Advent Devotional Prepare yourself for Christmas with our Advent Devotional Guide. This year’s guide, written by our Smoke Rise staff and a few others, will be based on the symbols of the Chrismons (Christ monograms) that have adorned the Chrismon Tree in the narthex. The series will offer a daily dose of inspiration, reflection, and opportunity for spiritual growth throughout the season of Advent, from December 3rd to December 24th.
The word Chrismon is a contraction of two words: Christ and monogram. So, a Chrismon is a symbol and representation of Jesus Christ.
During Advent, as we prepare again for Christ’s arrival into the world, we look for signs and symbols of the One to come. Chrismon ornaments are white and gold—the white representing purity and holiness and the gold representing royalty and great worth. Chrismons are always handmade, a gift from the heart of the creator. The symbols vary from figures of baby Jesus, to snapshots of the Nativity story, to representations of Mary, to Greek letters recalling the names of Jesus, from crowns of thorns, to crowns of glory. These beautiful symbols represent multi-faceted understandings of Jesus, His incarnation, His ministry, and His return to God in heaven. As you see the Chrismons represented in this devotional book and the actual symbols on our own beautiful Chrismon tree at Smoke Rise, ponder the gifts that Christ brings to you. - Amanda Coe Burton
Alpha & Omega Revelation 1:8 December 3 by Page Fulgham
Pondering Questions: Would we miss the Alpha and Omega symbol if removed from the Chrismon’s Tree? How does ΑΩ touch our lives? The eternity of God is made flesh like two wolves who work together for the sake of the pack. Can the ΑΩ save the human pack?
Prayer: Teach us, Oh God, to fully accept that you fully accept us.” Amen
In the animated 2010 film, “Alpha and Omega,” Alpha is the female leader of the wolf pack, and Omega her male counterpart. Life is challenging but all ends well because they save the pack. Alpha & Omega, first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, symbolizes the eternity of God. Usually, we say them together. Rev 1:8 likely had its origin in the Old Testament, Isa. 44:6, “I am the first and the last.” Thus, we have “ΑΩ.” “All-encompassing, complete, forever…” What other quality of God could ΑΩ symbolize? Think of God in relational terms and use “fully present” to capture the meaning of ΑΩ. Jesus reveals God’s full presence in the human scene, the mystery of God made flesh as a child in a manger.
Ark & Rainbow Genesis 9:8-17 December 4 by Denise Burcham
Pondering Questions: Though stormy clouds will continue to roll in, do you truly believe God wants good for you?
Prayer: Holy Father, thank you for the promise that clears any doubt that you want will continue to be with me through the storm
During Advent, we prepare ourselves for the birth of Jesus, Immanuel (God with us). However, God has always been with us. God was with us long before the birth of Jesus. God has been with us since creation and God wants to stay with us. God made a promise to Noah and all creation that God would never again destroy all creation—no matter how much our evil inclinations angered Him. His covenant was sealed with a rainbow in the sky, a sign of God’s promise that whatever else God does to seek our restoration, destruction is off the table. God will try everything else to restore our relationship. God will seek us and seek us, despite every sin, every grief and every shame that separates us from God. Whatever our sinfulness, God will not give up on loving us into restoration. Jesus entered the world to atone for our sins and bridge that gap. He became the final sacrifice.
Crown
James 1:12 | 1 Peter 5 December 5 by Lou Tankersley
Pondering Questions: Do some of us do things for others for a reward? Do some of us want to give up when the going gets tough? Do some of us forget to persevere in praying for others and ourselves?
Prayer: Jesus, my King, give me the strength and “want to” to strive for a crown of love for you. Amen
When I think about these two scriptures, my mind goes to the anthem, “My Eternal King,” by Jane Marshall. Some of the words are: “My God, I love thee. Not for hope of winning heav’n, or of escaping hell; not with the hope of something gained, not seeking a reward; but as You have loved me, O ever loving Lord! E’en so I love You, and will love, and Your praise will sing; soley because you are my God and my Eternal King”
Heart
1 John 4:8 December 6 by Rashette Walker
Pondering Questions: How do you show love?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for the love You’ve shown us. Amen
Back in the 90’s, many were asking, What is my love language?” Much of this was because of a book called, The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate, by Gary Chapman. It was a very hot topic for several years, covered by countless daytime talk shows. Relationships changed in different ways because of it, as people began to pay more attention to what made them feel loved and the way they approached loving others. The Scripture says that you do not know God if you do not love. Living in love means you live in God and God lives in you! How beautiful and pure! Imagine the peace we would enjoy if we lived in love. God shows humankind love because God is love. I once heard a pastor beautifully sum up God’s love for mankind this way: Jesus (God) laid down His divinity to become fully human, to live the life we couldn’t live (perfect) and die the death that we should have died (guilty) so that we can have a relationship with God through all eternity.
Lamb
Isaiah 11:1-9 December 7 by Jill Wade
Pondering Questions: Do you know this precious Jesus? Have you seen His truth unfurled?
Prayer: All glory, praise and honor That God came to dwell with us. You shall ever be exalted And, in You, we put our trust. Amen
So perfect, gentle, meek and mild The purest Lamb of God Came down from heaven undefiled To walk where men have trod With great humility He came As God sent Him to save, To bring hope and redemption And our freedom from the grave Like a child He leads us Our Lord, Emmanuel With joyous proclamation The Good News He would tell.
In Him hope and joy increase With offers of salvation. His faithfulness will never cease For any tribe or nation. King of Kings and Lord of Lords, The Son of the Most High, The Word made flesh, the Spirit’s sword, Of this we can’t deny He’s the Rock of my salvation My Redeemer and my friend. He’s my help in tribulation His mercies never end.
He has come as the Messiah From the line of Jesse and David To this lost and weary world. His birth had been foretold With wisdom from the ages He brings peace throughout the fold.
Anchor
Hebrews 6:17-20 December 8 by Nikki Young
Pondering Questions: What do you do to keep yourself anchored in Christ?
Prayer: May this season of Advent be a time of reflection, anticipation and preparation. As we wait for the birth of our Savior, help us to anchor our faith in His promise and find our hope in His cross. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
The anchor of a boat keeps the vessel in a specific location, preventing it from drifting. Similarly, a spiritual anchor keeps an individual from drifting away from his or her core values, beliefs and faith, ensuring they stay rooted in their spiritual journey. When the anchor and the cross are combined, it represents the idea that hope is anchored in faith in Christ. In other words, one’s hope is rooted in faith in Jesus and the promise of salvation. The anchor cross symbolizes a firm and unwavering faith that provides hope and security, even in the face of life’s challenges and trials. This Chrismon represents hope and steadfastness, which come together to deepen our understanding of the Christian faith and the message of Christmas.
Candle
Psalm 119:105 December 9 by Lynne Ginn
Pondering Questions: Who is Christ calling you to share your light with?
Prayer: Lord, give us courage to shine your Light in the darkness through our own lives, and to point others to Christ, the true Light of Christmas. Amen
The Christmas season is filled with lights—city lights, neighborhood lights, store decorations. Electricity provides plenty of light. But have you ever been to a place beyond the city lights, such as a farm? In such a place, when the sun goes down and if there is no moon, there is total darkness. The entire world was dark until God created light. He knew we needed light to see our surroundings. He also knew we needed a Light to guide us towards righteousness; and, to keep us on that path, God sent Jesus. In a totally dark room if someone cracks the door, a bright sliver of light pierces the darkness from outside the room. Our eyes are drawn toward that light. On Christmas Eve, we light candles at the end of the worship service. We begin in darkness and, one candle at a time, we fill the room with light. Oneby-one, we can spread that the Light of Christ to the whole world! We can pierce the darkness with the Everlasting Light. Look for places in which to share your light this Christmas!
Shell
Matthew 3:16-17 December 10 by Antowyn Smith
Pondering Questions: Will you go “down to the river” with me?
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for accepting my heart and washing my sins away. Thank you, heavenly Father, for making me new. Amen
“Let’s go down by the river; let’s go down by the river.” He washed my sins away and welcomed me into the family. Jesus gave me a chance to confess my sins and be forgiven. I went under the water and was made whole and new. Being baptized is a personal choice; it is one that should not be taken lightly. The water represents the washing away of the old you to become the new you that has accepted Christ. I remember my own baptism. I was so nervous; but that feeling of the joy of following Christ when I came out of the water took all my worries away. It made me new; it made me feel refreshed; it made me whole.
Dove
Luke 1:57-80 December 11 by Hannah Vassar
Pondering Questions: How do you feel the Holy Spirit’s presence with you this season? What might the Holy Spirit be showing you?
Prayer: Holy Spirit, breathe in us as you did our ancestors before us. Amen
I have always been intrigued by the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth. Zechariah is corrected by God and is unable to speak for a time following the naming of John the Baptist. When he is finally able to speak, after his son enters the world, the very first words from him are a prophecy blessing God. The scripture tells the reader that Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit; his words show the reader how the Holy Spirit has been present throughout Israel’s history. In Luke’s gospel, John the Baptist’s story is paralleled with Jesus’ story. In the very next chapter, the birth of Jesus is recorded. In chapter 3, John the Baptist preaches, and Jesus is baptized. God’s spirit there is depicted as a dove. If the Holy Spirit was in John so fully, I wonder how much more might the Holy Spirit have been present with Jesus and in his ministry. How do you feel the Holy Spirit’s presence with you this season? What might the Holy Spirit be showing you?
Fleur de lis
Luke 1:46-55 December 12 by Becky Caswell-Speight
Pondering Questions: Will those who come behind you find you a faithful leader as the people who led you?
Prayer: Dear God, help me to go forward sharing the simple beauty of the Christ-child and the majestic nature that is Christ as I know Him today. Amen
While fleur-de-lis are simple symbols in the shape of a lily, they stand for great people and nations. Cities have claimed them as their own. Monarchies use them to mark their families. Sports teams have incorporated them in their logos to display their strength. Perhaps most importantly, followers of Jesus use them every Christmas to recognize the young woman Mary who did not have much status, strength, or wealth. When the angel came and proclaimed to her that she would be the mother of Jesus, she would have been completely justified had she said, “no, thank you.” Instead, she voices a prayer that, much like the beautiful prongs of the Fleur-de-lis, sprouts out into every direction with emotion. She sees the triumphs that are to come her way as well as the turmoil that will intermingle each step. And with courage, she steps forward in faith receiving the task of giving birth to and raising God’s child in this world. This season, may we follow Mary’s lead in our own response to God’s calling us. May we sprout forth, like the fleur-de-lis, in every direction rejoicing in Jesus our Savior, the Child of Mary.
Cross & Crown Revelation 2:10 December 13 by Jim Smith
Pondering Questions: Who is a faithful follower of Christ who influenced your life? I wonder who influenced you the most. I wonder who you might influence. Will those who come behind us find us faithful?
Prayer: Christ of the Manger and the Cross, King and Lord of all, hear our prayer. Thank you for the promise of your presence through the trials of life. Thank you for the hope of heaven. Today we celebrate both the Cross and the Crown, incarnation and resurrection. Amen.
From the manger to the cross there is a shadow of death over the life of Christ and a shadow of persecution and suffering to come to those who follow in the way of Jesus. Jesus spoke to the church at Smyrna about such suffering, told them not to fear and promised “the Crown of Life,” the reward that will come to those who are faithful and persevere through trials. Through the centuries followers of Christ have lived by faith. Those known and unknown are considered Saints who will share in the Kingdom of God after this life. The writer of Hebrews reminds us of their influence. They make up “a cloud of witnesses” that cheer us on to lives of faithfulness even today. The cross passing through a crown is a powerful Christian symbol that reminds of reward in heaven (the crown) that comes only after the trials of this life, (symbolized by the cross). When we celebrate God coming in the flesh and the wonders of His Kingdom coming to us and when we adore the Christ Child, we should also consider the call to fully surrender our lives.
Butterfly
Psalm 28:7 December 14 by Chris George
Pondering Questions: How are you called to be weak and vulnerable while also strong?
Prayer: In our weakness and in our strength may we give our all to follow you. Amen
The Butterfly is one of the most amazing creatures in God’s world. Their wings are truly works of art, some look like a painting and others look like stain-glass windows. Monarch butterflies can travel as many as 265 miles in a single day, but along with this strength is a fragility which makes them so very vulnerable. I have never considered the Butterfly a Christmas creature, but perhaps this combination of strong and vulnerable reminds us of the One born in a manger. The Lord who is “our strength and shield” (Psalm 28:7) comes near to us wrapped in our frail humility, arriving as a most vulnerable newborn baby. Yes, this baby will grow, live, and love, then endure death itself, being laid in a tomb. But, like the caterpillar that emerges from it cocoon, Jesus arises as the first born of God’s new creation. May the Butterfly Chrismon remind us that the baby born in Bethlehem has come that we may have new life and life to the fullest.
Grapes & Wheat John 6:35-36 December 15 by Harrison Litzell
Pondering Questions: I wonder how our world would be different if we never felt hungry or thirsty again.
Prayer: Jesus, may we share in a world where no one hungers or thirsts. Amen
I am not familiar with hunger or thirst. They do not exist in my life as a threat, but rather as a reminder to slow down and care for my body while attempting to accomplish the next item on my list. At no time in my life have hunger and thirst loomed in the way that they do for so many in our world, and in the world of Jesus. But in this moment, Jesus makes a promise to us all. With life in Christ, there is no more hunger or thirst. There is no need for striving or reaching. There is satisfaction in Jesus. And in the moments where that is not true. When there are moments that hunger and thirst continue and people are unnaturally deprived of that which fills them. These are the moments where we, as the Body of Christ, must fulfill the promise made and share so that all will be filled. A promise that is not contingent on accomplishment, but is made unconditionally.
IXOYC Fish
Acts 4:23-31 December 16 by Mitzi Cantrell-Ethridge
Pondering Questions: In what ways might you boldly proclaim God’s love during Advent?
Prayer: Lord, loosen my tongue, that I may boldly proclaim your love to the world. Amen
The fish is one of the earliest symbols used among Christians in the first century. Its symbolism originated from the Greek word for fish, “ichthys,” from which early Christians formed the acrostic: Iesous Christos Theou Yios Soter, i.e. Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. The fish was an unassuming marker for Christians during Roman persecution. Often, the symbol was used to mark tombs or meeting places for the early believers or to distinguish friend from foe. In our passage today, we see the first hints of the persecution Jesus’ followers would face after his death and resurrection. Peter and John are arrested for healing and preaching the gospel; then, before the Sanhedrin, they boldly proclaim they will not be silenced from sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. After the trial, they are released and return to their companions to share what had happened. Lifting their voices in unison, they praised God with a resounding prayer filled with the Holy Spirit’s passion and power.
Lyre
Psalm 150:3-5 December 17 by Karen Stitt
Pondering Questions: What Christmas carol evokes sweet and peaceful memories of Christmases past for you?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank you for the gift of your Son and the gift of music. Amen
The lyre represents David’s musical ability and also joy in praising the Lord. Jesus’ joyful birth was announced by a heavenly host of angels singing “glory to God in the highest and on earth peace good will to all people.” I would imagine music, both sacred and secular, is a big part of Christmas for most of us. I was lucky enough to grow up in a musical family and a church with a great music program. I can still hear Mother hit those high notes in O Holy Night from my childhood. So meaningful and pertinent in our world today are these words from that song: “Truly He taught us to love one another, His law is love and His gospel is peace.”
Pitcher
John 2:1-12 December 18 by Jonathon Bowers
Pondering Questions: What would you have done after the extraordinary was presented, even in the most mundane task of your job?
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for constantly surprising us. Teach us to be good stewards of your miracles and help us to never stop looking for the amazing, even in the simplest ceremonial jar. In your name we pray, amen.
The pitcher on today’s Chrismon reminds us of the very beginning of Christ’s miracles, the wedding at Cana in Galilee. The wedding had gone well so far, but when the wine ran out, Jesus’s mother turned to him and indirectly asked him to do something about it. He told the workers to fill the large stone water jars to the brim, and once they had, he told them to give some to the head of the banquet. The master drank and not only tasted wine, but wine better than that which had been brought out already for the guests! I have to wonder what the staff thought in this situation.
Chi Rho
John 1:1-18 December 19 by Bart McNiel
Pondering Questions: What does the name “Christ” mean to you? How does Christ come to you as a divine king in this season?
The Chi-Rho are the first two Greek letters of the word Christos, the Greek word for the older Hebrew word, Messiah. The term “Messiah” means “annointed one.” In ancient Israel, kings were annointed by priests or prophets in an act that symbolically conferred God’s favor on the king. Early Christians identified Jesus as God’s divine king of heaven. Over many years of theological reflection and worship, popular advent and Christmas hymns of the church used similar imagery.
Joy to the world, the Lord is come, Let earth receive her King. Hark the herald angels sing, glory to the newborn King.
Prayer:
Noel, Noel Noel, born is the King of Israel.
May the word and light of Christ our King lead you towards that holy night divine.
The writer of the gospel of John universalizes the imagery of Christ’s divine kingship, opening the gospel with language that echos the first words of the Hebrew Bible, “in the beginning.” By identifying Jesus with the divine “word” and “light” out of which the cosmos and the earth are born, invite God’s divine word and light through Christ to recreate us. Consider how God’s word and light might rule and reign in your heart anew in this advent season as you reflect on the Chi-Rho Crismon.
Triquetra & Circle John 14:1-7 December 20 by Teri Moore
Pondering Questions: In what ways do you feel God’s presence in your life? How do you experience the unity and eternity of God through the Holy Spirit?
As we journey through Advent, we are reminded of the symbolism of the triquetra and circle. The triquetra, a three-cornered shape, represents the three persons of the Trinity - God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The circle, surrounding the triquetra, symbolizes the unity and eternity of God.
Prayer:
In John 14:1-7, Jesus speaks of his departure and the promise of the Holy Spirit’s arrival. He assures his disciples that he will send the Spirit to guide and comfort them. The triquetra and circle remind us of this promise - that God is always with us, even when we feel alone or lost.
Dear God, help us to trust in your promise of everlasting presence and guidance. May we feel the comfort of the Holy Spirit and be filled with a sense of unity and belonging, as we journey through this Advent season and beyond. Amen.
Shephards Crook with Cross John 10:11-17 December 21 by Grace Staggs
Pondering Questions: Who are shepherds in your life that point you toward Jesus? How do you take your life to point others in the same direction?
Prayer: Good Shepherd, you know us by our name, and our identity is not hidden from you. Gather us to yourself as a shepherd gathers the sheep, that we might know your Name. Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayer. Amen (The Church of Scottland)
A shepherd is a person who tends and guards flocks of sheep. Over the years as manufacturing and technology have become more and more popular, shepherding as an occupation has dwindled. Because of that change in industry humans have begun changing the use of the term shepherd and a shepherd’s staff is a thing of the past. Today we call someone who guides people in a particular direction a shepherd. Christ is oft described as the Good Shepherd. He like the shepherds before Him guided their sheep with a tool called the shepherd’s crook. This tool was used to guide their sheep to places of care and safety. Each part of the shepherd’s crook had an important use. Today the Shedpherd’s crook and cross have more symbolic meanings. The straight portion of the crook is symbolic of righteous rule. The curved portion is symbolic of reaching outward to draw people towards Him. As the Good Shepherd, Jesus reaches out to care for you. He guides you and points you toward the desired path of care and safety.
Angels
Luke 1:8-14 December 22 by Isabel Young
Pondering Questions: How can the angel Chrismon inspire us to be messengers of kindness, hope, and positivity in our daily lives, just as angels are seen as messengers of God’s love and guidance?
Prayer: During this Advent season, may we be inspired by the angels to be messengers of love and joy in our own lives. Help us to be beacons of light in a world that sometimes feels dark and uncertain. We offer this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.
In many nativity scenes and Christmas decorations, angels are placed prominently as protective figures watching over the Holy Family and the infant Jesus. Angels play a central role in the Nativity story, particularly in the announcement of the birth of Jesus. They are seen as messengers who bring the good news of the Savior’s arrival. The most famous angelic announcement is the one to the shepherds in the fields, telling them of Jesus’ birth.
Manger
Luke 2:1-7 December 23 by Brian Abner
Pondering Questions:
Well, that is precisely what Joseph and Mary did. Oh, not by choice, mind you. As the story goes, “There was no room in the inn.”
Looking back at your darkest times where did you see God’s provision?
They had no choice in the matter. By divine prophecy, Joseph and Mary, both from the line of David, must follow the edict from Rome and travel back to their own town for the census. So, to Bethlehem, they traveled (Mic 5:2; Jer 23:5).
Prayer: God of grace, in times of uncertainty, wrap us in your cloth and place us in the manger of your provision. May we lift our hearts to you, Lord, with gratitude for the precious gift of your son. Amen.
Mary, with child, was now required to make the three-day-long journey as well. Finally reaching their destination brings another dilemma – no room at the inn. Still, Mary’s contractions flared as a child is coming (Isa. 7:14). Such was the plight of Joseph and Mary, after a long journey, now wandering in an unfamiliar place. In those moments of desperation, God’s presence isn’t always what we envision. Yet, God guides us to his perfect provision. The betrothed couple was sent to a stable surrounded by the baaing of sheep, chickens clucking, and dogs barking. A child is born (Isa. 9:6). Wrapped in cloth, a newborn lay in a manger (Jer 23:5).
Nativity
Matthew 1:18-23 December 24 by Rebekah Edmonds
Pondering Questions: Who are you in the nativity story? Where do you fit in?
Prayer: God, thank you for inviting us into your birth story. May the gaze of the gentle babe hold our attention so that we can receive your peace. Amen
In Christian traditions, the word nativity is associated with artistic depictions of the place of Christ’s birth. Sometimes it’s the Holy Family -Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. Other times we see the whole hosts of characters: The Holy Family, Angels, Shepherds, Wise Men, and even an animal or two. I wonder where you find yourself in the story this season? With whom do you identify the most? A weary new mother? A hopeful, but fearful, father? A curious animal wondering what commotion is all about? A shepherd in awe of what has transpired? A wise person, wandering and searching for truth? A new babe, full of hope and potential, unaware of the weight of the world? An angel, shouting for joy about the Good News of Jesus? Or maybe you are a star, quietly shining your bright light so the world can find Jesus through you? Wherever you find yourself this Christmas season, know there is a place for you in God’s story. All are welcome into the nativity scene, just as we are. All are embraced in the gaze of the new babe, who reminds us that He truly is Immanuel, God with us.
Star
Matthew 2:1-12 December 25 by Danny Vancil
Pondering Questions: Where do you most often find your guiding light? Why do you think that is where it is found for you?
Prayer: Lord, Lead us in the direction as the Nativity Star did so long ago. May your royal beauty show the way no matter the dark of night. Amen
Arguably one of the most familiar symbols of the Advent, Christmas and Epiphany seasons is the star. Churches display the Moravian star; greeting cards offer a wide variety of stylized star artwork; and Christmas trees are adorned with star lights and gleaming star tree toppers. Stars of all different shapes and sizes have one very important quality in common - they provide light. The Chrismon, “Christ’s monogram,” symbols used on the beautiful tree in our narthex, include Chrismon stars, each with its specific meaning. One of these is the nativity star that shone brightly in the sky, leading the wise men to Jesus - the Light of the world. It is this Light to whom we should look for guidance, brightening our journey in life. O, Star of wonder, star of night, star of royal beauty bright, westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to thy perfect light.
Gloria
The Sanctuary Choir and Chamber Orchestra Present
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DI' L VA
The Third Sunday of Advent December 17, 2023 · 11:00AM
Christmas Eve 9:45 a.m. - Sunday School A large, combined Sunday school class will meet in the Fellowship Hall.
11:00 a.m. - Candlelight Communion Service In a darkened sanctuary, we will observe our traditional communion and candlelight service that is usually held in the evening. Our regular evening Christmas Eve service will resume next year at the 7 p.m. time.
Advent Experience December 10 12:00 - 4:00 p.m Chapel
Enhance your Advent experience with our enchanting companion event, where you can take a delightful walk through our adorned chapel and get up close to view the beautiful Chrismons that inspired our devotional series. Immerse yourself in the rich symbolism of these unique ornaments, connecting the spiritual insights from our Advent Devotionals to the tangible splendor of the season. This walk-through event promises to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the Chrismons, offering a truly immersive and enriching experience during this special time of year.