MERRY CHRISTMAS ! Advent Devotion, December 24, 2014
Christmas Eve
Reading:  Luke 2; 1-14
Written by:  Justin Stone

Luke 2:1-14 is the most popular account of the Christmas story because it embodies God’s love for his creation, describes the birth of Jesus, and sets the stage for the spread of the Christian faith.  The Christmas story begins with the counting and taxing of the citizens, bringing Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem.  God, too, according to Luke, also takes a census of his creations.  However, the heavenly census is not one of taxation, but one of love.  “But even the hairs of your head are all counted.  Do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows.” (Luke 12:7)  Christmas is a time to remember God’s personal and individual love for all he has created.

          

The birth of Jesus carries another theme that is echoed later in the Gospel of Luke.  “In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.” (Luke 2:8)  These shepherds are not only the first witnesses of the birth of Jesus, but also serve as a metaphor for Jesus himself.  Jesus later asks, “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them.  Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?” (Luke 15:4)  Jesus has come for the salvation of all, even those who reject him and are lost in the darkness.

               

The heralding of the birth of Jesus truly introduces the Christian message to the world, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace, goodwill among people!” (Luke 2:14)  It is a mission and a message that cannot fail, because God himself is behind it.

Christ Our Savior:  Thank you, Lord, for the gift of your love and salvation—I pray that your church places the Christmas story and the Christian mission in its heart this season.  May we help bring peace on earth and goodwill toward all people.  Amen

Advent Devotion, December 23, 2014
Reading:  John 1: 6-8
Written by:  Lou Shives

The focus in this scripture is on John's role as the primary witness to Jesus, the Messiah, so that all might believe through him.  While writing this Advent devotional, I reflected on my relationship with God.  As a member of St. Stephen, there are several opportunities for me to be a witness or to share the Good News not only during Advent but throughout the year.  One only needs to review the Get Involved Tab on the St. Stephen web site to see a list of “witness” services available.  They include music-worship arts, the community garden, mission and outreach (contains 25 categories), and small groups and quads.  In addition there is the CARE Team that provides communion or extra care from membership separate from pastoral involvement.   Have you taken advantage of these various opportunities to be a witness to the light?

Loving Father:  Each of us are blessed with talent and opportunities to be a witness to the light as we interact with family and others during our daily activities.   Grant us the wisdom to recognize our talent and to discern how each opportunity can be utilized to share Jesus’ glory with others.  In Jesus’ name we pray.  Amen.

Advent Devotion, December 22, 2014
Reading:  Revelation 3: 20-22
Written by:  Russ Hauck

This is a well-known bible passage, partly because it lends itself to a very simple graphic representation.  And, there have been many paintings that depict Jesus standing at a door and knocking.  Something strange that these paintings have in common is that many of them show Jesus knocking at a door that has no door knob or handle!  The implication is that the door must be opened not by Jesus, but by the individual on the other side.  In other words, these artists are implying that those who will accept salvation must decide to “open the door” and let Jesus in.

But we can – and should - understand this passage by reading it much more simply as Jesus has come to us – is with us – all of us.  Jesus is Immanuel “God with us.”  The consistent promise is that God is with us always, not just when we decide to let Him in.  And, that is the greatest comfort.  

Prayer:          Immanuel, Immanuel

God incarnate, here to dwell
Immanuel, Immanuel
Praise His name Immanuel!

Advent Devotion, December 21, 2014
Focus:  Shepherds
Reading:  Luke 2: 15-20
Written by:  Nikki Witt

Mary captures my attention every time I read these verses. Everyone who had heard what the shepherds repeated about Jesus (He’s the Savior, Messiah, the Lord) was amazed. But not Mary. I picture Mary smiling to herself as she looks down at the baby in her arms, the baby blinking cautiously up at her through the light from an oil lamp nearby. Perhaps she’s looking at her baby, and she’s thinking that in this tiny person time and space have folded in on themselves, collapsing into a still point that fills her with a blindingly bright love unlike anything she’s ever known. Maybe she’s contemplating the future of a boy who will grow up to be a Messiah, struggling to shake off the long, cold fingers of worry that clutch at her shoulders when she imagines all the danger, false friends, and pain that lie ahead of him. Or maybe she’s simply wondering how in the world she’s going to take care of this tiny, helpless person. Messiah or not, a baby is a baby, and babies require a lot of work.

Whatever Mary was thinking, it’s ultimately her secret, and I like it that way. Before Mary became the Mother of God, Saint Mary, the Blessed Virgin, she was a mother. I don’t think this is insignificant, and I’m thankful that she’s a part of our beautiful Christmas story.

God, thank you for mothers everywhere- their patience, their willingness to sacrifice, their intelligence, their bravery, and most importantly their inexhaustible wellspring of love. Amen.  

FAMILY MOMENT:

Shepherds – The Shepherds were the most unlikely of people to be the first recipients of the world’s biggest and greatest news story. They were not popular, did not smell good, and lived in the fields with the sheep! Yet they are the group of people to whom God entrusts the big task of telling the world about Christ’s birth. How would you tell someone that Jesus is born? How would you share this news story? Make a newspaper/magazine/poster/video/etc. telling others that Jesus is born!

Advent Devotion, December 20, 2014
Reading:  Psalm 46: 10-11
Written by:  Frank Raike

The command is to “be still”. 

From the Bible study with John J. Parsons, the word comes from the Hiphil stem of the verb “raphe” (meaning to be weak, to let go, to release), which might better be translated as, “cause yourselves to let go” or “let yourself become weak”.

But to what end are we to “be still,” “let go,” or “to surrender”?  In Hebrew grammar, the emphasis of coordinated imperatives (“be still” and “know”) is on the second imperative.  In other words, we surrender in order to know that God is in control.  We “let go” in order to know the saving grace of God in our lives.  We give up trusting in ourselves and our own selfishness in order to experience the glory of Jesus Christ.

Psalm 46 is often referenced as Martin Luther’s favorite psalm. He composed the hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” in a rather free paraphrase of Psalm 46 on his journey to the Diet at Worms, where he went boldly to defend the Reformation at the risk of his life.  He let go and let God.  And we are here today.

At this Christmas Season with all the stress and challenges to be self-centered on our design ideas and concepts of what the Holidays should be, try to take the time to “be still and know that God is in control”.

 Oh Lord, we assign our lives with wishes, dreams, and expectations, only to find frustration and disappointment in others and ourselves.  Please Jesus, let us surrender to know that our lives are yours and you will always be with us.  Selah. Amen

Advent Devotion, December 19, 2014
Reading:  James 5: 7-8
Written by:  Bill Nasworthy

This passage is calling on us to be patient because The Lord is coming. 

Patient…. To be patient one must be calm and quiet.  That means you get to view and listen to what is happening around you.  In that quiet, you can see what needs to be done for others as well as yourself.  That gives you the opportunity to act and do what needs to be done.

None of us knows when The Lord will appear, so do quiet, good deeds all your days and you will be doing The Lord’s work within your “patient waiting”. 

Prayer:  Lord, in this time of rushing and hurry, help us to seek the quiet and patient time.  Amen

Advent Devotion, December 18, 2014
Reading: Psalm 33: 20-22
Written by:  Anita Canteenwalla

²⁰ We wait in hope for the Lord;

    he is our help and our shield.

²¹ In him our hearts rejoice,

    for we trust in his holy name.

²² May your unfailing love be with us, Lord,

    even as we put our hope in you.

Advent provides us with a time of reflection as we anticipate the celebration of the birthday of our Lord and Savior.  In Psalm 33:20-22, we are reminded of the basics of our relationship with our God.  The words “we”, “our” and  ”us” are used to describe the strength we have as believers who rejoice in the Lord.  United in our faith, we are of one soul!

We, His people, are waiting.  We waited for the birth of Jesus and that promise was fulfilled.  Now we are waiting again for the return of His son.  We can trust Him and His holy name because He delivers on His promises.  He loves us, not because we deserve it, but because He is merciful and unfailing in His love for us.  He extends us the grace of hope—hope for His mercy, His help, and His protection. 

Dear God:  As we enter this sacred time, may we recall how good you have always been to your people.  Help us to renew our faith in you with a proclaiming of our trust in you.  May we remember our unity and rejoice together, showing our joy at being filled up with faith—as one soul!   Amen

Advent Devotion, December 17, 2014
Reading:  Luke 1: 39-45
Written by:  Anita Bergh

It seems to me this passage speaks about relationships.:Elizabeth with Mary and the two women’s relationship to God. Elizabeth was so surprised, so full of excitement, that her entire being was affected, so that the developing child within her stirred, moved, leaped and she felt sheer JOY. Mary felt the honor and blessing received from Elizabeth as she too was given a joyful greeting —“Blessed are you—blessed is the child within you”  (“the fruit of your womb”) The exchange of these greetings reflects the love and intimacy these two women had experienced; no doubt throughout their lives. But this moment was an indescribable one of mutual understanding and joy.

The passage also indicates the closeness to their God-“Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit”(vs 41) . And later in this chapter is recorded the song of praise Mary gives to God.(The “Magnificat”)

This passage inspires me to convey to others the indescribable JOY this Advent season can bring.  Maybe we aren’t even aware of the impact our spirit has upon the server at the restaurant, or the sales person in the shop, or the ticket taker on the bus. I recall once when working in a hospital (as a young girl), tending to daily duties in a ward, a voice from one of the beds said to me—”How does it happen that you can be so cheerful all the time?”  His words came as a surprise and I gave no real answer.  In retrospect, I realize that basically I was full of the Joy of the Lord. And I did not convey this to him.  Maybe I could have replied somewhat like this: “”Not always do I feel cheerful, but knowing the Lord gives me a deep-down joy “.

Even if we are not always feeling buoyant, our patient demeanor can convey what I call “spiritual Joy”.  This Joy cannot be experienced or maintained without “daily renewal” through the Word (Bible reading) and the Sacrament of Holy Communion (worship).

PRAYER:  THIS ADVENT DEAR LORD, I pray that your Spirit will cut through the concerns, anxieties, and disappointments of my life so that I will be free to experience that JOY you are forever giving to me and to the World.  Amen.

Advent Devotion, December 16, 2014
Reading:  Philippians 2: 1-11
Written by:  Elaine Cornelius

As we move closer to the celebration of Jesus’ birth, looking at love makes sense. Jesus was sent because of God’s love for us. How do we show love? Love is understood to be action, not just words. God understands love perfectly. His gift of a savior is a clear demonstration of his love for us.  We are asked to be joyful in hope, patient in troubling situations and faithful in prayer.  

Love in Action 

How do I create love in action? 

Where do I find it on earth? 

As I prepare my heart for celebration 

Can I learn salvation’s worth? 

Called to release my grip on evil, 

I hold fast to what is right. 

Finding hope through my trials, 

I pray through day and night. 

Let me be passionate in spirit. 

Lord, You refresh my tired soul. 

You give me strength for the journey. 

I know You are in control. 

Oh come, precious Savior. 

This world is in need of You. 

Though, as I help my neighbor, 

I serve the Master too. 

So, I strive to be love in action 

Live life as Christ would now 

I’ll accept grace and show compassion 

Lord, to Your will, I bow 

Prayer 

Lord, thank You for teaching us about love.  You help us know that through serving others we demonstrate Your love in the world. In Your name I pray, Amen. 

Advent Devotion, December 15, 2014

Reading:  1 John 3: 18-24

Written by:  Diane Bechtold

Love isn’t a “feeling,” love is what we say and do in relationship to another. If we love others then they, and everyone else, will know because we actively demonstrate that love. God frees us from any guilt we have and enables us to act as Jesus did – caring for and serving in ways that meet the needs of those to whom we show our love.

Prayer

Gracious God, help us all to remember that love is not “butterflies in our stomach,” or “fluttering in our heart” but actions that serve to raise up those around us. Help us act in the ways of Christ. Amen

Advent Devotion, December 14, 2014  
Focus on Angels
Reading:  Luke 2: 8-14
Written by:  Marie Hoder

God shows up in unexpected places to unexpected people. The shepherds were not well respected.  But they were the first recipients of the Good News that a newborn King had come.  And His birth announcement was accompanied not by a couple of dweebie angels, but  by all the armies of Heaven singing His praises.  The Israelites anticipated a King to overthrow the Romans.  But Jesus shows up as a  baby born to a poor couple.  Yet … This GREAT NEWS will bring JOY to ALL people. 

  

 Jesus came unexpectedly, to ordinary people.  He still does that everyday - To us - Bringing Hope, Love, Joy, and Peace. 

 Prayer:   Thank You Jesus, for coming to us. Unexpectedly, surprisingly, humanly, divinely, supremely.  You are our God and we are Your people.  Be with us and touch our hearts, especially this Christmas season.  Bring us Hope, Love, Joy,  and Peace.    Amen.  

FAMILY MOMENT:  Angels- 
The angels appeared to the shepherds to bring news of the newborn King. In fact, the Gospel writers of Matthew and Luke show us the Angels appearing to Joseph, Mary, the Shepherds, and even the parents of John the Baptist. The angels first words were always “Fear not!” We don’t have to be afraid because God has promised to be with us always. What are some things that are scary to us? How does God’s promise bring us peace? Is there someone in your life who is afraid or nervous? How can you be like the angels and tell them the good news of God’s promise?

Advent Devotion, December 13, 2014
Reading:  Matthew 11: 25-30
Written by :  Carolyn Champagne

Gosh, I read these verses and can’t help but marvel at how gracious our Lord is to us.  Verses 28 thru 30 speak to me the loudest as Jesus almost begs us to lay our burdens down and let him deal with them.  Let him take them on and walk with you till all is well again.  Then our burdens are lite and our stress is nothing.

Over the past 2 years I have had to deal with some serious health issues with my mother.  It is so stressful making sure she is taken care of and under good medical care so that she can once again live on her own and not be so dependent on others.  I worry and stress over whether my sister and I are making the right decisions for her and that she is comfortable.  But each time I finally wised up and realized that I can’t do this on my own.  I need to turn it over to Jesus.  I leave the stress to him AND the outcome.  It is in his hands.  He has not let me down yet.  Even the little things, that made life easier during her healing process, had to be the Lord’s work.  The stress was lifted and I am grateful.

Dear Lord, thank you for offering to take our burdens from us.  Open our eyes to see this gift you give us and let us only have to ask for your help to receive your blessing.  Amen.

Advent Devotion, December 12, 2014
Reading:  Romans 15: 5-13
Written by:  Barbara Reynolds

Paul’s letter to the Romans was written from Corinth during his third visit to the city.  Paul relates to the whole world that there is no partiality with him who is the God of the Jews and of the Gentiles also.  Paul shares over and over that Jewish and Gentile believers are one in salvation.

How wonderful to be assured that God redeems all mankind.  In today’s world where beliefs so often separate us from one another, we need to be assured that God’s love binds us.  We are one race..the human race and through perseverance and encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

Prayer:  During this season of hope and love let us embrace the idea that we are all brothers and sisters fathered by a loving God.

Advent Devotion, December 11, 2014
Reading: John 1: 19-28
Written by:  Brooks Collins

I find it interesting that whenever something has great importance to a person (or a people), there is usually a period of considerable preparation leading up to it.  In our secular world, sports teams hold training camps to get ready for the regular season when games "count". The most prepared team or athlete has the best chance of winning the championship.  A business person might work all year in preparation (and hope) for an end-of-year bonus.  In Christianity, arguably the 2 most significant events we celebrate each come with a period of preparation:  Easter, prepared for throughout Lent, and Christmas prepared for throughout Advent.  During my childhood, we celebrated Advent each night with an Advent wreath and calendar, both of which had been made by my frugal and craft-y mother.  At dinner each night as we read that day's devotion, we grew in anticipation of celebrating the miraculous birth of the Savior of the world, come to earth as a baby on Christmas morning.  What might have seemed insignificant that night in a manger changed the world forever.  And He is still doing so today.

Lord, each day throughout Advent, let us remember Psalm 46:10 to "be still and know that you are God" as we prepare our hearts for the coming Christ child.  Amen.

Advent Devotional, December 10, 2014
Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-24
Written by:  Char Klima

I am having a difficult day today.  There is so much to do.  It’s almost Christmas!  The world news is doom and gloom.  My children are arguing and my boss is grumpy.  I don’t feel up to par.  In fact, I’m tempted to just give up.

Wait!  Paul has an answer for that!  Paul is writing to his new Christina friends in Thessalonica.  They, too, feel pressured, tired and downright scared.    Rejoice always, says Paul.  What?  Rejoice and pray and give thanks without ceasing.  Why?  Because that is exactly what God want you to do.  Resist the temptation to declare defeat.  Instead, we are instructed to demonstrate God’s Spirit alive and well in our world.

How can we possibly succeed?  Paul declares God Himself will uphold you and sustain your body, soul, and spirit.  What’s in it for me?  God wins and has destined you and me and all of us for eternal life with Him.  Therefore, REJOICE.  Rejoice Always!

Precious Lord:  Be with me as I face the challenges of today.   Let your spirit shine through me into the world that needs to see your face and grace.  Amen.

Advent Devotional, December 9, 2014
Reading:  2 Timothy 3: 1-5
Written by:  Carolyn Champagne

When I read this passage I thought what a horrible passage to write on for Advent.  But upon reading it again I think it brings a message of caution. 

How often do we get so caught up in the stress of the holiday season that we forget to step back, truly put stress aside and remember what Christmas is all about.  It amazes me when I see news reports of people camping out front of a store in the cold just to by something on sale.  OR when the stores open after Thanksgiving and the sales gal unlocking the doors hopes she isn’t trampled as the mob of shoppers push their way in.  The hype during the holidays has blinded us to the true meaning of Christmas.  It isn’t about getting everything on our wish list, shopping till you drop and making sure you beat the other guy to the store.  This should be a season of joy, peace and love.  Christ came into this world to make it a better place and this is what we need to focus on.  Remember the message of forgiveness and grace that only Jesus could give us. 

Lord Jesus, Forgive us for our selfish ways and falling into line with the Christmas hype all around us which steers us away from you.  Have mercy on us and grant us grace.  Amen. 

Advent Devotional, December 8, 2014
Reading:  Jeremiah 31: 1-3
Written by:  Peter Lund

In preparation for writing this devotional, I consulted two different translations of this verse.  In so doing, I noticed something very interesting: the first translation I read put Verse 2 in the past tense, stating “A people that survived the sword found favor in the wilderness,” whereas the second translation referenced this event as being forthcoming in the future: “The people who survive the sword will find favor in the wilderness.”  So which is it?  What is the “correct” translation from the original Hebrew writing?  I suppose I could have simply consulted Pastor Nathan or Pastor Jared, but instead I wanted to consider the implications of what each option might mean, and I think the answer is: BOTH interpretations are valid.  Jeremiah wrote during captivity; his prophecies began prior to the Babylonian captivity, and continued after the destruction of Solomon’s Temple.  I think, therefore, that his message can refer to the fact that the people of Israel had previously endured captivity, and had been freed, but we can ALSO interpret his message as saying that, though they are being held captive again, God will lead them to freedom once more. 

Ultimately, isn’t the message – on a smaller scale – true for each of us, in our own lives?  We face adversity, yet we overcome it; when new forms of adversity emerge once again, we can look back and see that we survived it previously, and we know that by trusting in God, we can get through it once again.  So whichever translation of Jeremiah you are reading – whether it references surviving the sword and finding favor in the past or future tense – I believe that both are EQUALLY valid.  

Advent Devotional, December 7, 2014
Reading:  Luke 1: 26-38
Written by : Nicole Eastwood
Focus:  MARY

Luke prefaces the story of Mary by telling the story of the birth of John the Baptist. John’s parents, Elizabeth and Zechariah were “righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord.” (Luke 1:6) Compared to the credentials of Elizabeth and Zechariah, Mary’s qualifications are simple. She is engaged to a man from the lineage of David and she is a virgin. She is not lucky or gifted. God is the one extending favor (v28) to her.

This is such powerful news – that God chose to appear via one whom God favored, not one who was worthy. In fact, we go on to see that Mary will give birth to Jesus by 2 things:

1.      The Holy Spirit will come upon Mary, enabling her (the Spirit is the enabler) to do more than she could by herself.

2.      At the same time, the power of the Most High will overshadow her; God himself, the creator will surround her completely with his sovereign power.

a.      Remember, it is in God’s image that we are made

So there was Jesus in her womb, the Holy Spirit enabling, and God’s power creating – the Holy Trinity present.

What is God calling you to do? How is the Holy Spirit enabling you? What is God creating?

Creator God, thank you for making this good, good world. Thank you for being one who is always creating, and help me to know how to participate with you in creation. Holy Spirit, enable me to do more than I could by myself. And Lord Jesus, may you be Lord in my life, this Advent season and always. Help me to desire your Will, and not my own. Amen. 

Family Moment:

Mary - Luke 1:26-38 Mary wasn’t necessarily the fastest, the prettiest, the smartest, or the worthiest. And yet God chose her to be the mother of Jesus. God chose Mary because she was willing to be a servant of the Lord. God chooses each of us to serve God by serving others. What gifts or talents has God given you? How can you use those to serve others? How are you currently using them to serve others? Make a chart/picture/drawing together depicting the strengths of your family members, and how you can serve God. 

Advent Devotional, December 6th, 2014
Reading: Micah 5: 2-4
Written by:  Neil Lund

Three short verses by a minor prophet can take us in several quite different directions.  Bethlehem is noted in various translations as small, the runt, insignificant, too small for anything. What can come from such a backwater?  The obvious answer to us is Jesus, the Prince of Peace as implied by Micah. But Micah also meant something broader.  No matter how small or insignificant a person, place or event seems to humans, it is still important and meaningful to God. Persevere, for in the end God always wins.

Prayer

Dear Lord, help see that there is meaning in everyone and everything, no matter how small or insignificant it seems.

Amen

Advent Devotional:  December 5, 2014
Reading: Psalm 40: 4-5
Written by: Cyd Law

As a new Grandmother I am experiencing the joys of watching my 16 month old grandson explore Gods world.  He chases the Sand Hill cranes down the driveway yelling “bir, bir, bir” as he tries to catch the birds that are twice his size. On walks with him he collects all the acorns he can find and we have to remind him that he needs to leave a few for the squirrels as it’s their food for the winter.  Then the other afternoon he spent 15 minutes turning in circles stamping on a storm drain because he liked the sound it made.  My biggest joy is when he first arrives and I call his name and he comes running into my arms with that big smile on his face.

I know that God, as my heavenly father, probably feels the same way when I as his child see his world through his eyes.  When I find joy in watching a mother deer nurse her fawn on my front lawn;  When I take the time to open the door for someone who might be handicapped or just has a heavy load; and  When I trust him for everything and stop worrying about tomorrow.  In our busy world we need to take the time to appreciate all that God has done for us and will continue to do for us just because we are his children.  We need to thank him for all he has done and will do.

Dear God,

Thank you for being my father.  Thank you for creating this beautiful world for me to care for and enjoy.  Thank you for sending your son Jesus who has helped me  know you better and understand that you want me to have a real relationship with you. Please continue to guide and direct me in your ways.  Amen

Advent Devotional, December 4, 2014
Reading:  Luke 1: 67-79
Written by:  Sue Leffin

A Promise Fulfilled

The day I brought my new baby home from the hospital, I must have held him for hours.  I just couldn’t let him out of my arms.  As I counted his perfect little fingers and toes, I felt my life being transformed by the love of this tiny gift from God.  Nothing would ever be the same.

I wonder, then, how two women 2000 years ago felt as they held each other and talked about the babies they would soon bear.  Elizabeth, an older mom (like me), who thought she would not have any children, is now expecting a son who will pave the way for the promised Savior.   A Promise she had been hearing about her whole life.  And, then, her relative Mary visits and she knows that God’s Love is embodied as a tiny baby.   These small miracles that they hold near to their hearts will transform the world.  How awesome.  Nothing would ever be the same.

The Lord has given so many abundant gifts to us.  But the Gift of Love in the form of a tiny baby is the most miraculous gift of all. 

Have a blessed Christmas

Advent Devotional, December 3rd, 2014
Reading:  John 13: 34-35
Written by:  Yolanda Butler

Jesus commands us to love one another as he loves us all. What a powerful command! 

These words are spoken after Jesus identified Judas as the disciple that would betray him. The other disciples mistake Judas' departure with a bag of coins as an opportunity for him to purchase more for the feast or to give to the poor.  We, of course, have learned through bible study that Judas was using that bag of coins to, in fact, betray Jesus. We also have learned that Jesus continued to love Judas and all mankind as he sacrificed his life for our sins.

The Advent season brings about the feeling of LOVE. Families gather to exchange tokens and to share meals, charities benefits, pets are adopted, and feelings of generosity seem to permeate the air. I try to reflect daily on how I love year round. I love my relatives. I love my friends. I love my church family. I love my co-workers (most of the time) :-) And, I try very hard to love my enemies. I do my best to do as Jesus has commanded.
Jesus has commanded that we love. He showed, through his actions, how to love all. If only our world would follow the example given to us.

Prayer- Dear Lord, you loved us all so much that you sent your son into this world to teach us how to love unconditionally. Help us to follow the commandment to love one another as you have loved. Thank you for showing us that "All you need is love". Show us how to let our love shine to all we encounter in good and bad times.  This we pray in the name of Jesus our greatest teacher. Amen

Advent Devotional, December 2nd, 2014
Reading:  Isaiah 35: 3-6a
Written by:  Shirley Evans

This chapter of Isaiah has been titled “Joy of the Redeemed” in some translations.  It refers to the Israelites return from Exile, but it also illuminates our role in carrying the “Good News.”  It is referenced in Matthew 11:4-6 when John the Baptist was in prison, discouraged and wondered if Jesus is really the Messiah.  John’s disciples ask Jesus, who replies “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.  Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me.” (NIV) 

I’ve often looked at these passages as proof of Jesus’ miraculous works and proof of his Messiah-ship – and even a prophesy of Jesus in the Old Testament; but it can take on a far different meaning.  By the Spirit of Christ and God’s grace, the spiritually blind are enlightened, they are able to hear the word of God – and then able to spread the Word.  We should take strength and courage in the Lord when needed in times of trial ourselves, but, more importantly, give strength and encouragement to others.  Carry forth – leap like a dear and shout for joy.

Lord, Let me have strong hands, steady knees and not fear, but know that you will give me courage this day and every day.  Let me share my joy with others who need courage and strength.  Amen.

Advent Devotional,  December 1st, 2014
Reading:  1 Corinthians 1: 3-9
Written by:  Dennis McClellan

In our crass commercial existence, a discussion of gifts seems appropriate, when addressing the season leading up to Christmas. Paul tells us that God has bestowed upon us all an array of gifts through Jesus the Christ. These gifts reveal the immense, immeasurable love (agape) that has been given to us that, unless we unwrap these gifts, and put them to use, we fail to honor the grace that has been given to each of us. So honor these gifts by opening them in the faith God gives to us, sharing them, through service to others. Giving gifts -- not receiving gifts -- that makes this season even more meaningful.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Help us to recognize the gifts you have given us so we can put them to good use in your name.  Amen.

Advent Devotional - November 30th, 2014
Reading:  Matthew 1: 18-25
Focus:  Joseph
Written by:  Elaine Cornelius

Have you ever gotten information that changed all your perceptions or all of your plans? This is exactly what happened to Joseph. He is planning his wedding and preparing the home for the love of his life.  Everything is going according to plan. Then Mary comes to him and says she is pregnant with the Messiah. He loves her, but now he is questioning his judgment, her fidelity, and scrutinizing every conversation he has had with her. Was she really to be believed?  What had he missed that she would betray him? Her explanation wasn’t possible, was it?  He was hurt and confused and not at all sure what he should do about this situation and when he thought he had figured out a solution, he went to sleep. And his dream changed everything.

God didn’t just choose Mary as Jesus’ mother, the Lord also chose Joseph to be Jesus’ earthly father.  God chose a family for Jesus where love reigned in thought and action. He chose parents who were willing to humble themselves in obedience to God, even when it would make things more difficult in the short term and change their lives forever.  God had a plan then and He has one now. God will help us to stay on His path, if we are willing to pay attention and listen to Him.

Prayer

Lord, Keep my mind open to all Your possibilities. Help my heart be obedient to Your will especially when my plans may not be what You have in mind for me and remind me that Your will is always for my good. Amen. 

Joseph – Joseph was called to be Jesus’ earthly father…to love him like a son, to train him up in the family business and be a positive influence in his life. However, it is also true that God was Jesus’ heavenly Father. Joseph’s task was to raise Jesus in a way faithful to God and faithful to religious customs. Who has helped to share faith I your family? Is there a grandparent, aunt, or cousin who tells others about Jesus’ love for them? Who I your family acts like Jesus?  Are there any family Christmas Traditions you share together that pass on the faith?

a challenge to millennials from a millennial

Here are some common perceptions about Millenials, their money, and their relationship to the church, followed by what I believe to be the kernel of truth in each and then a challenge to other Millenials (I’m one of them) who are trying to live faithfully in uncertain times.

1. The church is guilty until proven innocent.

Truth - Every thinking adult 18-118 can recite several scandals and atrocities that have chained themselves to the public image of the church. But where older generations might be able to juxtapose a positive image of their childhood church or a pastor that they remember well, Millenials generally aren’t. Or if they’re lucky enough to at least have that (as I do) it is regularly humiliated by the majority opinion of their peer group.

Challenge – As a generation, we pride ourselves on our ability to keep a conscious check on our biases. But how many of us are paying attention to all the clergy collars anywhere there is a peace protest or a rally for equality? How many of us are thinking of Dorothy Day, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Oscar Romero, Desmond Tutu, or Martin Luther King Jr. when we level our critiques of the church? I’m not saying we have to turn a blind eye to the church when it screws up as our grandparents might have been guilty of doing from time to time. Just be fair. And at least recognize the good with the bad.

               

The Church is not a Millenial’s primary clan

Truth - President Obama was wise to promote his health care law on “Between Two Ferns” with Zach Galifianakis not because it shares any deep resonance with his overall message but because the sardonic irony of its presentation is code for a deeper rooted cultural awareness. The intended message was clear: “You can trust me. I’m one of you.” The church has no such social cachet. The churches meeting in some hipster bar or coffee coop might be short term draw for a few, but they’re no Regina Spektor.

Challenge - If you want to follow Jesus but need a community more rooted than “pub theology” and not backward like fundamentalist Christianity, and you don’t believe that your down-to-earth neighborhood church gets you, your worldview, or your cultural mindset; then change it. Millenials are certainly too enlightened to be ageist, no? So give Beverly and Ethel some credit. As a pastor of multiple generations, you’d be amazed how many Beverly and Ethel’s I’ve met who, it turns out, were yearning for the words I had to say when, previously, I might have assumed that I was far too radical for them. Repeatedly, I’ve been all hopped up on my “radical Gospel” only to discover Beverly’s who are on the no fly list for protesting The School of the Americas in the eighties and Ethel’s who have spent decades teaching school for almost no compensation in Mali and Columbia. Lesson learned: I’m not that radical. But I can be, if I get some skin in the game and maybe even humble myself to learn from these people.

Millenials don’t want to pay a mortgage and electrical bills for a church when they could be giving directly to a cause that they care about

Truth - Fair enough.

Challenge -  This is not an either/or, and most of us give so little to the “causes” that we say we care about, it would be laughable to claim that it is. Beyond that, how many Millenials realize that Lutheran Services in America is the single biggest charitable organization in America in terms of revenue? Last fall, at the drop of a hat, my congregation raised $45,000 to bring 29 families out of extreme poverty in the central plateau. A crowd-funding internet campaign would have required ten or twenty times as many participants to generate that kind of investment. Why was this possible? Because we had been paying electric bills and a mortgage so that we could gather week after week as a community, hear stories, and develop a common vision around a God whose heart is always first and foremost with the poor and who suffers no either/or-s when it comes to their sake.    

Millenials have no money

Truth - Millenials have no money, mostly.

Challenge - Giving money away faithfully doesn’t require a steady income and sure handle on the future. In fact, the word faithfully implies just the opposite. And no one is asking you to compete with the empty nesters in the fourth pew whose house is paid off, and their one child got a full ride to Yale, and now they’re left with nothing but disposable income. A leap of faith for you might be $5 more per week out of your scarcity where another $100 to them is nothing. The church is the only institution in our society that deals with money whose president and CEO (forgive the language, Jesus) actually gets more excited about the $5 than the $100 (Mark 12:41-44).

Millenials are anxious about the future

Truth – Delayed careers, student loan debt, housing crash; the whole bit.

Challenge - It’s commonplace in our society for us to entrust our future to our money. The theological term for that in which you place your future well-being is a “god.” This nation may have spent centuries going to church on Sunday, but when it came down to the serious business of actually surviving, Christ has never seriously competed with our everyday financial planner for the position of high priest. But money is a particularly unforgiving god whose mercy never overrules his cold, calculating logic He will repossess your stuff and evict you cold and naked the second you anger him. So Jesus’ challenge to people with money anxieties was both counter-intuitive and elegantly logical, get rid of it. Putting money into the plate is an act of defiance against that copper god. In some sense, we’re literally getting rid of him in hopes of discovering a God who is far more gracious.

- Pastor Jared