ADVENT 2020 COMMUNITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 2020

It’s a joyous time of year! Advent is the season when we prepare for the coming of the Lord as a baby in the . The word advent means “coming.” For centuries, Christians have used this special season as a time for spiritual preparation. We celebrate Jesus’ coming in , and we look forward to his second advent when comes in glory bringing with him a new heaven and a new earth.

Advent is a time of waiting. It is a time of joyful anticipation of the day when we celebrate Jesus’ birth. God loves us so much that he sent his Son to teach us of his love.

This year, we’ve asked people from our church family to write brief devotional thoughts for each of the days of this Advent season. Each Sunday, we’ve included a short time of candle lighting for you to use at home. Light a candle each week and think about God’s gifts of faith, hope, joy and love.

We hope that you’ll slow down in this busy season and take time to thoughtfully read these pages that have been lovingly prepared as a gift for you. May God bless you throughout this blessed season.

The

One of our most cherished traditions is the lighting of the Advent candles. We’ll light candles in our worship services each of the four weeks leading to . You can also light candles at home.

An Advent wreath is round, with no beginning and no end. It is evergreen. It reminds us of God’s love for us that never ends. The candles on the wreath are symbols of faith, hope, joy and love. The purple represents royalty: Jesus is King of Kings. The center candle is white. Jesus is the light of the world.

Let us worship, prepare, pray and rejoice together this season as the family of God. THE FIRST SUNDAY IN ADVENT November 29

“O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem! Come and behold Him, born the king of . O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!”

“Jesus said, ‘I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12

Why do we light the first candle? (light one purple candle)

This is the candle of FAITH. Mary and Joseph believed God’s promises. They knew that God would send a Savior. They trusted God when He told them that they would be a part of God’s great plan.

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, to be sure of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1

THOUGHTS ABOUT FAITH

Mary had faith in the Lord’s promises to her. She trusted that God would care for her as she waited for God’s promise to be fulfilled in the birth of Jesus.

The shepherds had faith in the ’s message. They believed that Jesus was the promised Savior and they journeyed to worship him.

Two thousand years later, God calls us to put our faith in His promises, worshiping and following Jesus Christ. God chose Mary and Joseph who were ordinary people to be Jesus’ earthly parents. Imagine the faith that Mary and Joseph must have had to trust God’s plans for them.

God can also use you and me to do extraordinary things as we put our faith in him. Our faith and trust in God helps us to love and forgive others the way Jesus did. We can trust God to give us strength and power to live a life of love.

Christmas changes our ordinary world into an extraordinary place. Let us put our faith and trust in God through this season.

PRAYER: Dear God, thank you for your promises to us. Thank you for giving us faith to believe in you. Help us to keep the light of faith burning in our hearts. Help us to share our faith and your love with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

TO DO: Advent is a time to prepare. What are some of things that we do to get ready for Jesus’ coming at Christmas? Make a list of things that are really important to you and your family this Advent season. Make a plan for when you will do these things.

Jesus is God’s light in the darkness of the world. To appreciate what a light in the darkness really means, try eating by candlelight one night this week. Pray for people who are facing dark times in their lives. Pray for God’s light to shine for them.

Breath Of Heaven (Mary's Song) Monday Amy Grant/Chris Eaton

I have traveled many moonless nights. Cold and weary with a babe inside. And I wonder what I've done. Holy Father you have come, And chosen me now- to carry your son. I am waiting in a silent . I am frightened by the load I bear. In a world as cold as stone, must I walk this path alone? Be with me now-Be with me now. Breath of heaven-hold me together, Be forever near me-Breath of heaven. Breath of heaven-Lighten my darkness, Pour over me your holiness, for you are Holy. Breath of heaven. Do you wonder as you watch my face, If a wiser one should have had my place, But I offer all I am-for the mercy of your plan. Help me be strong-Help me be-Help me. Breath of heaven-Hold me together-Be forever near… Breath of heaven-Breath of Heaven.

One of my favorite scripture passages is “The ” or “Mary’s Song” from Luke 1:46-55. “My soul exalts the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.” This song by Amy Grant has touched my soul this Christmas season. I think of how young Mary was-a teenage girl called to carry and give birth to the Savior. What a response from Mary-”My soul exalts the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior”, and from the song “but I offer all I am for the mercy of your plan.” What faith, what hope, what joy, what peace is offered here. My prayer for all of us is that we experience Mary’s advent as the Holy Spirit pours over us His Holiness, and that our Christ candle shines all year. Dana Covey -cal Gifts Tuesday

White tissue paper. Not blue. Not green. Not red. White. It all starts with our stockings being passed out. The stocking stuffers are individually wrapped in plain, white tissue paper. Sticks of "gross green gum” (what my girls call it.), little toys, Kleenex, travel shampoo, and any other small, usually useless items. This start of Christmas brings laughter and the renewal of a family tradition that started in Jeff's family. Simple gifts of no monetary value but have the love and thoughts of our family wrapped in the plain, white tissue paper. Even though the magi bring gifts of , , and , it can be an insignificant item that we cherish. A small cat candle from Mom. Handprints made in kindergarten. A card from a friend. Cherish the small gifts. The moments with family and friends at this time of isolation. Snuggling with your granddaughter while reading Curious George. Listening to the holiday music. Taking time to relax with a cup of tea and a fire. Holy Father, my gifts are many. Help me to give them away. They may be small and simple wrapped in white tissue paper, but I offer them to Your glory. AMEN

Jane McCoy

"On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh." :11

Wednesday

You Are Christmas

David Rees

You are Christmas… Every time you smile And help to make the world A brighter place You are Christmas… Every time you laugh and Let the sound join with All the happy music of the world You are Christmas… Every time you speak A word of faith to some fearful soul Along the road of life You are Christmas… Every time you pray a prayer For those who need Your very special blessing You are Christmas… Every time your loving hand Goes out of the way To touch and care and help and share.

Keep Christ in Christmas Thursday

The advent season is upon us once again. Even though it marks the beginning of the Church year, it also allows us to reflect back on the year that is soon coming to a close. And it has certainly been a “year of years”. This year has made us slow down, pause, and think of others less fortunate than ourselves. In years past-have we been getting ahead of ourselves? Too busy during Advent to forget its’ true meaning? Rushing here and there to get the right gift for that special person? Growing up, I remember the phrase ”Keep Christ in Christmas”. Maybe it’s time to revisit the meaning of that. I haven’t seen it for many years, but maybe that’s the message God wants us to hear this year and remember it for years to come.

Mick Bixler

“Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign: Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” 7:14

God Sent His Son Friday

It was Christmas time, and all the kids were coming for . We decided that we would go to the supermarket and order a complete Christmas dinner for the occasion. So, the evening before Carolyn went to pick it up, as she was leaving the store, she met a family just outside the door- a man and his wife and three small children. The woman stopped her and said excuse me, but my husband just lost his job, and we are in a bad way. Could you spare a couple of dollars so we could get something eat for tomorrow? Carolyn said she could tell it was extremely hard for them to ask. She told them why don’t you take this cart and all that is in it and have a Blessed Christmas. I came home from work and asked her where is the dinner? When she told me what she had done, I then called a local restaurant and made reservations for Christmas dinner for all of us.

During this Advent Season as well as all year long, it is well of us to remember that as God gave us his Son, we should all be willing to give to help our fellow man. Or as we like to think- WWJD or What Would Jesus Do?

Gordon and Carolyn Goslin

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life.”

John 3:16

Saint Nicholas Day Saturday

When I was a little girl living in Germany, my parents embraced the holiday culture. Part of the Holiday season included Day. Every December 5th, at night, we would set out our boots by the door. In the morning they would be full of sweets and sometimes may have had coal, depending on how good we had been. This was a tradition that was endearing to my heart. After my father was stationed back in the states in Kansas, we stopped the tradition after a few years. When our eldest son Ethan was born, my husband and I started implementing the tradition back into our holidays, with our own take on it. On we make a German meal and share this meal with my mother and close friends. Since our boys, Ethan and Jeffrey, are still young we watch the Veggie Tales cartoon about Saint Nicholas. We talk about his life and why giving to those less fortunate is important and Christ like. I love pointing out that as Nicholas gave more, he became more full and happier. This is an important lesson that we want our sons to learn. They know that Saint Nicholas was a real man, that he followed Christ, and loved him with all his heart. Afterwards we give our boys a fun Christmas book and a new ornament for the tree. Keeping this tradition al- lows me to share a part of my childhood at Christmas time with my own children.

“ Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7

Father in heaven, please allow our hearts to grow and be filled with the Holy Spirit during this holiday Season, that is unlike any we have been in. We pray that we can spread cheer this Holiday by giving what we can without the pressure of what is happening in the world weighing down on us. Amen.

Thomas, Michelle, Ethan, and Jeffrey Childers-Garrison

THE SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT December 6

“O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie. Above thy deep and dreamless sleep, the silent stars go by. Yet in thy dark street shineth, the everlasting light. The hopes and fears of all the years, are met in thee tonight.

How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is given. So God imparts to human hearts, the blessings of His heaven. No ear may hear His coming, but in this world of sin, Where meek souls will receive him still, the dear Christ enters in.”

On the first Sunday of Advent, we lit the candle of FAITH. It reminds us of our faith in God’s promises. (light the first candle)

Why do we light the second candle? (light a second candle)

The second candle represents HOPE. To hope is to look forward to something with confidence, expecting it to happen.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Romans 15:13

THOUGHTS ABOUT HOPE

Long ago the people of Israel had hope in their hearts as they waited for the Messiah, God’s chosen one, the one who would set them free. Jesus was the one they were waiting for! God sent Jesus to be the Savior of all humankind. By believing in Jesus as God’s Son, our sins are forgiven and we have new life in Christ. Hear the words of God’s prophets who guided the people in hope as they waited for the Messiah.

“Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign; the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel, God with us.” Isaiah 7:14

“For unto us a child is born, to us a Son is given. And the govern- ment will be upon his shoulders and his name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

Today we have hope and faith in God’s promise that one day Jesus will come again bringing a new heaven and a new earth. As believers in Jesus we will live in God’s kingdom forever.

PRAYER: Our heavenly Father, you have sent your Son, Jesus, to be our hope in a world that is often full of despair. Thank you for the special light that Jesus brings. Help us to live lives that are pleasing to you, even as we share your hope with those around us. Thank you for Holy Spirit that lives in our hearts. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

TO DO: What hopes do you have for this season of Advent? Share them with someone you know and trust. Pray that God will fulfill these hopes.

Is there someone you know who needs to know of the hope we have in Jesus? Think of ways that you can share your hope and faith with them. Monday

An Advent Alphabet A is for Angel, announcing a birth, B is for Baby, our Lord come to earth. C is for , rich kings they once bore, D is for Donkey, for Joseph was poor. E is for-Ever, eternal life now begins, F is Forgiveness of all of our sins. G is for our God, whose Son came from above, H is for Hearts that say yes to his love. I is for that perfumes the air, J is for Joy that all people may share. K for the King that this baby would be, L is for Love, both for you and for me. M is for Mary, the mother God chose, N for the Night that glad tidings arose. O for the One, through whom God we now meet, P for the Presents we lay at his feet. Q for the Quiet that lay over all, R for the Rustle of beasts in the stall. S is for Shepherds who heard angels sing, T is for Trumpets that herald our King. U is for Union with God—three in One, V is for Virgin, who bore God’s own Son. W is for Wise men, who followed the star, X marked the Babe that they sought from afar. Y for the Yearning, in hearts that may cease, Z brings the end and God’s promise of peace. Replace the “Gimmes” Tuesday

Since our 2 children were preschoolers, my family has participated in a yearly tradition we call “the 12 gifts of Christmas.” We hang a ribbon on our wall with 12 small envelopes clipped to it. In each envelope is an idea for some sort of community service. Throughout the month of December we open an envelope and try to do that act of service, from singing carols to shut-ins to picking up trash in our local park; delivering cookies to neighbors and volunteering at the food bank; donating funds to a charity our kids choose to telling to someone we love. Once we finish an act of service, we write about it and put the note in a specially wrapped gift box that is addressed to Jesus. Then we open the next envelope and work on that act of compassion. The goal is that by we will have filled the gift box for Jesus with our 12 acts of compassion and service done in his honor. Part of why we have this tradition in our family is to help alleviate my children’s rampant case of “the gimmies.” The dreaded “Gimmies” is our name for the mindset of wanting more and more stuff at Christmas time (and it usually starts around Halloween!). I have found that the “12 gifts of Christmas” helps re-focus our attention on people and situations that need our help and encouragement. At a time when the world around us screams “consume! shop! gimme!” we really need to reorient our sense of what is truly important and how Christ came to live among us as a servant, acting with compassion and sacrifice. I invite you to think of 12 acts of service or compassion that you can do throughout Advent. Opportunities to share our gifts of time, energy and care are all around us, and these are the gifts that Jesus truly appreciates!

Pastor Robyn Eddy

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4: 10

All are welcome! Wednesday

Years ago, when our children were small, we placed a plastic (and indestructible) nativity set on a low table in our living room. I wanted the kids to be able to move the figures around and not just look at the scene from a distance. One day, I heard some talking from the front room. Sensing that something special was happening there, I tiptoed around the corner. I saw my youngest son at the manger scene, with all the figures gathered close around the baby Jesus. But not just the figures from the set. He had also gathered many of his Fisher Price “people” around to see the baby Jesus. Somehow Marc knew that all were welcome at this first nativity, and he had them all gathered close around so that they could all see Jesus. What a precious picture this is of the love of God! God’s love is not just for those who seem to belong. Those who dwell outside the edges are just as much a part of the family of God, as those who are on the “inside.” Think of those who made up that unlikely group of people who surrounded Mary and Joseph at the stable. They didn’t seem to be the ones who should have been part of the inner circle at the birth of the Savior! And isn’t it just so today, that sometimes we forget that God’s love is for every person, no matter who they are or where they are from. God loves the child who is hungry in the Dominican Republic; God loves the family who is living in their car on the streets of Salt Lake City; God loves the man with the cardboard sign who waits day after day on the corner near our Walmart. These people may seem on the “outside” of the blessings that God has showered upon so many of us. And yet, the tells us that God loves “the least of these brothers” as much as all of us. This Christmas reach out in love to ALL of those whom God loves. Each day of the week think of a new way to extend God’s love to someone new, maybe even someone “outside” of the comfortable place near the manger. Love the way God loves. It’s scary, it’s risky, but it’s what Jesus wants us to do.

Pastor Nancy Pearson

Jesus said, “Truly I tell you , just as you did it to one of the least of these, you did it to me.” :40 A Positive Advent Thursday

Late December 2014, I asked a Christian friend if he listened to or had read any books by Pastor Joel Osteen.

“No! He is too positive; life isn’t that way”. Wow, that’s not how I thought that conversation would go. It did however let me reflect on times past showing my own hypocrisy. Was I just preaching a good positive life or living one? Am I just hoping for a positive life but not showing evidence of enthusiasm? Reflection days of December are here again, and I do know “Life is Good-God is Great” and Love is Real. God’s word-the Bible tells us so. Now that’s positive and that is how life is. To live and show God’s love is as easy as a smile. Please take time to look into the eyes of a child, your children, your spouse, tell them every day I LOVE YOU- tell them how proud you are because of them. Show all people, through the way you live, God’s enthusiasm for our positive life is in you and is real. Take time always to Thank God for his gifts and positive life. The loving peace of Jesus Christ is with you this Christmas.

Bontadelli family

PS. Pastor Tony Evans said, put a glass in a bucket of water, what happens? The water goes into the glass. Put yourself in Christ, what happens? The spirit of Christ goes into you. “Glass in water, water in glass-you in Christ, Christ in you.”

Worth The Wait (Part 0ne) Friday

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 This time of year is a joyous reflection of an anticipated birth. Our second daughter was due to arrive 6th just in time for . Of course, I thought I had everything under control because I had a 5 year old daughter, so- previous practice! The preparations of crib, clothes, etc. all done. Now I wait as the fears and uncertainties begin to rise. Will I be ready? Will she be healthy? What will we name her? Who will she grow up to be? Come Christmas morning as gifts were being opened, I have a little pain here a little pain there- signs of an arrival! On December 27th in the early hours of the morning on a record cold day my husband is praying that the truck will finally start up. It did but we had forgotten to set up where to take our 5-year-old. We arrived at a friend’s home and asked her to babysit and rushed off to the hospital. Mary was born, beautiful, healthy, and wonderful. Her big Sister announced to the family dog “Guess what Penny, we have a new baby sister!”. Our family was complete. So long ago the people of God waited for the arrival of a promise. “The Wonderful, Eternal, Almighty God of Peace – the second Person of the Triune Godhead, set aside His glory to take on the form of a man and be BORN into the race that He created…. as the Son of Man. He was GIVEN by the Father as a gift of grace from God to a lost world, so that all who believe on His name of the Son of God could be saved. The Lord Jesus Christ is that Child that was Born and He is that Son that was Given. No surprise that His name shall be called: Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father - Prince of Peace.”

Gen Phelps

Worth The Wait (Part Two) Saturday

“There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time, they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. “

Luke 21: 25-28

It seems that our whole life from the beginning to end, we wait. As a young child we can hardly wait for our birthdays, opening presents and having everyone fuss over us with love. Next comes the teen years pushing in every way for our independence because we know best. Finally, we reach the adulting years and it is not what we expected. Waiting for the perfect companion, perfect job, and endless money to buy all the things we think we need. Then the rat race won, we move toward the golden years, right- it’s called aging. Waiting in the doctor’s office, waiting for the answers. Waiting with loved ones as they take their last breath or in some cases, unexpected loss. Waiting is so hard! We are all in the boat of life. Waiting out the storms. The reassurance is this, that the Lord has been with us always. He is the peace and calm that will light the way to the shore of homecoming.

Lord, may your coming be a glorious and redemptive event. May I so live that, in the words of the hymn, “When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation, to take me home, what joy shall fill my heart!”

Brad Phelps

THE THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13

“, the Lord is come. Let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare him room And heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, And heaven, and heaven and nature sing.

He rules the world with truth and grace And makes the nations sing The glories of his righteousness And wonders of his love, and wonders of his love, And wonders, wonders, of his love.

On the first Sunday of Advent, we lit the candle of FAITH. It reminds us of the faith and trust we have in our Lord Jesus.

Last Sunday we lit the candle of HOPE. Our hope is in Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

Why do we light the third candle? (light the pink candle)

Today we light the candle of JOY. Joy is what Christmas is all about! The angels spoke to the shepherds with “tidings of great joy.” We are filled with joy when we consider God’s indescribable gift to us, Jesus!!

THOUGHTS ABOUT JOY

The angel came to Mary to share God’s message to her. God had chosen her to be the mother of Jesus, God’s own Son. Mary was surprised, but she was filled with joy. This is what she said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior.” Luke 1:46-47

We can be filled with joy and great thankfulness too, when we think of Jesus, who left his home in heaven to come to earth to live among the people. Jesus’ life, death and resurrection assures us of life; joyful abundant life now and forever life with him. Jesus brings great joy to our hearts. When others see the joy that we have, they will want it too!

“The angel said to the shepherds, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the city of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.’ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace to those on whom His favor rests.’” :8-14

PRAYER: Dear God, thank you for the joy we have in our lives because of your great love for us. Your joy is “catching,” Lord. Help us to show your love and joy to everyone we see this week so that they can “catch” it too. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

TO DO: Think about things each of us can do to help bring joy to others. Make a plan to do some of these things! Talk with someone else about your ideas. How can our lives each day show that we are joyful, even if we don’t always feel it? Experience Christmas joy with others! Listen to and sing along! Take a drive to see bright . Read your Christmas cards and pray for those who have sent greetings to you. Call someone you know and enjoy time together. Make plans to invite someone to come to church with you! SMALL MIRACLES & THANKFULNESS Monday

Some people say that there aren’t miracles anymore. Maybe nothing as spectacular as the parting of the Red Sea or manna falling from heaven will take place. But consider - a much needed rain that stops a wildfire, an organ donor found in time to save someone’s life, the first time you see your baby’s sweet face and count 10 fingers and 10 toes. These are miracles!! Say “Thank you God” and remember how truly blessed we are to have Jesus Christ in our lives and to be able to openly worship him. Thank you God!!

Marilyn Smith

The Thankful Leper (Always thank God for his blessings) “While He was on the way to , He was passing between and . And as He entered a village, ten men with leprosy who stood at a dis- tance met Him; and they raised their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” When He saw them, He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they were going, they were cleansed. Now one of them, when he saw that he had been healed, turned back, glorifying God with a loud voice, and he fell on his face at His feet, giving thanks to Him. And he was a Samaritan. But Jesus responded and said, “Were there not ten cleansed? But the nine—where are they?” Luke 17:11-17 4 Gifts from God for God’s people Tuesday

Hope and Faith- Is hope believing or is it faith? Is it a mind set in prayer or a wish from the heart? At the heart of hope is belief. The belief of faith at work. St Thomas Aquinas said “To one with faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible”. Peace-How do we accept this gift? Start by forgiving. With forgiveness, we understand a peaceful life. With peace as a natural state of our life-We bless every person and interaction we encounter. Love-It might not be “All You Need” but without love “all else is lost”. Jesus is Love. English poet Robert Browning said “Take away love and our earth is a tomb”. In almost every book of the Bible, the word Love is written to be understood. John 3:16- “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son. That whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Joy-It can be easy to feel joy during the Christmas season. Joy is meant to be shared all year long. God gave us gifts galore. Experience life through the Gift of Life. Hope-Faith-Peace-Love-Joy-WWJD or What Would Jesus Do? Here is the point I am trying to make-Don’t be afraid to belong to God!

Bontadelli family Wednesday

The Gift of the Magi O. Henry Thursday

On Christmas Eve, Della Young discovers that she has only $1.87 to buy a present for her husband Jim. She visits the nearby shop of a hairdresser, Madame Sonofrie, who buys Della's long hair for $20. Della then uses the money to buy a platinum pocket watch chain for Jim. When Jim comes home from work that evening, Della admits to him that she sold her hair to buy him the chain. Jim gives Della her present-- a set of ornamental combs, which she will be unable to use until her hair grows back out. Della gives Jim the watch chain, and he tells her that he sold the watch to buy the combs. Although Jim and Della are left with gifts that they cannot use, they realize how far they are willing to go to show their love for each other and how priceless their love really is. The story ends with the narrator comparing these sacrificial gifts of love with those of the biblical Magi. Matthew 2: 1-12 “Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of in the days of Herod the king, be- hold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for this is what has been written by the prophet: “And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, Are by no means least among the leaders of Judah; For from you will come forth a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.” Then Herod secretly called for the magi and determined from them the exact [time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the Child; and when you have found Him, report to me, so that I too may come and worship Him.” After hearing the king, they went on their way; and behold, the star, which they had seen in the east, went on ahead of them until it came to a stop over the place where the Child was to be found. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And after they came into the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary; and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And after being warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod, the magi left for their own country by another way.”

As Della gave to Jim and Jim gave to Della, each gave everything that they had. Their love for each other was unconditional. As the Wise Men came to Bethlehem and brought their gifts to the Baby, their love was no longer conditional, but unconditional. They knew that the story was true as they saw the King of Kings. As we celebrate the birth of the , give your unconditional love to Him, who was born, lived and died for us, so that all who believe will be saved.

Jeff McCoy Jesus is always there- my protector Friday

One summer morning, when I was 16 years old, I awoke with a 103 temperature and an extremely bloated stomach. My mother immediately called the doctor, at his home, and he came to our house within minutes. House calls were a thing of the past, but he was concerned enough to make an exception. Upon examination, I was sent to the hospital where my head was packed in ice and a fan positioned to blow across my body. After several days and no change in my temperature and after a consultation with four other doctors, I was sent to surgery. My appendix was wrapped around my intestines and was hanging in the back. It was badly perforated and had burst. I had gangrene throughout my body and a big abscess had formed. The second night after surgery I awoke to see an Angel at the foot of my bed and Jesus standing on my left side with his hand on my shoulder. I suddenly felt calm and peaceful and went back to sleep. The next morning, I told my mother about my experience. With tears in her eyes, she told me she had been on her knees in the bathroom all night praying Jesus would protect me, and I would live. It was then that I knew Jesus would always be there for me. He has proved this many times throughout my life.

Judy Colwell

“Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and a good reputation In the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3: 3-6

Joy in Conflict Saturday

One of the most unusual I ever experienced was as a volunteer on a Jewish community farm in Israel. The farm invited internationals from Europe and the U.S. to work and be a part of their community, and Israel gave us 3-month work visas to do it. When Christmas day came, we were told that we could have the day off and our Jewish hosts threw us a party, since they knew that we all came from cultures that celebrate Christmas. They made us an impressive feast with all-you-can-eat lamb and wine. Musicians played for us. They didn't have to do any of this - - it was pure kindness and graciousness. We were humbled and delighted at the lengths to which our hosts went to help us celebrate our holiday. As things started to quiet down, one of our Jewish hosts, a guy about our age, began to reflect about how "Jesus was a Jew." Here, one of the volunteers joined the conversation. As I recall she was from Sweden and was dating this Jewish guy, and they must have had an argument that was still simmering, or she had too much to drink, because at that moment she blurted out with venom and resentment, "And you killed him." That was it, the party was over. It was so unnecessary. The only thing that mattered in that moment was the incredible hospitality our hosts showed us. Instead, she dragged us all into an ugly conflict and an old, half-baked historical debate. Of course, everyone got very quiet, shocked at her rudeness and the awkward moment lingered painfully, for the longest 10 seconds ever. Some people panicked and slinked away to escape the embarrassment. It's a shame that none of us had the knowledge or wisdom to share the truth at that moment -- that actually it was the Roman Empire that killed Jesus. The accumulated anti-Semitism of centuries has blamed the Jews for the death of Jesus, but it wasn't true. As awkward as the rude ending to the party was, it's probably the only reason I still remember that special Christmas and the happy times before that moment. Research suggests that we tend to remember painful experiences much better than happy, trouble-free experiences. We can see some of those painful memories in the Christmas story in the . Nobody wants conflict at a Christmas party, but conflict fills the background of the Christmas story (so it should be in our Christmas devotionals too): there was no room at the inn so they stayed in a stable (Luke 2), and Jesus's family soon has to escape to due to Herod's barbaric command to slaughter innocents two years old and under (Matthew 2). Perhaps with a stressful, difficult, and very much argued about pandemic in the background, we might experience a memorable Christmas, where we might set aside old prejudices and grudges, learn more about our traditions, learn something new and something true, and appreciate anew the blessings that Christmas can bring us in a troubled time. Matthew Eddy THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 20

“Silent night, holy night All is calm, all is bright. ‘Round yon Virgin, mother and child. Holy infant so tender and mild Sleep in heavenly peace Sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, holy night Son of God, love’s pure light. With the angels let us sing, Alleluia to our King, Christ the Savior is born Christ the Savior is born.”

The first candle of Advent reminds us of our FAITH in our Lord Jesus Christ. We light the second candle remembering the HOPE we have as we wait for Christ’s coming again. The rose candle is the candle of JOY. Advent is a time for rejoicing.

TODAY we light the candle of LOVE. This candle reminds us of the light of love that Christ gives to all people. Christmas is a time to give and receive that love.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that all who believe in him would not perish but have everlasting life. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but so the world would be saved through him.” John 3:16-17

THOUGHTS ABOUT LOVE

The fourth Sunday in Advent is a time for us to reflect on God’s great gift of love to us. Christmas is just five days away. We have prepared our hearts and our homes to welcome the Lord Jesus. We have wrapped up gifts to give. Our gifts are a sign of love, just as Jesus’ birth was a gift and a sign of God’s love for us. Give thanks to God for his gift of love!

“Jesus said ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. And you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” :37-39

“This is how God showed his love among us; God sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us.” 1 John 4:9-10

“We love, because God first loved us.” 1 John 4:19

PRAYER: Loving God, thank you for sending us the Lord Jesus. Help us to remember that you love us more than we can imagine. Help us to love our family and friends with your kind of love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

TO DO: It might seem easy to show love at Christmas. But think about ways to share God’s love after all the gifts are opened and the decorations are put away. How can you and your family continue to shine with the light of Jesus’ love?

Complete the sentence “Love is……… “ What can we do this week to show love to someone in need of Jesus’ love?

The Thrill of Hope Monday

“O, Holy Night” is a song with kingdom rhythms. The music fosters worship yet it is the redemption imagery the words arouse that cause my heart to sing. The lyrics capture and link the magnitude of God’s promise fulfilled in Christ’s birth, the despairing condition of humanity and how the transformation of God’s people begins on that night divine.

O Holy Night the stars are brightly shining It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth Long lay the world, in sin and error pinning, Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth.

This arrangement of God’s blessings creating bookends to brokenness is found in other hymns and designed in scripture. Whether in the intimate setting of the with one loaf or on a shore of thousands with only five loaves and two fish, Jesus is systematic: He blesses and gives thanks. He breaks, symbolic of His suffering so that blessings spread in abundance.

The thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices For yonder breaks, a new and glorious morn

Christ’s very own life and mission establishes this kingdom pattern. He was born into our rebellion as Immanuel, God with us. He was betrayed, beaten, crucified, and died. His death broke our bondage to sin and death. He rose and invites all to believe and be His blessing to others.

Fall on your knees and hear the angel voices, O night divine, when Christ was born.

Gracious God - prepare us humbly and appear in our suffering. Commune with us, awaken us to your arrival. Refresh our souls to feel the worth and love of God deep in our brokenness, as we await your promised glory to return. Heal us and cause us to sing as your blessings. Allow the weary world to hear our rejoicing and know the thrill of hope is Jesus. Amen.

Meganne Acres RULE 39 Tuesday

In a long running television show, the lead character is a special agent for the U.S. government and lives by a set of rules given to him by his late wife and he refers to them often as guidelines when attempting to solve the weekly crime. Rule 39 simply states, “There is no such thing as a coincidence.”

This show has been on the air since 2003 so I didn’t give Rule 39 much thought beyond, “Of course there is, they happen all the time.” Since then, I have become a member of our church and was baptized on November 13, 2011 and now have a different opinion on Rule 39. After 8 years of studying the Bible, I have come to the conclusion that all coincidences are by God’s plan. We’re just not in on the details.

The evidence of no coincidences can be found all through the Bible but the clearest explanation for me is:

“For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord,

“plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11

Jeff Smith Wednesday

Announcing A Birth The Legend of the Candymaker

How can a candy treat be a birth announcement? Many years ago, a candymaker had an idea. He wanted to show, through the candy that he made, that Jesus Christ was born among us, lived and died to save us all. So through the use of color and shape, he created a piece of candy that told the story of Jesus from Christmas to Easter. He created the !

COLOR The white stripes on the candy cane stand for the fact that Jesus was sinless and pure. The small red stripes stand for the suffering Jesus endured before he died. The large red stripe stands for Jesus’ blood, shed on the cross. SHAPE

The candy cane is shaped like a shepherds staff, reminding us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd. Turn it upside down and it is the letter “J,” the first letter of Jesus’ name.

We can learn a lot from the candy cane—both to look at it and see Jesus, and like the candymaker, to share the story of Jesus in whatever we do.

Luke 2: 1-20 Jesus’ Birth in Bethlehem “Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth. This was the first census taken while was governor of Syria. And all the people were on their way to register for the census, each to his own city. Now Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register along with Mary, who was betrothed to him, and was pregnant. While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock at night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood near them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. And so the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. ”And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army of angels, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among people with whom He is pleased.” When the angels had departed from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem, then, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger. When they had seen Him, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. And all who heard it were amazed about the things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.”

CHRISTMAS EVE December 24

“Away in a manger, no crib for a bed The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head The stars in the sky looked down where he lay. The little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay.

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes I love thee Lord Jesus, look down from the sky And stay by my side until morning in nigh.

Be near me Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay Close by me forever, and love me I pray. Bless all the dear children in thy tender care And fit us for heaven to live with thee there.”

Christ has come and he has given us FAITH, HOPE, JOY and LOVE. (light the four candles.)

The white candle in the center of the Advent wreath reminds us of God’s gift to us—Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

Jesus said, “I have come that you may have life and have it to the full.”

John 10:10 THOUGHTS and SCRIPTURES

Read the Christmas story in Luke 2:1-20.

A manger seems not at all the place for a newborn king to lay his head. But God chose these humble surroundings for the birth of his Son. How quietly God became man and entered the world, to the sounds of cattle lowing and doves cooing.

God can enter our lives in a quiet way too. God asks us each to open our hearts to His love and forgiveness. We must only accept his Son, Jesus, as our Lord and Savior, and God will make his home forever in our hearts.

Jesus said “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35

Jesus said “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.”

John 11:25

This Christmas, let us welcome Jesus into our homes and hearts in a fresh, new way. Praise God for his wonderful gift!

PRAYER: Dear God, thank you for your precious Son, Jesus. Thank you for coming to live in our hearts by the power of your Holy Spirit as we trust Jesus as Savior. Be with us at this time of great celebration. May all that we do and say be pleasing to you. Help us to keep our eyes on you. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Christmas Begins Howard Thurman

When the song of the angels is stilled, When the star in the sky is gone, When the kings and the princes are home, When the shepherds are back with their flocks, The work of Christmas begins. To find the lost, To heal the broken, To feed the hungry, To release the prisoner, To rebuild the nations, To bring peace among the people, To make music in the heart.