Advent Booklet 2012

University of the Cumberlands

Advent Booklet 2012

The Department of Missions and Ministry of University of the Cumberlands invites you to

A Celebration of Advent 2012

As we enter another Advent season, let us remember what this holiday season represents. Advent marks the beginning of the Christian year when Jesus Christ arrived on Earth. Beginning this year on December 2, Advent continues for four Sundays and ends on Christmas day. Each of the four Sundays of Advent begins a week of preparation around a theme. The first is Hope, the second Peace, the third Joy, and the fourth Love. Due to the abundant contributions of UC faculty and staff, this year’s booklet of thoughtful writings is extended through December 31.

The overall theme of the 2012 Advent booklet is “The Gifts God Can’t Wait to Give.” Can you remember a time when you had a special gift for someone under the tree, and you just couldn’t wait for Christmas morning when you would see their joy? Well, God, the maker of “every good and perfect gift” desires for us to open up and use the gifts He has given us. He has already given His son Jesus Christ. This is the gift of life when we deserved death; it’s the gift of hope, peace, joy and love in our Earthly life when we abide in Him. God’s greatest gift begins with his son Jesus Christ, who came to Earth, died, and rose again so that we might have eternal life through Him. But the gifts of God continue to be experienced when we have a personal relationship with Him. The Advent season is all about focusing our attention on God’s love, sacrifice, and gifts, not our own materialistic gifts or even our own good works.

I hope that as you read through the devotionals in this booklet, you will think about and share God’s gifts in your own life as we celebrate Christ’s birth and our life in Him, and we anxiously await His return.

Kate McKnight, editor

Hope

“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.”

Romans 15:13 KJV

Writers for the week of Hope

Jennifer Marsh, Associate Professor of Spanish, is wife of Orlando Delguy and mother of three. She is very involved with Corbin Presbyterian Church where she teaches Sunday School and sings in the choir. Her hobbies are movies and travel.

Janie Carter is Associate Professor of Business Administration at the University of the Cumberlands.

Tom Fish is Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Professor of English. He received his M.A. and Ph.D. in English from the University of Kansas and is the husband of Kathy Fish, Professor of English.

Jolly Sharp is Professor of English and proud grandmother of twin grandsons. Her book “Between the House and the Chicken Yard”: The Masks of Flannery O’Connor was published in 2011.

Laura Dennis is Professor of French at UC and mother to three children, three cats, and one dog. She received an immersion grant to present a paper in Paris in September 2012 and was nominated for Carnegie CASE Professor of the Year.

Lynn Woolsey is an education professor who lives in a Tennessee holler with her husband, seven dogs, one cat, and snapping turtle.

She serves as a family advocate for families of children with disabilities.

Dinah Taylor, wife of UC President Jim Taylor, works as Assistant to the President. She loves reading, visiting friends of the University, and interacting with the students.

Sunday, December 2

Romans 15:13

I have always loved movies about people who overcome adversity. I think this is because they focus on hope and I believe in hope. One of my favorite such movies is The Shawshank Redemption. In one scene the main character, Andy, has just returned to his prison buddies after having spent time in solitary confinement. Here is the exchange between Andy and his friend, Red, as they eat a meal in the prison dining hall: Andy: [speaking about his time in solitary confinement] I had Mr. Mozart to keep me company. [points and taps his head] It was in here. [gestures over his heart] That’s the beauty of music. They can’t take that from you. Haven’t you ever felt that way about music?

Red: I played a mean harmonica as a younger man. Lost interest in it though. Didn’t make much sense in here.

Andy: Here’s where it makes the most sense. You need it so you don’t forget.

Red: Forget?

Andy: Forget that…there are places in this world that aren’t made out of stone. That there’s something inside…that they can’t get to, that they can’t touch. That’s yours.

Red: What’re you talking about?

Andy: Hope.

I love Andy’s sense of hope. The Bible, too, is full of stories of adversity and of people using hope, through their trust in God, to overcome those adversities. As we enter this season of Advent, I look to scripture to give me strength and hope: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

-Jennifer Marsh

Monday, December 3

Exodus 14:13

Hope…Even When You’re Not Sure Why The Israelites found themselves in the desert feeling lost, forgotten, and terrified… perhaps even betrayed. Their predicament seemed to have only one end in sight, and it was not good. They had listened to Moses, obeyed his command, and look where it had gotten them. Yet here they were, stuck in a desert on the sea’s edge with their worst enemies hot on their trail. There were seemingly no tactical options. And worse yet, there was no hope. Then once more came the confident voice of Moses, speaking words of hope, “. . .Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today.”

We each have a desert. We each have an enemy who seems to be circling, chasing us. . . closing in. We each have times when hope seems very far away, if not completely gone. As hard as it may be to remember, Exodus reminds us, “. . .The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

There is a way. There is a power greater than our own. There is hope.

This advent season we should be reminded that our hope is in the life of a baby born to Mary. A hope that would be crucified by men, yet resurrected by the power of God. “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly trust in Jesus name” (Edward Mote).

-Janie Carter

Tuesday, December 4

2 Samuel 22:47

Hope is a curious, two-faced thing. It looks back, and it looks ahead. It expresses dissatisfaction and desire, fear and aspiration, helplessness and ambition. When we hope it doesn’t rain, our desire is based upon dissatisfaction with past experience that may recur. When we hope we “ace” an exam, we are anxious about failure even as we dream of success.

The Hope of Advent may seem different, focused not upon our fickle feelings and petty wants but upon God’s Power and Purpose. Like the words of David’s song from 2 Samuel 22:47, the Hope of Advent is built upon God’s strength and faithfulness experienced in the enduring mystery of Christmas that becomes Easter. During Advent we can echo David and declare that “Our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”

But if we remember the context of David’s song, we may still discover another face to the Hope of Advent: our face. His celebration of God as “my deliverer” comes in the wake of David’s crushing defeat of the Philistines. God has been his “fortress,” but David has been the warrior-champion with “strength for the battle,” with “feet like the feet of deer” and arms that “can bend a bow of bronze.” To experience the Hope of Advent we must do more than marvel at God’s Grace. We must take action, risk the habits of our routine lives and become champions of God’s Grace, champions of Forgiveness, champions of Redemptive Change in our daily lives and personal relationships. Hope does more than watch and wait. Hope springs.

-Tom Fish

Wednesday, December 5

Jeremiah 29:11

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, hope as a noun refers to an expectation, a promise, a belief that something will happen, or even to the person or thing that may help or save. Hope as a verb usually means to desire, trust, expect, or anticipate. Jeremiah records the Lord’s declaration: “For I know the plans that I have for you [the exiled Israelites], plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope” (29:11, NAS). This hope is a noun, a promise from God for deliverance. Yet, verse 10 reveals that the fulfillment of this hope would require trust and obedience and would not occur until after seventy years of many calamities and much waiting.

Waiting is difficult. We prefer instant answers, immediate relief, and speedy resolutions. That is not always God’s plan. What about our questions, fears, tears, and pain? I am convinced that God allows us to have these emotions and to fully express them to Him. Remember that many biblical folks questioned, including Job, Peter, Thomas, and Jesus. As Christ-believers, the key is to hold on to God’s promise of eternal hope, even in the midst of earthly traumas. Yes, that is tough love.

Sometimes that may mean continuing to place one foot in front of the other while waiting and not completely understanding. Yet, Galatians 5:5 proclaims, “For we through the Spirit, by faith, are waiting for the HOPE of righteousness.” That hope is eternity through belief in Jesus.

-Jolly Sharp

Thursday, December 6

Psalm 10:17

It was on the sixth of December when we received the news: Our grandson had significant disabilities. The news dropped us to our knees. A beautiful child, whose golden hair reflected the lights of the season, at two-years, six months (to the day), he spoke only ten indistinguishable words. He was a child trapped by disabilities that could define him and sentence him to a “less than” life. Our daughter went into her room with a two-pound box of chocolates, a stack of Kleenexes and a Bible. She stayed in there all weekend.

Opening the Bible several times during the solitude in her room, she, at last, found Psalm 10:17. It was then she found her peace.

She didn’t pray to change her son. She stopped asking, “Why him? Why us?” Instead, she prayed to be transformed from within. She asked for His support to become the Mother her son needed.

God’s gift that he couldn’t wait to give us was Harrison.

Although none of us realized it at the time, we all know it now.

Liz became the Mother her son needed and in that work of “becoming,” she discovered strength, passion and tenacity that were just waiting to be unwrapped.

-Lynn Woolsey

Friday, December 7

Psalm 10:17

“I sure hope my suitcase arrives in one piece.”

That thought, less a prayer than a nagging anxiety, filled my mind as I waited to clear immigration at the Charles de Gaulle airport.

That same day, however, I had reason to wonder at my words.

How freely we English-speakers use that word, “hope.” “I hope I get an A.” “Let’s hope it doesn’t rain.”

What if hope is something else entirely? A few hours after my arrival in Paris, I visited the Shoah memorial, where I stood for a long time scanning a wall of names, all belonging to Jews who died during the Holocaust. As the wall towered over me, the external world, suitcases and all, faded away. My gaze fixated on the names of those who died young, while I longed only to hold my own three children. Hope in any form was the furthest thing from my mind. What room is there for hope in a world where such evil occurs?

Yet in the midst of all that terrible cruelty, death, and destruction, some survived. Although we cannot understand why some and not others were saved, the fact remains that for a few, hope in its truest sense was never completely lost. I am not talking about hope as a fleeting, transient wish, but rather a deep, abiding gift that only God can give. In these days leading up to Christmas, may we find that hope renewed.

-Laura Dennis

Saturday, December 8

Lamentations 3:22-24

Since the death of our only child, Jim, May 20, 1991, the book Lamentations has been a very important part of our lives, for truly we were lamenting this great loss.

After Jim’s death, it was important to be in contact with other parents who understood our loss, and I felt God was leading me into this venture that eventually became a ministry. I began contacting grieving parents and loved hearing about their children. Less than a year later, the correspondence was so great that I began to write a newsletter, LAMENTATIONS and continued to do so for 18 years. It included us telling about our children, sharing our grief, and sharing our hopes for tomorrow. This was the ministry God had for me without me knowing it.

As we (grieving parents) found out, the Lord is all we have because grieving is such an individual process. God’s unfailing love and mercy still continues to give all of us hope and peace as we live each day. It may be a day when He has to carry us because our burdens are too great, but He is always with us and cares for us.

God has given us everything; hope, peace, joy and love. Truly, it is His mercies that keep us from being consumed by our struggles; His compassion never fails. We thank you Lord. Advent is truly a new beginning for all of us.

-Dinah Taylor

Â

Peace

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 KJV Â

Writers for the week of Peace Karen Goldman is Director of the Teacher Leader Program and Associate Professor of Education. She is the wife of Steve Goldman and mother of five daughters and one son. Dr. Goldman has a background in art education and has participated in art shows at Fountain City Art Center and Belmont University. She also published an article titled “Discovering Creativity Through Color Exploration” in 2012.

Benjamin Clayton is Resident Hall Director and husband of Brittany Clayton. He completed the Masters of Arts in Christian Studies program at UC in 2011. His hobbies include walking on stilts, being outdoors, and directing the Patriot Adventure Club.

Ken Sims is Associate Professor of Management Information Systems at UC. He lives in Williamsburg with wife, Stephanie, and their four cats.

Kara Clemenz is the Head Volleyball Coach as well as an Adjunct Psychology Instructor. She received her B.S. in Psychology from UC in 2002 and her M.S. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from UT Chattanooga in 2004. She has a cat named Addie, who was a stray found in the hood of a car on campus last November.

Steve Halstead is Assistant Professor of Human Services. Before becoming an instructor, he worked for the Department of Juvenile Justice as the substance abuse continuing care coordinator. He and his wife, Pamela, have two sons.

Barry Vann is Director of the Doctor of Education program at UC and professor of geography and higher education. He received his Ph.D. at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Dr. Vann has a wife, Amy, and two children. He loves golf and camping, has published seven books since 1998, and is first-time grandfather to Zoe Williamson.

Gina Bowlin, Department Chair of Human Services and Director of Curriculum for the School of Lifelong Learning, completed her doctorate in August of this year. She and her husband, David, have three children and lead worship at Life Church in Corbin, Kentucky.

Sunday, December 9

Philippians 4:6-7

It had been a hard day, teaching often is. Teaching in an inner city middle school you have more tough days than easy ones, yet I knew my job had purpose. The “kids” really did need me. I went by the office to say good-bye; most of the teachers had gone to a union meeting to have an assistant principal fired. I chose to stay out of the situation. As I left to go to church for mid-week Bible study and choir practice, my cell rang.

I hurried to get to church. Walking through the offices hallway, no one was there. I headed downstairs, my heart beating faster and faster.

Suddenly, I hear my name.

“Karen,” my pastor called in his slow southern drawl. “I need to tell you something and I don’t know how to do it…”

“Well, it’s always best to just say it.”

“OK…Jonathan’s been in an explosion. We don’t know how bad it is or anything else really. One of the other men is dead and everyone is wounded. He’s been taken to a hospital.”

My son, my only son! And with that thought, I remembered this verse: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. How can I not be anxious? And so began a virtually constant string of prayers—prayers for life, prayers for lung function, prayers for the paralysis to subside, prayers to know…what happened, how could he be hurt? He was supposed to be in a tank!

You know, after four years of continued prayer for health and healing (with thanksgiving), first of all for Jonathan’s life, then for day by day improvement, God is faithful when we need Him most! Jonathan’s paralysis came from a 1500 mph blast. No wonder it broke his femur and paralyzed him. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. The peace of God is sweet and wonderful. It truly does surpass our understanding.

Now I know, (really know) why we need our Lord desperately. In thinking about this season of Advent, it truly is a time of preparation.

Just as I prepared all my children through Bible study, just as I taught middle schoolers and now UC students lessons, just as I sought to lift hearts in worship through choir; Advent is life!

-Karen Goldman

Monday, December 10

1 Samuel 30:6

Have you ever found yourself with a lack of peace or in a stressful situation? Many of us go through times in our lives that take away our peace and bring us distress, but we are not alone, even a man after God’s own heart went through times of distress and no peace. In 1 Samuel 30, the Amalekites made a raid on several cities and took captive all who were in them. All of a sudden King David found himself in a distressful situation. In 1 Samuel 30:6 we see his response, “Moreover David was greatly distressed because the people spoke of stoning him, for all the people were embittered, each one because of his sons and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God” (NASB).

Sometimes I wish that I could do what David did. He didn’t go and try to fix the problem himself, he didn’t go and vent to or yell at others. Instead he went and “strengthened himself in the Lord his God.” This is exactly what we need to do when we are distressed and have no peace in our lives, we need to strengthen ourselves in the Lord our God. Alongside this passage, it is important to remember another verse of the Bible. Proverbs 16:7 says “When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him” (NASB). So this Advent season, if you have enemies, make sure your ways are pleasing to the Lord. If you have a lack of peace in your life, try strengthening yourself in the Lord your God first; before trying to sort things out on your own.

-Benjamin Clayton

Tuesday, December 11

Ephesians 2:8

Ninety years ago the United States Mint produced a silver dollar called the Peace Dollar. The reverse depicted an eagle at rest with folded wings, clutching an olive branch. The horrors of the “Great War” were vividly remembered, and it was thought that maybe the human race had learned their lesson and would not engage in that level of conflict again – that this would be the “war to end all wars”. Interestingly, I’ve read that the original design included depiction of a broken sword, but that was removed because people thought it was a sign of defeat. Lasting peace proved elusive though, less than a decade later, the world was engaged in global conflict again.

Three months ago we recognized the 11th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington. For days my Facebook feed was filled with patriotic images of remembrance posted by friends and acquaintances. The events of that day were something we never thought possible. Our ideal of peace inside our own borders was shattered. I posted as my tribute: Isaiah 2:4 – “He shall judge between the nations, And rebuke many people; They shall beat their swords into plowshares, And their spears into pruning hooks; Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, Neither shall they learn war anymore.”

Like our salvation, true and lasting peace – in our lands and hearts – is not something we find by ourselves; it is the gift of God. May the gift of peace be with you this holiday season.

-Ken Sims

Wednesday, December 12

Isaiah 26:3

The world’s view of peace is much different from God’s promise of “perfect peace.” The world defines peace as the “non-warring condition of a nation…” (Dictionary.com). It can also be described as a state in which there is a lack of turmoil. How can we have peace with so many unanswered questions about the future, especially when we find ourselves in one of life’s inevitable valleys (turmoil)? By the world’s definition we cannot.

It is only through maintaining a steadfast or unwavering heart that is focused on God that we can receive His perfect peace. How do we get there? Let us consider, for example, those who are suffering from health problems. People who live with chronic or even terminal illnesses often have unanswered questions like why? Why me? What am I doing wrong that keeps me from getting better or receiving healing? Yet, in the midst of all of their suffering we see spiritual strength in those individuals who have received God’s perfect peace. See how Paul did in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. The scripture reminds us that the turmoil the human body is experiencing is only temporary and speaks of having a peace about God’s plan over our lives (Jeremiah 29:11). When we allow ourselves to receive this gift from God, even in our weakest moments (or especially in our weakest moments), we are strongest. There is a choice that all of us must make to allow God to work in our lives and to live in His perfect peace.

-Kara Clemenz

Thursday, December 13

2 Samuel 22:36

I often reflect on the lessons the Lord has taught me throughout my life. I know we are not to question God’s wisdom but at times I find myself wondering why my prayers seem to go unanswered. A few years ago, I found myself in financial difficulty. I was concerned that I would not be able to provide my family the Christmas I felt they deserved. The Lord reminded me in a still small voice that he is my shield in times of trouble. We ended up having a great Christmas spending time together as a family.

Throughout this trial we learned to lean upon the Lord. This helped remind us of what the season is truly about and to be content in whatever state we are in. After Christmas, while preparing for a class, I pulled out a calendar that I had not used since I had left a previous job. To my amazement not one but two checks fell out that I had not cashed for the amount I needed to pay my debts.

At that moment I realized the Lord had heard my prayers the first time.

-Steve Halstead

Friday, December 14

John 14:27

I was raised by my maternal grandparents in rather humble surroundings. Through my grandparents, I was able to see and experience God’s love and presence. Nanny, my grandmother, was my angel; she died while I was traveling through a spiritual wilderness. I missed her terribly. Being an Appalachian woman, her favorite Gospel song was an old hymn entitled “Life’s Railway to Heaven.” I had never heard it played and sung anyplace outside of her presence, except for one time at Ozark Mountain Music Festival a month before she passed away. The last time I had heard the song was at her funeral. Three years after her death, I was teaching and researching Appalachia’s cultural and Christian roots in Scotland. I lived in a wee village named Dunning. One autumn day, the local minister invited me to his house for high tea. After a fine Scottish meal, we settled down in front of a fireplace in the manse’s large den. With little introduction, he presented me with a guitar. After I fumbled with it for a couple of minutes, I handed it back to him. Shorn of words, he began playing and singing “Life’s Railway to Heaven.”

As he finished the song, a tear trickled down my cheek, and I never again doubted my purpose in being there in Scotland and doing the research that God had placed in my heart. These events happened between 1999 and 2002, and since that time, their memory reminds me of God’s presence and His gifts.

-Barry Vann

Saturday, December 15

Matthew 11:28-30

Rest. That’s something that doesn’t come easily for many of us.

We find the demands of work, school, family, or even the holidays themselves weighing us down. Some of us even seem to have an inner drive to stay busy, at all costs. Many of us are swept up in the whirlwind of being too busy to breathe! Yet, in the simplicity of Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus extends the most comforting offer of rest: “Come to me all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest….You will find REST for your souls.” How many of us turn to Jesus for this rest that He promises? Often, time spent in prayer and seeking rest in His word falls to the bottom of the list instead of the top. What qualifies us to come to Jesus for this rest? Must we walk in His footsteps daily, always making the right choices? Must we spend so much time in prayer, or in the Bible, to be good enough to enter His presence? These are wonderful things, and they will certainly provide strength and happiness. But all that Jesus says that we must be is tired and heavy laden! When Jesus provides rest for our souls, peace comes that surpasses human understanding! During this busy week, if you find yourself tired and burdened with troubles, take some time out to get some rest for your soul. Simply “come.”

-Gina Bowlin

Joy

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.

Phillipians 4:4 KJV

Writers for the week of Joy Reid Davis is Associate Professor of Mathematics. He and wife Beth live in Knoxville. Dr. Davis’s main interests right now include studying Church history and the writings of the Church Fathers.

Magan Atwood is Campus Ministry Associate and Director of Appalachian Ministries at UC. She received her Masters of Arts in Religion in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary in 2011. Magan and her husband David do not yet have any children, but they are currently in the adoption process and expect to have a baby very soon.

Carolyn Reaves, who contributed a devotional as well as all the artwork for this year’s booklet, is Director of the Academic Resource Center and Adjunct faculty member. She and her husband Rev. Anthony Reaves have two adult daughters. She enjoys spending time with her four grandchildren, sewing, painting, and writing.

Kirby Clark is Associate Professor of Missions and Ministry as well as Director of Supervised Ministry. He and wife Debby, who is a retired chemistry, physics, and math teacher, have three grown children and two teenaged grandchildren. Dr. Clark enjoys genealogy, photography, and traveling. He recently took a photography class and learned how to mount his photos.

Eric Stephens, Professor of Psychology, received his Ph.D. is Experimental Psychology from the University of Kentucky. He and his wife Rebecca have three daughters. Dr. Stephens enjoys UK basketball and sport psychology.

Jay Bourne is Associate Professor of Communication Arts and presently in the Ed.D. program at UC. He and wife Beth Ann have two young children, Ethan and Ellie. He is President of the National Christian College Forensics Association and enjoys listening to all sorts of music and movies. He is also a member of the lead singing group at Grace on the Hill Church in Corbin, KY. Anita Bowman is Department Chair and Associate Professor of Health, Exercise and Sport Science. She received the Excellence in Teaching Award in 2011 and is an active member and deacon of First Baptist Church Williamsburg. According to Dr. Bowman, her house is “home to a brood of misfit animals,” including two dogs and three cats.

Sunday, December 16

Romans 6:23

LOST WAGES Diminutive old traitor, climbing high, How costly your impromptu feast will prove!

A fourfold restitution! Half for love!

Will mercy snatch what silver cannot buy?

What profits, wanton, this ungainly show?

Your wares that flood of tears and reddened eyes And dirt-smeared hair will poorly advertise.

Will kisses reap a crop you did not sow?

Half over you best Jacob’s jealous brood And shrewdly shed thereby the proffered cross.

Will clay acquired thus help contain your loss, When sated with success you hang from wood?

To bankrupt death, He death for joy endures That unemployment cruciform procures.

-Reid Davis

Monday, December 17

2 Corinthians 9:15

During the Christmas season it seems all too easy to get caught up in decking the halls, singing carols, wrapping presents, and all the many other fun holiday traditions. It seems increasingly harder to stop and take a few moments to remember our Savior and Lord who is the very reason for this season, much less spend time thanking Him for the many gifts He gives us each day.

Throughout Scripture we are instructed to have a thankful heart.

Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” I Thessalonians 5:18 says, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” These verses instruct us to come to God in thanksgiving in all circumstances and make it clear that this is God’s will for us. We are also taught much about joy in the Word of God. We are told that joy is a fruit of the Spirit along with love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22). There is a link between thankfulness and joy that is not incidental.

When we take the time to thank our Heavenly Father for his many indescribable gifts we are filled with joy. Even in the darkest of moments if we turn to the Father and thank Him for our blessings it begins to shine some joyous light on our sorrows.

This joy that God gives is not like the happiness of this world. Happiness is based upon circumstances, surrounding, people, and emotions. Joy is based on Christ. No matter what the circumstances, surrounding, people, or emotions may be we have a joy that if found in Christ that this world cannot touch. The fact that Christ came to live among us and take our sin and shame upon Himself on the cross in order to restore us to a right relationship with God the Father, instills in us a joy that cannot be shaken.

Jesus Christ is our joy.

In the midst of this busy holiday season do not simply stop and pause for a moment to thank God for all He has done for you. Rise to the challenge to devote the whole advent season to thank God for his many indescribable gifts and praise Him for the joy you will receive.

-Magan Atwood

Tuesday, December 18

Ecclesiastes 5:19

Growing up in a rural section of southeastern Kentucky known as Jellico Creek, I learned very early in life what one had to do in order to have something to eat. God blessed my parents to have good land, good work ethics and a spirit of being satisfied with what was given to them by God above. I especially didn’t like weeding strawberry beds in the spring but I really enjoyed the jam that was made from the freshly picked fruit. Finding berries was like finding a treasure in the green, vibrant plants that seemed to thrive best in land that seemed too rocky or sandy for anything else.

God gives us the gift of remembrance and what a great gift it is!

Remembering a special quilt my grandmother made, remembering the cake a neighbor brought when news had traveled that my mother had cancer, or even just getting a letter from someone I don’t see often brings great joy. It isn’t the possession of earthly riches or the accomplishment of many things that make a great life, but enjoying what you have and learning to share with others. Having enough to be filled until you are no longer physically hungry is not enough, but giving to others that may not have enough to eat can make you feel satisfied and joyful in ways only God can know.

-Carolyn Reaves

Wednesday, December 19

Hebrews 12:1-3

What do you think of when you hear the word “joy”? Perhaps you think of a song: “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart!” or “This joy that I have, the world didn’t give it to me – the world didn’t give it and the world can’t take it away.” Because of the season, perhaps you thought of “Joy to the world! The Lord is come.”

J.T. Seamands, the late Methodist missionary and seminary professor, described joy as “love getting happy.” (Daybreak, n.p., 1993) It is great pleasure of delight that comes from God, and doesn’t depend on our outward circumstances. We can experience joy in the midst of plenty or in its absence. Joy is one of the gifts of the Spirit, listed right after love in Gal. 5:22 – perhaps indicating how important it is.

When we think of joy we don’t think of cruel, agonizing death.

Yet, Jesus did. The writer of Hebrews tells us that as Jesus faced the prospect of death on the cross – and the agony and the shame that accompanied that death – He saw beyond the cross the joy that awaited Him because of His obedience to the Father’s plan for our salvation. Instead of the jeers hurled at Jesus as He hung on the cross bearing your sins and mine, Jesus heard heaven’s joyful melody ringing out because He obediently had run the race marked out for Him by the Father.

This Christmas, follow Christ’s example and experience His joy – true joy – regardless of your circumstances in life.

-Kirby Clark

Thursday, December 20

John 17:13

Several translations of John 17:13 introduce the term happiness.

The pursuit of happiness is a common goal of many people today.

Countless people have a desire to be happier. Peruse any self-help section of a bookstore and an abundance of authors will tell you the “secret” path to happiness. The writers detail the 12 habits of happy people or the 10 steps to ultimate happiness-all in under 2 minutes per day!

Curiously, few people have delved into what happiness researchers have discovered. Do you want to be happier this Christmas season and throughout the year? In general, researchers have found that happiness is related to being optimistic, having close friendships or a satisfying marriage, sleeping well, exercise (happy people tend to exercise), and having a meaningful religious faith. Therefore, if you want to be happier, focus on the positive aspects of life. Count your blessings! Focus on strengthening the bonds with current friends or establishing new friendships. If you have a spouse, go on a date together. Commit to getting a good night’s sleep; sleep in when you can. Make exercise a part of your routine. Exercise can be fun too! Remember playing tag or hide-and-seek is exercise.

Finally, deepen your faith. Whether that means praying more, reading the Bible more, or developing a more selfless attitude, do something to draw closer to God. Happy Christmas!

-Eric Stephens

Friday, December 21

1 Peter 4:13

“but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.” (New American Standard Bible) As many of us anticipate the celebration of the birth of our Savior, I am reminded then and now many others may not feel like rejoicing. Then, Jesus was born in the midst of a tense political and cultural climate in circumstances that would be trying for any young couple. Today, many people have a similar outlook.

When our first son, Ethan, was born, I could not explain to others my joy as a first time father. Soon after, we found out that Ethan has Down Syndrome. At the time, I was an emotional wreck. I was angry, disappointed, complaining to God about my son’s diagnosis. Today, I see a growing boy with an ever present smile, many friends, and a love for life I could only hope to emulate.

What I once viewed as a suffering, I now see as a joy of my life.

As we near the birth of Jesus we remember that no matter how good or bad the past year has been in our lives, we walk by faith.

We should rejoice, for Christ is with us through all of our experiences. Finally, if we feel unwilling to rejoice, start with praying that we would be made willing. No matter the fightings and fears we may have within and without, the King is coming to deliver us.

Keep on rejoicing!

Jay Bourne

Saturday, December 22

Revelation 19:7

Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Let us rejoice and be glad that we are so graciously loved by the Lord. He has provided salvation, power, and glory to make us pure because He has judged, conquered, and brought all his people to himself. Rejoice because as unworthy lambs we have been made worthy. What unending comfort can be found in His love and commitment to us? No matter how short we fall and no matter what wrongs we do, there is a permanent and uninterrupted union with our Redeemer.

Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Let us rejoice and be glad that His love is not confined to this earth but beyond. We are so beloved by Him that our ending is beautiful with the promise of everlasting life.

Each day praise Him for what we have and what is yet to come.

Praise Him when life is good, as well as through the struggles of life for these earthly highs and lows will pass away. Rejoice in the fact that in heaven, there will be no more sorrow and no more pain. What comfort? What a wonderful and peaceful thought?

Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Let us rejoice in this time of Advent as we celebrate the First Coming, the birth of Jesus Christ. And, let us likewise celebrate the HOPE, the PEACE, the JOY, and the LOVE as we prepare for the Second Coming. Hallelujah!

Hallelujah!

-Anita Bowman

Â

Love

That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:17 Â

Writers for the week of Love Bruce Hicks is Associate Professor of Political Science and the husband of Dr. Gina Herring, Professor of English. Dr. Hicks completed his B.A. at Furman University and received his Ph.D. from Emory University.

Jennifer Simpson is Assistant Professor of Education. She and her husband, Bill, were both undergraduate students at UC and have one son, Jack, who will turn five in December. She is honored to be back at the University and says she is “thankful to teach among such wonderful colleagues.”

Kathy Fish is Professor of English and Co-Director of Freshman Orientation. She and her husband, Tom, have two grown daughters and one new granddaughter, Julie Kathryn, born in July of this year. Ms. Fish enjoys reading, eating out, particularly sushi and Indian cuisines, and watching UK basketball.

Susan Weaver is Director of Teaching, Learning, and Assessment/QEP at UC. She and her husband, Doug, have a daughter and son and one grandson. Dr. Weaver enjoys golf and reading. She is also Co-Director of the ACA Summer Teaching Institute.

Keith Goforth is Associate Professor of Missions and Ministry. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee. He and his wife, Jen, have one daughter, Hannah. Dr. Goforth enjoys golf, exercise, and reading.

Jan Wren is Library Director at UC. She and her husband, Jim, have been married 27 years and have three children. Ms. Wren’s interests include cooking, travel, and hosting a home Bible study for UC students.

Dennis Trickett is Chair of the Psychology Department and Director of the MAPC program. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Cumberland College and went on to study at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Dr. Trickett and wife, Paula, have three children.

Diane Jamison is Assistant Professor of Mathematics. She has two children who are both alumni of UC and one granddaughter. During the summer of 2012, Ms. Jamison participated in a prayer journey to Ireland and helped in the coordination of the Global Day of Prayer in Cork, Ireland. In addition, she helped coordinate the Tri-County Day of Prayer on UC’s campus in Spring 2012.

Sharlene Dzugan is Professor of Chemistry. She holds a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from Florida State University. Her husband, Tom, is also a professor at Cumberlands, and they have three children.

Sunday, December 23

Deuteronomy 4:37

“And because he loved your ancestors, he chose their descendants after them. He brought you out of Egypt with his own presence, by his great power” (NRSV).

These words were spoken by Moses to his people, the Israelites.

On this occasion, they were approaching Canaan, the land promised to them by God. The Israelites, with God’s divine intervention, had escaped bondage in Egypt. They were about to return to the land their forefathers had once occupied.

God’s love for Israel was real. As Moses reminded his people, they did not arrive at this happy juncture on their own. God delivered them from servitude in Egypt, Moses emphasized, by “his own presence” and through “his great power.” These were not the actions of an aloof or distant God. Of course, the Hebrew Scriptures are replete with other examples of God’s love for the Israelites. After the Israelites fled Egypt, in the years they spent in the wilderness, the bond between God and the Israelites was tested. Like a father with rebellious children, God was occasionally disappointed, even angered, when they failed to follow His directions or meet His expectations. But He never abandoned them.

We can be thankful that God chose the Israelites with a larger purpose in mind. When God spoke to Abraham, from whom Moses descended, He declared to Abraham that he and his descendants were to be a “great nation” through which “all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (Genesis 12: 2-3). We see the fulfillment of that blessing, many years later, with the birth of Jesus. At that point, God’s love for all mankind was demonstrated clearly, dramatically, miraculously.

-Bruce Hicks

Monday, December 24

Romans 5:15

“But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many!” (Romans 5:15) The trespass and the gift of salvation are not parallel. Imagine a pebble dropped into a pond, and the ripples go all the way to the edge. Now, a boulder is dropped in the same pond. Yes, the ripples spread across the pond, but the water overflows out of the pond and soaks everything. We have all been impacted by the ripple effects of sin in this world; however the love of God, sent through his precious gift, is so much more potent. We have been drenched in the wonderful love of Jesus Christ, the ultimate gift we celebrate this Christmas season.

May you and your family rejoice in the unparalleled gift of love this season.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we are eternally grateful for the gift that you have given us, your son, our Savior. Thank you for your grace, forgiveness, and love. We ask that you guide and direct us so that our lives may be lights to those in darkness. In Jesus name, Amen.

-Jennifer Simpson

Tuesday, December 25

James 1:17

The best Christmas of my childhood was the one when I thought I wouldn’t get any presents.

Early in my all-important senior year of high school, because of my grandmother’s illness, my mother would work all day, check on me, then spend all evening at the hospital. Rather than recognizing the gift that my mother was struggling to give both her mother and me by meeting two sets of obligations, I felt ignored and lonely. I was sure I would be equally forgotten at Christmas. I was “tempted” by my “own desire,” as James 1:14 puts it, to expect the worst. I was “deceived,” a word that appears in verse 16, into thinking I had been forgotten.

In fact, I received two gifts when Christmas came even though neither was wrapped. One was a suitcase, a nice gift for a girl going off to college the next year. Imagine my surprise when I opened it to find it stuffed full of the great clothes I had been admiring in stores! The second gift was a purse, again filled with trinkets, jewelry, makeup, and a wallet with money.

Obviously my mother had remembered me, but she had remembered God, too, and not only in trying to take care of a daughter and a mother. Like Christians everywhere, she was determined to celebrate the season of giving despite her overwhelming schedule; she wanted to echo in human form the extraordinary gift of love that God gives us daily.

As we open our gifts today and enjoy both giving and receiving, we are recognizing Jesus Christ as the greatest gift of all.

-Kathy Fish

Wednesday, December 26

Romans 8:37-39

In Romans Chapter 8:37-39, Paul talks about the nature of love of Christ as unity of feeling and being. Love of Christ becomes an inseparable part of our essence; it is a love that is reflective rather than possessive.

One of the many unique and wonderful elements of University of the Cumberlands is the range of organizational opportunities that provide outreach to reflect this love. For example, Appalachian Ministries’ programs provide outreach for many children in the community. UC students who volunteer for several hours every week provide more than snacks, recreation, tutoring conversation, and mentoring; they provide a sense of connection for the children. In this they reflect that they are more than the sum of the tenets of their faith. Likewise, UC’s missions programs provide students with opportunities to model this love around the globe.

This verse is especially appropriate in this post-Christmas time. Research shows that suicide rates go up after holidays because the good cheer and anticipation before Christmas contrasts with the real or relative loneliness and isolation that many people feel after the holidays. There is an interesting challenge implied in this. According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Need, others cannot reach their full potential unless basic needs of food, shelter, and belonging are met to give self-esteem. Those filled with love for Christ know that the unity of His love and one’s being makes it natural to reflect Christ’s teachings through continued good works and remembrances all year long.

-Susan Weaver

Thursday, December 27

Galatians 2:20

“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

Galatians 2:20 Christmas in Russia It was snowing so heavy you could barely see the plane on the Russian runway, and we wondered how planes could traverse the ice that appeared to be everywhere. The loudspeaker crackled and in broken English we learned boarding was to begin in a few minutes. My wife and I were both anxiously awaiting the first meeting with the nine-month old infant girl who didn’t know we were coming. Soon, what lights we could see of Moscow were behind us and we were off to Volgograd, Russia.

We barely slept that night knowing that the child we had prayed for was just a short drive away. The next morning, we walked into the orphanage’s visitation room and the baby nurse placed the most beautiful baby girl in our arms. At that moment we realized God had a purpose for us that was far greater than what we could devise, imagine or fathom.

One year later, it is as if Hannah has always been part of our family. I have learned how to change “stinky” diapers in the dark (no easy task), interpret baby talk and color coordinate girls clothing.

But the greatest lesson has been answering the call to care for the least of these and understanding the joy of walking by faith.

At the end of this Christmas season, I encourage you to reflect on the past year and think about the year ahead. What step of faith will God require of you? Are you willing? He is faithful!

-Keith Goforth

Friday, December 28

Ephesians 2:4-5

We are alive in Christ because God loved us and showed mercy when we were sinful.

In an episode of Seinfeld, Frank Costanza resurrects Festivus, the holiday he invented because he did not like the commercial and religious aspects of Christmas. One of Frank’s main traditions of Festivus is the Airing of the Grievances where each person tells their family members how they have disappointed them during the past year.

This episode reminds me that it is easy to dwell on the shortcomings of our loved ones and even our own sinful nature.

Paul reminds us in Ephesians 2:4-5 that we have a loving God who is merciful and gives us a new life in Christ. May we celebrate God’s love and His gift of Christ by showing grace and mercy to all.

-Jan Wren

Saturday, December 29

1 John 4:9-11

In 1906 O. Henry published the now well-known story “Gift of the Magi”. In the story a young couple, deeply in love but very poor, yearned to give each other one special Christmas gift. Limited by their poverty, they gave of themselves: She selling her hair to purchase a platinum chain for her husband’s heirloom pocket watch; he selling his watch to purchase a set of expensive combs for her long, luxurious hair. The story illustrates the unselfish, extravagant love that is (or at least should be) at the heart of the Christmas season. While this could be a story that reinforces our culture’s obsessive need to find the “perfect” gift for all of the people on our list, I think the true moral of the story is the love demonstrated to each other rather than what they bought.

John “gets it” in the passage for today. God loved us so much he gave the most precious gift of all – His son. In response to that gift we are not required to pay back a debt, we are not to feel a burden of guilt that we have been given what we do not deserve, or merely treasure the gift by keeping it to ourselves or even announce to our world, “Look what I got”! What does the greatest gift-giver expect of us? Love each other with that same degree of selflessness. Now that is a gift that keeps on giving!

-Dennis Trickett

Sunday, December 30

John 3:16

Before I left for my prayer journey to Ireland this past summer, a friend was praying for my trip. As she was praying for me, she saw purple flowers – as if God were handing me violets. Neither of us knew the exact meaning of what she saw at that moment.

However, as I was taking an early train from Bangkor to Dublin, a seventy-year old lady was on a bus headed to the same destination. ‘Accidentally’ disembarking at the wrong station, she boarded my train to complete her journey. Although the train was fairly empty, she asked if she could sit with me. Upon learning that she was in Ireland for health reasons, I asked if she would like me to pray for her. Her name was Violet.

God so loved this precious child of His that He ordered our steps to meet. Violet worked with disabled children in Kenya, and I worked with students in America. Yet by my decision to take an earlier train and by her error in disembarking, God ordained a divine connection.

Nothing illustrates the amazing love of God more than His willingness to give His only Son to bear our sins that we might become His children. Yet this summer I was once again amazed at God’s love for us in the divine connection made between a teacher at the University of Cumberlands and a seventy – year old lady from Kenya.

-Diane Jamison

Monday, December 31

Isaiah 1:18

The song “White Christmas” by Irving Berlin is one of the most famous and popular Christmas songs. It is also one that you have probably never sung in a church service. It evokes nostalgic memories and feelings of the way the Christmas holiday should be to a secular world: sparkling, exciting and happy. Though it may seem heresy, I believe that God sent Jesus to this world to give us all a White Christmas, just not the kind any of us can ever know without Him. In Isaiah 1:18, God says to Israel, “Come now, let us settle the matter, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.” Jesus came to redeem us and to make us pure and holy. He came so that we can be “made as white as snow” this Christmas. He wants to have a relationship with us and have us share in His joy. He wants to give us life and hope and joy and peace. And, if you can believe it, God the Father is also “dreaming of a White Christmas” for all of us.

-Sharlene Dzugan

Acknowledgments I would like to firstly thank all the University of the Cumberlands faculty and staff who contributed to this year’s booklet as well as the many others who offered to submit devotionals if needed. We ended up having many more contributors than we realized, so we were able to extend this year’s booklet through December 31st.

These individuals’ willingness to write made this booklet possible, and I hope that their words are a blessing to readers.

I would also like to thank Carolyn Reaves for volunteering her time and artistic talent to create the cover art as well as the art for the theme pages of each week.

Furthermore, I would like to thank Dr. Bob Dunston, Chair of the Department of Missions and Ministry. I could not have completed this booklet without his help and guidance. In addition, many thanks to Mrs. Sue Wake for editing this booklet. Many thanks also must go to Media Relations and to the Campus Supply Center for printing and distributing the Advent 2012 booklet.

Blessings!

-Kate McKnight, editor

And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy–the Son of God. Luke 1:35

The University of the Cumberlands Department of Missions and Ministry wishes you a very blessed Christmas season.

Department of Missions and Ministry University of the Cumberlands 7989 College Station Drive Williamsburg, KY 40769 (606) 539-4156