A Daily Devotional Advent to Epiphany

November 27, 2011— January 6, 2012

Holy Spirit Lutheran Church6670 W. Cheyenne Avenue

Las Vegas, NV 89108www.holyspiritlasvegas.org

702-645-1777

Written in gratitude to God for the gift of Jesus!

This devotional booklet is dedicated to those who planted, sowed, and harvested the seed of faith in the writers and readers of these daily devotionals.

Jesus was born into this world as an expression of God’s great love for all people. Jesus came so that we would have life, and have it abundantly.

If you want to know more about the person of Jesus, or if you desire prayer, please call the church office at 702-645-1777 or email info@holyspiritlc.org. Upcoming events and worship services are listed on the next page.

Upcoming Events and Worship Schedule

Come as you are.

November 26 & 27 Worship 1st Weekend in Advent

November 27 Advent CelebrationBreakfast and Family Craft9:15am to 11:00am

December 3 & 4 Worship 2nd Weekend in Advent

December 10 & 11 Worship 3rd Weekend in Advent

December 11 Children’s Christmas Program 5:00pm

December 16 Christmas Concert 7:00pm

December 17 & 18 Worship 4th Weekend in Advent

December 18 Caroling (meet at Holy Spirit) 5:00pm

December 24 Christmas Eve Worship Communion & Candlelight 5pm, 7pm, 9pm, 11pm (child care available at 5, 7, and 9pm)

December 25 Christ is born! Worship 11:00am

Hours of Weekend Worship Services: Saturday 5:30pm Traditional WorshipSunday 8:00 and 9:30am Contemporary WorshipSunday 11:00am Traditional Worship

Sunday School Sunday 9:30am (ages 4 thru adult)

Child care is available at the 9:30 and 11:00 services (infant to 5 years)

This devotional booklet, offered for your Advent to Epiphany journey, was written by the faith community of Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in gratitude to God for planting the seed of faith in the writers and readers of these daily devotionals. To God be the glory!

Although each writer may reflect on only one or two verses, each devotion is based on the Scripture passage which is noted in the top right corner of each page. To gain the most understanding of the context of the writer’s comment you are encouraged to read the entire passage (or the entire chapter) during your devotional time. The Bible translation or paraphrase used by the writer follows the annotated Scripture verses used for the writing. Abbreviations are listed below.

Bible Translation Abbreviations:CEV Contemporary English VersionESV English Standard VersionKJV King James VersionNAB New American BibleNCV New Century VersionNASV New American Standard VersionNIV New International VersionNIrV New International Reader’s VersionNLT New Living TranslationNKJV New King James VersionNRSV New Revised Standard VersionRSV Revised Standard VersionTNIV Today’s New International Version

Bible Paraphrase Abbreviations:GNB Good News BibleLB The Living BibleMSG The Message (Eugene Peterson)

Sunday, November 27 Mark 13:24-37

But about that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven nor the Son, but only the Father. Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. (vs. 32-33) NRSV

Earlier this year Christian radio host Harold Camping predicted, using all kinds of Biblical “secret formulas,” the end of the world as we know it. The date came and went and we’re still here, including Harold Camping. Thank God! But it created quite a stir.

It’s puzzling why Camping and others try so hard to predict what Jesus, the Son himself, said no one knew but the Father. Maybe Jesus’ message in Mark is not about predicting the end of the world at all, but a reminder of how fleeting our lives are and how important it is to stay alert to opportunities to share God’s love.

We only know one thing for sure: God loves us and calls us to love one another. The opportunity to share that love may happen in the next minute, hour, day, week or month. Most likely we have many of those opportunities during our lives. Do we see and seize them like Jesus advises us to? Or are we so busy looking for the “right” moment or the “right” thing to say that they slip by unnoticed and unused?

So be alert in the days ahead. Advent is a beautiful time to share God’s love with those desperate for encouragement and hope. None of us knows when the “master” will return so in truth any moment is bathed in perfection, ready and waiting for us to share God’s love. Don’t wait another minute to turn on the “love light” this Christmas. Be alert and carpe diem!

Loving God, thank you for sending us the gift of Jesus to show us how much you love us. Help us to “pay it forward” and be alert to opportunities to share your love with others. Your love is the gift that keeps on giving. Praise God! Amen.

Betty Mahalik

Monday, November 28 Isaiah 64:1-9

Yet you, Lord, are our Father, we are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. (v. 8) NIV

The book of Isaiah describes God's power in judgment and salvation with the coming Messianic age. A righteous ruler will be sent to restore the earth to the divine ideal. Verses 1 -9 are part of a prayer for divine deliverance. In the first seven verses Isaiah, the great prophet, describes how God's people have behaved towards him in times of trouble and in times of plenty, and how God is perceived to have responded to them. The author pleads with God to put aside his anger and to save God’s people from their excesses and sinful ways.

God does not forget his people. God is the potter; we are the clay, the work of his hand. Who but a loving Father would restore his people with the love of his only Son, Jesus Christ? Remember the TV character who was fond of saying, "I brought you into this world and I can take you out"? In times of frustration and anger with their children some parents may have had a similar thought. Fortunately, our Heavenly Father is a much more understanding parent/potter. God wants only the best for us. God is willing to form his lump of clay into righteous people. The immensity of God’s love is clear in that he sent a perfect son to offer the world everlasting life with God. What a fabulous Christmas present! This is a gift that outlives all the wrappings and bows, all the bright lights and decorations, all the quickly broken toys, all the unmet expectations of the holiday. God's gift to us is everlasting and well worth the wait.

Heavenly Father, forgive our sinful ways. Open our hearts to receive the perfect gift of your precious Son, Jesus Christ. Thank you for forming us from simple clay into your children. Amen.

Kathleen Cloutier

Tuesday, November 29 Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 …Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine that we may be saved… (vs. 3, 7, 19) NRSV

Old Testament verses are often difficult for me to understand. Perhaps this is because I do not read the Old Testament as frequently as I do the New Testament. Yet, once I take the time to understand the context of Old Testament verses, I appreciate that the pleas of God’s people have been the same throughout all time.

This Psalm is a lament for the fall of Samaria, the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel. Yes, I did have to look this up. Apparently, there was some confusion as well as great concern about God’s rebuke of his people. The vineyard owner (God) had seemingly abandoned the vineyard (Israel), a vineyard which had once been so very prosperous. The psalmist entreats the Shepherd of Israel and Lord God of hosts to hear the prayers of sorrow, repentance and sincere requests for forgiveness and to once again find favor with his people Israel.

The people of Israel knew, in spite of God’s apparent anger, God is a God of grace. Psalm 80 contains the plea to “restore us, O God of hosts, let your face shine that we may be saved” not once but three times! Acknowledgement of failure was evident as was God’s apparent turning away from God’s people. Even so, Israel knew that God could take it from a broken, abandoned vineyard to something which would be again strong, fruitful and right with God. Israel was confident God could transform the lamentation into joy.

We can all have that same confidence, even during those times when we have felt like that seemingly abandoned vine. We can know, without doubt, that by God’s grace, mercy, and strength, through his Son Jesus Christ, God’s face will shine on us so that we, too, will be saved! Thanks be to God!

Precious Lord and Savior, we lament those times, when through our own actions, it seems like you have turned your face from us. Yet we know that our sincere repentance is met with your love and that through your grace and mercy, we are forgiven. Be our guide through all the days of our lives so that your face will always shine on us. We want to glorify your name in all we do. We thank you and praise your name. Amen.

Marsha Stephenson

Wednesday, November 30 1 Corinthians 1:3-9

…so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ. (v. 7) NRSV

This text is a letter the apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthian Church. At that time there were problems with ego and materialism and displays of social status within the Corinthian Church. Paul’s message in this letter is one of love.

As I read this passage I am struck by the applicability of Paul’s words to us today as we await the miracle of Jesus’ birth at Christmas. Verse 7 refers to the spiritual gifts of the Corinthians as they await the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ.

During this Advent period we are also awaiting the revealing (birth day) of Jesus Christ. And most of us eagerly anticipate the gifts that have become so much a part of Christmas today.

I recently watched the movie “What Would Jesus Buy?” when it was shown at Holy Spirit. The movie conveys a very strong message against the materialism of Christmas today. It suggests that love and family should be our higher priorities at Christmas.

This week I saw country singing star Martina McBride perform in Las Vegas. One of her songs includes the line “Love is the only house big enough to hold all the pain in this world.” I think she hits the nail on the head with that observation.

In the bustle and hurry of the season I pray that we all take the time to reflect on the gifts we have already received from God. We are God’s children. We all possess spiritual gifts. Most of us have been blessed with health and wealth. And we have already received the greatest gift of all, the baby Jesus, whose birthday we await.

Heavenly Father, give me strength to replace materialism and secularism with more love and family priorities at Christmas, and throughout the year. Amen.

Dale Geiger

Thursday, December 1 Isaiah 40:1-11

A voice of one calling, “In the desert prepare the way for the Lord, make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God...” (v. 4) NIV

When reading about the ancient peoples, places, and events of the Bible, it is tempting to dismiss them as being irrelevant to our modern lives, or to assume a superior attitude and look condescendingly on the people of Biblical times and believe that people in the modern world would behave in a much more intelligent and responsible manner. This would be a big mistake. While the world has changed over the millennia, people are still making the same poor choices.

During Isaiah’s time the people of Israel had turned away from God and sought salvation in worthless idols of stone and wood. Isaiah’s words accurately foretold the coming punishment for this disobedience: Babylonian conquest and the exile of Israel to that foreign land. Today’s Scripture verses offer comfort that a return pathway to God would open for those willing to change direction and seek a new relationship with God.

Later, during Jesus’ earthly ministry, John the Baptist echoed the words from Isaiah announcing the coming Messiah. Once again God’s people had turned away from God, seeking salvation in the many man-made rules and traditions of their religion while ignoring love, compassion, forgiveness and social justice. John called for people to change direction and make the detour down the pathway leading to Jesus.

Are people of faith really any different today? We often worship idols of wealth, possessions, status and fame. The Christian church today sometimes resembles the religious hypocrites of Jesus’ times, the Pharisees. We praise God with our lips but our actions often do not reflect God’s love to all.

This Advent, let’s return to the pathway leading to our risen Savior Jesus.

Heavenly Father, forgive us for turning away from you. May we, your Church, act more like Jesus. Amen.

Barry Clayton

Friday, December 2 Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13

You showed favor to your land, O Lord; you restored the fortunes of Jacob. You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins...I will listen to what God the Lord will say; he promises peace to his people, his saints – but let them not return to folly. Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land. Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other. Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The Lord will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps. (vs. 1-2, 8-10) NIV

As humans, our sinful side (greed, selfishness, etc.) distracts us from living the peace-filled life God intended for us. Thus, from time to time, God has exiled humans; distanced them so that they could understand and accept that God is the supreme leader; that love for one another is more important than love for money; that we should be generous and forgiving to others as God is generous in blessing us.

We sin; we repent; God forgives. It is a familiar, repetitive pattern of our relationship with God. God’s love and faithfulness are always there and what follows is righteousness and peace. This is when God’s glory is revealed to us. This is how we receive inner peace.

We are incapable of overcoming our human sinfulness on our own but thankfully God has a bottomless wealth of understanding, love, patience, and forgiveness.

Forgive me Father for I have sinned. Thank you, Father for the promise of blessed salvation. Amen.

Janet Lux

Saturday, December 3 2 Peter 3:8-15a But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth he has promised, a world filled with God’s righteousness. And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight. And remember, our Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved. (vs. 13-15a) NLT

Peter is telling us that Jesus Christ is coming back and we should be found waiting eagerly for his arrival. This would mean leading lives that serve our God and anticipating the arrival at any moment. I know that I am not always ready for the return of Jesus Christ, because I don’t always have Jesus at my center. Sure, he can return when I’m on a mission trip to Mexico, or when I’m volunteering for Relay For Life, and I would be serving my God at that moment. But this does not hold true for all aspects of my life. I need to make God my center because like verse 10 said, “the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief” and I want to be ready.

This leads me to a call to action. Am I truly ready for Jesus Christ’s return to earth? Amidst the huge web of my life of school, work, family, friends, and church, am I really keeping on track with my faith? I wish I could say yes to these questions, but I’m not keeping my faith and my God at the center of my life. But it is never too late to start. As verse 15 says, “our Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved.” So ask yourselves these questions and take the necessary steps if changes must be made. Our God has time for you, because you are his children, and God wants you to be with him for all eternity.

Heavenly Father, please help me stay on track with my faith, keeping you at the center of everything that I do. I want to spend eternity with you, but I'm not able to do this alone. You are my God, forever and always. Amen.

Leah Tsui

Sunday, December 4 Mark 1:1-8

This is the beginning of the good news about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Long ago Isaiah the prophet wrote, "I will send my messenger ahead of you. He will prepare your way. A messenger is calling out in the desert, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord. Make straight paths for him.’” And so John came. He baptized people in the desert. He also preached that people should be baptized and turn away from their sins. Then God would forgive them. ...I baptize you with water. But he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit. (vs. 1-5, 8) NIrV

The German translation of the Good News is Evangeliums. As I think about life and the future that is before me, my family, and our church, I am humbled by this passage in Mark. The brief study of Mark explains that he was writing this with the specific purpose to show how God has a plan for all his people, Jew and Gentile alike. This book was written in a language so that Gentiles could learn that not only did God love them, but God had given clear signs to show that God is in control of the big things: the biggest being how to bridge the separation that we have from God.

Troubles and situations come and go but as Paul says, “nothing can separate us from the love of God.” By God’s grace, we can turn from our sins and not only be forgiven but receive the Holy Spirit. We are free from the bondage to continue in sin because we have the Holy Spirit who transforms us into a new creature. There is no better news (Evangeliums).

Lord, make us like Mark who was so excited to share your good news with those who did not know that God made a way for reconciliation. Amen.

Karen Harris

Monday, December 5 Isaiah 1:1-4, 8-11

Oh, what a sinful nation they are! … They have cut themselves off from my help. ...Listen you leaders of Israel, you men of Sodom and Gomorrah, as I call you now. Listen to the Lord. Hear what he is telling you! (vs. 4, 10) LB

The people of Israel and Judah were sinning and had cut themselves off from God’s help. They had isolated themselves, not listening to the Lord or hearing what God was telling them. Are we listening to God? Have you ever isolated yourself from God? I know I have. My mother said that from the time I could walk I would say “I do it myself.”

Can I do this life myself? The answer is a very definitive NO. Do I always LISTEN to God? Here again the answer is NO.

I have learned that if I pray and have meaningful conversations with God, God will give me answers. He always does – not necessarily in the time frame I am trying to control, but in God’s time.

Sometimes I read something in a novel, hear something in a song or on television that has an “aha” effect on me. It is an answer that I have been seeking and I am firmly convinced that it was an answer sent by God. God speaks to us every day but we cannot listen without interaction with God. Talk to God. God will hear you and God will answer. We may not always like the answers that we receive. Our response to those answers is what matters.

Dear God, I thank you for the many times you have given me the wisdom to listen and hear your words of guidance. Please keep my mind and heart open to hearing you today. Let me hear and follow your will. Through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Lynne Bogner

Tuesday, December 6 Psalm 126

The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad. (v.3) KJV

Psalm 126 is a Song of Ascents, used upon coming into the temple, the place of worship. The psalmist is thankful that God has brought back the captive ones of Zion, and now they are filled with joyful shouting. The Lord has saved them from the enemies and done great things for them. But that is not enough. He has done great things for those who were not captive as well by bringing home those who had been captive.

A very good friend of mine, Blackie Graber, the front-most radio operator in the Battle of the Bulge (WWII) was captured because his radio battery froze. He was put in prison where there were few blankets and worthless food—water and boiled beans. He escaped, and was later captured and put in Bitburg. He escaped again and was placed in Dakow where he once again escaped. He could not get back into the front lines of the Allies because they changed the passwords and would not let him through.

When the allies finally freed him from the concentration camp he came home crying with happiness. I could hear him saying the words of the psalmist “our mouth was filled with laughter and our tongue with joyful shouting.” The Lord had done great things for him and he was glad.

Blackie had been a seminarian before being drafted into the war. God was his main focus in life and he tried to live the way God had asked of him. Blackie never gave up his relationship with God and always thanked God for his safety and his life. Blackie was glad.

Dear God, when things get difficult keep our focus on you, Lord. Amen.

Rev. Dr. Stan Jurgenson

Wednesday, December 7 1 Thessalonians 5:16- 25

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Jesus Christ. (vs. 16-18) NIV

Rejoice always. “Urrgh! That guy just cut me off in traffic!” Rejoice always. “The bank called.” Rejoice always. “Your dog Sophie is blind.” Rejoice always. “The power is off.” Rejoice always. Really God?? Some days I just don’t feel like rejoicing! “Give thanks in all circumstances.” Hmmmmm. I’m finding it hard to be thankful for that guy in traffic and I can only guess why I need to call the bank. Lord, can you help me out here? I want to rejoice always, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances, but it is so hard!

Not a moment later, Laura Story’s song, “Blessings” comes on the radio. “…what if trials of this life, the rain, the storms, the hardest nights are your mercies in disguise?” Mercies in disguise. “Give thanks in all circumstances.” So the guy in traffic? His bad timing may have saved me from an accident later. Rejoice and give thanks. The bank message? They actually wanted to tell me about a mistake they made on our loan documents. Rejoice and give thanks. The power was off because of an emergency next door; it saved our house from shorting everything. Rejoice and give thanks. Sophie’s blindness? I’m not sure yet, but I am sure praying about it!

Dear Father, please help me find ways to rejoice always and be heartfully thankful. Help me to open my eyes to see past my desires, see your blessings and give thanks in all situations. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Michele Anderson-BeckThursday, December 8 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16

Moreover the LORD declares to you that the LORD will make you a house. … Your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me; your throne shall be established forever. (vs. 11b, 16) NRSV

These are the words of the prophet Nathan as he passed along the word of God to King David.

The passage involves a play on words. King David had subdued Israel’s enemies and was feeling safe and secure living in his beautiful palace, when it dawned on him that the LORD, who had guided him to this security, was “making do” with a tent (or tabernacle) where the ark of God was kept. So David desired to build a temple (or a house) for the LORD to live in. But God promised that He would make a “house” for David – as in a royal dynasty (e.g. the House of Tudor, the English monarchy) – that would be secure and established forever.

We Christians, of course, see Jesus in the light of this promise, and others from the Old Testament (see Isaiah 11:1-2). The New Testament points out that Jesus was born in the line of David, and the angel Gabriel says, “And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”

When Jerusalem (including both the kings’ palace and Solomon’s Temple) was destroyed, and Israel defeated and carted off into exile by the Babylonians, it was difficult to imagine that God could or would be faithful to his promise to David. But God keeps God’s promises.

In Jesus, God has promised that we are saved from sin and evil, that we are forgiven and cleansed, and that our future is secure and established in God’s kingdom forever!

O God, it is amazing that you involve yourself in our broken history and lives! Thank you for keeping your promises, especially through Jesus. Grant us faith to trust you for our security, and guide us to implement your kingdom in our relationships. We await your coming again with joyful anticipation; in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Pastor Paul Hansen

Friday, December 9 Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26

I will sing of the LORD’s great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. (v. 1) NIV

When I first read the passage, I imagined something along the lines of a Clint Eastwood or Bruce Willis film. We are going to beat people up and take some names. And there will be some cool sounding music in the background with explosions to get our adrenaline going.

But after reading it a few times and reflecting more closely on certain passages, I realized that while the passage may sound aggressive, that doesn’t suggest that we have to perform our best martial arts moves to prove our faithfulness to the Lord. By placing our faith in the Lord, we trust that God will guide our lives and protect us. Christ modeled that behavior by conducting himself in a manner that was non-confrontational. Even when situations arose that could call for some physical aggression, Christ chose another path to prove that God’s ways were higher.

Faith is not about physical strength. It is a spiritual strength that provides energy to the believer as he/she walks their path. It is that spiritual strength that gives us the fortitude to know that we will be shielded because we have faith in the Lord.

Lord, I place my faith in you. And I trust that you will provide for me as I walk my path. Amen.

Allen Vaughn

Saturday, December 10 _ Luke 1:46b-55 ...for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me–holy is his name. (vs. 48-49) NIV

Mary seems incredibly happy down to her soul that she is carrying our Lord. And who wouldn’t be? Nothing is more remarkable. She references her “humble state” as she rejoices in God her Savior, for choosing someone such as her to bring our Lord into this world in human form.

I think her humble or lowly state refers not only to her position in society, but also to her sinful condition. She is not saying that she is holy. Only blessed. Holy is his name.

We are all in the same humble state as Mary. We don’t always appreciate all the Lord has done for us. She reminds us in her song. The Mighty One has done great things for her -- and us. Sometimes it is easy to forget.

We are all blessed like Mary. God has also chosen us. We have a chance to give birth to the Lord every second of every day. Mary’s song reminds us to let goodness into our lives and to give it out to others.

Oh Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us and coming here to take care of our sins. Please open my mind for understanding of your Gospel. I pray that you open my heart to let the goodness in. And I ask for strength to serve you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Kevin Cannon

Sunday, December 11 John 1:6-8, 19-28 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe…John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’” (vs. 7, 23) NIV

Natural light is incredibly beautiful. When the sun is shining, I love using that light instead of electric light. On sunny days, many people just feel happier. Why is that? I am sure there is some scientific explanation, but my belief is that the sunlight reveals the true beauty of nature and helps open our eyes to what is around us. It gives us needed energy to approach another day, a day that already looks positive because literally it is sparkling.

The verses before this passage mention Jesus as the light shining in the darkness and giving light to men. John the Baptist acted as the weatherman, proclaiming “Sunny days are ahead for good; prepare for this greatness!” With this sun is coming a light that will shine even on the worst days, but we have to recognize it through the storms and help keep this light strong. Today in the Las Vegas desert, our local weathermen are the voices calling for many sunny days ahead, but the church is to be a reminder to find and share that light daily. If we remember God and God’s Son in that sunlight, even when it is behind a cloud, we can prepare ourselves to live by their Holy Words.

Dear God, thank you for the light of the sun. May it remind us daily of your promise and the sacrifice of your Son to save us from sin. Please be with us as we share the good news of your endless love and protection this Advent season and throughout the entire year. In your holy name we pray. Amen.

Coleen Kampa

Monday, December 12 Romans 16:25-27

Now to him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long ages past, but now is manifested, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God, has been made known to all the nations, leading to obedience of faith, to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever. Amen. (vs. 25-27) NAS

The promise of the Messiah was a promise for the entire world. The Messiah would establish a kingdom of peace on earth forever. However, despite its world-spanning nature, the promise was made to a small tribe of people, to whom God spoke through prophets. That small group of people, Israel, carried the torch of that promise through the long years, anticipating the coming of the Savior of the world.

With the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the promise of the Messiah was kept by God. The secret mystery, told quietly to the people of Israel, was made manifest and proclaimed loudly to the world. St. Paul in this passage glorifies God that he is being used to proclaim the Good News to the ends of the earth.

We are still part of that proclamation, so loud that it is still echoing in the 2000 years since. We continue to tell others the good news, that Jesus Christ is the Lord of the world, and he will come back to renew all of creation.

Lord God, thank you for keeping your promises, especially the promise of the Messiah. Give us the strength and courage to proclaim your promise and the keeping of the promise. Give us courage as we wait expectantly for Christ to return, just as Israel waited expectantly for the birth of the Messiah, our Lord and Savior Jesus. Amen.

Jake Ambos

Tuesday, December 13 Isaiah 9:2-7

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (v. 6) NIV

In this season of Advent, I have chosen verse 6 as my focus. In the Old Testament book of Isaiah we are given a Messianic prophecy. Isaiah introduces the Messiah as Wonderful Counselor. What is a counselor? A counselor is an advisor.

Typically, a person would have a close and trusting relationship with their counselor, whether it is a mental health counselor, a counselor-at-law, a marriage counselor, or a school counselor. No matter what kind of counselor we turn to for help, none can give us everything we need for today’s life. Except Christ.

The human race is in constant search for someone whom we can trust and share our deepest thoughts and concerns. Today’s message from Isaiah is that God sent the Wonderful Counselor, Jesus Christ, to provide excellent advice on the subjects we need to address today and every day. Christ is someone who knows us and who cares about us. He can carry our burdens of loneliness, worry, despair and fill us with comfort, hope and peace, not only this season, but throughout the year. Jesus is the Wonderful Counselor.

Wonderful Counselor, we thank you for the love and blessings you give us so freely. Help us to look to you in times of worry and despair and see the hope and peace you can bring to our lives. Amen.

Maxine Harju

Wednesday, December 14 Psalm 122

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “may they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls and security within your towers.” For the sake of my relatives and friends I will say, “Peace be within you.” For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your good.” (vs. 6-9) NRSV

Psalm 122 is called a Song of Praise and Prayer for Jerusalem. As I read it, one word continually was present. That word was ‘peace’. So, for right now let’s call Psalm 122 a Song of Peace … not only for Jerusalem but for each of us.

The word ‘peace’ has many definitions. A few of those are: 1. the absence of war or hostilities; 2. freedom from quarrel, disagreement or strife; 3. serenity; 4. inner contentment; 5. to be silent. Romans 8:6 says, “…the mind controlled by the Spirit has peace.”

I am sure that each of us can apply our own definition of ‘peace’ to particular situations in our lives. Do you feel “something” when, during the church service, we share the peace? I do. That “something” for me is a sense of inner contentment, serenity and freedom from strife.

I have attended churches where the ushers not only hand out the bulletins but also say “Peace to you as you enter.” Perhaps others of you have also experienced or heard this at churches you have visited or been a part of.

As we, during this season of Advent, await the coming of the Christ-child let us remember that Jesus is the Prince of Peace!

Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for sending your Son to us. As we pray, help us to recognize the sense of ‘peace’ that exists because of Jesus. In Jesus’ holy and peaceful name I pray. Amen.

Ruth Ann Isaacs

Thursday, December 15 Psalm 96

Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all the people. (vs. 1-3) NIV

This psalm raised a lot of questions for me. How often do we recognize how glorious the Lord is? How often does the realization of God’s holiness strike us with awe? Does the absolute power and sovereignty of God make us tremble (v. 9)? Does contemplating God’s grace in the midst of realizing God’s might relieve that fear? How often do we really think about, talk about, or meditate on the attributes of God that make us want to declare God’s glory and deeds to the world (v. 3)? How often do we really sing to the Lord during worship?

So let us meditate on our salvation daily until we sing (v. 2)! Let the contemplation of the power of our God—who created all things (v. 5), the righteousness with which God will come to judge the earth (v. 10), and “the splendor of his holiness” bring a song to our lips; so that we are part of the grand chorus here on earth (vs. 11-13) and in the heavens. “Sing to the Lord a new song”! Sing to the Lord, praise him!

Dear God, show me the realities of who you are, Father, and give me a song to sing to your glory! Amen.

Karl Seum

Friday, December 16 Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19

For God has revealed his grace for the salvation of all mankind. (v. 11) GNB

God’s grace for the salvation of all mankind. . .

God gives us the power and understanding to live according to his will; if we will submit to his guidance. In this holy season as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior, it is good to be reminded that the Lord’s grace covers us all.

Some stanzas from the hymn Great God, Your Love Has Called Us, (Words by Brian Wren, Music by Norman Cocker) elaborate on this offer of salvation.

Great God, your love has called us here as we, by love, for love were made, Your living likeness still we bear, though marred, dishonored, disobeyed. We come, with all our heart and mind your call to hear, your love to find.

We come with self-inflicted pains of broken trust and chosen wrong, Half-free, half-bound by inner chains, by social forces swept along, By powers and systems close confined yet seeking hope for humankind.

Great God, in Christ you set us free your life to live, your joy to share. Give us your Spirit’s liberty to turn from guilt and dull despair, And offer all that faith can do while love is making all things new.

Lord of all, help us remember to live our lives full of your grace and love for all. Amen.

Denise Thompson

Saturday, December 17 Isaiah 62:6-12

You who call on the LORD, give yourselves no rest, and give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth. ...See, your Savior comes! See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. ...They will be called the Holy People, the Redeemed of the LORD; (vs. 6b, 11b, 12a) NIV

The prophet Isaiah charged the people to pray continually, until God would restore Jerusalem upon the Hebrews’ return from exile in Babylon. God spoke through Isaiah, promising that the holy city of Jerusalem would be rebuilt. God heard those prayers and Jerusalem was rebuilt.

Similarly, Jesus told his disciples to pray for God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. God has promised that there will be a New Jerusalem, where the Lord will be upon the throne. Like Jesus’ disciples, we are called to pray the same “Lord’s Prayer”, to pray for and strive after justice and peace, to live as if the kingdom of God were here already.

The Lord has made a promise, and he will keep that promise – as he’s faithfully kept all his promises. Time and again he has proved his faithfulness and redeemed his people. Salvation is ours through the Messiah, and the Lord will reign over all his creation.

While we watch and wait for the Lord’s return let us, the redeemed of the Lord, be diligent to “pray without ceasing”, “to prepare the way for the people” and to proclaim, “See, your Messiah comes!” Faithful God, may I be made strong with all the strength that comes from your glorious power, and may I be mindful of your faithfulness through all generations, and endure everything with patience in light of your promises. Thank you for rescuing me from darkness, bringing me into the kingdom of your beloved Son who has redeemed us. Amen.

Devra Betts

Sunday, December 18 Luke 1:26-38

Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call his name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give him the throne of his father David. And he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end. (vs. 30-33) NKJV

Oh my! Can you imagine being in Mary’s shoes? First, an angel comes to her, and that in itself must have been somewhat frightening—maybe more so for us now than it was then. Then he tells her she is going to conceive a child, when she has never been with a man! This news may send one into panic, especially considering how it would be viewed by her parents, her fiancé and his relatives, and the community. Women who became pregnant out of wedlock were shunned and hidden away. Some societies even put them to death. Then the angel goes on to tell Mary that the child she is to bear will be called the Son of the Highest and will rule the world, to the ends of the earth, and forever. What an awesome responsibility for one such as young Mary!

Most of us would think this was some crazy dream, or that we were hallucinating, or someone was playing some kind of cruel joke. However, Mary, having been selected by God, stood the test; and though reluctant at first, she accepted the challenge. Her faith was amazing! I am not so sure that I would be so eager to say yes to such a task. Faith is a simple word to say, not so easy to live out. It is a daily challenge for me.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the courage and conviction of Mary to say yes. Thank you for your gift to us, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, who is with us forever. Amen.

Sandy Hughes

Monday, December 19 Psalm 97 All who worship images are put to shame, those who boast in idols- worship him, all you gods! ...For you, LORD, are the Most High over all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods. (vs. 7, 9) NIV

The poet in this psalm proclaims the awesome power of God and God’s rule over all the earth. The metaphorical description of God is so powerful: “the distant shores rejoice,” “the earth trembles,” and “the mountains melt like wax.” The Israelites before Jesus’ time knew how great our God is and was and will be.

This psalm reminds us that it is the one and only God that we are to praise. I always thought this was the easy commandment: “You shall have no other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:3) Ok, check, you’re the only God I know! But in the psalm, the poet uses slightly different language in describing other gods; he refers to the worshiping of images.

No, I don’t have a golden cow in my house that I like to get out and worship like the Israelites in Moses’ time. But what is my modern version of a golden cow: my iPod touch, my laptop, my Nintendo Wii, my TV? When I think about the worshiping of images, the obsession with technology and social media comes to mind. How many of us are constantly on our cell phone, texting or getting the latest news from social media? I’m not saying that having these things is evil or breaking any commandments, but perhaps they sometimes get in the way of our worshiping the One and Only God.

Rather than get caught in daily image overload, let us turn our minds and hearts to God. Try taking a break from all screens (TV, computer, cell phone, video games) for just one evening. Dedicate this evening to learning more about God. You are already off to a great start by opening this devotional book and your Bible. Perhaps you could journal about what you’ve read or about what’s going on in your life. Write a letter to God, practicing that handwriting that you hardly ever use! Remember that Jesus came and paid the ultimate price for us on the cross. No one should feel bad about possessing the latest gadgets, but we could all benefit from putting them down once in awhile to worship our true LORD.

God, please forgive our obsession with images; they have consumed our society. Please help us to put them down and turn to you for all that we truly need. Thank you for sending us your Son to save us from sin. Amen.

Karen Dahlke

Tuesday, December 20 Titus 3:4-7

But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. (vs. 4-7) NIV

In today’s Scripture reading, Paul writes to Titus to provide guidance for leading God’s people in Crete. Paul and Titus had only recently brought the gospel to the island of Crete, which was known throughout the New Testament world for the dishonesty and laziness of its inhabitants. Paul left Titus behind to continue the work they had begun there together. I can only imagine Titus’ frustration as he went from town to town trying to establish new churches and turn people away from their gluttonous and deceitful conduct.

This reminds me of my own frustrations as I read stories in the newspaper or see people around me act in ways that do not conform to my own understanding of proper behavior. I easily forget the true source of my own justification and fall back onto my own self-righteousness. Therefore, I believe the message in today’s reading is especially important in reminding us, just as Paul reminded Titus, that it is not through our own good works that we are saved but only by the grace of God. When we keep this truth at the forefront of our mind, we can shed our judgmental attitudes and share the Good News of God’s grace with our fellow man.

Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for the grace you have given us through your Son, Jesus Christ. We pray that you would continually remind us of the source of this grace, and let us be examples of your light in this world. Amen.

Chuck Laubach

Wednesday, December 21 Isaiah 52:7-10

Listen! Your sentinels lift up their voices, together they sing for joy; for in plain sight they see the return of the Lord to Zion. Break forth together into singing, you ruins of Jerusalem; for the Lord has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem. (vs. 8-9) NRSV

We read about music throughout the Old and New Testaments. Music has been used by God’s people to celebrate, to mourn, and to praise God. Even today, music plays a large part in our religious life and comes in all styles. At Holy Spirit Lutheran Church we have music made by rock bands and organs and choirs and bells. However, the earliest music we would tend to use in our worship doesn’t date much before the sixteenth century.

Recently, in our Music Fundamentals Class, I was asked about the music of Jesus’ time. Certainly we know there was music in the temple, using choirs and instruments. We know that Jesus came upon mourners at a young girl’s funeral and flutists were playing. We know all of this and more because it’s contained in Scripture. But what about the music? What did it sound like?

Frankly, we don’t know what the music of Jesus’ time would sound like. No system of notation existed and recording clearly wasn’t an option. We can only make an educated guess that the music would have an Eastern cultural influence and would not likely sound at all familiar to our modern Western ears. In fact, any music used before about the eighth century is lost to time because there is no way of recreating it.

I look forward to hearing heavenly choirs. Somehow I know the sound will be more beautiful than anything I’ve ever imagined. Like the sentinels of Jerusalem, together we will sing for joy at the return of the Lord.

Dear Lord, thank you for the artistic expression of music in my faith life. As I listen, remind me that there is more to come when you return. Amen.

Tim Beasley

Thursday, December 22 Psalm 98 He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to Israel;all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the LORD with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn— shout for joy before the LORD, the King. Let the sea resound, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy; let them sing before the LORD,...(vs. 3-9a) NIV

Written long before the birth of Jesus, Psalm 98 is a song glorifying Yahweh, his promises kept and his salvation, not just of Israel, but of the world! We are told to sing and shout joyfully, to play instruments and nature itself will join in with us to praise our God. As I read this passage, I think of the words to the Christmas hymn “Joy to the World” (written by Isaac Watts from The Psalms of Da vid , 1719). Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King; Let every heart prepare Him room, And Heaven and nature sing!

In parallel, as told in the New Testament, our steadfast God kept his promise to the world to send a Savior by the wondrous, mysterious and humbling birth of his Son Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord. An event praised joyfully as written in Luke 2: 13-14: Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Our God seems to like joyful songs, ones rejoicing about his gifts, adoring his Son and honoring his presence in our lives.

Our Lord and God, thank you. Let us celebrate with delight the gift of your Son to the world. Let us join in singing and shouting with nature, earth, sky, and the angels on high to worship and adore you. Amen.

Paula Perez

Friday, December 23 Hebrews 1:1-12

The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs. (vs. 3-4) NIV

This passage of Hebrews deals with the relationship between God, the Son, and angels. We don’t often speak of God’s angels in our everyday life, but it specifically describes that the Son is superior to the angels, and that he is seated at the right hand of God, the position of honor and power in the ancient world.

As we anticipate the coming of the Christ child on Christmas, so did the angels anticipate his coming centuries ago. They knew the enormity of what was to happen, the Son being superior to them.

Hark the herald angels sing, "Glory to the newborn King! Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled." Joyful, all ye nations rise. Join the triumph of the skies. With the angelic host proclaim: "Christ is born in Bethlehem." Hark! The herald angels sing, "Glory to the newborn King!"

As this passage speaks of the Son being “the radiance of God’s glory,” let us reflect on how privileged we are to know the Son as we do. Nothing else in heaven or on earth compares to the Son, and at this time of year, we reflect on the birth of the One who came to give us the greatest gift possible: eternal life in heaven. It is so easy to focus on our earthly lives, but that is not our ultimate goal.

Glorious Heavenly Father, as the most precious gift ever to your people, you gave us your Son on earth the first Christmas day. What was given to us on that day can never be repaid by any of us. For this, we thank you, and anticipate living in your radiance, with the Son, Holy Spirit, and angels in heaven. Amen.

Bryan Petersen

Saturday, December 24 Luke 2:1-14

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men.” (vs. 13-14) RSV

It amazes me that almighty God, who intervened so many times in the lives of the Jews in the Old Testament and the multitude of times they blamed God for their shortcomings, that God would once again intervene and reveal himself to us in the form of a baby who would ultimately grow up to sacrifice himself for our salvation. How much love can we avoid? Why do we resist praising God?

The heavenly multitude has given us a marvelous example. We need to raise our arms and voices to heaven praising and thanking God for loving us so much that he sent himself in the form of the baby Messiah, our personal Savior. Praise God for continuing to bless us and love us!

Holy God, with uplifted arms and a loud voice I praise you for your presence throughout history. I thank you Lord for bringing Jesus to us in human form showing how much we are loved by you. Thank you! Amen.

Terry WestSunday, December 25 Matthew 2:13-23

And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. (v. 14) NRSV

Words are a very important part of our existence! Words help us communicate with one another in conversations, our emails, text messages, and facebook status updates. Words entertain us, bring meaning to our lives, and help us give voice to our opinions. Our country values words by protecting them with laws involving free speech. Individuals place an importance on them by keeping records of babies’ first words, quotes spoken by famous people, and historic events are written down so they will never be forgotten.

This time of year, in the midst of celebrating the joy of the holiday, we hear and observe wonderful words in our Christmas movies, cards, music, and in our season’s greetings! Some of the words that stand out to me are: Immanuel (God with us), Wonderful Counselor, Nativity, Manger, Bethlehem, Glad Tidings, Hope, Peace, and Joy. Yet, today as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we should remember that before Jesus was a small crying infant wrapped in swaddling clothes, before he took on our human nature, he was the actual Word of God.

It was through Christ, through God’s Word, that we were brought into being! God spoke and the world was created. When he said let there be light, there was light! When he said let us make humankind in our image, humanity was made! As if this weren’t enough he then sent that same Word down to earth! The Word that was used to create us would now be used to restore and save us! This Christmas as we gather around our trees to unwrap presents, as we sit around the dinner table eating our favorite holiday foods, and as we sit in church and worship the babe born in a manger, let us never forget the importance of words, especially the Word of God made flesh!

Loving God, today we celebrate the miracle of you piercing the darkness of the world with Light and a baby's cry. Never again shall we be alone. No more shall we sit in fear. For Christ, the Light of the World and of our lives is born. Thank you for such a wonderful gift! Amen.

Pastor Ryan Rouse

Monday, December 26 Numbers 6:22-27

The Lord bless you and keep you. (v. 24) NIV

“May the Lord bless you and keep you all night long, I love you!” These are the words I say to my children every night before they go to bed. As I say these words, I draw a little cross on their forehead and then kiss them goodnight. The kids love this nightly ritual, along with brushing their teeth. It’s true! Lily and Isaac love to brush and floss their teeth every day—pretty amazing!

They have grown accustomed to receiving this nightly blessing, so that now Isaac who is 22 months old, will draw a little cross on our foreheads and say “cross…Jesus.”

Upon learning that many parents give their children a nightly blessing, I began to wonder where did it begin, who gives the common person permission to hand out, so to speak, these blessings?

In Matthew 29:19 Jesus said, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”. Through this command, as baptized people of God, we have received the Holy Spirit through our own baptism and are equally called to baptize and bless others.

So, before you say “good-night” to a loved-one, special friend, or your children draw a cross on their forehead and say, “The Lord bless you and keep you”.

Amazing God, you have blessed me with the desire to be a blessing to others. Thank you for this wonderful gift, through your Son Jesus Christ. Amen.

Ivy Adams

Tuesday, December 27 Psalm 8

When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you have established; what are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals-that you care for them? Yet you have made them a little lower than God,-and crowned them with glory and honour. You have given them dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under their feet, all sheep and oxen, and also the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the seas. (vs. 3-8) ESV

This passage speaks of the gifts God has given us to care for. The sky above us and all it holds, the waters and all their abundance are ours for our use and God’s glory. We as a nation of God are given so much, yet take it all for granted and worship the status symbols of today. We forget that God gave us all we need to be content and happy in life but we look for more.

In the last 3 months I have been in a situation where I was unable to get things I wanted, and it made me realize I had all I needed. Being in a position of dependence has made me see that I want for nothing. My life is full and abundant beyond my needs. Did I work and save for it all? Yes, but does that make it right? Does the fact that I obtained all this with the help of my husband make it necessary or desired?

My experience opened my eyes to the biggest blessings I have and didn’t see. I realized what a great life I have surrounded by husband, sister, family and friends. I took for granted how God blessed me beyond my needs and looked for more. Now I understand better that God has provided for all my needs, and that is all I need to be content.

Dear God, don’t let me ever forget how blessed I feel today. Indeed I proclaim, O God, how majestic is your name in all the earth! Amen.

Susan Stone

Wednesday, December 28 Philippians 2:3-11

Never act out of rivalry or conceit; rather, let all parties think humbly of others as superior to themselves, each of you looking to other’s interests rather than to his own. Your attitude must be that of Christ. He emptied himself and took the form of a slave, (VS 3-5, 7) NAB

WOW! This goes totally against our selfish, self-centered culture. Let me repeat this…. “looking to other’s interests rather than your own”. It is well known that people’s favorite topic is themselves, their achievements, their health, their work, their family, their boredom, their sports team, their _________? You can fill in the blank.

In this letter, Paul (while in jail) is encouraging the developing Christian community to focus on others and live lives of humility. He did not focus on his miserable existence shackled in jail. Paul goes on to emphasize how Jesus, the King of Kings, became a slave for us. Jesus actively lived, served and died for us.

Jesus thought of my needs and your needs more than his own.

Do we think of others as more important than ourselves? Do we really listen to others concerns or just want to focus on ourselves? Are we outdoing one another in acts of kindness? Are we making choices in our community that reflect interest in our neighbors and not just ourselves? Is our attitude really that of Christ?

Dear Jesus, thank you for coming to experience humanity with us. Thank you for living in complete obedience to God. Open our hearts to your tender leading. Help us change to live lives of humility. Guide our attitudes to be that of Christ. Amen.

Elaine Hansen

Thursday, December 29 Luke 2:15-21 ...Let us go now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us. So they went with haste…. (vs. 15-16a) NRSV

I’m not sure I have as much faith as the shepherds did when Jesus was born. An angel appeared to the shepherds–that would be my first shock –and told them about the birth of Jesus. The angels said there would be a sign–a baby lying in a manger. The shepherds went to Bethlehem, saw the sign, then told everyone who this baby really was–Jesus.

How often does God speak to us and either we don’t listen, or we don’t even believe that it is God speaking to us? I’ve never had an angel speak to me, but I do get little nudges from God. God probably knows that I couldn’t handle the angels in all their glory speaking to me as they did to the shepherds. Imagine the faith the shepherds had. They believed and told everyone about Jesus.

Maybe you haven’t heard the angels in all their glory either, but maybe you have heard the still, small voice of God. In both these instances, God speaks to us. Do we recognize the still small voice of God? Do we listen and act on what we hear. For me, it can be as simple as hearing someone is ill; do I visit them? If someone is in a car accident, do I phone them? If I hear someone’s pet just passed away, do I console them? In what ways have you heard the angels or the still small voice of God. How do you respond?

As I continue to grow in my faith, I hear God speak to me more and more. I may not have the faith of the shepherds, but each day I listen and pray that I will do his will and my faith is nourished.

Loving and gracious God, help me listen to you when you speak to me in your still small voice and when you speak to me through your angels. Help me believe in you and to have the faith of the shepherds. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Faye Bastarache

Friday, December 30 Isaiah 61:10-62:3

I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my whole being shall exult in my God; for he has covered me with garments of salvation, he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as bridegroom decks himself with a garland, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. (v. 10) NRSV

It had been a long time since we had felt a desire to attend church. We had come to look upon it as a duty to fulfill, not something we needed. On December 24, 2010, we yielded to that sense of obligation and decided to go to a Christmas Eve service. We expected to attend the one time, and probably go again at Easter. To our surprise we found ourselves truly enjoying the service.

After it was over, while driving home, we discussed how we felt about the service. It was a different experience for us. We remarked how much we enjoyed the service and what we had gotten from the Pastor’s message. The following Sunday, we eagerly returned.

Again, we left the church with a sense of happiness from being there. We began to feel that God was calling us back to church, not as an obligation, but as his gift of love and caring for us. We felt joy that our children expressed the same happiness and desire to attend. We realized that church was our garment of salvation and robe of righteousness.

Dear Father, thank you for the blessing of your Son Jesus. Help us to remember that the love and peace you give us through knowing you is a gift that should not be ignored, but should be happily embraced. Amen.

JoAnn and Bob Nance

Saturday, December 31 Psalm 148

Praise him all his angels, praise him, all his heavenly hosts! (v. 2) NIV

It seems to me such a fitting psalm to end our year that we would go out singing God’s praises. Can you just imagine it?

Close your eyes and LISTEN. The skies clamoring with thunder, at his bidding, lightening screaming in such fierce Hallelujahs!

The angels shouting praises, their wings whooshing all around us, in such a way that we are at once frightened and yet so joyful that we stand and sing with jubilant voices for the Lord our God!

The winter chickadees abound in the bare branches of the trees, singing their hearts out, trying to be heard as they join in the praises of the choir that is his people, the world he created.

We are called to praise the Lord our God forever and to serve him with all our hearts, all our minds, with all our souls. So let us embrace the song of joy found in Psalm 148 and join with all the creatures, the waters and the skies and truly praise the Lord our God with all our hearts, with all our minds, with all our souls.

Dearest Heavenly Father, wow! You gave these beautiful words to the psalmist thousands of years ago and bring them into our lives now when we need you so much today. Let us raise our hearts and voices to you today and sing our praises to you. Thank you for this year, thank you for this day, thank you for this hour. We love you, we need you. Amen.

Carol Townsend

Sunday, January 1 Luke 2:22-40

When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. (v. 22) NRSV

It didn’t take long before Mary and Joseph were told yet again that this little baby of theirs was very special. Angels, dreams, shepherds, wise men. Now Simeon and Anna the prophetess spoke of Jesus in the temple. I think that as Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the temple that day, their prayer would have been that he live a life pleasing to God. Did they suspect that as an adult, Jesus would fulfill the prophecies told about him that day, despite the suffering it would cause him?

Some years ago, on New Year’s Day my family would try to predict what we thought might happen in one another’s lives during the next 12 months: “Willie will be taller than Lindsay,” or “Dad will buy a computer.” It was more deductive reasoning and intuition than anything else, but it was fun to compare our guesses with what actually happened. Still, it qualified to some degree what we hoped for one another.

Our heavenly Father wants the best for each of us, his children. Today if we imagine what the New Year holds for us and make resolutions, my hope is that “pleasing God” is at the top of the list. In spite of any shortcomings, I know that God has a path laid out for each of us. Seek daily to discern his will by prayer and the leading of the Holy Spirit, trusting that he equips us for the path he desires us to follow.

Gracious and holy God, help me move closer to you, so that your will becomes mine. Thank you for the gift of salvation through Jesus. Amen.

Janice Demaree

Monday, January 2 Galatians 4:4-7

But when the right time came, the time God decided on, he sent his Son, born of a woman, born as a Jew, to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law so that he could adopt us as his very own sons. And because we are his sons God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, so now we can rightly speak of God as our dear Father. Now we are no longer slaves, but God’s own sons. And since we are his sons, everything he has belongs to us, for that is the way God planned. (vs. 4-7) LB

When I was working (and my husband was still alive), money did not seem as big an issue; however, I am retired now, and I have to watch my spending more, especially since I still have a mortgage. I find myself wishing I could buy this or buy that or do this or do that and sometimes become disappointed that I cannot, or should not, because my budget in the future will be affected. I let myself get caught up in the things of “the flesh”.

I realize that these are just earthly things and the fulfillment will only last the short time we are here on earth. They are things I don’t “really” need, and I should be happy in that everything God has belongs to me (and you), and things I get disappointed about are nothing compared to what God has and has bestowed upon us, as his sons and daughters.

The greatest treasure God has given us is his own Son, and he sent him to us that we might forever and for all eternity enjoy all the things God has, which are far more wonderful and precious than any earthly item or pleasure. Can you imagine how much love this is? There is none greater, and it is ours, even in times when we do not deserve it.

These verses remind me that I no longer need to be a slave to worldly wants, and I’m happy, because in our personal relationships with God, his Son, the Holy Spirit, and each other, we have all that we truly need.

Most loving God, forgive me for not always remembering what is really important in my life and for wandering away at times. Thank you for your Holy Spirit who draws me back to you and true happiness. Amen.

Merna Mobley

Tuesday, January 3 Isaiah 60:1-6

Then you shall see and be radiant; your heart shall thrill and rejoice... (v. 5) NRSV

Some things just make me happy. A smile. Pretty flowers. Sunrise. Giggling children. Rainbows. Strong hugs with friends.

This section from the Bible, written by the prophet Isaiah, just makes me feel happy. I can’t explain it. I didn’t study it or prepare for it. For me, this whole chapter seems to tell a story of blessing, not just to the Old Testament Jerusalem crowd, but to each of us today. Showers of good are brought to the hearer. And God knows how to give good gifts! There is mention of financial windfall, family reunion, and the overall wonderful sight known as the glory of the Lord shining upon us. Wow!

Sometimes when I am listening for God’s voice, I find it helpful to insert my name into the passage. It works really nicely here in verse 1. “Arise, Jen, and shine! For your light has come, Jen, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon you, Jen.” How can I not smile when I read that?! What a great verse to wake up to every morning! God is awesome!

Another practice I’ve come to appreciate lately, due in part to my participation in the FaithWalk classes, is reading the passage from several different translations. Verse 5 has “your heart shall swell with joy,” (KJV) and “your heart will swell, and yes, burst,” (Message) and “Your heart will throb” (NIV). God surely knows how to get his point across to us.

I am reminded how God is blessing me every day, all the time, in so many ways. And that, friends, is something worth smiling about.

Dear great and gracious God, thank you for sending your glory upon me each morning, that I may indeed arise and shine as a witness to your many blessings. Help me to see the many spectacular things headed my way, and be filled with the joy that comes from you. In Jesus’ precious name. Amen.

Jen Anderson

Wednesday, January 4 Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14

May he (King Solomon) defend the cause of the poor of the people, give deliverance to the needy, and crush the oppressor! (v. 4) NRSV

Psalm 72 is King Solomon's prayer for the wisdom from God to care for his own people, especially people who are poor, who are in need, and who are oppressed. As a king, Solomon realizes that he is also as vulnerable as other human beings. Although rich and powerful as a political figure, he still needs to pray: "Give the king thy justice, O God, and thy righteousness (shalom) to the royal son! May he judge thy people with righteousness (shalom), and thy poor with justice!"

No wonder, historically speaking, King Solomon was considered as a great and wise king who depended not solely on his own earthly wealth and power to deal with issues and problems. He as a king depended wholeheartedly on God through prayers, i.e., "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction." (Proverbs of Solomon 1:7)

Lately, as Taiwanese Americans, my wife, Janie and I are concerned about the future of our home country, Taiwan, under an unjust president, Mr. Ma Ying-Jeou, a nationalist (KMT), for the last three and half years. He is trying to seek re-election on Jan. 14th, 2012. But his challenger, Ms. Tsai Ing-Wen, a well educated, popular, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate, is now well ahead in all polls. It is because of this situation, President Ma would use his party's wealth (steal from people of Taiwan) and power to bribe people with money and material goods, and even threatens to close down the news media who have unfavorable comments about him. In fact, he has already shouted down Yuan-Zian Magazine as such! The biggest issue is that he is trying to please Communist China for unification between the two "countries" which is not the will of the people. Out of 23 million people only 10% are in favor of unification.

Our prayer to the Lord is like that of King Solomon for the future elected president in Taiwan: "May she/he (next president in Taiwan) defend the cause of the poor of the people, give deliverance to the needy, and crush the oppressor!"

Dear Heavenly Father, may all kings of the world fall down before you, and all people of the nations serve you in your goodness, justice and wisdom. May even the kings of injustice of our days be defeated with your righteousness (shalom), power and wisdom! Amen.

Peter LaiThursday, January 5 Ephesians 3:1- 12

In former generations this mystery was not made known to humankind, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: that is, the Gentiles have become fellow heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God’s grace that was given me by the working of his power. Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, and to make everyone see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things; so that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was in accordance with the eternal purpose that he has carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him. (vs. 4-12) NRSV

Have you ever had ‘inside information’ that made you feel like you were going to burst if you didn’t share it? I know some of us update our facebook status every 20 minutes….but I’m talking about life altering information! The apostle Paul had the scoop of all scoops. The message he was given was beyond mortal reasoning of the time and he HAD to share it!

God sent his Son to live among us, teach us, suffer and die a horrible death so that we could forever share in the love that God has for us. Us! You and I! God’s loving grace was and is and will be—for all of us…Gentile, Jew, strong, weak, learned and uneducated equally.

Wow! Post that on your facebook page! I dare you!

Lord God, thank you for sending us a Savior. Help us to know and fulfill your purpose in our lives and not just our own. Amen.

Eileen Wheelan

Friday, January 6 Matthew 2:1-12

...and they fell down and worshiped him. (v. 11) NIV

From a distant land, three wise men followed a star to visit a newborn child. They fell down and worshiped him! Matthew’s Gospel details the birth of Jesus, born King of the Jews. In this child, as the magi witnessed, we find not just a king, but the very the presence of God.

What child is this? Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, while shepherds watch are keeping? This – this is Christ the King!

Just as these three from the East, we worship the Son of God, Jesus, present with us in the world, and in the church. Our worship says many things about how we encounter the Son of God in our midst. In her book Foundations of Christian Worship, Susan White touches on a few of the ways we pay homage to our God in Jesus. Worship is affirmation, a very present help in times of trouble, reminding us that God struggles with us, hurts with us, and feels our loss and loneliness. Worship is communion, an encounter with God around the table, where Christ is truly present in and with our gathered community, building and sustaining relationships, “both human and divine”. Worship is certainly proclamation – the event of the Word of God proclaimed and heard, where the Gospel is announced, and the Spirit works faith in our hearts.

We believe in what these three wisemen saw. We too, worship this child. We worship God present in Jesus Christ, fully human, fully divine, giving praise and thanksgiving that he is come into the world, for our sake.

Eternal Savior, in your grace you give us the gift of your Son, and in return we present our worship. Lead us by your Word, the star that guides us back to you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Jason Adams