2014 Advent Devotional

First Baptist Church

Bristol, Virginia

The Advent Season begins four Sundays before Christmas Day. The word “advent” comes from the Latin word “adventus” and means “coming” or arrival.” Advent is a time of preparation for our celebration of the coming of the son of God to earth. Jesus Christ came that we might have life in all its fullness. Advent is a time when we can wait expectantly for Christmas. Please meditate on the selections in this special booklet provided by the members of our church family. We pray that your waiting will be filled with love, joy, and peace. As we get ready for Christmas in various ways, Advent calls and challenges us to prepare on a deeper level for the coming of the Christ. The discipline of worship helps us to become more receptive to the presence of God and more sensitive to the needs of others. We are thankful for each person who has shared in the creation of this booklet. Each of you has prepared the way for all of us to meet Emmanuel - “God with us.” As you prayerfully read and study these devotionals, may Jesus Christ be born anew in your life. ~Worship Team

First Week of Advent

November 30 Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 Gene Eller

December 1 Psalm 79 Brian Hayes

December 2 Revelation 18:1-10 Luke Martin

December 3 Micah 5:1-5a Linda Stanley

December 4 Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 Jody Talbert

December 5 Jeremiah 1:4-10 Harry Scanlan

December 6 Mark 11:27-33 Courtney Thomas

Second Week of Advent

December 7 Isaiah 40:1-11 Lisa White

December 8 Acts 2:37-42 Virginia Hiss

December 9 Acts 11:1-18 Marilyn Butler

December 10 Luke 1:5-17 JoAnne Barbour

December 11 Psalm 126 Jean Lewis

December 12 Psalm 126 Joni Leonard

December 13 Habakkuk 3:2-6 Dennis Leonard

Third Week of Advent

December 14 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 The Children

December 15 Ephesians 6:10-17 The Youth

December 16 2 Kings 2:9-22 Nola Woods

December 17 Romans 12:12 Terri Thomas

December 18 Hebrews 1:1-4 Ernie Sprouse

December 19 Hebrews 1:5-14 Audrey Mae Doak

December 20 John 7:40-52 Pam Kerr

Fourth Week of Advent

December 21 Psalm 23 Beverly Bowers

December 21 Luke 1:46b-55 Kindergarten Class

December 22 Psalm 96 May Tabor

December 22 Luke 1:46b-55 Joey Ondrak

December 23 1 Samuel 2:1-10 Hunter Widener

December 23 Psalm 96 Terri Cook

December 24 Luke 1:46b-55 Linda Pruner

December 24 Isaiah 9:2-7 Eric Hicks

December 24 Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 Tracey Talbert

December 25 Luke 2:1-20 Mary Amburn

December 25 Luke 2:1-14 Ronnie Brewer

Nov. 30, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19; Isaiah 64:1-9; Mark 13:24-37; I Cor 1:3-9

Today, November 30, begins the Advent Season for

Christians around the World. Advent is the time between now and Christmas Day when we as Christians focus our thoughts and minds on the birth of Jesus Christ, whose purpose in coming to Earth and being born was to seek and to save those who are spiritually lost (Luke 19:10). It is

a time of divine restoration (Psalm 80) for we have all sinned, and only Jesus Christ can restore us back into a right relationship with a Holy

God. Advent is a time of Thanksgiving for God’s Love and Mercy toward His children (Isaiah 64) and for His Grace, Peace, and Faithfulness (I Corinthians 1) that He bestows on those who call upon His Name.

It is a time for Christians to be ready—stay ready—for the “Second Advent” of the physical return of Jesus Christ to Earth (Mark 13).

The Advent Season is a time of prayer and fasting for the purpose of renewing and rededicating ourselves to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

ADVENT INVITATION: For those who are able, could we covet,

privately, to fast one day (not eat from sun up to sun down) during this Advent season? We would spend a portion of this day in prayer—for ourselves, our family, our church, and our country; and a portion of this day in reading, studying, and pondering God’s Word… especially the Scriptural passages (both Old and New Testaments) on the birth of Jesus Christ. Finally, could we put aside the World’s cluttered, commercial view of

Christmas? …and not miss the “real Christmas” – the reason for the

Season—the birthday of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, God

Incarnate!!!

~Gene Eller

Dec. 1, Psalm 79

Just as an earthly father instructs and shows his children the way, so does God. Psalms 79:1-2 states, 1 O God, the nations have invaded your inheritance; they have defiled your holy temple, they have reduced Jerusalem to rubble. 2 They have left the dead bodies of your servants as food for the birds of the sky, the flesh of your own people for the animals of the wild. God wants us to grow up and act like adults. He will discipline us in order to do this. His wrath can be awesome. God wants us to come back to Him. God is in control! He just wants to let us know. Our Father in Heaven knows what is best for us. During this season of Advent, we must remember His love for us by sending his one and only begotten Son. ~Brian Hayes

Dec. 2, Psalm 79, Micah 4:6-13, Revelation 18:1-10

What a wonderful gathering of scriptures for Advent! God came to us at the point of our deepest need. This He did by allowing His only begotten Son to give Himself in exchange for sinful people like us. These selections of Scripture reinforce what has been said again and again from Genesis through Revelation. Man is a sinner and has no way to redeem himself. God knows our plight and has acted in our behalf.

Micah pictures God’s people being driven by the Babylonians like slaves, poor, weak, sick, dying or left by the wayside. A small percentage finally arrived much crippled and broken. The pace to slavery had been set by a victorious army. But the return would be entirely different! God’s people ere given ample time to repent and turn to God for deliverance. The good and gentle shepherd, Jehovah, would guide them back home where he would reign from Mount Zion. Israel would be a mighty nation – all in God’s good time.

Again, the background of Psalm 79 is almost certainly out of the terrible destruction and suffering in Jerusalem and Judah. Second Kings 25 gives insight into God’s anger and disgust with his people. This happened in 586 B.C. Israel is destroyed. Corpses are left for the vultures and wild beasts. There was no one to bury the remains. The temple and with it, all hope is gone. “How long Yahweh?” They were all but gone! With this recognition came confession and lament. They felt their plight, and also the honor of God’s name was not held in honor. The Psalmist prays that they be rescued, and at long last their sins would be forgiven on account of God’s name.

The Revelation is a picture of end. All through this, the main thing in John’s mind is the destruction of Rome. Much of chapter 18 is Old Testament language in regard to the city of Babylon that had been fulfilled. It is used here to picture the destruction of the New Testament Babylon (Rome.) The first angel announces the fall of Babylon because of her spiritual fornication. This includes the way the merchants of the world had capitalized on her wantonness and fornication and had become her allies in evil. Their own doom is sealed.

A second voice calls God’s people to separate themselves from this wanton woman. They are assured that God knows all about her and will deal with her appropriately. She will suffer – don’t be caught in her company! The burning of Rome under Nero is a small thing compared to God’s wrath against the entire empire of allies.

This is the time for celebration of Christians because they will see God’s power and their rescue in “one hour,” a very short time.

~Luke Martin

Dec. 3, Micah 5:1-5a

Waiting

Advent is the season of waiting, preparing, expecting and hoping. Can you remember the longest you have had to wait for something? As a child, I remember waiting for many things . . . for school to be out, the birth of a sibling, Christmas morning, my turn when playing a game. It may not be difficult to wait for a short time; but, it is more difficult to wait for a long period of time. Waiting is one of the hardest things we do. At different times we wait with different emotions such as excitement, frustration, longing, sadness, joy, optimism, enthusiasm, and anxiety to name a few. In today’s Scripture, the prophet Micah foretells of the birth of a Savior. God’s people waited for many years for the Messiah. Advent is about faith and waiting. Mary waited in great anticipation and great faith for the birth of Jesus. Even though the waiting was for a long time, God’s timing was perfect. The Bible tells us of many who kept their faith while waiting. Noah waited for the rain to stop. Hannah waited for a child. The Israelites waited forty years before they saw the Promised Land. Others waited knowing that God always kept promises. As we wait for the Advent season, I am reminded of a prayer that a friend sent me: God, be in my head and understanding. God, be in my eyes and my looking. God, be in my mouth and my speaking. God, be in my heart and in my thinking. Amen. Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your perfect timing in all things.

~Linda Stanley

Dec. 4, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13

Listen to What God Says

Listen to what God says. The Lord promises peace to his people (the holy ones). May they not return to foolishness? Those who have gone from God by consent, and in body, drawing one another to sin, should, by consent and in body, return to him, which will be for his glory, and their good. The means of giving thanks – through praying. The occasion for giving thanks- remembering your work of faith. The cause for giving thanks – knowing your election (promise of eternal life). Prayer: Heavenly Father, For the desert places in which we walk, the streets we roam, the paths we cross, guide our feet. Take us to places where you would go. Give us words that you would use. That in this Advent season or promise and preparation, we might point the way with John the Baptist. To the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. ~Jody Talbert

Dec. 5, Jeremiah 1:4-10

No Excuses, Do the Work

The Lord’s purposes have been and are always being completed through ordinary individuals chosen by Him. When his request to Jeremiah to become a prophet to Judah was met with an excuse (I am too young to speak for you,) God replied with an imperative, “You must go where I send you and say whatever I tell you. I, the Lord have spoken.” We can be like Jeremiah with excuses for why something was not done, or we are too busy with other things, or we just do not want to do whatever is asked. Family, friends, church members, and those who we work with can make requests for our help with a project. So it is this day we prepare for the Advent Season. Not only do we once again celebrate another anniversary of the birth of Christ, but also, we must always be ready to be servants for the Lord and answer His call. Jeremiah was poor, unpopular, and persecuted, but with God’s anointing, he carried out his assigned but difficult task of warning the people of Judah of God’s punishment for their sins, accepting it and ultimately the God’s promise of their restoration. We know whatever the task asked of us, no matter how difficult, He is faithful to provide all of the resources we need for a successful completion of that task. All we have to do is not offer any excuse, but just say yes. Is God calling you for special service? Prayer: Our Father, Thank you for the life of Jeremiah and his service to you. May our hearts always be open to your call, and may we be ready to do whatever you ask with no excuses. Amen. ~Harry Scanlan

Dec. 7 Isaiah 40:1-11

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough

I am no Bible scholar and, as embarrassing as this is, truth be told, I can probably quote more Motown song lyrics than I can Bible verses from the Old Testament. So it did not surprise me when I read today’s Scripture from Isaiah and suddenly Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell started singing “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” in my head. You know how it goes:

“Ain't no mountain high, Ain't no valley low, ain't no river wide enough;

If you need me, call me, no matter where you are, No matter how far;

Just call my name; I'll be there in a hurry; You don't have to worry”

While this song was written in 1966, if Isaiah were still alive today, he’d probably have a strong case for copyright infringement. He begins today’s Scripture promising God’s comfort in trying times but quickly reminds us that nothing is too difficult for God:

“Every valley shall be raised up, Every mountain and hill made low; The rough ground shall become level,

The rugged places a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed,

And all mankind together will see it. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

Isaiah 40:4-5

Not only does God care for and comfort us, God takes action. He can flatten mountains and fill in valleys. He can smooth rough ground just like he can smooth the bumps in your life. No obstacle in your life is too big for God and His will, for the Power of God is at work even during your hardest struggles. He can erase your struggles and give you a new beginning – a clean slate, if you just trust in Him. “Just call His name…He’ll be there in a hurry…You don’t have to worry...”

Prayer: God, help me to remember that You are always with me, no matter what. Help me to trust Your will and make my life a reflection of Your comfort and power living in me. Amen.

~Lisa White

Dec. 6, Mark 11:27-33

Today a lot of people forget about Jesus. We are too busy worrying about the rules of man, and we forget who really has the authority. No one should ever question Jesus. In Mark 11:27-33, Jesus was questioned about his authority. The chief priests asked Jesus, “By what authority are you doing these things?” Jesus was not pleased with their questions of his authority and quickly asked them about whose decision it really was to make decision in the house of God. We forget about who is really in charge and make our own decisions. We should never question Jesus’ authority because he is our higher power and we are powerless without him. Accept what Jesus has said and know you will not be punished. The ones who have faith and respect for the Lord will prosper and be protected by his love. ~Courtney Thomas

Daughter of Dennis Thomas

Dec. 8, Acts 2:37-42

In or Out

What an incredible, exciting, a “Wow! Praise-the-Lord” day, it must have been when, after the apostles declared the word, approximately 3,000 people wanted, with great “I need” anticipation, to know what to do next. They were told: Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. And they did that right there. Then they continued in fellowship and prayer. The only memory I have that compares to this is being at a Billy Graham crusade and seeing hundreds come down and pray to receive Christ and then be challenged to get into a church fellowship so each could grow in faith and in knowledge of the Lord. The people during the time of Acts, and those at the crusade, listened and opened their hearts and let Christ, the Word, in.

At Christmas, we think about the birth of Jesus. In Luke 2:4-7, there was no room in the inn. Therefore, Jesus was born outside the inn in a manger. Where is Jesus, the Christ, now in our lives? Is He in or is He out? Have each of us opened the door of our heart and let Him in, or is He still out – knocking at the door of our hearts and waiting for us to open it? Or, have we received Him at one time, but put Him in a little corner and filled our lives instead with other things? Is the desire to hear the word, study the word, fellowship with Christ, fellowship with believers, witness to non-believers, and pray for all of them, just not there?

Yet, Christ loves us. That is why He came. So we can be forgiven and fellowship with Him and grow – in so many ways – in our walk with Him.

So, let’s make this a “Wow! Praise-the-‘in’-Lord” Christmas. Receive Him and place Him in the center. It will be life changing!

Prayer: Dear Lord, We thank you for your patience and your love that you daily give us. Help us to realize that the things of this world do not last, but your gift of eternal life, given to all who receive Jesus Christ as Savior, is really for eternity. Help us, oh Lord, to welcome you “in” and to put you “in,” in the center of our daily activities and conversations. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

~Virginia Hiss

Dec. 9 Acts 11:1-8

Too Busy?

The Lord spoke to Peter and told him to be a witness to the Gentiles. As Peter spoke to the family at the house where he had been led, the Holy Spirit came on the people. Then Peter remembered that “the Lord had said: John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Hearing this, the believers praised God and had no further objections to witnessing to the Gentiles. Peter followed God’s leadership and took the time to travel to the Gentile’s house. Peter didn’t say, “I’m busy, I don’t have time.” Sometimes we have opportunities to help people, to spend some time with them, and we don’t because we think we are too busy. In our 1996 Advent booklet, Bob Pullins wrote about missed opportunities. A portion of his article is quoted below: “Several years ago, I was at a meeting, and after the meeting one of my friends asked me if I would like to get something to eat with him. I told him I just needed to get home. I was so busy! I had some phone calls to make, just too busy. Three days

later my friend died. I never got to talk to him again. Just too busy!

One other time, Ginny had to deliver a meal to one of our shut-ins. So we got the meal and drove to her house. Ginny got out and took the meal to her. I waited in the car. This lady came out on the porch, and she called to me, “Bob, why don’t you come and sit on the porch and rock with me so we can talk.” You know I never did get to that porch to rock and talk with this sweet lady. Three months later this lady passed

away. Just too, too busy!”

Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray that in some way I have been able to share this season with someone else, and I ask forgiveness for all those times I have been just too, too busy. ~Marilyn Butler with quotes from Bob Pullins

Dec. 10 Luke 1:5-17

Mission Impossible

Wait for the Lord, be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. Psalm 27:14

In today’s world we want what we want, and we want it when we want it! However, God decides both what and when of everything. Are we wiser than He is? Zacharias and Elizabeth found that God had wonderful plans for them, and He has the same for us today. We just need to trust in Him.

Zacharias, a priest, and his wife Elizabeth, the daughter of a priest and descendant of Aaron, were in the older stages of life and were without children. Many Rabbis insisted that being unable to have children was evidence of divine disfavor – a hopeless situation for the couple.

However, Zacharias (probably Elizabeth, too) prayed, committing the situation to the only One who could help, and they continued to live their lives according to God’s commandments. Sometimes it is easier to just give up, but God wants us to take our problems to Him – He can take care of the impossible.

The angel Gabriel brought the miraculous news to Zacharias when he was in the temple. Gabriel announced that Zacharias and Elizabeth would have a son. His name would be called John, and he would be the forerunner to the Messiah.

Can you even imagine the couple’s thoughts? The nation had looked forward to the coming of the Messiah for centuries and God had chosen them, in their advanced age – past their child-bearing time, to be the parents of a son who will prepare the people for the Messiah.

Mission impossible - NO, not with God! Does He still solve the impossible? Absolutely! The Divine intervention of God's gift of my three-year-old granddaughter, Riley, is an example that He is in control.

Remember: Stay in touch with God, obey God, and keep on keeping on when today’s problems seem insurmountable because ”Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8

Prayer: Lord, in this world of chaos, let us always remember that “nothing will be impossible with God.”

~JoAnne Barbour

Dec. 11 Psalm 126

It’s Christmas!

Have you ever had a birthday party when all the attention was focused on something or someone else other than you? Not a good feeling, I would assume! That must be the way Jesus feels when we get caught in the hustle of Christmas season. The people about whom the psalmist wrote in Psalm 126:1-3, gave praise to the Lord.

When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed . Our mouths filled with laughter,

our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations,

“The LORD has done great things for them.” The LORD has done great things for us,

and we are filled with joy.

We, too, praise God for loving us so much. The Bible tells us of the abundance of God’s love in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” As we celebrate Christmas, our main focus should be on Jesus. It is His birthday! A story is told of a family, who was having their celebration for Thanksgiving. They were gathered at the grandparent’s home and were eagerly anticipating Granny’s fantastic meal. it was after many hugs and much chatter, that they all quickly made their way to the dining table. The grandmother asked, “Who would like to say the blessing?” The granddaughter replied, “Me, Me!” When all were seated and waiting for the blessing the child positioned her little hands in a prayerful position, and with head bowed, she very reverently, joyfully, and sincerely, prayed this prayer, “Jesus, Amen.” What more needs to be said? Oh, the joy of Christmas!

~Jean Lewis

Dec. 12 Psalm 126

The Light at the End of the Tunnel - Having Faith in God

There are many times that we go through something bad, and we wonder, where is God? Why am I not getting the help I ask for when I pray? We must have faith and believe that God will provide, even if it is not on our timeline. God knows best, and he will bring blessings to the faithful. It is easy to forget this when we are faced with the trials of everyday life and when we see the evil that surrounds us. We have to trust God and his knowledge and power, and He will provide for his followers. We must put all of our eggs in the same basket, so to speak, knowing that our faithfulness will eventually be rewarded as He sees fit. It is difficult to be patient when we are in our darkest times, but we can find peace in our faith and see the light at the end of the tunnel. Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for your many blessings. Help us to trust in you and to be examples for those that need to know you and follow you.

~Joni Leonard

Dec. 13 Psalm 126, Habakkuk 3:2-6

The Sanctuary

The Psalmist writes “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” Then in Habakkuk, we read, “I will rejoice in the Lord.” The Advent season is a time to look forward to the birth of Jesus and rejoice. To rejoice is to celebrate, to have joy, be glad, and make merry. What’s this magic that comes around this time of year? It’s a celebration! It’s our Lord’s Birthday! It’s a promise come true! We can celebrate anywhere, but we especially celebrate in our sanctuary, which has such a warm glow during the Advent season. It seems to transform into a “Heavenly” room. A room where Christ touches lives, where the Holy Spirit fills us with Christmas cheer, and where we turn thoughts into giving. Come to the sanctuary; come and be surrounded by candles that flicker warm lights in all directions. Come and open your eyes, ears, and heart, and be filled with song from the choirs as we celebrate and “rejoice in the Lord.” Come and hear God’s message! How majestic! How blessed! How thankful we are, for God’s love and protection! Prayer: We can find your love, Father, in the sanctuary as we smile and greet one another. We can behold your power and glory when the choir sings praises to the birth of your Son , Jesus Christ. We can call out your name in thanksgiving for hope and faith and renewed hearts. Light the candles..a Savior is born! Amen ~Dennis Leonard

Dec. 14 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 (NIV)

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is

God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not treat

prophecies with contempt 21 but test them all; hold on to what is good, 22 reject every

kind of evil. 23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through.

May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord

Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.

Our Children look at Christmas through their beautiful eyes! Here are

some of their thoughts to remind you what it is like to see Christmas

through the eyes of a child.

“When I think of Christmas I think of joy, Jesus, family and friends.”

“Jesus, John, love, mercy, blest, Jesus’ birthday, Christ.”

“Getting a tree, getting presents, snow, celebrating Jesus’ birthday,

snow.”

“Christmas Lights, gifts, lighting a tree, a snow man.”

“Jesus' Birth, Christmas Pageant, snow, decorating a tree, an elf on the

shelf.”

“Family, happiness, smiles, love, joy, fun, wonderful, believe, Jesus,

God.”

“Birth, believing, God, loving, happiness, stained glass, joy, presents,

ham, mashed potatoes.”

“Jesus, a baby in a manger, snow, hot chocolate, snowball fight.”

“Happiness, joy, history, magic.”

~FBC Children

Dec. 15 Ephesians 6:10-17

Ephesians 6:10-17New International Version (NIV)

The Armor of God

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of

God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly

realms.13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to

stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the

breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness

that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of

faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

When the youth read this scripture reference together they chose to speak these words of encouragement to you…

“Be Brave, God is your strength. He will protect you.”

“Don’t let negative thoughts bring you down. Be strong and think positive.”

“Believe in yourself,” Trust God.

“If you lose a battle you work harder and try to win.”

“There will be hardships in life and evil things will come your way, but trust in God. Keep your faith in God. When all is said and done you will be with God forever.”

“We all have failures, you can’t change that. Failing is just succeeding in disguise.”

“Be Strong.”

“If Jesus is your armor and protector. Satan will never really hurt you.”

~FBC Youth

Dec. 16 2 Kings 2:9-22

Just Ask

I’ve often wondered where or how I might have the biggest impact for the Lord. It is easy for me to think myself inadequate to actually do anything of significance. As a believer, if my intentions align with God’s will, I can do great things in his name. All I have to do is ask. Elisha requested a double portion of Elijah’s spirit upon his departure. When Elisha struck the waters with the mantle, God confirmed his request had been granted because his motives were pure. Elisha’s goal was not to become greater than Elijah, but to continue his work for the Lord. Though the old Adam within says I’m insufficient, CHRIST is sufficient. All I must do is call upon the Lord and ask for the Holy Spirit’s help. He will show me opportunities that I can point others to Christ. Let us remember the real reason we celebrate Christmas and rejoice in the birth of the Savior. What better time than the holidays to serve our heavenly Father? Something as simple as a smile can influence another. Let our lives be an act of worship this season. Ask the Lord to use you for his glory! Prayer: Lord, as we reflect upon the birth of your Son, the humblest and most faithful of servants, align our hearts and intentions with yours. Help us to be intentional about serving you, and to live our lives in a way that others would know you. Give us a double portion of your spirit, that we might glorify Christ in all that we do. In Christ's name, Amen. ~Nola Woods

Dec. 17 Romans 12:12

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12 I can’t say I always act like I believe this challenge from Paul, but it is always good advice. It is especially encouraging advice for those of us who know that what we hope for, God’s eternal forgiveness, is precisely what we do not deserve. It is also encouraging that this advice comes from Paul, with the knowledge of all he had done, still tells us to hope. Paul’s hope on his forgiveness was bold and I believe it made him joyful. His hope was in the Messiah’s forgiveness, not in his deserving the Messiah’s forgiveness. At this Christmas season, when we say “He has come,” let us also joyfully say, “He is our hope.”

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us Lord God, to be faithful, gracious, loving, giv-ing and forgiving people you would have us to be. Thank you, Lord, for the gift of Your love. May I be a shining example of that love to others this Advent season and always. Amen ~Terri Thomas

Dec. 18 Hebrews 1:1-4

What’s in a Name

Before Christ was born, the mother of Jesus was told exactly what to call him. The angel said, "Call his name Jesus." This should suggest a pattern for us. Notice some things about this lovely Name. 1. It is an easy Name. It is pronounced almost the same in every language. It has only two syllables and a child can be taught it as easily as the word "mama." 2. It is a beautiful Name. Beautiful because of its association with a beautiful person. Some names are repulsive and arouse disgust because of whom they suggest. Such names are Nero, Judas, and Hilter. 3. It is a comforting Name, for it means: "God is our Savior." It is the only name under heaven whereby we can, and must, be saved. 4. It is a mighty Name. Some day every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that "Jesus is Lord." 5. It is an enduring Name. Born in obscurity many years ago in a

stable, dying like a criminal at the age of only 33. He has the most well-known name in the world.

6. It is the best Name. Our Savior has many, many names, but the name of Jesus is above them all. Whatever the name we may bear upon the earth, we can make it a good name or a bad name in the eyes of other people by the way we live our lives. Prayer: Thank you Lord for your Love, Grace, and Forgiveness. Help us this Christmas Season as well as throughout the year to live so that others will be able to see Jesus in us. Amen. ~Ernie Sprouse

Dec. 19 Hebrews 1:5-14

Fish! Or what? Let us endeavor to find some lost soul and introduce her/him to our Savior, the one who was willing to come as a little, tiny baby to save us. We always say, “a little, tiny baby,” but I think of him being somewhere between 8 and 12 pounds, as a big baby with many thoughts of people who need Him. Won’t you consider him as a dear friend, a loving Lord, a companion, a confidant, a healer, and a Savior today? Jesus is the “Light of the World,” so “let your little light shine!” Remember! We must fish with all the tools and mechanisms at our fingertips to bring all the people of the world to our Lord Jesus Christ. Prayer: Lord, hear us today! ~Audrey Mae Doak

Dec. 20 John 7:40-52

Throughout history, there has been division about who Jesus is and His

origin; this will continue until He comes to reign.

In the passage John 7:40-52, Nicodemus questions why people judge

before hearing or knowing what Jesus does. He risked his reputation

and position to speak up for Jesus. His bold statements made the

Pharisees suspicious, yet he did not back down, even when the time for

burial of Jesus came.

No man laid a hand on Jesus at this time because His time had not yet

come. Never had a man spoken like this man. The Pharisees were in a

quandary about how to deal with this situation.

His origin is in question, Galilee versus Bethlehem, but in reality the

answer lies in the truth that He is from Glory or Heaven and has the

best of homes from which to hail.

When each man goes to his own home to leave Jesus to go to the

Mt. of Olives, it is not unlike mankind who either leaves Jesus in the cold

or accepts his invitation to live in the love and light of His presence.

As the Christmas song in this year's cantata states “What Would You

Do With Jesus?" Will we crown Him as our King and serve Him all the

days of our lives or reject the precious gift from God to us born in a

manger, dying on the cross for our sins, and sitting at the right hand of

the Father in Heaven. Choose wisely and the reward will be eternally

living at Jesus' true birthplace with God the Father, the Son, and the

Holy Spirit who compose the Trinity.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, May we always strive to live in the light of your

love and seek your will in all of our endeavors. We praise You for the gift of our

Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who died for our sins and now reigns in Paradise

and intercedes on our behalf. We look forward to a joyous reunion and eternal

fellowship with you. Please forgive us of all the ways we fall short of your

expectations and may the Holy Spirit indwell in us as we daily seek to be more like

you through prayer and Bible study and in putting actions to our words through

ministering to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

~Pam Kerr

Dec. 21 Luke 1:46b-55

Mary has just found out she is going to have a baby. What is she feeling? Unhappy Scared Frightened by the angel Mary goes to visit her cousin Elizabeth. While she is there she sings a song to God. What is she feeling? Happy Joy Excited Comfort

She knows that God is there to protect and guide her.

Prayer: Dear God – Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so. Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep. Amen

~Millie Shelton and Aaron Rogers – Kindergarten Class

Dec. 21 Psalm 23

A Psalm for a Woman at Christmas

(From Psalm 23)

The Lord is my Pace-setter,

I shall not rush;

He provides me with images of stillness

which restore my serenity;

He leads me in ways of efficiency

through calmness of mind,

And his guidance is peace.

Even though I have a great many

things to accomplish each day,

I will not fret, for his presence is here.

His timelessness, his all importance,

will keep me in balance.

He prepares refreshment and renewal

in the midst of my activity

By anointing my mind with his oils

of tranquility.

My cup of joyous energy overflows.

Surely harmony and effectiveness

shall be the fruits of my hours,

For I shall walk in the pace of my

Lord, and dwell in his house forever.

~Submitted by Beverly Bowers

Dec. 22 Psalm 96

How blessed we are to be able to worship freely and without fear of imprisonment or even death at a time when Christians in many parts of the world are suffering hardship and persecution for refusing to renounce their faith in Christ. What a privilege it is to be able to freely sing praises to our Lord during this Advent season when our thoughts are focused on the birth, life, and sacrifice of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Also, as we proclaim his glory, let us praise him for the promise of eternal life bought through his sacrifice for us while we were yet sinners. So, with the Psalmist, let us rejoice as we proclaim the message of Christ our Lord. As we participate in congregational singing, instrumental and/or choir music, may we offer it up in a spirit or worship, thanksgiving, and praise! Prayer: Jesus, as we reflect on the Christmas message, may we come to you with humble and grateful hearts even though we are unable to fully comprehend your great love for us. Also, let us not forget our persecuted brothers and sisters during this blessed and holy season. Amen ~May Tabor

Dec. 22 Luke 1:46b-55

Mary’s Song

As I sit and read, and reread Mary's Song, I ask two things. The first is where did this young girl in such a difficult position, a position that should be terrifying, develop such confidence? She shows no doubt of the child she carries and all that the Lord will accomplish through Him. Where did such strength come from? Today we struggle with so many things in our daily lives. We stress and plan and pray, stress, plan and pray. Over and over we repeat this cycle. How do we gain the confidence in God that this girl possessed so young? She quotes of her place in history as blessed. She does not lament on where she will live or who will help her raise God's Son. She has a trust in the Lord that all will happen as He promised. I believe this confidence and trust in God is what sustained her through the following months and years. Through birth in a manger, through daily life of raising Jesus, through the death of a Son, Mary's strength remains. My second question I asked myself was how do I make this happen in my life? Imagine what we will do as a Christian, as God's arms, if we have the confidence of this young girl Mary. To quote Dr. Seuss, "Kid, you'll move mountains." Prayer: Today I pray - Lord, have patience in me. I pray for strength and confi-dence. Not in my daily life, but in Your plans for my life. Guide me to your plan for me so that I may reach out to others with enough strength and confidence that those around me see only Your love and promises in their lives. ~Joey Ondrak

Dec. 23 1 Samuel 2:1-10

Hannah was an ancient Israelite who was barren of children. The name “Hannah” means “grace,” and she portrayed grace in the way she dealt with her barrenness. Certainly this feeling of incompleteness made her a woman of faith and motivated her to give her best to the Lord. Being a devout believer she believed the Lord wanted her to pray for a son so that she might give him back to the Lord to serve Him for all the days of his life. Hannah never gave up and her son, named Samuel, became one of Israel’s best known sons and prophets. What an example Hannah is in her praying! It was a prayer of sorrow, sacrifice, and suffering. She laid her bare soul before the Lord knowing she would be giving up a child.

In her deep anguish Hannah prayed to the Lord, weeping bitterly. And she made a vow, saying, “LORD Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and then remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to thee Lord for all the day of his life, and no razor will be used on his head.” 1 Samuel 1:10-11

Are we willing, like Hannah, to dedicate our life and our children to the service of our Almighty God? Prayer: Oh Lord, give us the patience and faith of Hannah. Help us to wait for an answer to our prayers that is pleasing to you. You know our every need and have made a plan for our life. Help us to make sacrifices to glorify your name. Amen. ~Hunter Widener

Dec. 23 Psalm 96

This Psalm is about singing to the Lord, praising his name. It is a “new” song because each day is new. God is all about NEWNESS. So much of our lives are caught up in the same ole stuff that we always do. Every day we have the same routine, same rut, same limitations and same song. Sure we are thankful, grateful, and appreciative of God’s grace and mercy and we love Him, but the Psalmist challenges us to do something new. If your spiritual experience is stale and your inspiration is 'old,' maybe it is time for some refreshing. Are your prayers cold? Are your dreams on hold? Have you parked your vision? Do you really not expect your life to change much? Life and the enemy have a way of ganging up on our attitudes and mindsets to keep us stuck and stalled. I'm afraid that most of us live the overwhelming part of our existence in spiritual neutral, having lost our drive and just trying to avoid reverse. What is up with that? That is not ok. It is definitely time for a tune up, maybe an overhaul. Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father: Help us to look at each day with new and fresh eyes. It is so easy to get stuck in our everyday lives, in the same old rut and routine. We need to continually search for newness in life. There are always different ways we can carry out your work. Help us to be open to challenges and not be just stalled and avoiding reverse. Each day, help us to sing a new song and praise your name in a new way. In Jesus name we pray. Amen. ~Terri Cook

Dec. 24 Isaiah 9:2-7

The little night lights that we often use are incredible little devices. That little bit of light in a dark bedroom can be the difference between a solid night’s sleep and hours of fear for a child. Even for an adult, that little light can be the difference between falling over something in the bedroom and making it safely to the bathroom. As we all know, when it gets dark a little bit of light is a good thing. The world in which we live can get pretty dark at times, and I’m not just speaking of a moonless night. In our world, sin has turned us into a nation of people bumbling and fumbling around in the dark. The evil and wickedness we see in the world can be downright suffocating. Christmas is all about lights; lights on the tree, lights on our home and most importantly by far a light in a manger in Bethlehem. Join me praising God this Christmas for the light of the World who came to free us from our sins, a light has dawned. His name is Jesus. He came to forgive our sings and to teach us how to love. Prayer: Heavenly Father, we praise and thank you for sending Jesus to die for our sins. Send your Spirit to us to strengthen our faith in the Light of the World. Work through us to bring the light of Christ to this dark world. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen! ~Eric Hicks

Dec. 24 Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Every time I read these verses I can’t help but hear the song “Turn, Turn, Turn” by The Byrds from the 1960’s playing through my head. It’s amazing to me that the words of Solomon in Ecclesiastes written thousands of years ago were set to music and became a part of our pop culture in America. I am sure there are many people who can sing every word of that song but have no idea it was inspired by the Bible. But we, as Christians, know the truth behind these words. Everything that happens in our lives happens for a reason. God has a plan for our lives and all the things that we’ve been through, the good and the bad, will work together towards His plan for each of us. We must have faith in God that He is in control of it all. Wherever this Christmas season finds us, whether weeping or laughing; mourning or dancing; or seeking peace after a long, hard battle, we know God is with us. We must remember to raise our faces up to the One who created us. He knows us better than anyone. He sees right into our souls, and He will give us the very thing we need the most if we just ask Him and have faith. We know this because over 2,000 years ago he sent us His Son Jesus to save us from the sins of this world. Let us praise Jesus this Christmas season because he really is THE REASON FOR THE SEASON! Prayer: Dear Lord, during the hustle and bustle of Christmas, help us to remember You are the reason behind our celebrating. Remind us that you are always with us and will always take care of us. Please don’t let the activities of Christmas outshine the meaning of Christmas. May we praise your name and give you all the glory. Amen. ~Tracey Talbert

Dec. 24 Luke 1:46-55

Please read Luke 1:46-55 This is Mary’s Song. A beautiful song for us to live by today. Everything is turned upside down. The proud are scattered, powerful brought down, lowly lifted up, hungry fed and the rich left without riches. This is wonderful news for the humble , the lowly, the hungry and the poor. What about everyone else? Today , what do we learn from Mary’s Song. How do we apply it? The vast majority of people in the world today live each day with a challenge just to survive. The challenge never goes away because they live in poverty. Christmas gifts for poor kids will brighten their day but it will not change their lives unless we can change the ways of the world toward justice, greed and enoughness. Help us to never be content with the world but each day let us give of our self and work together to make this world a better place for everyone. Prayer: Our dear Heavenly Father, we are thankful, very grateful , for the lives you have given us but never let us be content with the world around us. Teach us to be more like Mary. We are asking you to help us to have a willingness to live , do and be your courageous ambassadors of your Kingdom. Help us to realize as Mary did what a privilege it is to give of ourselves for the sakes of God’s Kingdom. In your Holy Name we ask. Amen!

~Linda Pruner

Dec. 25 Luke 2:1-20

Still Waiting for Peace

On this day when our Advent anticipation ends and we read the old, old story of the birth of Christ, we also find ourselves still waiting. We still wait for peace and for the promises of good will to others to be truth we practice in our own lives. What happened to the hope of Isaiah and the shining promise of the angels? When do we focus on ourselves as children of God, even those of us who take our faith and baptism seriously? What is it that makes us so dissatisfied, even sad, despite all the songs and lights, the hope of Isaiah and the angel promises? Maybe because these promises have not been fulfilled in our own lives. Where does that leave us? What if we really behaved as if we believe in Christmas? As if the Word became flesh and dwells among us? As if the Son of God was really born in Bethlehem? As if he dwells among us every day as the Prince of Peace? Remember that Jesus always greeted his disciples with, “Peace be with you.” The great prophets had justice and peace as themes, “Let justice roll down like waters,” or “May the peace of God be with you.” Were they just playing with words? I don’t think so. Jesus desires for us to have peace. True peace in our hearts is what we're missing. The words of Isaiah and the promise of the angels stand before us unchanged. "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light." "And on earth, peace, good will to men." If only we could hear these words today as if hearing them for the first time. If only we learned to live these words. How our lives would change! What a world we would leave to our children and grandchildren! May God forgive us, may Christ have mercy upon us. Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for sending your son to be born on earth and to give His life on earth to save us from our sin. Thank you for life itself and the ability to enjoy and cherish your greatest gift. Amen ~Mary Amburn

Dec. 25 Luke 2:1-14

Looking for Jesus

Garrison Keillor writes about life in Lake Wobegon and describes in one of his stories the town’s yearly excitement about Christmas. He writes of pageants, special services, and multiple musicals and plays. He even admits that some are not always perfect and to an outsider may seem a bit odd or even goofy. Why would all of these ordinary people, who have very little training in acting and music, put so much energy in these Christmas events? “Because, says Keillor, “it’s a great story and we just want to be a part of it.” Today, we celebrate this great story, and we are a part of it! As you think and pray this morning remember the story by reading Luke 2: 1-14. Gather your “cast” around you and give thanks for one another and for the great plot God has created for each of us through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a great story and we are, thanks be to God, part of it. Prayer: Almighty God: Thanks to you for your love, mercy, and care. We worship and adore you today, and every day, O Christ our Lord and Re-deemer. Amen ~ Ronnie Brewer

Dec. 25 The Christmas Story

Luke 2:1-20 New International Version (NIV)

2 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.

4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her first-born, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

We would like to thank all of those who contributed to this year’s Advent devotional booklet and a special thanks to Virginia Hiss for

providing the artwork for the cover. May it bless all those who read it.

~Worship Team