Advent Devotional - Day 27: by Russ Hauck

December 25, 2009

READING: Luke 2:1-14

“He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2: 5-7

This is the familiar story of the birth of Jesus in a manger in Bethlehem, because there was no room for them in the inn. Jesus was wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. And an angel announced the birth to shepherds keeping watch over their flock by night with these words.

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom he is pleased!"

There is so much that is remarkable about this passage in Luke that we could spend many hours in study and discussion. But, Advent is not the time for deep study. It’s more a time for reflection and remembrance, and quiet preparation – a time for us to lose ourselves in the role of those shepherds who were visited first by the angel and then by a heavenly host singing “Glory to God in the highest.” If we hear these words from Luke and close our eyes, we can almost imagine being there with those shepherds. And, why not, for God’s spirit lives within us. We are those shepherds and they are us; we are in their house and lineage.

At each worship service throughout the year, we sing the Gloria: “Glory to God in the highest and peace to God’s people on earth,” reminding us of this announcement to the shepherds. But especially during Advent, we are reminded of that ancient night of announcement. We’re looking for that sign and we want to recapture that sense of wonder that we felt as a child, or that the shepherds felt when they were visited by the heavenly host. Like a child, we know what’s coming, but we’re waiting to be surprised, nonetheless. And, like those shepherds, we’re looking for a sign and, we may not know it consciously, but we’re ready to respond. We are prepared to receive Him into our lives and to respond to God’s gift.

Let us pray: Most gracious and loving God, we come to you during this Advent season with many problems that weigh heavenly on our hearts. Help us to set those things aside, even as we tend to our flocks. Open our hearts and our minds, our hands and our arms, so that we might see you in our manger and welcome you with worship and praise. Glory to God in the highest. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 26: by Joe Anderson

December 24, 2009

READING: Matthew 1:23

“Look the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
And they shall name him Emmanuel,”
Which means, “God is with us”.
Matthew 1: 23

The Virgin Birth. One of the great side tracks of all times. In point of fact, it doesn’t matter. The books of Mark and John blow right past it. They pick up where John the Baptist baptizes Jesus as a full grown man. Matthew mentions it in brief. And only Luke treats it in any depth. So let’s not quibble over Mary’s virginity. Instead, lets’ focus on her faith. Consistent with contemporary Jewish culture, she was most likely new to puberty and here she was, talking with a strange creature who wanted to know if, oh by the way, she’d like to become the mother of God. Odd offer, especially since God already existed. “No, no, no...” says the angel. “I mean the mother of the son of God.” Also a strange offer, since Jews were monotheists. “It’s ok,” says the angel. It’s actually a trinity thing. So God is still one … just has three parts.” And Mary, who was actually a pretty sharp cookie, paused to ponder --- then said “do with me what you will.” There may have been harp music in the background. Most likely there wasn’t. Mary made the deal, and thereby sealed her future.

Admittedly, I took a few liberties there. But it illustrates that the heroes in the Bible all had a grand leap of faith moment, where they took a step that defied logic and safety. As we prep for the birth of our savior, let’s take a moment to ponder the adolescent whose courage changed the course of history. Do we have the courage to also utter, “do with me what you will”? That’s pretty heady stuff.

Heavenly Father,
Let us have the courage to say, “Do with me what you will” and then give us the ears to hear you and the courage to act. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 25: by Joe Anderson

December 23, 2009

READING: Hebrews 1:1-6

For to which of the angels did God ever say,
“You are my son; today I have become your Father”?
Or again,
“I will be his Father, and he will be my Son”?
And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world he says,
“Let all God’s angels worship him.”
Hebrews 1: 5-6

One of the more important things we say as children is “My dad can whup your dad any day of the week.” Believing that childish little taunt let’s me sleep at night, sure in the knowledge that my dad can save me from all the harms that hide in my closet, and under my bed.

It turns out that nations need the same kind of reassurance. And so do congregations. Hebrews tells me that my Jesus can whup your gods any day of the week. He’s also bigger and stronger and wiser than the priests, scribes and Pharisees. Same thing goes for princes, kings and potentates. Heck, he’s even better than Moses and Elijah, and you know how they whupped up on everybody. To top it all off, Jesus can even whup a whole company of arch-angels with one hand tied behind his back.

Let the child in you rest easy this Advent season, in the secure knowledge that your Savior is awake.

My Lord and Savior, let us all rest easy in the knowledge that you are our Savior, King and the one true God. There are no others but YOU. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 24: by Chuck & Barb Johnson

December 22, 2009

READING: Luke 2:25-32

“Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace,
According to your word;
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
Which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
A light for revelation to the Gentiles
And for glory to your people Israel.
Luke 2: 29-32

In Luke 2:25-32, God’s promise to Simeon was fulfilled when he was allowed to see Christ, the light of the world.

According to Sir Isaac Newton, “the source of a spectrum is white light. The rainbow gives off seven shades of color. Since the Scriptures often refer to God as “light”, perhaps the colors of the rainbow stem from the pure and radiant white light of our creator”.

On the day we began our life together in Grand Forks, North Dakota, we saw a double rainbow. We saw the same phenomenon again on our 10th and 20th, and within days of our 30th and 40th anniversaries. God had followed us from North Dakota to Florida. To us the rainbow has acted as a promise, not only to preserve the world from too much rain, but the promise that God will always be the nucleus of our life together. For 42 years we have enjoyed a Christ-centered marriage, secure in the fact that He does fulfill His promises-the promises of grace, salvation, and redemption.

Lord, your best promise of all is that you offer us salvation and eternal life. Help us to remember to seek you and your promises, Lord. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 23: by Julie Parker

December 21, 2009

READING: Isaiah 9:2-7

“For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 9: 6

Like these verses in Isaiah, A new day is coming. Just as there was gloom and darkness before, God provided a great light and caused their nation to grow, making the people happy. We too live in spiritual darkness without the love of Jesus.

God gave his people the greatest gift to ever be given, his only Son. Jesus came to earth just as each of us; a baby. To grow and learn through childhood as all children do. He lived a normal life, so that he could experience and know our pain, joys and frustration. Then he took all our sin into his body and died for us, so that we could have everlasting life.

No greater gift could be given. Thanks be to God.
Merry Christmas.

Father in Heaven, You gave us the greatest gift of all, your Son, Jesus Christ. He has lived among us and died for our sins. Don’t ever let us forget this most precious gift .

Advent Devotional - Day 22: by Barbara Vincent

December 20, 2009

READING: Luke 1:46-55

And Mary said:

"My soul glorifies the Lord
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
Luke 1: 46-49

Mary’s Song:
The “Magnificat” was Mary’s way to magnify Jesus Christ as Lord even before He was born. She wanted to sing His praises and glorify His name. She rejoiced in God with her spirit and exalted God with her soul. She worshipped Him in spirit and truth. She professed herself to be lowly and yet she was blessed as no other woman. Her heart was filled with this song; her life was filled with music.

Our soul relates emotionally and personally with other people. It is with our spirit that we relate to God, that we know who He is, what He wants from us and what He has given and done for us. Each of us has a song of praise to sing. After you read these stanzas, let Mary’s song fill your heart. Add your own verses if you would like because her song seems to have no ending. It appears to be waiting for us to continue the verses, telling our own story of adoration and gratitude.

Dearest Jesus,
May we continue to sing your praises and create our own verses full of adoration and gratitude for what you have given us. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 21: by Mary Knurek

December 19, 2009

READING: Psalm 98:4-9

Let the sea roar, and all that fills it;
The world and those who live in it.
Let the floods clap their hands;
Let the hills sing together for joy
At the presence of the Lord, for he is coming
To judge the earth.
Psalm 98: 7-9

The Bible says, “that the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, and peace.” So why do we sometimes have a hard time being joyful? Does your joy depend on the circumstances your in, does your happiness and peace depend on you getting your way? If some one is moving your cheese, changing things you don’t agree with, how do you handle it?

As Christians, our joy should never be dictated by the circumstance that we are going through, because joy comes from the Lord. He is our constant. He has the answers before we know the questions.

We have many opportunities during Advent to reach out to others and share the joy of the season with people we encounter. How we treat others speaks volumes. So, when that clerk isn’t helpful, when the holiday traffic is horrific, and when things aren’t going your way, pause… and remember to “shout joyfully to the Lord”.

Take the time to be a blessing to someone this Advent season. Be joyful in your thoughts, words and deeds. Show them you are a Christian by your love, have a servants heart, take the time to say thank you. It might be exactly what the person you are encountering needs.

Blessed Savior, as the sea roars and the hills sing, let us also sing joyfully about the miracle of your birth. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 20: by Cindy McClellan

December 18, 2009

READING: Luke 1:39-45

Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.”
Luke 1: 42

What an exciting moment. Elizabeth greeted Mary with honor and celebration. Her unborn baby , John the Baptist, leaped for joy and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Anticipating things to come, scripture to be fulfilled, both the unborn and the living shared an out of this world experience.

During this advent season, let our hearts too leap with joy at the thought of the baby in Bethlehem’s manger. Let us feel the elation of Elizabeth and John and rejoice in the birth of Mary’s baby, the Messiah.

Christmas reminds us that nothing is impossible with God. Through Christ’s miraculous conception and birth, God defies the laws of nature and implements His own plan for our world. He has given us His son – Our Savior, our brother, our friend.

Let’s celebrate ! Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 19: by Anita Rockett

December 17, 2009

READING: Jeremiah 31:31-34

The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah. It will not be like the covenant that I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt..”
Jeremiah 31: 31-32a
Show Me

I was born in St. Louis, Missouri, "the show me state." I don't know about you, but I sure am glad that I am a child of the New Testament. I don't have to be told to wait until the time that God will fulfill his promises. No, I live in a time where the promises told of in this text in Jeremiah have come true. God did, indeed show me His love for me and all mankind in the sending of his Son to come to earth and take our yoke of sin upon Himself so that I might have my sins "remembered no more."

The amazing promise that the Christ child represents to us is that of a world of humanity living in the glorious promise of rebirth...a rebirth that comes daily knowing that our sin is forgiven...period. That's what God tells us here in Jeremiah. What joy there is in knowing forgiveness.

But beyond that, God tells us that the rebirth in forgiveness means that He will "remember our sins no more." They're gone! Washed away! Amazing grace.

Heavenly Father,
This advent, as we look forward to the celebration of Christ's birth, let the baby Jesus remind us of the simple grace in which God offers us eternal forgiveness and eternal life. We only need to come to His manager, know Him and take the gift. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 18: by Kay St. Pierre

December 17, 2009

READING: Isaiah 40:8-11

“He tends his flock like a shepherd:
He gathers the lambs in his arms
And carries them close to his heart;
He gently leads those that have young.
Isaiah 40:11

Isaiah - What a guy !! Generally considered to be the greatest prophet, Isaiah speaks more about the Messiah than does any other Old Testament prophet. He is also quoted at least fifty times in the New Testament. Following his words of judgment, chapter 40 of the Book of Isaiah begins the second half of his wonderful writings with words of comfort, forgiveness and hope. Verses 8 - 11 show us that God's Word is constant. Only in God's eternal Word will we find lasting solutions to our problems and needs. God is often pictured as a shepherd - powerful, yet careful and gentle. Here we see the Shepherd caring for the most defenseless members of His society: children and those caring for them. Let's worship our Personal Shepherd this Advent, as Isaiah suggests in verse 9:
"with a shout, lift up your voice, do not be afraid;
Here is your God !"

Welcome, Baby Jesus !

Lord, keep us ever mindful that we are the sheep and you are our Shepherd, there to guide and protect us if only we ask.
Amen.

ADvent Devotional - Day 17: by Ryan Traher

December 15, 2009
READING: John 1:19-28

This is the testimony given by John when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” He confessed and did not deny it, but confessed, “I am not the Messiah.” And they asked him. “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” ….. John answered them, “I baptize with water. Among you stands one whom you do not know, the one who is coming after me…
John 1: 19-21, 26

Every day seems like a battle; a battle raging between the faithful and the doubtful. The faithful sit down once a week for an energy shot and are then sent out into the world for six days before returning for rejuvenation. However, during time out of church, the faithful are constantly challenged by the doubtful. Just as John the Baptist was questioned by the Levites, the faith driven today are questioned by the skeptical. “Who are you?” A typical inquisition that Christians are subject to. The second someone does something out of the social norm with any relation to Christ, they’ll turn the corner and a scoffer is waiting, ready to pounce the question, “Who do you think you are?”
So how is one to answer such a question? It is rarely in such a blunt form, but many of the questions revolve around misconstrued ideas about Christianity and what it represents, or whom the Christian represents themselves. People do not enjoy feeling inferior or demeaned, so how is one to proclaim Jesus by being his hands and feet without treading on other people’s toes? Well it is inevitable that eventually someone will be offended by their good intentions. John the Baptist was simply doing what he believed was right and explained that it wasn’t his choice, but that he represented someone much more important. This seems to be the best strategy in explaining where one is coming from when questioned about their faith. “I am merely a messenger of the Lord. I want nothing more than to make the world a better place in preparation for someone who is far more capable than I to change the face of humanity.”

Lord Jesus, continue to guide me and give me the strength to be your messenger so the world will know you as I do. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 16: by Frank Raike

December 14, 2009

READING: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not despise the works of prophets, but test everything; hold fast to what is good; abstain from every form of evil.”
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-22

I recently attended the Michael Jackson Movie, This Is It. I went to the film, not only because my wife asked me to go with her, but also out of sense of closure and finale.

Many years ago, I had met Michael and had a brief opportunity to work one of his concert tours, as a lighting operator. In retrospect, I recall that he didn’t have the ego or the arrogance that many self-absorbed rock stars think they are entitled too. He was nice and polite to everyone around him, no matter what your contribution was.

My brief moment around Michael Jackson was nothing particularly special. The concert moved from city to city, a couple times a week. However, Michael’s music came and evolved at a time when music videos were just becoming a fad and MTV started to define a generation. It was my generation.

Michael Jackson’s death earlier this year, seems to me that part of my generation has come to an end. It’s done; this is it.

From the movie, I find meaning in Thessalonians 5, in the presentation of Michael’s music, art, and performance. The film, This Is It, incorporates film footage that was taken during rehearsals from March through June at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. The film captures the pure creativity of Michael. The film is constantly filled with musicians, choreographers, and crew, but the focus is forever on Michael Jackson. Watching him prepare for the concerts, one truly understands what it takes to be the best in music performance. To make the best at what God gave him.

What I brought a way from this film the most, is an appreciation of Michael’s disposition as a gentle, sweet soul, who was also a perfectionist. He was joyful and genuinely grateful to those around him. On the concert stage, he was sanctified and blessed in music, singing of caring for the world and loving his fellow man. His life might have ended, but his spirit lives on.

Jesus Christ, help us to remember to use our gifts that you have given us to the fullest, so we may shine for Christ wherever we go. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 15: by Matthew Swope

December 13, 2009

READING: Isaiah 40:1-5

Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God.
Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her
that she has served her term,
that her penalty is paid, that she has received from
the Lord’s hand double fro all her sins.
Isaiah 40: 1-2

As a singer who spends time every year performing George Frideric Handel’s beloved Messiah, these words of scripture are some of the most familiar to me. In his setting of the scripture, Handel repeats the phrase “Comfort ye, my people” several times. Repeated passages force the performer to find different levels of meaning, intent, and nuance within the seemingly simple words.

Each year when we read the accounts of Jesus’ birth, we too are forced to see the prophecies and the coming of Christ in new ways. The central idea of comfort within today’s reading can be a difficult one for us as disciples. Whether consoling a grieving friend or smiling at a disgruntled co-worker, we are beacons of comfort in this world. Whether sharing our faith in an intimate spiritual discussion or in our daily acts, we are reminders of God’s love.

While God charges us to comfort His people, He also challenges us to “prepare the way of the Lord.” Indeed, there is nothing simple or easy about this mission. In striving toward His call and aspiring to Christ’s example, God calls us outside of our own comfort zones. Complacency and contentedness are not options. We are to reach out to our fellow man in word and in deed. During this time of Advent, let us challenge ourselves and each other to leave the safety our comfort zones. By committing to even one random act of kindness each day, we can effect positive change in the world around us. We will never know the full impact of these comforting actions; however, we can trust that if we keep Christ at the core, then we will have been at least a small part in preparing a “highway for our God.”

Lord Jesus, help us to prepare for your coming, even when it takes us out of our comfort zone. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 14: by Kenny Champagne

December 12, 2009

READING: John 10:14-15

“ I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—-- just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—- and I lay down my life for the sheep.”
John 10: 14-15

The image of the Shepherd is present from the beginning of Jesus’ life. It is Shepherd’s watching their flock at night who spot the star that leads them to the manager that Jesus is born in. I find great imagery in the fact that Shepherds don’t leave their flock to go find baby Jesus but bring them along to witness this miracle. In fact, I think it speaks to the heart of ministry. Normal every day people leading their flock to Jesus. Is this not what we are supposed to do as Christians? So at first we have ordinary people bringing a flock to Jesus, but quickly the tides turn as Jesus becomes the Shepherd and we become his flock. In John 10 Jesus speaks of being the good Shepherd. He does not leave his flock; in fact the good Shepard will risk his life for the flock. And of course Jesus, not only risks his life for us, he gives his life for us, so that we may have life through him.

Jesus is truly the good Shepherd, and who wouldn’t want to be a part of his flock; the part of a flock who’s Shepherd will die for you. So this time of year we recognize the birth of this good Shepherd and we remember the Shepherds who visited this baby on his birth. But we shouldn’t just remember and recognize this; we should share this with those around us. Just like those first Shepherds who brought their flock to Jesus, we too can bring people to Jesus. We can do this because we have the best news around; we have the good Shepherd…the Best Shepherd who will and has died for us so that we will have life! Merry Christmas and God Bless!

Almighty Father, keep us ever mindful of what you have done for us, in bringing the Good Shepherd to die for us. Show us how to be shepherds too who bring people to our flock. We are so blessed by you. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 13: Becky Rotroff

December 11, 2009

READING: Psalm 24:7-10

“Lift up your heads, O you gates;
Lift them up, you ancient doors,
That the King of glory may come in.
Who is he, this King of glory?
The Lord Almighty—-
He is the King of glory.”

Psalm 24:9-10

As we approach the celebration of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, I find Advent a time to reflect on everything I have to be thankful for in this life. Sure, life is challenging at times, however, it is my faith in the Lord that keeps me going and I hope the same is true for you.

The Message version of Psalms 24:7 shouts out, “Wake up, you sleepyhead”. Does this take you back to when you were a child and your mother would stand at your door or by your bed, possibly even shaking you, saying these words? Was it because something wonderful was going to happen that day and you needed to get ready?

David is proclaiming to the people to “Wake Up”, to “Lift up your heads” because something wonderful is about to happen to them and he wants them ready. The Lord is coming! He is entering their gates.

Christ our Savior,
This season I pray that I will wake up each morning with Your love in my heart and be ready to walk with You all day. I pray that You will enter the gates of my life so we can all rejoice. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 12: by Margene Wampole

December 10, 2009

READING: Matthew 11:25-30

At that time Jesus said, “I thank you , Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.
Matthew 11: 25-26

Advent is a time of waiting and preparation as we do all the things to get ready for Christmas. Decorating, shopping, Christmas Cards etc.

I have a memory of a Christmas long ago when we had three little boys under four years of age. We unloaded the boxes of ornaments and decorated our tree, with unbreakable ornaments for the boys to place on lower branches as we sang carols. Then the newest addition, our crèche scene, made with molded rubber figures easy for little hands to hold. As the older boys set up the crèche under the tree and the baby watched, Dan told Mike the Christmas story and the part of each figure and animal.

In the coming days the boys prepared presents for all members of the family, colorful pictures, clay creations and home baked cookies lovingly decorated. Carol singing and the crèche scene held their focus as the boys hopped each figure over to see the empty manger many times a day.
Early Christmas morning we awakened to the strains of Happy Birthday Baby Jesus! Our not quite four year old and two year old were delighted to see the Baby Jesus in His manger and were welcoming Him. We gathered up the baby and joined them singing. Then our oldest reminded us that Jesus shared presents with EVERYONE on His birth day!
The quiet simplicity and focus on the birth of the Holy Babe makes Christmas. May the serenity, joy and peace of Christmas be with us as we prepare for the birth of our Savior and let it dwell in our hearts all year.

Heavenly Father, as we prepare for the coming of your Son, let us focus on the simple joys and peace that Christmas brings and keep them in our hearts. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 11: by Anita Bergh

December 9, 2009
READING: 1 John 4:7-16

Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us.
1 John 4: 11-12

Most of us love “love” stories. The Bible is full of love stories. And today’s reading from the book of I John is one example. (not the GOSPEL of John - I John at the very back of your Bible….)Actually, the story of Jesus, his life and work, is not part of I John, but the essence of his life and work permeates the book.

Read this passage in the 4th chapter of I John again. Then select verse 10 and concentrate on it. It STUNS us. It STOPS US IN OUR TRACKS.. He loves us….! “Not that we loved God, but that he loves us…..” Or, as we read in John 15:16 (the GOSPEL John), “You did not choose ME, but I chose YOU”.

To think that we humans, running around on this planet, in charge of our own affairs, living life as we see it, really cannot get out of God’s grasp, even if we wanted to. He chose YOU----ME--- to love. He will love us until we come to his heavenly kingdom.

Because we are enveloped daily in busyness, worry, family and job concerns, we must return again and again to the “canopy of love”---to the amazing truth of God’s love wrapped up in “swaddling clothes and lying in a manger”.

“Love be our song and love our prayer
And love our endless story;
May God fill ev’ry day we share
And bring us at last into glory”.
(Marty Haugen, WOV #633)

Advent Devotional - Day 10: by Sandy Davis

December 8, 2009
READING: 1 Samuel 7:3-6

Then Samuel said to all the house of Israel, "If you are returning to the Lord with all your heart, then put away the foreign gods and the Astartes from amon you. Direct your heart to the Lord, andserve him only, and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines." So Israel put away the Baals and the Astartes, and they served the Lord only.
1 Samuel 7:3-4

My faith was truly tested in 2001 when my Mom passed away suddenly from an asthma attack. I couldn’t believe that after only 53 short years, God had chosen to call her home. I couldn’t help feeling regret over “things left unsaid” and phone calls cut short because, let’s face it, there’s always tomorrow, right?

The angst I felt over not knowing if she was okay kept me up at night. I prayed and prayed for God to give me some sign that she was in good hands. I would sacrifice anything just to make sure she was safe and happy.

One night my prayers were answered when my Mom came to me in a dream. She had “telephoned” me to ask how I was doing. I had all sorts of questions for her…did she like being in Heaven and was she there with other members of our family. She assured me that everything was fine, like all mothers do, and that I need not worry about it anymore. She will always be with me watching over me.

As I awoke, I truly felt an inner peace, knowing that God had answered my prayers

Heavenly Father,
Keep us ever mindful of your presense. Let us not forget that all we need do is ask when we need you near and to comfort us. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 9: by Peter Lund

December 7, 2009
READING: John 1:6-8

There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe.”
John 1:6-7

“He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light.” I’m not sure about you, but isn’t it nice to receive accolades? I love it; I can never get enough of it! Perhaps I have a slightly narcissistic streak, maybe I’m too self-centered, or maybe, I’m just HUMAN. I think human nature tends towards self-centeredness, especially when one is in a position of power. Along comes John, and right away, people think he’s special. Some people are even starting to dream big, and begin to question whether he may be the long-awaited Messiah. In other words – he’s a well-liked guy – receiving the accolades that we all love! Many people, in such a situation, would probably develop a mindset along the lines of, “You know what? I really AM great! Everybody’s right about me!” And over time, they would focus more and more on their own agenda. I’m sure even John would have been tempted to do so – a call from God doesn’t guarantee that someone will respond. I seem to recall a certain Jonah being told to go to Nineveh, so what does he do? He runs away… In the other direction… But that’s not what John does – he states that he is simply there to proclaim the One who is to come. He deflects all of the praise, and even calls himself unworthy. John, to me, serves as a reminder of how we are to center our lives – not on ourselves, but on Jesus. In this time of Advent, let us remember to be like John, and center our lives and our focus on what truly matters.

Lord, help us to remember to focus on you always, and keep you at the center of our lives.
Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 8: by Lou Shives

December 6, 2009
READING: John 1:29-31

The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.”
John 1: 29

The first people, other than Mary and Joseph, to sense that Jesus was more than an ordinary person were the Wise Men from the East. Thirty years later, in Bethany, a village east of the Jordan River, John the Baptist announced to the crowd sent by Jewish leaders and the Pharisees, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”. Although Jesus lived among the Jews and was referred to as the sacrificial and suffering Lamb, the people of Israel were confused by the meaning of John’s words. The Jews regularly sacrificed lambs in the Temple and for the Passover meal or Seder but did not make the connection. They put their trust in the sacrificial act but did not think anything more was necessary to be a “good Jew”. Few had accepted Him as the Messiah. If you were present during John’s proclamation, how do you think you would have reacted to his words? Would you have asked John to baptize you so that you could join God’s family?

According to historians, Advent originated during the first century as a period during which Christian converts prepared themselves for baptism through instruction, prayer, fasting, and reflection (similar to Lent). Since then, Advent has become a season filled with the spirit of expectation, anticipation, preparation, and longing for the Second Coming of Christ.

Thank You, Heavenly Father, for this special time of year when we celebrate Your love coming down from heaven to earth. Open our hearts to receive a special gift of faith this Christmas. Use our lips and lives to invite others to become acquainted with You. Amen

Advent Devotional - Day 7: by Bill Nasworthy

December 5, 2009
READING: Isaiah 12:1-6

“Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously;
Let this be know in all the earth.
Shout aloud and sign for joy, O royal Zion,
For great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.”
Isaiah 12: 5-6

These verses were actually songs singing the praises of The Lord and all of his deeds. They tell us “for though you were angry with me, your anger turned away, and you comforted me.” Despite our short comings, our Father loves us……always. The praises continue with “I will trust, and will not be afraid, for the Lord is my strength and my might.” No matter what our lives are going through, the path we trod, Our Lord is “my salvation.” We are to “make known his deeds among the nations; proclaim that his name is exalted.” One of our jobs is to spread the Word and tell others of His greatness. “Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be known in all the earth.” Indeed! Praise the Lord in all you do. Without Him, you are nothing and have nothing. “I will give thanks to you, O Lord.”

How will you sing praises to The Lord?

Lord God Our Savior, let us sing praises of our love for you this Christmas and sing them loudly, so all will hear and join in. Amen

Advent Devotional - Day 6: by Gail Seeram

December 4, 2009
READING: Luke 1:26-38

The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus.” ….. The angel said to 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 holy; he will be called Son of God.”

Luke 1: 30-31, 35

This story illustrates the journey God can place on our lives and how these journeys can help us come to faith or expand our faith. Mary, an unwed virgin, is being told by an Angel that she will conceive a child and he will be the Son of the Most High. For most women, the news of conceiving a child is exciting and is received as a blessing but for Mary she is afraid by this news. Mary questions the Angel, but after receiving a vague explanation that ended with “For nothing will be impossible with God”, Mary accepts God’s will. Mary says yes to God’s plan for her life and reaffirmed that she was a servant of the Lord.

As with Mary, God speaks to us daily in our lives, but do we also answer “yes”? Saying “yes” to God and sacrificing our plan for his plan is not an easy task.. Five years ago, I said “yes” to God and moved to Florida and left an established career and life-long friends in New York to follow a “plan” in Florida. There were many days where I questioned God and his plan for my life and career. Eventually, I saw God’s plan unfold and although I still wanted to follow my plan, I submitted myself as a servant to God and his plan. Now, five years later, I can appreciate God’s plan and purpose for my life although it was not clear to me at the time.

Now, whenever I am faced with life’s many challenges, I always remind myself that nothing is impossible with God (as stated in this passage) and only what is done for God and his Kingdom will last. Peace & love to you all.

Lord Jesus, let us remember that you have a plan for us and help us keep our ears open to hear what it is. And then follow you. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 5: by Neil Lund

December 3, 2009
READING: Psalm 89:19-26

Once you spoke in a vision, to your faithful people you said: “I have energized a warrior; I have raised up a young man from the people. I have found David, my servant. With my sacred oil I have anointed him.
Psalm 89: 19-20

The Psalmist, Ethan, looks forward by looking back. He recalls God's promise to David - to give strength, protection, love and to deliver on His promises. Ethan also looked forward with those promises being fulfilled again. God again delivered on his promises with his Son, Jesus. Similarly we can look back to David and to Jesus and be assured that God will provide strength, protection and love to us.

Christ Jesus,
Just like the promise God made to his people to raise up David to protect his people, God promised to give us a King to save us. Thank you for keeping your promise to us and sending your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Advent Devotional - Day 4: by Carolyn Champagne

December 2, 2009
READING: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

“”For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal…….
Ecclesiastes 3:1-3

The verses from Ecclesiastes tell us there is a time for everything.
“ a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, a time to dance;”
Right now is the time for Advent, a time to prepare for the coming of the Christ Child. The celebration is close, but we must be patient.

When my boys were young they were so excited once December got here. All they could think about was Christmas and they wanted time to speed up. But there is a time for everything and God has other ideas. He has a plan to move more slowly and give us time to prepare for the birth of His Son. So listen to Him. Take time each day of Advent to reflect on what this means for us. It is not yet time to celebrate Christ’s coming. But it is close, real close. Take a deep breath, reflect and prepare ways to keep Christ in Christmas.

Heavenly Father,
You are in charge of the time table. As we go through this season of Advent, place in our hearts the knowledge of you, as our Savior, and what this means to us as we move forward to Christmas and life thereafter with Christ in our hearts. Amen.