Family Advent Devotional

New Life Lutheran Church Family Advent Devotional

Family Advent2020 Devotional Warmest Greetings, beloved New Lifer,

Choosing joy in the midst of it all, we happily share New Life’s 2020 Advent Devo- tional. Inside you will find what is really real. You will hear echoes of your life and read words that mirror your thoughts. You will find that many others, like yourself, are right now choosing to unearth joy, love and hope. Not just because we need an anti- dote from the gloom no longer creeping in but now paying rent, but because joy, love and hope are really there. Here. They are real and are plentiful. Faith comes alive in hard times and our collective witness to the divine blessing within and around is terri- bly vital. Indeed, Christ comes into our lives in the midst of pandemic. Without fail the love of God is made known throughout this world, shaky and tearful as it is. There is no question that 2020 is about as rickety a manger as there ever was, and yet, the Christ child will be laid to rest in it, transforming splinters into a sturdy frame for something wonderful to come forth.

Read on to hear from 3rd & 4th graders, middle & high-schoolers, adults, active parents, and retired folks. Hear from men, women, and our youth. People just like you, wearied by this year, yet daring to be hopeful. Grateful for the small things. Blessed by others. Finding Christmas music on unexpected albums.

Use the devotional in a way that works for you. You may wish to read each day’s devotion and then turn to the suggested Scripture, and whisper the prayer provided. You may wish to fill up a big cup of coffee and get comfortable because pages of hope and love are what you need today. There are lots of ways to use this devotion. You can’t read these beautiful essays too many times. En- joy as often as you can.

Deep thanks to all who contributed this year and to Monica in the office, who so lovingly laid out the art and writings as an exquisite gift for us all.

Happy Advent & Merry Christmas.

This is temporary. Keep praying. Stay connected. You are loved and missed.

Pastor Rakel Sunday, November 29 Read Psalm 118:1-4 So, as this crazy year nears the end, don’t you wish you hadn’t spent that money to buy that planner for 2020??? It has been a wild ride through this year. I just hope and pray that you’ve been able to retain (or regain if you’ve been sick) good health through this nasty pandemic time. Last year at this time, who would have thought what this year would bring to us? We are all so anxious to get back to normal, return to enjoying our Church celebrations, getting out and about everywhere, seeing our many loved ones and travel about freely like we used to before the pandemic changed all that. I just hope and pray the pandemic crisis period will end soon so we can return to enjoying all of the wonderful gifts of life that our good Lord has allowed us to enjoy in the past. So, until then, how can we enjoy life and be of service to Him and others as we continue through these trying times and return to the new normal – whatever that will be??? I believe the most important thing we can do right now is to continue to pray and stay close to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ – even more fer- vently than before – all the time while we do our best to protect ourselves and each other. When is the last time you reached out to someone to check up on them and just say "HI, HOW ARE YOU DOING"? As we are unable to gather and give hugs, phone calls and socially distanced "air hugs" are always a welcome substitute.

Always remember that "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1). Therefore, I find great comfort and guidance in this familiar Seren- ity prayer: God, grant me the Serenity To accept the things I cannot change... Courage to change the things I can, And Wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time, Enjoying one moment at a time, Accepting hardship as the pathway to peace. Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, Not as I would have it. Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His will. That I may be reasonably happy in this life, And supremely happy with Him forever in the next. Amen.

Don Costello Monday, November 30 Read Psalm 118:24-29 Christmas time is a happy and joyous time when we celebrate the birth of our Savior. I learned this early on as a child, along with the belief in Santa Claus. Mom and Dad always wanted to make sure we were happy, and understood the Christmas story and its importance. Christmas Eve service was always a happy and fun service to attend. It will be different this year, but I will still sing the carols and light a candle and hold it high when I sing Silent Night. Afterwards, I will have tea and cookies like I did for years with Mom and Dad after the service.

While Christmas is still a rough time for us, with both Mom and Dad celebrating in heaven, we carry on some of the traditions they taught us and that keeps them close in our hearts. This year it is important to keep the traditions alive because of the sepa- ration we all feel because of what is going on in the world right now. So, even though we might not all physically get together this holiday, the cookies and candies will be made and passed out, and the little ones will receive their gifts. The birth of our Lord Jesus rises through this pandemic we find ourselves in, and His love conquers all. Je- sus truly is the reason for the season!

Dear Lord, thank you for coming into this world to save us and make us your own. Please touch the hearts of those who have loved ones who are celebrating with you in heaven. Let the world know your peace during this Christmas season and always. Amen.

Kathy Aspeitia Tuesday, December 1 Read John 21:15-17 Where did you see God at work this year?

When I try to find the bright side in these troubled times, I think of one of the things I enjoy about the ELCA: our charity work, and specifically our September event “God’s Work, Our Hands.” I love the title, as in only four words it encapsulates how Christians should behave in the world. We are the doers of God’s work and we can bring about miracles with our own mortal hands. With the interference of the pandemic it is harder to connect with others, but that has just presented us with a new challenge, how do we play out our civic and moral duty to serve God’s people, all people, in ways that don’t risk harming them? The example I’ve seen and that gives me the most hope is the poll workers.

Everyone in America knows that on Election Day the people who will be taking your ID and handing you the ballot are going to be elderly members of the community. But this year, sitting in one place as a thousand people pass through could be deadly. But if all those poll workers stayed home for fear of contracting a potentially lethal disease, their locations would have to close from lack of staff. The result would be crowding more people into less voting locations, making the threat of catching the disease all the greater.

So around the country, the call went out. “We need healthy volunteers to man these polling locations so everyone can vote, and the most at-risk groups can stay safely away.” News anchors, Late Night Show hosts, celebrities, and other groups spread the word. And the response was immense. Counties and states that needed a few thousand workers got tens of thousands of volunteers. This level of involvement would have been unthinkable a year ago, but a need arose. And people everywhere stepped up to meet that need. So, I take my comfort in that. When people see a problem, some will walk away, but many, many others across this country will step up to protect others, to solve that problem, to meet that need. And that is God’s Work being done with Our Hands.

Dear God, may those who take up God’s work with their own hands be filled with God’s Spirit, that all will see and know the goodness of Christ. Amen.

Stephen Tomsky Wednesday, December 2 Read Isaiah 41:10 Isaiah 41:10 says “Fear not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous hand.” 2020 has been a wild year. The pandemic has had huge effects on all of us. Not being able to go to school, not being able to go to church, or even simple joys like going out to a restaurant. But instead of focusing on the negative things, look at the bright side. The verse Isaiah 41:10 says do not fear because God is always with you. Knowing this, keep your focus on the positives. For example, during quarantine I have had dinner with my family every night. Usually I was at dance or piano lessons and not home during dinner time several nights a week. I also took on new hobbies. I knitted a blanket. I discovered I love to paint. Sometimes it is nice to take a break and recharge from what was consid- ered “normal.”

Christmas looks a little different this year. However that does not mean Christmas is cancelled. Christmas is not about the gifts or big gatherings. Christmas is about celebrating Jesus Christ's birthday. To worship his birthday we don’t need all the fancy gifts and gatherings, but instead spend time with our immediate family and loved ones. We might not be able to see everyone face to face, so a card or simple text mes- sage goes a long way. And while we might not be able to rejoice in church, technology has taught us we can continue to hear God’s word with online church.

Even though the world is on pause, and we don’t know what lies ahead, we can still keep the holiday spirit alive. Between Christmas lights or hanging out with your family, take some time to remember what God has blessed you with. And always remember, do not fear, because God is strengthening you.

Dear God, help us be strengthened in faith when we see Christmas lights, spend time with family and pause to remember your blessings. Amen.

Emma Bramwell Thursday, December 3 Read Romans 12:1-8 The coming Advent season celebration of the hope, joy, love, and peace the birth of Jesus brought into the world leads us to reflect on our current world.

The world back then had lots of issues, like racial divisions, Roman occupation, rigid Jewish leader hierarchies, and others. But now, two thousand years later, we still find ourselves living in trying times of a pandemic, racism, economic, inequality, racism, climate change, and more. Seems like we could sure use some kind of help similar to what the long-ago birth of the Christ Child did for the ancient world.

Contemplating a Christ child coming into our world to help with our issues does bring up some thoughts and concerns; first, we remember it was years after the birth of Jesus before people began to understand, to practice, and to spread the good news he brought to the world. We want our help now, so maybe that means we need to have more faith that the good will prevail over the bad. Maybe practicing patience is what we are now called to do.

Somehow being more patient doesn't seem like a very satisfying way to improve the lives of people in our world who need help now. Finally, we realize it is clearly now our job to spread the good news of Jesus Christ into the world. It's also our role to spread Christ's love and Joy to all, and to advocate and work for peace for all in the world. We must remember to approach people as Jesus would, with love not with confrontation. Our job is to live our lives striving to be examples of how Jesus would act and speak with the people in our world, if he still walked the earth in these times.

Dear Lord, thank you for sending your Son Jesus as a beacon of light and example for us as we try to live out our faith in you. Thank you for helping and guiding us. Help us as we seek to help others with their needs - so we reflect your love and compassion to them in ways which make them want to work together to help all who need help, and to make our world a world of peace, equality, and joy. Amen.

John Shepard Friday, December 4 Read 1 Peter 4:8-11 What Christmas Carol do you play on repeat and why?

Although many Christmas carols bring joy and happiness of the season, one of my favorites is “The Little Drummer Boy.” Whenever I hear it, I visualize the Claymation character depicted in the 1968 television special of the same name. During childhood, watching this show each year was a regular holiday tradition in my family. The boy in the film was brought to Jesus by the three wise men who brought physical gifts to baby Jesus. As both the film and song goes, the boy was poor and had no gift to bring fit to give a king. He then looked down at the drum hanging on him and started to play it for Jesus. After the boy played his drum, baby Jesus smiled at him and this brought a tear to the drummer boy. Understand that this drummer boy did not like people, ANY people, and in this very moment of sharing his gift for God, it changed his heart.

The song reminds me of 1 Peter 4:10, where we are called to use our gifts to serve others as faithful stew- ards of God’s grace. This gift or talent is something we are naturally good at, something we did not have to spend a lot of time learning. We are all blessed with unique gifts and talents special to each of us, but it’s up to us to discover what that gift is, how to use it, and how to make it grow. Embrace your gift and release it out in the world. These gifts given to us are not for our own benefit but to share with others and bring a smile to Jesus.

Father, show us the gifts and talents you have given us. Let us learn to use them for your glory. Amen.

Carie Mackey Saturday, December 5 Read John 13:31-35 Christmas will certainly not be the same this year due to the pandemic. There won’t be parties, school holiday programs or a lot of the usual Christmas activities and gatherings. Families won’t be able to get together as they have in the past. I know I won’t be able to celebrate Christmas with my parents. FaceTime just isn’t the same.

There will be a lot more people in need this year due to loss of jobs and other situations. There will also be more stress. Kids may not get everything they want for Christmas and Christmas dinner may not be the same this year.

There is so much craziness and turmoil in our nation right now. People are so divided.

Sometimes it is hard to see a bright side and even think about Christmas and holiday cheer. However, even with all the problems, when I see people helping others in need, I see God’s love. In my job, I see a lot of people in need, but I also see others provid- ing help. So many people are being creative to help others: virtual fundraising, drive up food pantries, etc. All of the things that New Life is doing to help others is so in- spiring and gives me hope. It doesn’t have to be something big. Even a hello to someone when you are out walking the dogs can brighten their and your day. As we help each other, I can see the Spirit of Christmas alive in my neighborhood and the nation.

Dear God, we pray for all who are affected by Covid-19, including those who are ill, who have had a family member pass away and all of the caregivers. We pray for those who are in need as well as those who will feel alone at Christmas because they can’t get together with others. We pray for healing and calm in our nation. We pray that the Christ child brings peace, joy, hope and love to all - our families, New Life members, our nation, and the world. And we pray for a happier and healthier 2021! Amen.

Merry Christmas! Joe Ackerman Sunday, December 6 Read Luke 2:1-8 I am constantly reminded of the true meaning of Christmas as I commonly and constantly get caught up in gifts, family, and other Christmas festivities. Then I am reminded that the story of Jesus's birth is the perfect example of how greatness can come from rock bottom.

His father, Joseph, a carpenter, and his mother, Mary was pregnant without a hus- band. They couldn't be in much of a worse situation without being in a near unlivable situation. Then Emperor Augustus sent out that a census would be taken and that all people must return to their home town. Mary had to travel 90 miles, while pregnant. Then, seeing all housing situations occupied, they were forced to live in a stable and have their child in a stable. All of this shows how bad their situation really was.

Through all of this, I am seeing how they couldn't have been in much worse of a situation, but like most great things they come from the bottom. After this pandemic, everyone will come out changed. Some learning to be humble and not take things for granted. Others learning how to preserve and find help. But most of those great things also come during bad times, and though Christmas has been a thing for thousands of hundreds of years, this one will be very impactful. It will be the break in the middle of a war or the silver lining. Christmas, like most holidays, is a break from everyday life and a step into a new exotic one. This year we're stepping from a horribly exotic world into an amazing story of greatness coming from rock bottom.

Dear God, even in bad situations, you make Great Things happen for us. Thank you for being there for us, even at rock bottom. Amen.

Ben Armstrong Monday, December 7 Read Luke 2:25-32 What does Christmas mean to you in the middle of a pandemic?

In a pandemic, Christmas means to me the same thing it always does - the hope that, eventually, things will get better. In a constantly changing world, the hope for salva- tion is the one thing we can count on to never change. God has not abandoned us. In fact, these times of trials are when we notice him the most, and no matter how bad things may get, we can always keep going with the hope for a better future.

Jesus came as a baby, born in a manger, when the inn could not make room. For most, this would not be ideal circumstances. But it was enough for God. Something so small and weak can contain the hope for the entire world. God does not discrimi- nate between the color of your skin or how much money you make or where you live. When we get so caught up in the whirlwind of crazy times such as these, we need to stop and remember that the only thing that really matters is the hope, the joy, the faith, the gratitude, and the repentance we have in us. If nothing else, this is the one thing that will never change.

Dear God, Thank you for everyone and everything in our community that you have blessed us with. We pray that you will continue to keep us safe and give us the strength to keep going and continue to bring your light into the world. We pray that those without hope will find it in Your Word, and, though we may be physically separated, we can still come together this Christmas to celebrate the hope you have given us. Amen.

Garrett Snedden Tuesday, December 8 Read Romans 15:7-13 What will make Christmas still Christmas for me this year? In a word, HOPE.

… Long lay the world in sin and error, pining; 'Til He appeared, and the soul felt it's worth. A thrill of Hope, the weary world rejoices, For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn! (O Holy Night)

Christmas is the birth of Hope - Hope born into a sad and sinful world that could not right itself (and suspecting the same, lived in dread;) Hope laid in a feeding trough in the City of Bread, to become bread for the world; the Hope that this life is not all there is; the Hope that even though we are not worthy of eternal life, God loves us as if we were, and prepares that life for us, even now, in the midst of all our current troubles. We live in Hope that God is working for our eventual and eternal good, and that someday we will be reunited with the loved ones we have lost, in the home that we only half-remember, yet still long for. Hope reminds us that someday we will be whole again. Hope is the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. Hope can see us through today, with all its trials, until we are ushered in to that happily-ever-after of forever-life in the presence of God. Until then we live in Hope, and celebrate the birth of Christ (our only Hope) on Christmas Day - even when that looks different than usual. Come Christmas Day, my immediate family will celebrate Hope with our extended family, by “sharing” Christmas dinner and playing board games through Zoom (we planned ahead so that we all have the same game!) Will it be the same as having my brother and sister and their families with us at our home? No, but that we have the technology to “be together remotely” is a blessing in itself, and the love and laughter that follows will be yet another blessing. Plus we still have the Hope that we all may be together (in person) next Christmas - here’s Hoping! ;)

May you know the Love of God, the Hope of Christ, and the Comfort of the Holy Spirit this Christmas!

Dear God, thank you for the gift of HOPE. Keep our hope alive and strong. Amen.

Debra Tomsky Wednesday, December 9 Read Psalm 46:8-11 What unexpected joys filled your life this year?

Simply put, 2020 was less than ideal. Everyone has their favorite 2020 joke; if you want to know mine, shoot me an email and I’ll share it. It’s completely clean, but I'm on a word limit here. It is easy to say 2020 was way different than any year any of us have ever experienced. But was it really? Well, yes it was; of course it was. But while it was different in so many ways, there was so much that was exactly the same, and since I was locked down and limited on my out-of-the-house activities, I was given more time to stop and smell the roses, literally. I had more time to enjoy the beauty of na- ture, trees and plants and flowers. A really cool-looking sky or seeing planets in the night sky. More time to watch the squirrels and birds and other animals around town. Many of you know I ride my bike a LOT, and this year there were many times where I stopped and just looked around. And I thought to myself, this stuff is always here; it’s just I’m always racing around squeezing another activity in. There was more time to just be, and to enjoy the world around me. I never thought I’d survive a world without watching sports. But when there were no games this spring/early summer, I found I hardly missed them at all. Now that sports are kind of back, I’ve watched games again, but without the same ur- gency/need. One thing I’ve definitely learned this year is to enjoy the things around me and enjoy what I have; a lot of it has been sitting here all along waiting for us to discover and enjoy. Happy Holidays!!

Dear God, your power is everywhere we look. Help us slow down long enough to enjoy your amazing deeds right in front of us. Amen.

Tom Pavlini Thursday, December 10 Read Isaiah 9:6-7 As the Christmas season starts to roll around (and often at other times of the year) We go through the CD's and play our favorite: Handel's Messiah! In our opinion, there is nothing more inspirational than this piece. Especially at Christmas.

As you may know, Handel wrote this in November 1741 in the city of London. At this time, he was not doing well in his career. He wrote the music in about three weeks. Messiah was finally performed in Dublin in April 1742. It was a huge success. As Handel wrote the music, his friend Charles Jenneas chose the words from scriptur- al quotations.

The whole overture, to us, encompasses the awe of prophecy, birth, life and death of Christ. The true meaning and the reason of His birth is in this music.

We pray that as we enter this Christmas season, we will all remember the true meaning of Christmas and hold it dear, to all of us in our hearts, now and always! Amen.

Dave and Sue Nowicki Friday, December 11 Read Philippians 1:2-5 Even as the Christmas season is different, what traditions will you keep the same this year?

This Christmas season will be very different for me. I moved to Chicago from Buffalo in 1981, but every year since then I have gone back to visit my family in Buffalo at Christmas. Unless the pandemic situation changes drastically soon, this year that streak will be broken. So several traditions will be lost: helping to decorate home made Christmas cookies (and then eating them!), a big Christmas Eve dinner with family, Christmas day attending service with my family then dinner at my niece's with more family, another big post Christmas dinner with still more family. You can see that family is very important to me.

But one not so good tradition that will break will be being away from my wife at Christmas, we will be together for the first time in about 20 years. She had gone with me to Buffalo early in our marriage but after her father passed away she wanted to stay with her mom so that her mom would not be alone at Christmas. So we can celebrate, safely with masks, sanitizing and distancing, here with this family. I don't know at this time what form worship will take this year, but I do plan to keep the streak of worship at Christmas alive.

Oh, and one other tradition that will be maintained: I still watch the Charlie Brown and Grinch cartoons every Christmas season!

Heavenly Father, bless us at this challenging but still beautiful season as we celebrate the birth of our savior. Grant us peace and health and guide us through this pandemic. In Jesus's name, AMEN!

Joe Giganti Saturday, December 12 Read Philippians 2:5-11 2020 started well enough, after celebrating Christmas and the New Year at the end of 2019, then suddenly, the whole world was in a pandemic like we have never seen before. At the time it seemed that Christmas was very far in the distance and that dark days were ahead of us, but just like it was before the birth of Jesus when nights were darkest is when Jesus is closer to us. He brings us the light of the world, love, and hope. I believe Jesus will guide the scientists and doctors to find the needed cure or vaccine to control this virus.

When I was a child living in Venezuela, I remember celebrating Christmas Eve and the coming of Jesus with my family anticipating Christmas day. I would be shining my shoes and placing them under my bed, for it was there that my gifts would be in the morning. I remember waking up being very happy and excited with the gifts that I re- ceived and I know that right now in the middle of this pandemic it doesn’t feel like we are going to get rid of this pandemic, but I know that Jesus who is the ultimate gift given to us will see to it that once again we will feel like I felt as a child on Christmas day. The pandemic will be gone, be patient keep praying, we will feel the joy, hope and love of Jesus, for his love for us makes the impossible very possible.

Miracle Prayer: Father, I come to you through your son Jesus just as I am. I repent of my sins. I forgive all others for what they have done against me. I renounce Satan, all evil spirits and their works. I give my entire self to you Lord Jesus now and forever. I invite you into my life. I accept you as my Lord and Savior. Heal me, change me, Strengthen me in body, soul and spirit. Come Lord Jesus, cover me with your precious blood and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. I ask you to go before me today and prepare the way in Jesus name. I thank you, Jesus. I shall follow you every day of my life. Now Jesus you live in me and I live in you. AMEN.

Jose Galvicius Sunday, December 13 Read 2 Corinthians 9:15 In the middle of a pandemic, we thank God that Christmas will come. Small or large, we all have many things for which to be grateful.

My home will be decorated, and as always, Jesus will be honored. The nativity scene will be displayed, and the Christmas tree and balsam candles will glow.

The many church activities leading up to Christmas will be greatly missed. I will especially miss the music, the sermons, the gathering with friends and, most of all, the hugs that New Life is so good at generously giving.

During this time as an introvert, the solitude, fortunately, has not had much of an ef- fect. I have a nice long chat with God each morning and thank him for the great day that is ahead of me. I am especially grateful for good health and have been blessed with phone calls from friends and the ability to spend time with family and my grand pups, who bring me great joy. Unless our health situation changes, we will spend Christmas Eve and day together, as usual.

From my family to yours: love and appreciate each other and be grateful! It’s been a different year, and I’m sure challenging for parents of young ones, but it brings us back to basics and has helped us truly know what is important. Blessings,

Dear Lord, please be with each of us as we try to make this Christmas as normal as possible. Be with all who are missing loved ones, jobs and good health. I know you are there for each and every one of us. Thank you! Amen.

Coni Coates

Monday, December 14 Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 "What will make Christmas still Christmas for me this year?"

There is really only one way to start! Family gathered around the couch with presents scattered at our feet! I know it won't be grandparents or cousins and uncles and aunts, but the four of us, me, my brother, dad, and mom, still is like family and Christmas joy for me.

And now, what you have all been waiting for! Opening Presents! Even though the people who gave them to me are miles away, they still feel close! Knowing that they still sent me a gift during this Pandemic still means so much.

It might be a new experience, but we will make it work, because what I realized during this pandemic is that we all want to fast forward, but we still miss fun things like still social distanced-fun activities. There are still fun things along the way that if we fast forward we would miss.

It's a different year, but... WE WILL GET THROUGH THIS!

Dear Jesus, we ask you to keep the positive in our head, and fear away. At night, when we can feel lonely, keep your eyes open and watch us. Amen.

Linnea Ingelson

Tuesday, December 15 Read John 1:1-5 Even though this Christmas season maybe different, we have several traditions that we will continue even through this pandemic. We always have pizza Christmas Eve, it was just easier when the kids were little, and I would be sure they would eat that. When they were little we would wrap a present for the Baby Jesus, and Santa would take the present away when he came to our house. We would play board games all evening. We still do pizza, and now we have Zee Zee over and she gets to open a gift every Christmas Eve. We also always go to the candlelight service at Church, that we are going to miss so much. I never stay up later than 10, so this is such a big deal and reminds us what Christmas is all about.

Christmas Day is all about family and love. My heart is heavy this year because I do not know what Christmas may look like, but I do know that Zee Zee will be over, we will open gifts, she makes that part of Christmas so much fun. We will have a wonderful Christmas dinner. We will talk to our daughter on FaceTime, she lives in Tennes- see, and we are so hopeful that our son, our Grandsons, our future daughter-in-law and our Granddaughter will be over.

I am so grateful for all the blessings in our lives. Jesus is the light and the way.

Dear God, there are many traditions and people we will miss this year. May the light of Christ shine on and show us the many blessings we still have. Amen.

Heather Wanner Wednesday, December 16 Read Hebrews 11:1-2 What will make Christmas still Christmas for you this year?

Season - Christmas is my favorite season and for me the season will still be Christmas because of the tradition. There will be Christmas lights on display, Christmas songs on radio, Christmas trees in windows and decorations in the house. It will be cold out and hopefully there will be snow. (Yes, I’m one of those people!)

Family - My older sisters will be coming home from college and being all together will feel special. It will distract me from what’s going on in the world and make it feel a bit normal. Because there isn`t school over break we can spend time together doing puzzles, playing games, and watching holiday movies.

Jesus - Advent candles will still be lit and the Christmas story will still be shared. There will still be the anticipation of celebrating Jesus’ birth. It’s the little things that you can count on that still will be happening, even if it isn’t in the church. Christmas spirit is still in the air, from exchanging presents, to thinking of others, and showing love to one another. God is always there and he is something that you can rely on during these hard and uncertain times.

Dear God. we ask that you watch over us and keep us safe during these hard and uncertain times. Give us the strength and courage to get through the holiday season and make it better than ever before. Amen.

Kyle Brown

Thursday, December 17 Mark 7:31-37 The Christ child brings us hope, peace, joy and love. What is a hope you have for our world?

The hope I have for this world is that we all learn to use our ears more effectively. Our sense of hearing facilitated by our ears is wonderful. It allows us to hear the sound of a bird singing, the sound of a grandchild laughing, the sound of a spouse professing love, the sound of an amazing song being performed by a favorite singer or musical group, or the sound of a group of committed Christians praying together. These are all amazing and uplifting sounds.

Another category of sounds are warnings -- the screech of tires as a car tries to stop suddenly, the sound of a large vehicle backing up, the sound of someone shouting a warning or the sound of a strong wind associated with the on- set of nasty weather. These are not so pleasant but useful to keep us safe.

There are many other categories of sounds but I would like to spend some time sharing some thoughts about the sounds associated with having a conversation. A true conversation is a give and take and it needs us to listen and hear what the other person is saying without imposing our biases or preconceptions. This world is so divided along political, national, racial or ethnic lines that many times a real conversation becomes difficult. But we as Chris- tians need to overcome those divisions and biases. We need to more effectively use our ears to hear and listen to others and to allow others to express themselves. This will help us gain perspec- tive and empathy for others. These are critical for healthy and productive relationships

Finally, we need our ears and minds to be open to our conversations with God in prayer. It is critical that these are a give and take. Often, we end up giving a lot more in those conversations than we take but I would encourage you to listen and try to hear God speaking to you -- through loved ones, through friends or acquaintances or through strangers we happen upon. We are all God’s children and deserve to be heard and accepted.

Dearest God, please open our ears and minds to truly listen to others. Help us to overcome biases and preconceptions. Help us to be open to conversations with you so that we can share our hopes and dreams and, in addition, gain some understanding of what you want from us as Christians. We ask this in your name. Amen.

Jerry Streeky Friday, December 18 Read John 15:9-13

Where are you Christmas? Why Can’t I find you? Why have you gone away? Where is the laughter? You used to bring me? Why can’t I hear music play? My world is changing, I’m rearranging Does that mean Christmas changes too? -Song by Faith Hill

In the midst of a global pandemic, many of us are experiencing uncertainty, loss, fear, confusion and frustration. With so many of our special moments, traditions and celebrations being upended by a virus, we find ourselves approaching this Advent and Christmas season wondering what it will look like this year and asking ourselves whether we’ll be able to enjoy Christmas at all. Christmas is a time of great anticipation filled with holiday parties, family gatherings, concerts and fellowship. It’s a time when traditions are shared and treasured among those we love and hold dear. How will we be able to enjoy this time without being surrounded by all the people we love? Yes, Christmas will be very different this year, but it doesn’t mean that it is canceled or that change is necessarily a bad thing. Let’s take a look at the story and the family at the center of this season.

In Luke, Chapter 1, Mary, a young virgin girl, engaged to be married to Joseph, is visited by an angel of the Lord. The angel informs her that the Holy Spirit will make her pregnant with a boy who will be the son of God and he will be exalted. Mary was extremely confused and wondered why she was chosen. The angel told her only that she found favor in God. Can you imagine the fear, the confusion and the uncertainty of that moment for Mary? Can you imagine Joseph being tasked to marry a girl who is carrying the son of God and to raise him as his own? Both Mary and Joseph met that challenge through their faith and dutifully set out to fulfill this calling. At the end of her pregnancy, Joseph took Mary from Galilee to Bethlehem to register them for the census. The journey was long and difficult for a very pregnant Mary. When the time came to give birth, they were turned away from any possible lodging and settled in a barn with farm animals. There was no fanfare and the only light was from the stars above. The son of God was born . . . this precious gift to the world and there was no grand celebration or people around. It was the simplicity of the barn and the intimacy of this moment that was so calm and so serene. It was just a baby in peaceful slumber and his mother and father underneath the starry sky, surrounded by farm animals . . . that was the magic of that night and the magnificence of that moment. The story hasn’t changed for over 2000 years. It is at the heart of Christmas and will remain so for years to come. No matter what is going on in the world, Mary’s calling, Joseph’s faith and God’s promise remains unchanged.

While none of us wanted or anticipated a pandemic, perhaps God has been trying to get us to re- connect with the simplicity and the joy of special moments. Our holidays are usually filled with the stress of all that goes into making Christmas fun and exciting. All the decorating, cooking, baking, planning and attending holiday parties, gift buying, gift wrapping, Christmas cards and everything in between has taken us further away from really enjoying the true meaning of Christmas. I am reminded of the stillness and serenity of that night in Bethlehem so long ago. I am also reminded of the journey of Mary and Joseph and how they met the challenge of their moments through their faith. It will be hard to change the way we are used to celebrating the holidays, but sometimes finding new ways to enjoy the season and creating new traditions can bring about more meaningful ways to create lasting memories. Decorate your home to create a joyful space, take a drive to see Christmas lights in your neighborhood, make hot chocolate and play Christmas music, take time for deep and meaningful contemplation, read a good book, eat well, sleep well, bake with a friend or loved one, donate to a favorite charity, watch movies with a loved one or family, exercise together, Zoom or Skype with friends and family who are far away. There are numerous ways we can connect in safe and meaningful ways. We may not know what lies ahead, much like Mary didn’t know what her future would be like, but she held onto her faith that God’s plan would help her understand the meaning of her sacrifice. We too must hold onto our faith that we will see the light of Christ in our lives and we will get through this time together. We also need to remember that this new normal is temporary. We will be together again in fellowship and when that time comes when we can hug each other and be together, the reunion will be that much sweeter. There will be Christmas this year, Jesus is still our Lord and Savior and we can still enjoy the magic of this season. The story remains unchanged.

If there is love in your heart and your mind, You will feel like Christmas all the time. -Song by Faith Hill

Precious Lord, we ask that you wrap us in your love and grace during this uncertain time. Help us to find joy in our hearts, a song in our souls and peace in our homes and in the world. We know that Jesus is the light of our world. Help us to find that light and to remind us that Christmas can never be changed. We ask that you bring comfort and healing to those who are suffering and to help all who are struggling at this time. May our faith in you strengthen with each passing day and may we come to understand that your steadfast love and grace is ours always. We look forward to the day when we all can be together. In this we pray . . . Amen.

Jen Scheele Saturday, December 19 Read Luke 12:22-24 As our daughter, Katie, and son-in-law, Brian, awaited the arrival of their first baby, we watched the uncertainties of this pandemic impact what would normally be an exciting, anticipation of blessings. We saw Katie’s concern as she attended doctor’s visits alone and wasn’t even certain if Brian could be present for the birth of their son. This pandemic brought fear and insecurity, but they knew they had to remain calm for the health of their baby, regardless of the circumstances. This makes me wonder how Mary and Joseph felt as they traveled by foot to the birth of their son, Jesus. They didn’t have a doctor available, or an amazing Aunt Shannon who was a pediatric nurse! They didn’t have a hospital to deliver in and they had to travel by donkey at nine months pregnant! Did they put their fears aside, as well, for their baby?

Katie and Brian had a healthy baby boy, Theodore, meaning “God’s Gift”, and he truly is. As Theo looks up into his mom and dad’s eyes, the look is not of fear or concern; he is not wondering if he will get fed or kept dry, he has a look of love and se- curity. I would have to imagine this is how it was when Jesus was born. Jesus didn’t care that he was born in a manger, or that they were in a barn with animals. He did not know that wise men were traveling to bring him gifts and that he was going to change the world. He just knew he was loved and safe. That is how we need to look at our Father in Heaven, with loving eyes and com- plete trust that we are safe. We may not know our future, but God does.

Dear Lord, as we experience fear and uncertainty in our lives, not understanding what is going on, may we rest, trust, and feel safe in your presence as your child. May we have peace, knowing you are in control and remember what you told us through your Word: “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10 Amen.

Sue Karas Saturday, December 20 Jeremiah 29:11-13 2020 hasn’t been an easy year. Obviously, there’ve been plenty of unexpected things occurring all around us, due to the coronavirus outbreak. It’s been a tough year finan- cially, emotionally, and with health. 2020 is rough, but sometimes the best things come out of times of trouble.

When Mary and Joseph found out they would be having the Son of God, they were shocked. They had to travel 70 miles with one donkey, while Mary was close to giving birth. Since the census was occurring at this time, all of the inns were completely full. This led to Mary being forced to give birth in a barn and place Jesus into a manger. This was the first Christmas.

Jesus was born in this uncertain, crazy time, where it seemed like everything that could’ve gone wrong, did—just like this year. When Mary found out she would become pregnant by the Holy Spirit, she didn’t panic. Gabriel said, “Do not be afraid, for you are favored by the Lord. The Lord is with you.” Mary believed Gabriel and had faith in God. What we need in 2020 is to have faith. This year, God works in strange ways. It’s important to stay faithful and have hope that God will make everything well again.

Dear God, you are always faithful. Help us to always trust in your good and strange ways. Amen.

Wesley Davis Sunday, December 21 Read Psalm 95:1-6 Advent. Wow, it is here. First of all, let me say Michael and I miss and love our church family so much, and we can't wait for the day that we can worship and praise our Lord together in our church again. I have so many tears and so many hugs to give out that my heart is bursting at the seams to give and be given those hugs again.

My theme today is about cherished Christmas songs from my youth and what these songs mean today in our changed world. My hope is you will pass these songs on so they will never be forgotten, they are all on YouTube.

My first song is by Lynn Anderson, called “Ding A Ling The Christmas Bell." When you hear this song, I hope it shows you that when someone tells you that you do not belong, God shows you that each of us was given talents, and we may never know when we will use it, but it is always there and ready when we do.

My second song is by Alabama, called “The Christmas Shoes," and it gives hope. Bring plenty of tissues, because every time I hear this song, I cry. It shows generosity. My hope is, when Covid is no longer; that we all will still give to help those in need!

And my last song is sung by The Caroler Singers and Orchestra, called “Christmas Mountain." There are a multitude of songs by them. I hope, again, you will share them for years to come. Just like the coming of our Lord; what child does not look forward to Christ- mas? Even though, for many of us this year, Christ- mas will feel so much different than in years past, please remember that the little baby in the manger is still in control!

Heavenly Father I pray we never forget what Christmas is truly all about. I have a request for each of you: every time you go to the store, donate to the food pantries. Not just now in this time of need, but every time. We have been given so much, let us share with those in need. God Bless and Merry Christmas!

Esther Lewter Tuesday, December 22 Matthew 2:1-12 When baby Jesus was born a long time ago, the three wise men brought baby Jesus gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These were gifts of great value to give to baby Jesus because they knew that he would be a king. However, in 2020 these gifts are not helpful, especially during our pandemic.

These are ideas of what I would bring him if he were to be born this year. First, I would bring him Lysol spray and hand sanitizer for baby Jesus to stay healthy and keep away coronavirus. Also, I would bring him diapers and toilet paper, in case there is a shortage. Next, I would bring him a Chromebook to zoom to show the world the special baby. Mary and Joseph could take and store pictures of their baby to email to family far away. Also, I would give him the softest blanket in the world so he would be warm in the winter. Lastly, I would give him a crown full with all the colors of jewels to show that baby Jesus was the most special baby.

These are the gifts that I would bring baby Jesus this year in 2020. God and Jesus also give us gifts. The gifts of love, forgiveness, and acceptance. I am thankful all year long for these gifts, and look forward to celebrating the birth of baby Jesus on Christmas.

Dear God, help us to focus on baby Jesus this season. Forgive us for giving too much time and attention to other things. Remind us that the gift of Jesus is our greatest treasure, not only at Christmas, but throughout the whole year. Thank you for the gift of Jesus to give us new life, hope, love, joy, and peace. Amen.

Jessalyn Walters Wednesday, December 23 Proverbs 15:1-4 "Where did you see God at work this year"

I saw God every where. Among store workers, fast food workers, in the hospitals, fire- fighters, police officers, and so much more in everyday actions of people. I saw God in Pastor Rakel's sermons. Also, one of the things that struck me was how people are dealing with this pandemic. I also saw God when I watched governor Pritzker's press conferences where he pleaded with public to wear masks and maintain safe distance and follow CDC guidelines. I saw God in everything, and I saw and felt hope, as long as we believe and trust God.

In these times of anguish we tend to get frustrated and stressed and we need to focus on word of God, so God also gave me these verses to ponder:

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly. The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good. The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit. Proverbs 15:1-4 NIV

Let us pray: Father God, thank you for all the blessings and answered prayers, in spite of these times of trials. Lord, keep us grounded and focused on you and your word. Lord, protect your people from coronavirus and any other diseases. Lord, provide for people what they need, and bestow your healing. We ask these, and all the prayers, in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and savior. Amen.

Rose Nickles Thursday, December 24 Read Luke 2:1-8 What will make Christmas still Christmas for you this year?

Greetings New Life family! Christmas for us has always been about family. We would travel to South Dakota and Iowa every year when we were young to see both sets of grandparents and great grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins. We recently just cele- brated Thanksgiving as a family, and as long as we can continue to do that, Christmas will still be Christmas. With these uncertain times, including being jobless since May, my family has always been there for me and we have been there for each other!

My parents have always instilled the Christian way, and going to church for Christmas Eve still is one of my favorite times, now with a family of my own. We try and get in- volved, using our musical talents and participating in the pre-Christmas late night service. I love (and miss dearly) the Christmas Cantatas we have done in the past. I am so happy that our new choir director is having us use Zoom to share in the music of New Life this year. It will not be the same with the candles and the church, however knowing that we are free to worship as we are able will have to be enough. Jesus is STILL and WILL ALWAYS BE the reason for the season!

A prayer for New Life families: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son to be the Light of the world. Please help us always to be focused on you. Please with those who are not able to celebrate with their families for health and other reasons. Please be with our military both here and overseas as they protect our free- dom that you gave us! Please be with the leaders of our great country and all leaders of the nations to help preserve what you have given us.

Until we can meet in the same place again, love and peace to all! Josh Schmidt Friday, December 25 Read Matthew 1:18-25 My favorite Christmas song is from an unlikely redneck country/rock singer Steve Earle from a 1988 CD name of “Copperhead Road”. The cover of the CD has a skull and crossbones on it, with a song about guns being the “Devil’s Right Hand “and about making moonshine and growing pot in the backwoods of “Copperhead Road”. (Back in the bad old days when growing pot would get you arrested.) You may not make it back from Copperhead road. There’s a song about being homeless and living down by the river called “Back to the Wall.” A song about a “Snake Oil” salesman. (We see plenty of them today.) Not many hopeful songs. Most are about looking up from the bottom of a bad situation. Does that sound like the year 2020 to you? The very last song on the CD is called “Nothing but a Child” Here are the words.

Once upon a time in a far off land Wise men saw a sign and set out ‘cross the sand Songs of praise to sing, they traveled day and night Precious gifts to bring, guided by the light

They chased a brand new star, ever toward the west Across the mountains far, but when it came to rest They scarce believed their eyes, they’d come so many miles And the miracle they prized was nothing but a child

Nothing but a child could wash those tears away Or guide a weary world into the light of day And nothing but a child could help erase those miles So once again we all can be children for awhile

Now all around the world, in every little town Everyday is heard a precious little sound And every mother kind and every father proud Looks down in awe to find another chance allowed

Nothing but a child could wash those tears away Or guide a weary world into the light of day And nothing but a child could help erase those miles So once again we all can be children for awhile

Nothing but a little baby Nothing but a child

This song reminds me that Christ didn’t come into this world as a great king, mighty ruler or president—he came as an innocent little child. That with His pure Love, He came to change our hearts in a million little ways that change us and the world. He let us see just how beautiful the world can be if we could only see it from the eyes of an innocent little child. That when holding our own children, we are able to get a glimpse of God’s pure Love for us. To see the world, not as the devil would have us see it with fear, hate and jealousy. But with the pure Love and beauty we see our children that we would give anything for, even our Life. My hope is you find and listen to the song. It’s better than just the printed words as any song is…

Lord. let us this Christmas see the world not through our 2020 weary eyes, but through an innocent little child eyes that sees the world as the wonderful place you made it to be. Thank you for sending your son as nothing but a child to show us the Way. Amen.

Larry Calloni