Lost in Wonder, Love and Praise

Advent 2012

Southside Baptist ChurchBirmingham, Alabama

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Lost in Wonder, Love and PraiseAdvent 2012

Since the fourth century, the Church has celebrated the season of Advent (which means “coming” or “arrival”) starting on the four Sundays before Christmas day. The arrival of Advent helps us focus our attention on Jesus Christ’s birth and ministry, as well as his promised return. Throughout the season, we are constantly reminded that Jesus is the Light and Savior of the world.

The days leading up to Christmas are filled with distractions. There are presents to buy, parties to plan and attend, cards to send, family to see, songs to sing, movies to watch and traditions to follow. We need help to make our way through the many distractions of the Christmas season if we are to focus our attention to our journey of faith with Jesus. This devotional guide is designed to help us do that – with others. In this devotional, you will read scripture, hear the words, wisdom and inspiration of your church family, and hopefully, find yourselves this Advent season – “Lost in Wonder, Love and Praise.”

Steve Jones, Pastor

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Sunday, December 2Darlene Green

Psalm 147:2-5 “GOD’s the one who rebuilds Jerusalem, who regathers Israel’s scattered exiles. He heals the heartbroken and bandages their wounds. He counts the stars and assigns each a name. Our Lord is great, with limitless strength; we’ll never comprehend what he knows and does...

“God is great. God is good. Let us thank Him for our food. “

This is a blessing we often learn early in life. I always wondered how to make “good” and “food” rhyme. It didn’t make sense. It is easy to get distracted from the message by focusing on the extraneous. The words in this Psalm highlight the “greatness” and illustrate the “goodness” of God. Part of the greatness is we will never comprehend what he does. Often the distraction of trying to understand the inequality and the evil we see in the world becomes our focus. Why do I have a warm bed to sleep in every night while so many don’t? Or why do others have multiple homes and expensive cars while I struggle to pay monthly bills? I won’t mention any of the many other confusing and contradictory issues that can distract us because I think God would rather we spend our time and energy following His example of healing the heartbroken and bandaging their wounds. Even if I think God should have handled things differently, for whatever reason he chose to make the world the way it is, and I need to just get over it.

The time of year we celebrate the birth of Jesus provides many opportunities to carry out this mission of healing the world. There is a Hebrew phrase Tikkun olam which means “repairing the world.” Humanity has a shared responsibility with God to heal, restore and transform the world. The God who has named all of the stars and has limitless strength chose to have His people be His hands to bandage the wounds of the broken hearted. Don’t waste your time trying to understand Him. Rather than getting lost in the “wondering why” simply get lost in the wonder of the season of Hope & Praise!

Heavenly Father, Praise you for your majesty and the wonderful gift of your world. Help us to see the beauty all around us. Amen.

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Monday, December 3Randy Davis

Luke 20:2-8 "Tell us what authority you are doing these things," they said.  "Who gave you this authority?"  He replied, "I will also ask you a question.  Tell me, John's baptism - was it from heaven or from men?  They discussed it among themselves and said, "If we say, 'From Heaven,' he will ask, 'Why didn't you believe him?' But if we say, 'From men,' all the people will stone us, because they are persuaded that John was a prophet."  So they answered, "We don't know where it was from."  Jesus said, "Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things."  

Many times we all will wait for someone to tell us what to do..... a green light to tell us to go, our taxes are due on April 15th, and let’s not forget - respect your elders.  For those who know me, I am one that likes order and respect for authority. However, authority should not be a camouflage for hesitation to use the Talents God has given us.  It is easy for us to want to let others be responsible, let others worry, let others be the ones that reach out to care for others, let others share the message of God's love.  

By God giving unto us, his son, Jesus Christ, he gave to each of us his unconditional love.  But it was not given to be held only within ourselves. The Christmas season and this time of Advent allows us to reflect and refocus on the hope and faith that transcends all the daily trials and tribulations each of us face.  God wants each of us to have the ability, in our relationship with Christ, to reach out in caring for others and spreading the Gospel. May we spend time during Advent, praying for guidance on how we can be a better instrument in sharing God's love.

Heavenly father, thank you for this season of reflection as we look forward to The Greatest Hope being introduced to us through Christ.  Help me to share this time of hope with others that I touch.  Amen.

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Tuesday, December 4Jamie Erdberg

Psalm 5:11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

Psalm 6:4 Turn Lord, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love.

December 2011-December 2012 has been a rough one for me and my family.  Cancer has taken a friend and a cousin quite suddenly, and we're left this holiday season taking names off of the Holiday card list and remembering who won't be at the annual Christmas party.  Probably because of the sadness which has taken us by surprise this year, these passages spoke to me.

We don't seem to have the "enemies" which concern the psalmist, other than the foul disease cancer.  I am not angry with cancer; however, though I truly wish and hope that God would put it to shame.  We all have our lot in life, and I spent my twenties asking silly questions like "why".  My thirties led me to bigger questions, like, "Where do we go from here?"

The answer is always the same when it comes to my faith.  In times of my greatest sorrow and anguish, I trust in the Lord, and He delivers me.  It is not a light switch, and it does not always happen as clearly and efficiently as I'd like.  But I can always trust in Him just the same.

In a season of wonder, hope, and praise, this year we will also have our sorrow.  But despite the vast differences that are present in my family, we will all have the common ground and the common strength of taking refuge in the Lord.  If anything, our grief has given us the clear vision of what is important and what is not; that petty political differences are nothing when it comes to love.

I will trust in the Lord.  I will thank Him for the gift of Christmas.  And I will continue to be saved by his unfailing love. Amen.

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Wednesday, December 5Nicole Fortune

Isaiah 2:1-11 This is what Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem: In the last days the mountain of the LORD’s temple will be established as the highest of the mountains; it will be exalted above the hills, and all nations will stream to it.  Many peoples will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the temple of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.” The law will go out from Zion, the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.  He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore. Come, descendants of Jacob, let us walk in the light of the LORD.  You, LORD, have abandoned your people, the descendants of Jacob. They are full of superstitions from the East;     they practice divination like the Philistines and embrace pagan customs.  Their land is full of silver and gold; there is no end to their treasures. Their land is full of horses; there is no end to their chariots.  Their land is full of idols; they bow down to the work of their hands, to what their fingers have made.  So people will be brought low and everyone humbled—    do not forgive them.  Go into the rocks, hide in the ground from the fearful presence of the LORD and the splendor of his majesty!  The eyes of the arrogant will be humbled and human pride brought low; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day.

In these tough times, it is vital to rely on God for those difficult issues that are with us now. No matter who we are, whether we are retired, in school or working full-time, it has been harder to make ends meet. We are seeing an increase in governmental assistance as unemployment accounts run dry with people losing their homes throughout America. We are still under terrorist attack, and things seem grim. The good fight to care for your family is tougher than ever. Although war still paralyzes the nations, Jesus promises peace in (Isaiah 2:4). “Nation will not raise sword to nation, neither shall they learn War”. Wealth and worry are still our idols, and they need to be replaced with faith in the Lord our God. Faith allows us the knowledge that God will be there for us all, and for me, that is sometimes a daily struggle. Fear and worry plague me from time to time. I pray for the future of our country each day.

God, give me the faith and knowledge that I need to be strong in your message of peace. Thank you for the resources you have given me to sustain life, and thank you for blessing my family. Thank you for opening up your path, and please let us be better Christians in all aspects of life. Keep me safe in times of trouble, and bless me with the power of truth. Amen.

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Thursday, December 6Rusty Bennett

Psalm 18: 1-3 I love you, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised; so I shall be saved from my enemies.

Lost FaithDo you even know me? When I tell you I love you…do you believe me? I ask the world, when is the suffering done? When is the homeless finally free from insanity? When is the burdened mother free from worries? The child/ teen, finally living life without struggles? When is stress, finally gone?

Am I to stand and take every pinch and hit? Am I to watch everyone suffer and fall?Do I let my puzzle pieces get outta hand? and wait.. till the world stops spinning to pick myself up again?

Ocean full of tears. Air full of sorrow. What am I to believe? God is actually there?

I'm reaching? Can you see? I'm giving up. Are you there? And now I see why so many lost faith.

By Dislocated Heart. Retrieved at Poem Hunter http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/lost-faith-5/.

In a world full of brokenness, there remains a God that simply asks us to believe. As I read the poem Lost Faith, I reflect on conversations I have had with people that yearn to be loved. As a result of adversities, they have lost their faith in a God that truly loves and cares for them. Their lives are characterized by self-doubt, pain, and cynicism. The acceptance of a God, as reflected by the Psalmist that hears and responds to the concerns of His people is foreign to these people. Even among Believers, our faith in God often goes only as far as we can see and reason.

As I reflect on those early followers that journeyed to the Christ child, I know it took great faith to make those first steps. Like those that have journeyed before, we too travel a path of tests that challenges our faith each and every day. We have a choice. We can hold firm to our belief in a God of refuge and strength as described by the Psalmist, or we

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can simply give in to the apathy of our world.

During this Advent season, I encourage you to take refuge in the loving, forever embrace of God. Purposively, seek to reawaken your faith and get lost in the wonder of the Christ child. He is a reminder in the midst of a crazy and confusing world; God is ever present, ever awake, and waiting to welcome us.

God as so many of us struggle with believing in you let us as your children be reminded of your promised love. As we journey to the Christ child let us again sense the wonder of our faith. Amen

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Friday, December 7Ginger Aaron-Brush

Psalm 16:1-2 Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge.  I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing.”

Recently my family went through an emotional ten day period following my dad’s sudden hospitalization until his unexpected death. What began as a tragic, unforeseen moment ended in grief and sadness. Gratefully, we were surrounded by love and support from family and friends. During this time, I frequently found myself in deep prayer seeking God’s refuge.

In times of trouble and despair like I recently experienced, my prayers and conversations with God are typically far from calm. It is in these dark, difficult hours when I feel I am pleading with God. I am often searching, seeking, and trying to discern God’s word and His will with an irrational mind and heart. During these difficult situations in life, emotions and feelings often overwhelm reality. The truth is often impossible to comprehend because of disbelief and uncertainty.

This, however, is not the case with David as he calls out to God in the 16 th Psalm. Although he is in a time of trouble, David’s tone is not that of complaint or despair but instead is that of confidence in his Lord. David is calm and at peace knowing that his God will not abandon him despite the trials and tribulations that he faces. In times of our personal angst, we often hit survival mode and deploy our own types of treatment as we try to fill the void with anything that could possibly bring us comfort. However, we must not overlook or neglect that God is our true comforter. We must remember as David eloquently states, “Apart from You I have no good thing”.

Through life’s difficult moments may we all have the courage to face things knowing that God is our refuge, our only hope, and our true source of strength. During this Christmas season, may we feel peace and comfort knowing we will not be abandoned and will find true, honest joy in God’s presence.

Father God, I thank you for being my refuge. I feel at peace knowing that you will always provide me comfort during my most difficult days. Give me the strength to be confident in You in all the days of my life. Amen

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Saturday, December 8Marilyn Shepard

Luke 21:12-15 –But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. They will hand you over to synagogues and put you in prison, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. And so you will bear testimony to me. But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.

A few years ago, we were watching a presidential speech. My youngest son came in the room to tell us about a food one of his school friends had let him try. It was a very odd food, so my husband asked Cameron what race his friend was. Cameron replied, “Nothing to worry about, I’m pretty sure he’s a Democrat.”

I, apparently, have taught my son that there are two races of people in the world, Democrats and Republicans. Please don’t ask him who the Messiah is. I’m afraid of what he might say.

Honestly, this is not what I planned to teach my son. I wanted to teach him that all of his friends are children of God, created by the Father to be holy and blameless in his sight. I wanted to teach him that God loves and accepts everyone just as they are, that God sent a Savior who gave his life so that we would know God’s mercy and forgiveness, and that God will walk with him always.

God has given us a special gift; a gift of words and wisdom that none of our adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. It’s not just a gift for the apocalypse. It’s a gift for now; a gift that can be used to change the world. We have words and wisdom from God; words to teach our children about Christ, words to comfort a grieving friend, words to spread the good news about Jesus.

Like all gifts, God does not intend for his gift to stay in a box collecting dust while we talk about politics or football or movies. There is a grieving, hurting, mixed-up world out there, and we have the words to make a difference. Isn’t it time to start using them?

Dear Lord,Thank you so much for revealing yourself to us and giving us the ability to tell others about you. Help us to speak your words of comfort and hope to those who need to hear them.

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Sunday, December 9Mark Grimmett

Isaiah 5:1-7 I will sing a song about my friend’s vineyard that was on the side of a fertile hill. My friend dug the ground, removed the stones, and planted the best vines. He built a watchtower and dug a pit in rocky ground for pressing the grapes. He hoped they would be sweet, but bitter grapes were all it produced.

Sometimes, despite our best intentions, the crops we grow are not what we hoped for or expected. We use the best seed, we take great care in its cultivation, but still the resulting vine bears bad fruit. I will leave the question of why bad things happen to good people to wiser theologians than me. What I do know is that we all make choices, and those choices affect our lives in ways that may not be immediately obvious. We all know people who are seemingly incapable of making the right choices; when presented with two options, they will invariably choose the least healthy one.

But how do we deal with it when we’ve done everything right, and yet things don’t go according to plan? I believe spiritual growth occurs not because of the things that happen to us in life, but how we react to them. Do I have regrets about events in the past? Absolutely. Is there anything I would change if I could? Probably. But would I be the same person today if I’d never experienced those things? Hard to say, but possibly not; we are all the sum of our experiences, good and bad.

Jesus didn’t have to make mistakes; we, as imperfect human beings, do. Our mistakes, however, should ideally lead us to the path that is more Christ-like. With the help of His example and teachings, and a little self-discipline, we can avoid returning over and over to the same failed practices. The outcome still may not be the one hoped for, but as time goes on, we stand a better chance of harvesting good fruit. Our hope should be that, by the time we leave this life, we have learned to be more tolerant, forgiving, servant-like – in short, to be more like the example of Jesus.

When our lives bear bad fruit, let us have the strength and wisdom to prune the wayward vine, to start over, and to work to bring forth better fruit in the future, fruit that will nurture others as well as ourselves. Amen.

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Monday, December 10Sonya McCurdy

Psalm 25:1-7 I lift up my soul to You, O Lord.  O my God, I trust in You. Do not let me be ashamed. Do not let those who fight against me win.  Yes, let no one who hopes in You be put to shame. But put to shame those who hurt others without a reason.  Show me Your ways, O Lord. Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me. For You are the God Who saves me. I wait for You all day long. Remember Your loving-pity and Your loving-kindness, O Lord. For they have been from old. Do not remember my sins from when I was young, or my sinful ways. By Your loving-kindness remember me for You are good, O Lord.

When I first saw my scripture choices, I knew immediately which one I would write on. Around this time last year, I was reading this scripture constantly. I was in a battle that I knew could only be fought and won by the Holy Trinity. While I was in the midst of the war, I felt lost. I didn’t understand why I had to fight and suffer through all the struggles, pains, and hurts that I was experiencing at the time. I continued to stay hopeful and steadfast in my belief that God had bigger plans for me.

When I came out on the righteous side of the war, I knew that I had done the right thing by being obedient to Gods command. Just by being obedient and trying my best to be of God every day, I was exalted, and my enemies were defeated. I learned so much during that time, but the most important lessons were never give up and continue to praise God during the storm.

I know that I am one of God’s anointed children, and he has delivered me from hurt, harm, and danger all of my life because I still have His work to do. My mother told me long before the battle began that God would not deliver me until I made the appropriate changes in my life.

Once I changed my attitude and behaviors towards my enemies, there was a shift in the atmosphere. Because I continued to be obedient, God softened my enemies’ hearts against me, and they apologized for all the bad things that they said and did to me.

When I think back to last year when my enemies were hoping and praying for me to fail, I’m no longer hurt because I know there was a lesson that I had to learn from the experience. I had to learn that lesson before I could be moved into my purpose. If I did not learn from that tumultuous experience, I would not be able to appreciate what God has given me now. The very people who hurt me have come to me for help, and I have helped them because that is what God commands me to do. I am honoring God’s will when I help those who hurt me. No one is perfect in this world, but I try to lead by example and model Christ in everything I do.

Dear God, Thank You for deliverance. Thank You for not giving up on me and for continually guiding me like a Shepherd to His sheep. Lord thank You for forgiving me for my past sins and trespasses. God please continue to help me become a better person. God help me to be of You to someone every day and to show everyone Your unwavering and forgiving love. Amen

Sonya R. McCurdy

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Tuesday, December 11Donna Wilson

Psalm 39:1 To the chief Musician, even to Jeduthun, a Psalm of David. I said I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will muzzle my mouth, while the wicked is in my presence. I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, even from good; and my sorrow was renewed.

Waiting is a part of life. But waiting is sometimes dangerous. Why do so many wait to make things right with God? Why put off things we know need doing? Many times we fail to act because spiritually we are unprepared; we are too distant from God. As Solomon said in Ecclesiastes 3: 1-7 “To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Jesus continues to intercede for the believer in the present time, and each one must determine when silence might be appropriate in his own life.

Consider the Psalmist David who, because of his own sin and estrangement from God, for a time could no longer speak for the Lord (he was ashamed to teach righteousness when he himself had been so negligent). Sin and neglect make it awkward for us to communicate any spiritual truths to others. Pain and sorrow, it woke David up to his soul’s true needs. It caused him to ask, “And now Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in Thee.”

Father: Like David, it is foolish for us to wait as well. There is too much at stake. The consequences for neglect are too steep; and the reward for seeking you in righteousness is too wondrous. Our hope is the Lord. Amen.

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Wednesday, December 12Stan Glasscox

John 7:53-8:11 Then they all went home, but Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. At dawn he appeared again in the temple courts, where all the people gathered around him, and he sat down to teach them. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”

Back in the day, I spent my summers working construction jobs (you can stop laughing now). And because I was “summer help” I would get the worst of the worst jobs to perform. These were jobs that called for low skill, little thought, and a lot of muscle (again, stop laughing; back in the day I was in better - and different - shape than now).

Usually these jobs called for me to do a lot of toting, or to use the Yiddish - schlepping. I would have to schlep a load of rocks, 2X4s, bags of concrete, pieces of sheetrock or boxes of nails from point A to point B. And, inevitably, someone told me the wrong place for point B, and I would have to schlep the rocks, 2X4s, concrete bags, sheetrock or nails to another place.

All of this schlepping taught me a valuable lesson - that a day of schlepping heavy stuff takes a toll on your body and mind. I would go home every day and collapse in my room, my muscles and head aching with pain. And I was good for nothing for the rest of the day or night, possessing only the strength it would take to get a shower, eat something, and crawl into bed.

A reading of this account of the adulterous woman brought before Jesus reminded me of my schlepping days. Surely those who brought this poor women before Jesus for condemnation must have brought the stones (the really heavy ones) with which they were going to stone her. Why bring the woman for condemnation if you don’t bring the stones with which you immediately exact the condemnation - yes?

Good thing Jesus didn’t have any stones. But He did have His finger (and no, not the finger that most of us use to drive with on I-65 or 280). For with that finger, Jesus was able to render all those stones useless, ‘cause a stone can’t cause you harm unless

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it’s hurled at you. And when He began to write in the sand, I imagine that many folks began to realize that schlepping stones just wasn’t worth the effort anymore. I imagine that as Jesus began writing in the sand one could hear the resounding “thump” and “thud” of heavy stones hitting the ground. I’m sure He heard a muttering or two, but this thump and thud must have been music to that woman’s ears. And eventually, the thump and thud became music for the stone bearers.

Yes, the effort of gathering up all those stones, of lifting them up high above their heads became too much to bear when Jesus began writing out the names of those who, like the adulterous woman, were worthy of a good old stoning. And then the joy of stoning someone who had sinned quickly went away when it was realized that when you are schlepping stones to stone your neighbor, you are really schlepping stones to stone yourself.

After a while, you get tired of all that schlepping. Let’s make Advent a schlepping-free time of the year, at least when it comes to gathering stones.

Father: Help us to drop our stones and forgive each other just like you forgive us. Amen

Thursday, December 13

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Brenda Tidwell

Psalm 37: 1 – 5 “Don’t worry about the wicked or envy those who do wrong. For like grass, they soon fade away. Like spring flowers, they soon wither. Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you.”

Have you ever been called a “worry-wart”? Do you always think about the bad things that can happen? Do you think about the worst outcome every time you go to the doctor?Do we really trust in the Lord? Or do we think our worrying is going to give us anything besides high blood pressure or an upset stomach.

This Psalm tells us to trust God and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about what others are doing, just trust God and do good yourself; ignore the wicked for they aren’t going to be there tomorrow. We need to remember to let God handle these people and not get upset by them. He will take care of them in his own time.

Today, step back and see if you can commit a day to just trusting in God and not try to help him do it quicker.

Father, So many times I try to do things on my own. So many times I forget to trust you. So many times I forget YOU. Please forgive me and help me to trust you always. Amen.

Friday, December 14

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Jerry Huie

Psalm 35:1 Contend, LORD, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me.

As you prayerfully read Psalm 35, you will see that it is simply a plea for deliverance from our enemies. In these passages, God is asked to avenge us against those we feel are wronging us. Sadly, too often, many of us seek revenge instead of leaving that task up to God.

The people of God should not seek revenge. In Romans 12:19 we are told “Dearly beloved, Avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath; for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.”

Personal revenge creates a hateful spiritual influence in your mind and always brings something worse back to you. This is exactly what the devil desires, because he has then fooled another human being into acting like himself, often with tragic results.

Have you ever felt like you’ve been treated badly and you did little or nothing to deserve it? We have all seen someone we love suffer a great injustice. In the blink of an eye, you may decide to take revenge.

In today’s films, television and even computer games, the more casual term, ’payback’ is often portrayed as an effective solution to a problem. The question isn’t so much “should I take revenge?” as it is “what is the ultimate revenge?” Even though revenge is glorified and portrayed as the right thing to do, as Christians we should still ask the question “is it really the right thing to do?”

There are at least two distinct ways of handling revenge: God’s way or the personal way. God’s way is simple; he reminds us that he cares enough for mankind to direct any vengeance to be carried out in order to keep evil at bay. The personal way is when ordinary people decide that they have the right to take revenge into their own hands. This is when we have a problem. When revenge becomes personal, we often strike without thinking of the consequences.

In Shakespeare’s, “The Merchant of Venice” Shylock is given as the perfect example of a revenge seeker going to extremes to get his, “pound of flesh.” Shylock gleefully says that in seeking revenge, he will simply be doing no more than following what he sees as a Christian custom: “If a Christian wrongs me, what should my sufferance be by Christian example? Why, revenge.”

Isn’t it sad that often people seeking revenge see it as a Christian custom, as Shylock did? I’m sure we all can recall that as a result of his vicious demands, he has a sad ending to his quest.

We’ve all heard someone quote the old saying, “an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a

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tooth.” Jesus said of this, “You have all heard the law that says the punishment must match the injury. I say to you, do not resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also,” God’s purpose behind this law was an expression of mercy.

Most people say that they feel that our system of justice too often fails and the guilty go unpunished or unrepentant. Even if your enemy never repents, forgiving him or her will free you of a heavy load of bitterness. Forgiving a personal attack shows more strength than lashing out in revenge. Trying to prove one’s power and authority often proves only one’s fear and self-doubt. When tempted to return evil with evil, leave revenge to the Lord. God will bless you for it. Put all your energy into moving on and the rest will take care of itself.

Here is a “betrayed to-do list” that if we take to heart, will make us better people by following God’s plan.

1. Let God take all revenge2. Forgive your betrayer3. Pray for the offender

At this beautiful Christmas Season, following these simple rules can help us as we make new and wonderful memories for the holidays.

Father, teach us to forgive. Help us to show mercy. Show us how to love. Amen.

Saturday, December 15

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Patty Cline

Luke 22:31-38: “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” But he replied, “Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death.” Jesus answered, “I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me.” Then Jesus asked them, “When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?” “Nothing,” they answered. He said to them, “But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one. It is written: ‘And he was numbered with the transgressors’; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfillment.” The disciples said, “See, Lord, here are two swords.” “That’s enough!” he replied. In my life, as I am sure is true with all of us, I have experienced many ups and downs.   There have been lean years and years of plenty.  There have been times of many friends and times when I felt I was all alone with no one to turn to.  There have been years when my family was disconnected and years of joyous celebration of togetherness.  I think Jesus experienced the gamut of human emotion, being able to fully relate to our earthly experience.  He understands our weaknesses and tribulations, as he knew Peter would deny Him.  Surely he knew the depth of Peter's love for Him.  But He was also fully aware of the situation and Peter's human frailty. 

How many times have we been strong in our faith and love for our Lord, when we felt we would go anywhere or do anything for Him?  I have had numerous experiences when I could sense His presence in a special way, when there was no doubt of His love, grace, and guidance in my life.  Yet, there have been periods when I had doubts, when I wondered why humans exist at all with all our pettiness and selfishness.  But Jesus came to redeem us.  He shows us immeasurable grace.  He shows us the God within; goodness, love, and charity.  He guides us through it all if we pray and listen.  This life is not an easy one.  We all experience many trials and tests.  If we follow God's guidance, we can grow to be more like Him through these experiences.  He is always there.  He will never desert us even when we feel alone.  I am so grateful to know Jesus!  He is everything to me!!! 

Dear Lord, Praise you for who you are and your wondrous gift to us. Amen

Sunday, December 16

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Steve Jones

Psalm 98: 1; 4 Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things. Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst forth into jubilant song with music. We are nearing the Christmas event! Yes, I call it an “event” because there are so many working and moving parts to Advent and Christmas, that it is only with earnest effort and endless energy that we are able to squeeze it all in. At times during this season our anxiety level rises to such a point that this mythical joy that we so loudly proclaim is scarce if present at all.

Years ago, Isaac Watts wrote “Joy to the World,” the well-loved hymn so often sung throughout the Advent and Christmas season. Ironically, Watts never intended this hymn for Christmas use at all. Instead, he simply intended to paraphrase the words of Psalm 98: “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth…for he comes…” Amidst his poetry about Christ’s second coming, however, Watts also provides fitting response for the frenzy of our Christmas event: “Joy to the world! The Lord is come…Let every heart prepare him room.”

Perhaps we need to hear the poetic stylization of Psalm 98 most ardently at Advent and Christmas So many activities and responsibilities distract us from the profoundly simple meaning of Christ coming into our world. And perhaps also we should practice the words “let every heart prepare him room” for it is only when we make room for Jesus, that we truly experience the “wonders of his love” which is the heart and soul of the Christmas event.

O come to my heart Lord Jesus, there is room in my heart for thee. Amen.

Monday, December 17

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Phil Watts

Isaiah 9:1 There will be no more gloom for those who are in distress.

My wife Barbara was unexpectedly diagnosed with two medical problems in the fall of 2003. She had an autoimmune lung disease with the ominous sounding name of Bronchiolitis Obliterans with Organizing Pneumonia (BOOP). It manifests itself as an inflammation which leads to scarring and loss of lung capacity. The second disease, Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome, was also frightening. It caused small blood clots which blocked blood flow to the fingertips. Her doctor was very concerned that she might lose her fingers, but by using blood thinners and wearing gloves to keep her fingertips warm to increase blood flow, they were saved. In spite of going to the best specialists, including Mayo Clinic, neither the cause of either disease nor the connection between the two was ever discovered.

The only treatment for BOOP is high doses of steroids (Prednisone) which over time as one doctor said, “Your treatment has become your disease.” During the ensuing five years, Barbara’s health was the focus of our lives. She had to have supplemental oxygen to keep the oxygen level in her blood at an acceptable level. She was treated by seventeen different medical specialists. She had back surgery, plus four or five spinal blocks, two cataract surgeries, a lung biopsy, developed diabetes, had to wear a back brace, spent days in the Pulmonary Intensive Care unit, went to Pulmonary Rehab, developed pneumonia and severe scoliosis. In spite of all that, she had good days, and we led fairly normal lives including a fair amount of travel. Barbara’s condition worsened in the fall of 2008 and she died on December 11 while in the hospital. I had had a blessed life for which I was very thankful. I thought my “good days” were behind me.

Meanwhile across town Carol thought her life, which was centered on her family, particularly her grandchildren, would remain that way. Her husband was relatively young and seemingly in good health. In January of 2009 all that changed in the blink of an eye. While on a hunting trip, her husband had a heart attack and died instantly.

Carol and my stories are not ultimately about loss but about God’s grace and renewal. Although we both lived most of our lives in the Birmingham area, we had never met, and it seemed improbable that we would. But meet we did, and in an unlikely place, a Grief Group. There was an empty chair next to Carol in the circle and before taking it I asked, “Do you bite?” This was met with a stony look and complete silence. In spite of this rocky start, a month or so after we graduated, we met for coffee and the rest, as they say, is history. How is it possible that late in life after a long marriage to a wonderful woman, I would find another wonderful woman to love and be loved by in return?

I am truly Lost in Wonder, Hope, and Praise. To God be the glory!

Dear Lord, We are truly grateful for the miracles you provide every day. Amen

Tuesday, December 18

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Warren Kinney

Isaiah 9:2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.

This labyrinthine existence that we call life can often seem a dimly lit path to nowhere. Without apparent purpose or direction and filled with bewildering events, choices, and emotions, it is a shadow land thick with a perplexing fog of uncertainty. Philosophers make their claims, "casting largess as they go of definitions, divisions, and distinctions,"1

but their conclusions, shedding little light, are far from final. By the numbers, math and science explain wonderfully well how things work, but for every question answered, ten further arise. For all its revelation, science provides little or no moral compass to guide one's behavior or treatment of others.

For all that humankind has termed “progress,” it continues to shuffle along in the dark seeking some standard that will light its way.  As Isaiah reminds us, the light is here. For Christian believers, the light of a dark, sinful, and broken world is Jesus whose demonstration of perfect love burns off the fog and dispels the shadows. Echoing Isaiah, Philip Bliss tells us that, “We walk in the light when we follow our guide.”2 Believers, then, are not lost in some impenetrable fog, but lost in light and hope and praise of God’s love for creation in the gift of Christ.

1 Sir Philip Sidney, Defense of Poesy.2 Philip P. Bliss, “The Light of the World Is Jesus.”

Loving God, may we so walk in the light that you provide through Christ that we may become a part of it. Amen

Wednesday, December 19

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Lura McMillian

Psalm 119: 49-72 Remember your word to your servant, for you have given me hope. My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life. The arrogant mock me without restraint, but I do not turn from your law. I remember your ancient laws, O LORD, and I find comfort in them. Indignation grips me because of the wicked, who have forsaken your law. Your decrees are the theme of my song wherever I lodge. In the night I remember your name, O LORD, and I will keep your law. This has been my practice: I obey your precepts. You are my portion, O LORD; I have promised to obey your words. I have sought your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise. I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes. I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands. Though the wicked bind me with ropes, I will not forget your law. At midnight I rise to give you thanks for your righteous laws. I am a friend to all who fear you, to all who follow your precepts. The earth is filled with your love, O LORD; teach me your decrees. Do good to your servant according to your word, O LORD. Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I believe in your commands. Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word. You are good, and what you do is good; teach me your decrees. Though the arrogant have smeared me with lies, I keep your precepts with all my heart. Their hearts are callous and unfeeling, but I delight in your law. It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees. The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.

Think of the teacher who touched your life the most. I was blessed to have an English teacher who I thought hated me!! She was constantly failing me, making me rewrite and reread things I hardly wanted to write or read about in the first place. One day this teacher who I both disliked and feared came to my desk, put a paper in front of me and said, 'I knew you could do it.' I don’t remember what grade I received, but I clearly remember her smile and the way I felt when she acknowledged my work. More importantly, I remember having that light bulb moment of realizing that I did have something to write and say, and she did want to listen, but I had to do my part! I had to work and try and trust that she could lead me to be a better writer.

We all have a teacher standing by us, grading our work, often disappointed that we are not doing our best and hoping that we will ask for his help. We have a teacher with the best text book of all...Jesus with the teachings of the Bible! So I ask, have you read your Bible today? Have you pleaded with God to help you discern his word? Have you thanked him for putting it right in front of us? Have you acknowledged that you cannot find the answers alone?

In this time of Advent, as we prepare for the birth of Christ, remember that His Word is more precious than silver and gold. Remember that His Word is here to walk beside us as we grow through love, laughter and friendship. It is here to set us straight when we have used poor judgment, and it is here to carry us through the trials of sickness and despair, through disappointments and desperation.

Dear great and mighty God, Please remind us each and every day to put You first in our thoughts and in our actions. Let our hunger for Your Word and our willingness to put You first last long after this Christmas season. Thank you for being our most encouraging, patient and gracious teacher. Amen.

Thursday, December 20

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Brian White

We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. Psalm 33:20-21

One morning last spring, I was taking my 5-year-old niece Olivia to school. As I pulled out of the driveway, I turned to take the route I knew. Olivia told me I was going the wrong way. She wanted to go through their neighborhood, the way her parents always did. I told her I did not know that way. She was insistent, and we had a little time, so I told her that she would have to tell me where to turn. She correctly told me every turn to take until we got to a location I recognized. I was sure we were going to get lost and be late to school, but I was wrong!! When I picked her up that afternoon, I thought “I’m going to test this child.” I went back to the place I recognized, thinking there was no way she could take me the opposite way back to her house. Wrong again! She once again correctly told me every turn to take to get home. That day I truly experienced the scripture, “And a little child will lead them.” (Isaiah 11:6)

Two thousand years ago, just as today, creation was a lost people. We were (are) confused, bewildered and helpless, looking for a glimmer of hope to guide us. God saw our need for guidance (just as I needed guidance to school that day) and sent a child…a baby…His Son… to show us the way. That tiny child turned creation’s “lostness”— feelings of hopelessness—into another kind of “lostness”—being completely absorbed by the wonder, glory and love surrounding the birth of the Savior of the World. It’s almost as if we can’t comprehend what has happened because it is too good to be true.

Advent reminds us of the tremendous gift we have been given. God sent us hope wrapped in a bundle of swaddling clothes. During advent, may we all seek the Christ child again so that He may lead us to become “lost” in the hope He has given, the praise He deserves, and the wonder of it all.

Father God, Thank you for Your Son, the Baby Jesus, who leads us out of the darkness and into the light of the Savior. Amen

Friday, December 21

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Susan Baird

Psalm 138 I thank you, Lord, with all my heart; in the presence of the angels to you I sing. I bow low toward your holy temple; I praise your name for your mercy and faithfulness. For you have exalted over all your name and your promise. On the day I cried out, you answered; you strengthened my spirit. All the kings of earth will praise you, LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth. They will sing of the ways of the LORD: “How great is the glory of the LORD!” The LORD is on high, but cares for the lowly and knows the proud from afar. Though I walk in the midst of dangers, you guard my life when my enemies rage. You stretch out your hand; your right hand saves me. The LORD is with me to the end. LORD, your mercy endures forever. Never forsake the work of your hands!

In this beautiful passage of scripture, the Psalmist seems to be lost in praise of God's faithfulness. He knows his Divine rescue was not the result of his virtue, but of God's mercy and forgiveness.  Inspired by his overwhelming experience of God's love for him, he found ways to give back that love through wholehearted worship and praise.

Among the many things that drew me to Southside Baptist Church were the inspiring worship services and ministries that seek to include all God's children. What wonderful opportunities we have to share the Amazing Grace we have received through the various forms of service, worship, and mission, not to earn God's love, but always and only to return it!  The Spirit of Christ leads us to move beyond human-made boundaries to reunite all who have been marginalized or excluded.  Because we have all been given that radical love and acceptance, we have each new day to find ways to give that love back through service, compassion, and never-ending worship.

"Love is repaid by love alone."  Saint Francis of Assisi.

Thank you for calling us to empty ourselves, to lose ourselves, to surrender, to the Love that has already been given to us through Jesus the Christ. Amen

Saturday, December 22

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Paul Huie

Jude 21 Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.

As I sat thinking about the scripture I had read, my memory brought back to me a very precious Sunday from my youth. I was sitting in a small country church outside of Montgomery listening to our brother Tom booming out those wonderful lyrics in his rich baritone voice to the great hymn “The Love of God”. I do remember the tears on my parents’ faces, and perhaps, there were some on mine. The beauty and message of that moment was so overwhelming that I was filled once again with the same emotions that I felt that day. Truly the love of God is “measureless and strong,” and we as Christians know that it “shall forevermore endure”. But how do we keep ourselves in God’s love as Jude exhorts us in this verse?

Jude is that one chapter book that was always difficult to find quickly in those sword drills I participated in more than 50 years ago. Yet, this very short letter provides us with much spiritual insight and gives us some principles to live by today. Jude, a half-brother of Jesus, wrote to” those whom God has called” with reminders of stories from the Old Testament about God’s judgments, instructions for growth, and encouragement to remind of God’s great love and power. To keep in God’s love, he tells his readers or “his dear friends” to pray in the Holy Spirit to know of God’s desires. As difficult as it may be in our fast paced lives, we need to spend quiet time with Him to listen to what he lays upon our hearts. In John14:23 Jesus said, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching”. We can obey his words, as Jude tells us, by performing acts of love, teaching and generosity to 3 groups of people: those whose faith has been weakened by false teachers; those who are unsaved but need and want to be rescued; and even those who refuse to turn from evil ways but still need pity. In doing thus, we must be strong and defend our faith, for there are among us those whom Judas called apostates__ people who turn their backs on their faith and try to influence others to follow. We must make a determined effort to reach out to people in all of these groups if we truly strive to achieve those practices of an effective congregation.

We also keep ourselves in God’s love by looking for the return of Jesus Christ. By keeping in sight that gift of eternal life promised to all believers on the day Christ returns, we can stay true to our principles. God never really stops loving us; we are the ones who alter our relationship by allowing ourselves to become complacent or stray from what we are called to do. God will keep us in safety until Jesus brings us home to be with Him. Until that time we can partake of God’s mercy, His inner peace and, of course His love.

Loving Lord, we shall continually praise you for the gift of your Son and His watchful care over us to help us to stay faithful. Help us as your servants to demonstrate your love each day. Amen

Sunday, December 23

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Tim Kelley

John 3:16  “This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.

 Christmas is a mere two days away. Do you remember how you felt as a small child anxiously awaiting that wonderful day? As each day in December passed, you knew Christmas was drawing ever closer, yet it seemed as though it would never arrive. The mystery of what might be revealed with the dawn of that wonderful day so excited you that you could not contain it. Your excitement was manifested in squeals, shouts, laughter, and maybe even in anxious, but hopeful, whispers to a sibling of what you hoped to see under the tree on Christmas morning. The wide-eyed wonder of a child at Christmas time is something to behold. Even recollections of our own childhood Christmases quicken our pulse as we remember the excitement and awe experienced as a child. Over time, the excitement of those early Christmases turns more to appreciation of those that made it possible. Parents and other family members that perhaps sacrificed so that you would have a wonderful and memorable Christmas. In so doing, they created a Christmas experience that made you feel special and loved.

For all those we give thanks; however, the greatest and most ultimate sacrifice demonstrating true love came in and through Jesus the Christ whose birth we celebrate on Christmas Day. The scripture for today reminds us that nothing was too costly for the relationship between God and humankind to be restored; even God giving his one and only son.

The thought of this truth can touch us and make us respond with the excitement and anticipation of a small child at Christmas if we allow it to reach our heart. Knowing and experiencing the love of God moves us to appreciate life and relationships and to experience life as it was intended; filled with wonder, love and praise!

Loving Lord, help me to pause from all the activities that distract me from fully experiencing your presence this Christmas Day and every day. Help me to fully experience the depth of your love, and may I give expression of that love through my words and actions as I encounter others who need to be touched by your love, mercy, and grace. Amen

Monday, December 24

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Steve Jones

Luke 2: 9-11There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. Suddenly, God’ angel stood among them and God’s glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid. I am here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: a Savoir has just been born in David’s town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master.”

One of my favorite Christmas Carols is “O Holy Night” especially the version that John Denver sang with his guitar. It speaks to me. I try to sing along with John Denver every year, but the high notes are far out of my range. Still I sing along. I was thinking about “O Holy Night” again this year, and I discovered the most stunning and disruptive line: “Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth.”

I do not know that this happens a great deal at Christmastime actually. You hear a Christmas carol, you see a manger scene in someone’s yard, your attention is turned for a moment to the nativity of Jesus – does it naturally follow that in that moment that your soul feels it’s worth?

Perhaps we celebrate Christmas in a vacuum. We do our best to turn our attention to Jesus. We meditate on his coming, the circumstances, and the gift. But I think we forget what his coming was for. Christmas was rescue. God coming to rescue us. It is an act of humility, love and sacrifice unparalleled in the history of the world. The object of the act is you and me; the purpose is our rescue and restoration - to bring us to God.

In the midst of all that Christmas has become, on this holy night, we should not fail to recognize our worth in God’s eyes. In the stillness of this evening, let us allow our “soul to feel it’s worth” Perhaps we should fall on our knees in gratitude.

“A thrill of hope a weary world rejoices, for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn…” Lord, may it be so. Amen.

Something about our Advent Devotional writers:

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What is the best thing you've ever received, or given for Christmas and why?

Didn’t know where to put the best Christmas but my memory is the one after moving to Birmingham – so it would be the Christmas of 1951 – the first year everyone was in the same house – my mother, my father, my grandmother and my two aunts and coming down the stairs and seeing Santa had been there with a blue bike for me – I still bear the scars from that bike where later on, I ran into the side of the house. Brenda Tidwell

Best gift I’ve ever received: My daughter was born in December. That was the best gift ever, and still is. Especially since now she has had a baby and I’m a grandmother. Darlene Green

I spent one special Christmas with family in Tennessee. It began to snow heavily & power went out. You could hear the sound of generators thru out the neighborhood. We gathered candles and bundled up as my father began to share stories about his Christmas’ as a child. To receive variety of fruit & nuts in a canister, two pair of socks, peppermint sticks, and gloves was a lot. It was difficult to hold back tears while he shared his story. We only opened one gift each that Christmas, and spent afternoon by candlelight spending quality time together & renewed perspective about Christmas.Donna Wilson

The best thing I’ve ever given for Christmas came in 1986, while I was still living in Atlanta. My sister, Nancy and her husband, John Wiley, had gone to Recife, Brazil as missionaries along with their three small sons. They called me just before Christmas to say that they had managed a leave and would be joining the family at my parent’s home in Montgomery.

They were calling me first, since they would fly into Atlanta and stay one night with me before driving to Alabama. We decided to keep the visit a secret from the whole family and to particularly surprise my unsuspecting parents. I called Mother and Daddy and told them I wanted to come over early and bring their present, which they might want to enjoy during the holidays. They needed a new television and said later that they were convinced that this was what I was bringing.

We drove over two days before Christmas in two cars, since they would stay longer than I could, meaning they would need a rental car. They parked a block away, as I went in and told the folks that they would have to wait in the bedroom while I brought their present in. After they were secluded, Nancy, John and the boys slipped in and sat in a row under the Christmas tree.

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I had borrowed a camcorder to record the wonderful scene. I yelled for them to come on into the living room, as we cautioned the kids to be very quiet. When that door opened, I was so glad that we would have a record for all time of their faces, as they saw the scene under the tree. I can’t describe in words that magical moment when Mother was finally able to say. “Oh, oh, where did you come from?”

The three year old said, “Brazil, Granny!” Needless to say, the scene that followed was sheer joy and something we still enjoy watching all these years later, since both parents are now deceased. We all felt God’s presence with us for that happy reunion.Jerry Huie

PS: The answer to the question that I always get when I tell this story is yes, they did get the TV too.

The greatest Christmas present I have ever received is the special connection to Christ in the celebration of His birth. The gift of grace He gives me cannot be matched by any gift on earth.Patty Cline

I really did not want to respond to this question because I immediately thought of several gifts that held great significance for me. There was the VCR we children gave to our parents to watch a video message from our sister and family in Brazil or the laptop my brother Jerry gave me 10 years ago. But I think the best Christmas gift is the one I receive every year when I get to spend our Savior’s birth surrounded by my loving and wonderful family.Paul Huie

I received many great Christmas gifts both as a child and an adult, so choosing a favorite gift is very difficult. One gift that brought many memories was my Daisy BB gun that I received when I was about 8 years old. My cousins and I spent many, many days shooting at cans, birds, and targets.Ginger Aaron-Brush

It was the Christmas of 1980.  Dave had invited me over for a Christmas Eve-Eve dinner before we were to visit our respective families in our hometowns.  After we enjoyed a meal of grilled steaks, baked potatoes, wine, and candlelight, he handed me a large box that I could see he had wrapped himself.  I tore into it and found - a Wok!  Before I could find the words to thank him, he took my hand, placed a small velvet box into it and said, "I also got you this because I'm hoping we can spend the rest of our lives together." So there it was... the best gift I ever received.  (The ring was lovely too.)Susan Baird

When a young boy, before the song was ever produced, I dreamed of that

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marvelous toy the one that went, “zip when it moved and bop when it stopped whirrrrr when it stood still.” I’ve never seen that toy, but I don’t have a favorite gift, either. All gifts are marvelous because they are given.Warren Kinney

The best thing that I've ever given for Christmas is a Weber grill to my father.  At the time, I was in my early twenties working for Brookstone, and there was a floor sample that we were putting on sale.  With my employee discount, it was a perfect gift for my brother, my mom, and me to give to Dad.  Christmas morning my brother brought it over in his truck, and my dad had no idea until we walked him outside after opening family presents.  He was absolutely shocked, and for a man who is usually full of things to say, he was speechless.  He still has the grill to this day, and we are now all firm believers in the magic of a charcoal grill.  It was the perfect Christmas gift for all of our hearts and stomachs.Jamie Erdberg

When I was six I desperately wanted a red bicycle for Christmas. While playing in our basement before Christmas I discovered a red bicycle. I was thrilled and horrified. I was thrilled that I was going to get it and horrified that because I had found it and Santa would know, he would take it away. I didn't tell anyone, and I couldn't sleep Christmas Eve. We had an old mechanical clock with the face broken. All through the night, I felt the hands in the dark to determine the time. Finally, it reached six which was the time we were allowed to get up. To my great relief, the red bicycle was in the living room under the tree. I was enveloped in joy and relief.

The other best gift was during Christmas of 2008. Barbara had just died, and I was grieving. I was flooded with cards, calls, and personal statements of support. Many of them came from church. Gratitude didn't replace my grief but it certainly made it more tolerable.Phil Watts

After a really difficult six month layoff, I didn’t know how we were going to get through the Christmas month. My church family at Southside opened their arms wide with love, mercy and compassion. You provided the strength and support we needed to get through that time, and all I can say is thank you.Marilyn Shepard

It was the second Christmas away from my family and again on foreign soil. I longed for the coolness of a Christmas morning. The smells of brewing coffee and egg casserole being prepared in the kitchen lingered in my mind. Late that Christmas day, yet early Christmas morning here in the U.S., I called home. Upon answering the phone, I immediately heard the voices of mom and dad, grandmother, my sister, and my many aunts and uncles. For the next few moments, that phone call made Christmas come alive. I no longer was thousands of miles away from home. Rather, I was right there in all the family festivities. It

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was the best Christmas present that I ever received. Merry Christmas! Rusty Bennett

The time of being excited about getting Christmas presents is long past for me. It is experiences that I most value now, and one of my favorite ones was Christmastime in New Orleans. My birthday is very close to Christmas, so a few years ago we went to NOLA to celebrate it. The French Quarter, which is really sort of magical any time of year, was beautifully decorated; holly, greenery, and mistletoe were wrapped around the wrought iron railings on the balconies; the carriage horses wore Santa hats and the street musicians played and sang holiday songs; the weather was crisp but comfortable. All of the restaurants (of which there are none bad in New Orleans) had special seasonal menus at a fixed price (known locally as Reveillon Dinners). There were special musical events held inside St. Louis Cathedral every night we were there, and we attended a couple of these; they were made even more special by taking place in such a beautiful space. It was a lot of fun, and it felt more Christmas-y to me than a trip to the snowy north. Mark Grimmett

Special Thanks to Marilyn Shepard for her patience in editing this Devotional Guide.

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