never define me, but my willingness to answer God’s calling on my life does. Part of what it means to prepare for the joy of Christmas (celebrating the holy presence of Christ right here among us) involves setting our sights not on the worldly trappings of fame, fortune, or pleasure. The babe lying in the manger fulfills our deep longing for ultimate closeness with our Lord. Indeed, that will last forever!
Rev. Tim Travers Minister of Congregational Care
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day 4 ADVENT
November 30
Reading: John 7:53-8:11 The Woman Caught in Adultery When I was in high school, I was a model straight “A” student who followed all the rules and stayed out of trouble. Moving into the campus dormitory for my first year of college presented me with a new-found freedom… and I began to test those boundaries. Pretty soon, I was cutting classes, drinking adult beverages under the legal age, and sneaking out of my dorm room after curfew. It didn’t take long for news to travel back home that I was falling behind in my studies and causing trouble in the dormitory. To say my parents were disappointed would be an understatement. In today’s scripture passage, the woman being accused of adultery must have been terrified to meet her accusers (who demanded that she be stoned to death). But Jesus simply said, “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” And one by one, her accusers dropped their stones and walked away. What a powerful moment of relief. Now, don’t think I am saying this woman should not have been punished. All sin… let me say that one more time… ALL SIN has consequences. This woman – and the man who sinned with her – have severed trust bonds with spouses and destroyed families. The damage caused by their sin is far reaching and, in some cases, might not be repairable. Maybe you can’t relate to this story because you do not bear a scarlet letter “A”, but to God, sin is SIN. Judgment, jealousy, stealing, lying, cheating, gossip… I could go on and on. It’s all sin to God. As Romans 3:23 says, “we all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” And it is only by the grace of God that we are all forgiven of those sins. And so, if Jesus presented us with this same call to action – “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her” – how would
you respond? Would you throw the stone at the woman… or would you think about those times in your life when you have stumbled, thank God for His loving grace, gently lay down your rock, and turn and walk away? Back at the college dormitory… When it came time to complete my first school semester and travel home for Christmas break, I was anxious (terrified might be a better word) to receive the due punishment that awaited me. But when I arrived home, I was greeted with open arms and lots of love. Don’t get me wrong… we had a LONG talk about what my future looked like if I continued down this destructive path, and my parents shared their disappointment. But they also reminded me how very much I am loved. I challenge you this Advent season to lay down that rock and extend God’s grace to a family member, a friend, a stranger… set your judgment aside and be the face of Christ in a broken world.
Heather DeShazo Director of Communications
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day 5 ADVENT
December 1
Reading: Romans 7:14-25 Man’s Law and God’s Law I lived the first part of my life without God’s Law. I didn’t care. I thought I was happy, had all I needed; I thought that I was in control of my life. What could be any better than that? I didn’t know any better, had no faith mentors and avoided them at all costs. I really thought I was happy with my life, but have since found out I was just pleased with myself. I stayed out of trouble under Man’s Law only by God’s grace. Yes, I have done some terrible things that I regret doing, and little did I know at the time, God had a bigger, better life plan for me and was watching me very closely. I was divorced, alone, and much more afraid than I care to admit. Rewind the story 30 years from today. Enter God’s Law. I met and married a wonderful lady I knew from high school, Maurie. She was active here at Church of the Servant, and suddenly, so was I! My life turned around so quickly, and now I was in the Church and finding how much better living with God’s Law is. I am a truly happy, content and changed person from when I was without Christ in my life. I am “surrounded by the grounded!” – people who are also grounded in their Christian faith, that is. I love coming to work every day, but especially LOVE being here on Sundays, where I meet and greet my many friends and make new ones, too! Maurie and I have had some storms in our lives which were eased greatly by the love, kindness and compassion that grows from within a faith family like we have here at Servant. There is no place on earth I’d rather be than right here “surrounded by the grounded.” Yes, I understand we need Man’s Law, but more importantly, I am so blessed to being living a wonderful life with God’s Law!
Don Cole Director of Facilities
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day 6 ADVENT
December 2
Reading: Proverbs 21:1-21 Wise Sayings of Solomon As we look at Proverbs, we are given numerous instructions on how to live a good life; instructions that are as timeless and applicable today as they were when written long ago. Today’s passage gives us many guidelines for everyday living. Proverbs 21:21 states, “The man who tries to be good, loving, and kind finds life, righteousness, and honor” (TLB). What a profound verse that almost encompasses the entire chapter. When we try to be good and loving, the other attributes fall into place: we no longer seek evil but promote justice, mercy and love. In this season of Advent, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and the miracle of salvation that began in that manger so many years ago. God created a way for us to come back into fellowship with Him through Jesus and his ultimate sacrifice for us on the cross. As we enter into this Advent season, have you repented of your sins and asked Jesus Christ into your heart as the Lord and Savior of your life? As we submit our will to the Lord Jesus Christ every day, we will promote justice, mercy and love – not in just trying to be “good enough,” but as Christ shines through us to a hurting world.
Susie Cobden Administrative Assistant, Women's & Missions Ministries
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day 7 ADVENT
December 3
Reading: John 1:19-31 The Testimony of John the Baptist Identity is one of the central questions of life. It goes beyond the question of who you are. It also begs the question, “Who are you not?” John the Baptist is a great example of a man who is secure in his role in the work of God. He knows his calling — to be the voice calling in the wilderness and to make straight the way of the Lord. He points the people around him to the Messiah instead of taking the glory for himself. When others press John about his role, he is able to articulate what it is, and what it is not. Part of the struggle of being human is finding and living into our identity in Christ. We can be secure in who we are and the fact that our loving, creative God has given us all different, but equally important, roles to play. I’m thankful that I don’t have to do anything or be anyone that God did not create me to be. He has given me a role to play at Church of the Servant, and I thank God for that privilege.
Sarah Krivy Coordinator of Communication & Connection
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day 8 ADVENT
December 4
Reading: Matthew 26:26-28 The Institution of the Lord’s Supper The concept of Communion has been one that I have struggled with in the past, mainly because I couldn’t grasp the understanding of the literal translation of eating Jesus’ body and drinking his blood. I have come to realize, though, what a precious gift this was to Jesus’ followers. Jesus knew his time on earth was coming to an end and he wanted to leave a lasting impression with his disciples, one they would always remember. How wonderful and amazing that now, more than two thousand years later, we are still remembering. He gave thanks to God for both the “body” and “blood” before offering it to his disciples to take, eat and drink of it. Jesus gave up his life for you and me to save us from our human ways and gave us the ultimate example of unconditional love. No matter how down or discouraged we feel, as believers in Christ, we also need to give thanks for that wonderful sacrifice and unconditional love of Jesus when he laid down his life for us. Thank you, Jesus, for that amazing and wonderful gift! Let us remember that celebration of grace and let it give us life each day while we wait for Him. Let us feast!
Cindy Brecheen Accounts Payable
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day 9 ADVENT
December 5
Reading: Colossians 3:23-24 Rules for Christian Households Most of us spend a lot of time working at something. Whatever our work might be, I feel it is best to give good effort. But what motivates us to give good effort? One reason may be that your boss will probably appreciate you more if you do this, since giving good effort usually equals a better result. A second reason to work with good effort is because it tends to give us a feeling of fulfillment and satisfaction. Which reason can you count on? Using reason #1 to keep you motivated will most likely include various emotional ups and downs as you are counting on positive feedback from your boss to fuel you along the way. This can be risky. Your relationship with your boss can change at any time, and can quickly lead to job dissatisfaction, resulting in poor performance. That is not good for anyone, and could put you in a bad place. Using reason #2 is far more secure and everlasting. I believe the sense of fulfillment and satisfaction from giving good effort comes from having an attitude that you are working for the Lord, and not working for man. We are serving Christ when we work by giving good effort, and not being lazy, cantankerous or indifferent.
Steve Johns Controller
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day 10 ADVENT December 6
Reading: Psalm 18:31-36 Royal Thanksgiving for Victory It’s really easy to make the people in our lives look like God to us. We give them all the power and we rely on them for strength and purpose; I’m really guilty of this. We look for approval from our parents, worth from our boss or pastor, and affirmation from our spouse. These are all good things to want, but they become a problem when we are completely reliant on them. The passage from Psalm 18 today has a lot to say about that. The Psalmist asks, “Who is divine except the Lord?” and then answers, “Only God!” These are words I need to hear over and over again, and I bet you might sometimes too. God gives us the strength, support, and direction we need in our lives. Others can give those too, but God is so much better at it! God makes us strong enough to face any challenge. We are supported by God’s hand, the same hand that built the world. The direction God gives is the perfect way that leads us to our best life. This season, take a minute to realize that only God is God, and how awesome that is!
Rev. Michael Carpenter Associate Minister
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day 11 ADVENT December 7
Reading: Mark 8:22-26 Jesus Cures a Blind Man at Bethsaida All sorts of circumstances put blinders on my eyes. There’s the debris that flies from the stones I throw; the big speck in my eye that comes with the winds of change. Then there’s the way I turn my back to block the light. What am I to do? This scripture says, “Come to Him.” He leads to a place where He has time to spare. He soothes my aching heart and touches the core of my great dilemmas with His truths. What next? He sends me back to the place I know – daily life. And He says, “watch your step” and cautions about the ruts to avoid. The blind man in this passage gets partial sight, then clear sight. In each instance, Jesus tells the man to look up. In this life, I can only see so much and there is much I will never clearly see; but, He transforms my walk slowly and changes the view; details are more ablaze with His light. He puts before us witnesses to help us find the right way. Also, He tells us again and then again to “Look up!” Look to Him. Seek Jesus.
Mary Strain Receptionist
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day 12 ADVENT December 8
Reading: Matthew 7:7-12 Ask, Search, Knock Loving and caring are words that I would use to describe my parents. They always had my best interests at heart – even if I didn’t. As a child, no more than five or six years old, I wanted to jump off the diving board. I watched my brother and sister do the most amazing jumps and leaps, ending in a huge splash. I wanted desperately to join in on that fun. My requests were denied because I had not yet learned how to swim. One day, instead of begging to jump off the diving board, I asked what it would take for me to be able to jump off the diving board. I was now seeking the knowledge to obtain my goal. This request was answered with instruction and encouragement rather than a “no”. I first had to learn how to swim and be able to swim from one side of the pool to the other without help and without stopping. That whole summer, Mom coached me, encouraged me, set goals and helped me achieve them. One glorious late summer day, I made it across the pool! I was ready to jump off the diving board! God answers my prayers in the same way, knowing better than I if I am truly ready to jump into the deep end of the pool.
Eric Nance Assistant Director of Facilities
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day 13 ADVENT December 9
Reading: Mark 4:35-41 Jesus Stills a Storm Since giving my life to Christ, I have heard many descriptions of Jesus. He is the Light of the World; the Word who became flesh; the Savior; the Way, the Truth, and the Life; He is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path; and the list goes on. These are the descriptions that are commonly heard and easy to embrace. The description of Jesus which I struggle with most and on a consistent basis is this: “Jesus is Lord.” Jesus is not only my savior, but he is my Lord as well. Quite often Jesus shines a light onto a path I don’t want to walk down. It is usually a path that looks overwhelming, one I can’t control or determine the outcome. Each time I am confronted with a path in which He wants me to follow, I have to ask myself, “Do I have faith?” Is my faith in Jesus stronger than my need to be in control or to know the outcome? I’m discovering through these opportunities, there is a tremendous difference between saying I believe in Jesus and following Him. Following Jesus requires me not to think of myself first, but to completely trust in Him. During Advent, we celebrate Christ’s first coming as we eagerly wait upon His second. May you discover an Advent faith this season as you trust and follow Him on whatever path His light shines in your life.
Scott Smith Director of Connections and Staff Development
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day 14 ADVENT December 10
Reading: Hebrews 10:19-25 A Call to Persevere The time of Advent is a time for Christians to wait for God. The Jewish Christians addressed in Hebrews were struggling with remaining faithful to their belief in the superiority of Jesus. Each of us also experience times that challenge our faith in Christ. As an attorney, I have had many successes, but there have also been times of extreme challenge. How will I make enough money to pay this month’s bills? Should I take this client’s case that I am not fully competent to handle? Will I be able to survive financially if I become a full-time janitor at church? I have wrestled with those questions. The answer is that on my own, I could never be successful. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross has opened the way for each of us to have access to Him personally through prayer. And believe me, I have prayed often for Christ to intervene in my problems. We, as a family of believers, can come together with our personal struggles and encourage each other. We can pray for the concerns of our friends, our community, and those we have never even met. Even more importantly, we can share the love of Christ with those who may not have a relationship with Him. In this time leading up to the celebration of the birth of Christ, let us renew our faith in our Lord and Savior. Let us encourage each other as fellow Christians as we journey together to become closer to each other and closer to Christ.
Hurst Jones Facilities
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day 15 ADVENT December 11
Reading: Luke 2:25-32 Jesus Is Presented in the Temple Three years ago my 10-year-old son, Noah, planted an acorn hoping to grow an oak tree in our green belt right outside the window where we eat breakfast each morning. Over these years, we have watched this little tree weather some pretty wild rain and wind storms, but it hangs in there. I keep thinking it should be growing faster, that we should be able to see some better progress in this little tree. But when Noah talks about his tree, he talks about how he is going to come back and enjoy seeing it big and tall when he is grown. He has no problem with the idea that it is going to take some time for his tree to grow, but instead just enjoys living his life in the waiting. Growing something strong and getting something right takes time. How we wait makes a difference. The story of Simeon shows us a person that waited his whole life for his Savior. The scripture says he was just and devout, waiting with a gracious spirit. And when his savior came, he rejoiced and blessed God. Sometimes, that’s what God calls us to do – to wait. It’s not a glamorous task. It’s not one that gets anyone a lot of attention. But sometimes, all God wants for us to do is wait. In fact, I think that a part of every Christian’s maturing process is a period of waiting. Whatever you are waiting on right now, can you wait faithfully like Simeon?
Dr. Robyn Goggs Associate Minister
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day 16 ADVENT December 12
Reading: Romans 12:4-6 The New Life in Christ We spend a lot of our early years thinking that to be accepted we must be just like everyone else. To be different was to be excluded from the “in” crowd. But in Paul’s wisdom in this letter to the Romans, he encourages us to celebrate our individuality and willingly accept the assignment of our spiritual gift. He also reminds us how useless these gifts are unless we use them to edify the body of Christ. I can see God nodding his head in agreement as Paul tells them that the gift, whether it’s a speaking gift or a serving gift, is worthless by itself – like a chopped-off finger or cut-off toe. Only when we use our own spiritual gift as its marvelously functioning part of Christ’s body do we honor God, allowing him to direct us in building up the church – the gathering of his chosen people. So go ahead and be that square peg; just make sure you find your square hole! During this season while we quietly await the arrival of our Savior, ponder what your true spiritual gift is and use it wisely to the glory of God.
Lola Burgtorf Administrative Assistant, Care Ministries
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day 17 ADVENT December 13
Reading: 1 John 2:7-17 A New Commandment As I read these verses, many conflicts come to mind. Some people have very strong opinions of what should be done, while others take the waitand-see approach. It is concerning. We listen to the choices that must be made, and try our best to discern. Sometimes, we may get angry with others because they are not making the choice we think they should. I wonder what would happen if all of us, as Christians, were to stop and pray about and for everyone making these decisions, asking for God’s guidance. I think the darkness we feel in all this would become brighter and we would see the light that Jesus will shine on us, as well as emit that comfort to others. Jesus wants us to love and support those who love Him. He wants our focus to stay clearly on Him. My prayer is that I stay focused on helping others rather than working against them, that I continue to search for what Jesus is calling me to do, and that I can build others up, lighting the way to the love of Christ.
Cindy Brackenbury Coordinator of Elementary Children's Ministries
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day 18 ADVENT December 14
Reading: Matthew 2:1-18 The Visit of the Wise Men When I read today’s scripture, I found two distinct stories – one of seeking and one of fear. The Magi were full of love and traveled thousands of miles seeking this child who had been prophesied in the Old Testament to be the Messiah. At the same time, the ruthless King Herod, who in fear of losing his power to this child, the Messiah, issued an edict that baby boys in the Bethlehem area were to be killed. Herod was afraid that this child King was sent to replace him. But that wasn’t God’s intention when he gave Jesus earthly life – He wanted to give Herod eternal life, not take away the life he knew. We should not be afraid that Christ wants to take things away from us, because the reality is He wants to give us real freedom, peace and joy. How does that happen? By seeking Him in every moment of every day, it will happen. Seeking Christ should be a daily exercise for all of us – this can be done through worship, Bible studies, friendship, and daily devotionals to name a few. With every effort we make to be closer to Christ and to live our lives for Him, our fears will become lighter. For many years, I lived with the fear that if anything went wrong, it was my fault, because I was not faithful to God. It wasn’t that I was not exposed to the love and teachings of Christ; I just didn’t understand that He was for us. I was raised in a home where church was our priority (we never missed on Sundays). Our family life was programmed to be at church, but somehow I missed what “faith” was about. When I was in my 30s, two friends asked me to join a Bible study with them – it was my first – and there my faith began to grow. I began to find scriptures that gave me amazing peace, and one in particular – Psalm 118:5 – became
my faith foundation: “The Lord is with me, I will not be afraid; what can anyone do to me?” During this season of Advent, seek to build your relationship with Christ like never before, and watch your daily fears diminish. To paraphrase Matthew 6:33 – seek me first and I will take care of your business.
Cathy Hersom Director of Children's Ministries
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day 19 ADVENT December 15
Reading: Philippians 4:14-20 Acknowledgment of the Philippians’ Gift It’s a Wonderful Life is arguably the greatest Christmas movie of all time. The 1946 story of George Bailey shows, among other invaluable lessons, the importance of being selflessly supportive of one another. George spent his life helping the folks of Bedford Falls with his loan company against the plotting of Mr. Potter, so when he finds himself in financial trouble himself, the townsfolk return his generosity. In that moment, everyone realizes how important it is to be there for people when no one else is. That’s what Paul is talking about here in Philippians 4:14-20. He is thanking the Philippian Christians for supporting him when no one else did. Time after time, Paul could rely on the generosity of the Philippians. Like George Bailey, these Philippian Christians are now enjoying the blessings of their generosity. This Advent, remember who has been a George Bailey in your life. Who stuck by you when you needed it most? Also, think about who you could be there for this season. Who is out there like Paul, in need of the support only you can provide? Like George and the Philippians, God will bless you for it.
Rev. Michael Carpenter Associate Minister
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day 20 ADVENT December 16
Reading: Isaiah 55:8-13 An Invitation to Abundant Life This verse reminds me of a time that God called me to do something I did not want to do. My twenty-year-old son wanted to go to Guatemala with Church of the Servant and for me to go with him. I told him I would help him to raise funds, keep up with this paperwork, and pray diligently for him. His response was, “No, I want you to go with us.” He told his friends that I was going, and continued to pressure me. I had many excuses. I couldn’t take a week off from work. The church explained that mission work is part of my work. God kept using Jacob to encourage me to go. The leader of our trip asked me why I was hesitant. She said, “Your twenty-year-old son is asking you to share this week of mission work with him. This won’t happen often.” The biggest blessing of my life came in sharing that week with Jacob and seeing him in a mission experience. God was there every step of the trip. I saw Jacob become a young man serving God. I am so thankful that I listened when God called me to go.
Rachel Gillespie Administrative Assistant, Student Ministries
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day 21 ADVENT December 17
Reading: Luke 21:25-28 The Coming of the Son of Man Advent season is special for so many people. We get to see family members that live far away, shop for thoughtful gifts for loved ones, and sing Christmas songs with the radio! Every year, without fail, I read stories about people becoming even more generous! They will purchase a Starbucks drink for the person behind them or buy lunch for a stranger in the restaurant just to be kind. There is something in the air or something in the water. The Advent season brings such contrasting emotions. For every person that is rejoicing because they get to see loved ones, there is someone who is reminded that they won’t get to see the one they love. For every person that is celebrating the gifts they get to give, someone is trying to make enough money to pay for their mortgage. For every person that is sharing a meal at a restaurant with friends, someone goes to bed hungry. Christmas is a time to celebrate, but for some it is a challenging time. It’s a reminder for them that Christmas has changed and is no longer a celebration, but a time of mourning or struggle. Some may even believe that their world can’t go on much longer. But the beauty of Christmas is that it isn’t about gifts, fancy drinks, or even Christmas carols. It’s about a God who recognizes the pain of His people, the hopelessness that comes from life. It’s Emmanuel, God who is with us in the form of Jesus. And this passage is a reminder that there will be a time for Jesus to come again. We have hope.
Sang Nguyen High School Youth Pastor
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day 22 ADVENT December 18
Reading: Hebrews 2:10-18 Exaltation through Abasement As I reflect upon today’s scripture and the Advent season, I am reminded of one simple, beautiful truth. God came down from heaven to become a human being – Jesus Christ. As John 1:14 says, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” Preparing our hearts for Advent as we wait for God, we can always hold on to the truth that our God made himself like us, to suffer like us, to be tempted like us, because He loves us! Through Jesus Christ, God sent us love, grace, and forgiveness. Advent can be a busy time. It can be a time filled with many distractions, but my prayer for each of us is that we hold onto the promise that God gave us by giving us His Son, Jesus – a promise of hope and forgiveness.
Jenna Smith Middle School Youth Pastor
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day 23 ADVENT December 19
Reading: Deuteronomy 32:7-11 The Song of Moses For me, and I suspect for so many others, Christmas brings with it a flood of memories. There are memories of family times and special traditions; of school plays and Christmas break; of missed loved ones and occasional disappointments; and of course, memories of Santa and presents under the tree. Of all my memories, one stands out. Each year, I can remember my mom saying something like, “Kids, this year there is not going to be as many presents as in the past.” And each year, I remember never being disappointed. Well, maybe except for the time my grandma gave me and my brother various soaps – I assume there was some sort of hint associated with that gift. Finances were often tight around the Gilstrap house, but somehow my parents always made sure we had a very special Christmas. I also remember something else. While there were a few gifts for my parents, the vast majority were for my siblings and myself. Now I realize this isn’t unusual, but it wasn’t until I had my own family that I understood the spiritual significance of this. One of the greatest gifts a person can receive is getting to see the ones they love experience happiness and joy. The passage in Deuteronomy 32 speaks to this truth. When God set the boundaries of the earth and gave it to mankind, he didn’t want a portion of the earth for himself. Rather, his portion was his people. Though he was deserving of all things, what he wanted above anything else was us! His joy comes from caring for his people. He freely gives us his love, provision, and grace. And he loves to do it. I am confident that this is how my mom and dad felt. And it is the way my wife and I feel about our kids. I bet you too have experienced this kind of feeling.
I wonder if this is the call God has for us at Christmas and all throughout the year. Maybe God wants us to find our joy in the people he has put in our lives – to find our happiness in life through providing others with the same kind of love that God pours out on his people. I am pretty sure the answer is “Yes.” And I am pretty sure if we will commit to doing this, our Christmas and our world will be much, much better this year.
John Gilstrap Director of NextGen Ministries
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day 24 ADVENT December 20
Reading: 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 Apostolic Ministry One reason we all love Christmas is that it is a delight for the senses. The twinkling lights on rooftops and jingle bells can make your heart beat a little faster with excitement. But it is the scents of the season that leave an indelible memory. A hint of pine in the air takes you back to the perfect Christmas tree you helped pick out as a child. A floral fragrance reminds you of visits to your grandmother’s house on Christmas morning. And the delicious smell of sweet treats baking in the kitchen will make you feel loved from the inside out. The sweet scents of Christmas are an ever-present delight for the soul. 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 says that we are the aroma of Christ to the world. We have the ability to spread the joy and love of Christ by being his fragrance to everyone around us. It is easy to be distracted by the decorations and festivities of the Christmas season, but the most important thing is to share the true meaning of Christmas – God’s gift of love. He gave his Son to save everyone who believes in Him and accepts his gift of salvation. As you enjoy the scents of the season, remember that to God you are an aroma and a gift to all those around you.
Dayna Slater Coordinator, Starbright Children's Day Out Preschool Ministries Coordinator
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day 25 ADVENT December 21
Reading: John 13:34-35 The New Commandment Think of the great commands of God… less as a “you must” and more of a “you get to.” You get to love like Jesus loves! You get to experience, through love, a life of faith and one of the greatest joys. You get to use the model Jesus gave us of what love is and how it’s supposed to be applied in your life. You get to live your life in and with His love and His help. You get to follow God’s plan and be happy and fulfilled in ways you cannot even imagine. Occasionally, you will get to wait for God to reveal His plan. In those times, you get to be still. You get to trust and know that God is in control. You get to remember that His plan is to prosper you! You get to be joyful and content in His presence! You get to celebrate your blessings!
Wendi Humes Assistant Director of Warm World School
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day 26 ADVENT December 22
Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 Everything Has Its Time I love that our Savior reminds me that life is to be lived in seasons. His plan takes me down paths of pain and discomfort, joy and celebration. Because He alone is the author of my days, I trust that each path is slowly shaping me to be the person He intended me to be. My challenge has always been to praise Him well in high times equal to how I need Him in the valley. Lord, how I need you! One of the many things I love about my position as Director of Warm World School is the opportunity I get to encourage parents of young children to slow down and be in the moment during the crazy, busy, needy days of preschool parenting. What a unique season this is… and so very temporary. As this verse reminds us, there is a time for public temper tantrums of epic proportion and time for well-mannered children… oh wait, that sounds pretty good. But, be careful what you wish for! Parents of young ‘ens… Stop. Look at that face. Forgive the jelly on the wall (it wipes off). Praise the Father who gave you this child. This season will be gone all too quickly. And that’s a promise.
Shannon Schultheis Director of Warm World School
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day 27 ADVENT December 23
Reading: Romans 8:18-27 Future Glory This passage reminds me of how thankful I am for what I cannot even see. The Holy Spirit is very present with me each day as I work, as I travel, as I support, as I cook, as I take care of myself and those that I love. I cannot see the Spirit, but I can feel Him and know He is close. What I can see is suffering. This life is hard. I am sandwiched between generations, each with their own set of unique needs. How blessed I am that I share in the weekly routine of my precious grandchildren! Their lives are active, busy, and rapidly changing. At the same time, I am caring for my aging mother, who is suffering through the process of rapid decline. I see her growing weaker and I struggle some days to stay positive. It is hard to understand that someone so full of life has become so fearful, frustrated and unhappy. I asked her what would make her happy. Her answer: “To be free!” Our Lord has a reward for her that is well-earned. My mom is still in there somewhere, but trapped behind the weakness of the human body. One day she will be made new again when she meets her Lord in Heaven. And she will be free. Until then, we suffer. Yes, there is an ultimate plan of freedom alongside the suffering of life’s experiences.
Judy Held Administrative Assistant, Warm World School
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day 28 ADVENT December 24
Reading: Matthew 10:1-8 The Mission of the Twelve Many of us are struggling with something. Some of us have a broken heart from the loss of a loved one, an illness that needs healing, financial struggles, and even the heartache of being lonely. There are days that we ask God, “How much longer?” I know in my personal struggles that I face every day I ask God that same question. When you read the verses in Matthew 10:7-8, what a relief it is to be reminded that our God is so powerful that when Jesus told his disciples to go to the lost sheep of Israel and heal them, they did. Our Lord Jesus Christ can heal us from our struggles as long as we believe in Him with no doubts in our hearts. As you sit here on this glorious day reading this devotion, think about the wonderful miracle that we celebrate on Christmas Day. Know that our God has a plan for you and that He sees the struggles that you are facing. You are never alone, for God loves you just as much as He loves me, and He sent his son to die for our sins so we could live an eternity with Him forever. “O’ Glorious day is Christmas Day when Jesus Christ was born!”
Jenny Kincaid Nursery Coordinator
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Christmas CHRIST’S BIRTH
December 25
Reading: Luke 2:1-20 The Birth of Jesus In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
The Shepherds and the Angels In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.� So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. – Luke 2:1-20 (NRSV)
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