Keeping Watch ! A Devotional Guide For Advent 2014

Trinity Presbyterian Church Atlanta, Georgia

2014 Advent Season Calendar

Sunday, November 30—First Sunday of Advent 8:45 am Worship & Communion, Dobbs Chapel 9:45 am Advent Festival, Gym 11:00 am Worship & Communion, Sanctuary The Rev. Pam Driesell preaching at both services. 5:00 pm Service of Comfort and Prayer, Dobbs Chapel (casual attire welcome) A worship service based on scriptures giving full expression to both sorrow and the longing for hope, designed as a moment of comfort and rest for those who have experienced loss and for those under stress during the holiday season.

Sunday, December 7—Second Sunday of Advent 8:45 am Worship, Dobbs Chapel 11:00 am Worship, Sanctuary The Rev. Pam Driesell preaching at both services. 12:00 pm First Sunday Congregational Lunch, Williams Hall 10:00 am-2:00 pm Trinity Christmas Market, Gym Honor friends, family and loved ones by purchasing tangible and virtual gifts that help to support Trinity’s global mission efforts in Cuba, Haiti, Kenya, Zambia and the Middle East, as well as refugees here in metro Atlanta. 5:30 pm Christmas Pageant - Elementary Children (K-5th Grade), Sanctuary Cookie Party Reception to follow in Williams Hall

Tuesday, December 9 6:30 pm Christmas Banquet, Williams Hall Featuring the Trinity Caroling Quartet

Saturday, December 13 9 age Hunter, Claire 9:00 am-12:00 pm Secrets Workshop (5 years and under), Gym 9:00 am-2:00 pm Secrets Workshop (K-5th Grade), Williams Hall Secrets Workshop is an opportunity for children to create gifts for family and friends. It will include lunch and Kids’ Morning Out activities led by the staff of the Calvin Center, our local Presbyterian church camp. (Make reservations at the church office by December 1.)

Sunday, December 14—Third Sunday of Advent 8:45 am Worship, Dobbs Chapel 9:45 am Christmas Pageant for Preschoolers (ages 2-5), Dobbs Chapel 11:00 am Worship, Sanctuary The Rev. Barbara Brown Taylor preaching at both services. An Episcopal priest, professor, and theologian, she teaches at Piedmont College and Columbia Theological Seminary. 10:00 am-2:00 pm Trinity Christmas Market, Gym Honor friends, family and loved ones by purchasing tangible and virtual gifts that help to support Trinity’s global mission efforts in Cuba, Haiti, Kenya, Zambia and the Middle East, as well as refugees here in metro Atlanta. 12:00 pm Assemble Lunch Bags for St. Luke’s Community Kitchen, Gym

Sunday, December 21—Fourth Sunday of Advent 8:45 am Worship, Dobbs Chapel 9:45 am All Church School, Williams Hall 11:00 am Worship, Sanctuary; Cherub Choir Sings The Rev. Pam Driesell preaching at both services. 7:00 pm Congregational Carol Sing, Williams Hall A Christmas celebration with Norman Mackenzie.

Wednesday, December 24—Christmas Eve 4:00 pm Christmas Eve Worship for Families, Sanctuary The service will accommodate families with young children and will feature the Primary and Junior Choirs and the Hosanna Ringers. 6:00 pm Family Christmas Eve Service of Lessons and Carols, Sanctuary The service will feature music by the Youth Choir and Brass Quartet. 9:00 pm Christmas Eve Service of Lessons and Carols, Sanctuary Featuring the Chancel Choir and Brass Quartet and congregational carols. 11:00 pm Christmas Eve Communion Service, Dobbs Chapel A traditional late Christmas Eve candlelight service with Communion. The Rev. Pam Driesell preaching.

Sunday, December 28—First Sunday after Christmas 11:00 am Worship, Sanctuary The Rev. Matthew Ruffner preaching.

Borland, age 10 age Borland,

Miranda

Introduction

In every corner of the world, in the weeks before the 25th of December, people gather to hear a story that has been told, and retold. That story is of a baby named Jesus, who later became known as Jesus Christ. At first his followers included only his parents, a few shepherds and three wise men. Now his followers span the globe and are known as Christians. The Advent season culminates in our celebration of his birth.

This 18th edition of Trinity Presbyterian Church Advent Devotional Guide is brought to you by many talented writers, proofreaders, editors and artists. As you read through this guide, please note the names of all those who contributed, and be sure to thank them for helping make this edition so wonderful.

We want to especially thank our contributors of devotions for opening their hearts and minds and sharing with us their thoughts and stories.

ppreciate your family and friends, and tell them I love you; A edicate yourself to serving God; D olunteer at the Trinity Christmas Market; V nter into worship with open hearts and minds; E urture yourself by reading this Devotional Guide; N T hank the Lord God for His gift to us of his only Son, Jesus Christ;

With blessings to you all,

Nancy Parker Parson and Heather Heinz Szyperski Co-Chairs, Advent Devotional Guide Committee

Sunday, November 30, 2014

I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! Psalm 27:13-14 (NRSV)

aiting does not come easily to us. Waiting is W annoying, inefficient, and frustrating, especially when we have grown accustomed to convenience, immediacy, and self-gratification.

Whatever else it may be, Advent is a season of waiting – waiting on Messiah. In his novel The Source, James Michener pictures a devout rabbi who lived during the inter- testamental period, waiting expectantly for the promised Messiah. Every Sabbath the rabbi was the first to arrive at the synagogue for worship. He wanted to get the choice seat where he could be the first one to see the Messiah coming down the road. He approached every Sabbath with almost breathless anticipation. He waited all day long. And at the end of every Sabbath he was always deeply disappointed. Yet, early on the next Sabbath, he could be found in his seat waiting again with expectant hope.

Advent is the Christian season of waiting – focusing our eyes and hearts and minds on the One who is coming. In a culture that begins to sing Christmas carols (and a variety of other holiday music) even before we get through Thanksgiving, it is very difficult to wait in anticipation. The Bible contains numerous stories of people who had to wait, and it was only in the waiting that they could see and understand the full meaning of the gift that came to them.

Waiting is not doing nothing. Waiting is allowing oneself to be open to the possibilities of God’s abundance.

Waiting is not speaking too soon, not jumping to conclusions, not creating a Messiah in our own image.

Waiting is listening, pondering, wondering, and being ready to receive the gift of God’s amazing love.

Teach us, O Lord, to wait for you, To yearn for you, to hope for you, Until the breaking of the day. Amen.

Tom Farmer Pastoral Associate for Senior Adult Ministries

Ella Anne Williams, age 7

Monday, December 1, 2014

But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And he laid his hands on them and departed thence. Matthew 19:14-15 (KJV)

frequently welcome children and parents as they enter the gym building for class on Sunday mornings. I do this wearing an Ask Me button, trying to be a welcoming face I for those with questions. The children never ask questions, they rush in, print their name badges, stick them on, and run to class. They are excited and expect good stories. The stories are those their parents and grandparents heard years before. The stories tell of Jesus who said, “I am The Way.”

The stories will be remembered and repeated until they become part of the life of these children’s reality, the kingdom of heaven. They will be guided by an inner light that they know to be The Way, He having laid his hands on them, and all of us, through the generations.

These children will grow, and one day they will have children of their own to whom they will tell the same stories of their Christian faith. I am privileged to see all this, to wonder at it, and to have it continually reaffirm my own faith.

Lord, may I continue to tell your story.

Paul Marston

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 (ESV)

ne experience that has been really important to me is my yearly summer vacation to Winshape Camps on the campus of Berry College. It is a two-week camp O where kids get to play awesome games like paintball, meet new people and learn about God.

Every night we have a devotional and conversation about the service from the morning and what we thought about it. A few years back a boy in my cabin whose mom was very sick asked about waiting for God. My counselor said something very thoughtful: “God has three answers to us: yes, no and wait for me.”

During the Christmas season we are focused on shopping and getting ready for Christmas meals or parties. We get so caught up in our busy lives — with school, work, lessons, tests, events and responsibilities — that we forgot to wait for God in our daily lives. Waiting and listening for God can open our minds and hearts to ourselves, each other and a deeper relationship with Christ. We need to keep Christ in our minds every day and remember the message of Christmas.

That night at camp we prayed for the boy’s mother. The next day, he got a letter saying that his mom was getting better and was going home from the hospital.

Dear Lord, We thank you for all the blessings you give us during the Christmas season. We pray that you will help us listen and wait for you in our daily lives. In your name we pray, Amen.

Taylor Diamond Freshman, North Atlanta High School

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7 (NIV)

hen I was growing up, every other year my grandparents drove from Maine to spend Christmas with us. I anticipated this with great excitement. One W year, my heart’s desire was to have a black cat. But we already had a dog — a dachshund named Roger — and my parents had made it clear that Roger would not allow a cat to take up residence with us. I had asked and asked, and had finally accepted my parents’ answer.

That year, my grandmother and I went shopping on Christmas Eve. As we returned home and walked in the back door, a small black kitten skittered across the floor. I was amazed — I still recollect it as one of the best days of my young life. I sat on the kitchen floor for hours, and eventually named her Eve, as she had arrived on Christmas Eve. She quickly became part of the family, with Roger’s reluctant acceptance.

The day after Christmas, I sadly watched my grandparents drive away for a visit to Florida. My grandfather believed in the tenet that “guests like fish stink after three days,” so their visits were always far too brief. We had such wonderful times together, and that Christmas in 1964 is one I will never forget.

Dear Lord, As we prepare to once again celebrate the gift of Christ’s birth, through which you fulfill the deepest desires of our hearts, we thank you for the opportunity to express our love for each other at Christmas. Amen.

Margaret Reiser

Thursday, December 4, 2014

Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:

And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?

For your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Matthew 6:25-34 (KJV)

he Bible teaches us to believe in God who is cognizant of our every need and not to worry about our perceived needs. Worrying produces stress, which greatly impairs T our enjoyment of life and may ultimately destroy us. When you are at peace with God, you are at peace with yourself.

Gracious God, Father of all mankind, save me from anguish, worry and self-concern. Awaken in me a realization of the abundance of my blessings. Help me to live by the Golden Rule. Motivate me to serve God, my country and mankind, particularly the less fortunate. Inspire me to seek to relieve humans and animals from suffering and abuse. I offer this prayer in the name of the Son of God. Amen.

Emory Schwall

Friday, December 5, 2014

But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him. Luke 15:20 (NIV)

e all know the parable of the Prodigal Son. I think I prefer one of its alternative titles - the parable of the Loving Father. When the prodigal returns after squan- W dering his inheritance, his father is filled with compassion and throws a huge celebration to welcome him. But first, the father saw him “while he was still a long way off.” He was watching and waiting. For years. Without ceasing.

This is the kind of love a father has for his children. Watching with vigilance, ready to burst out in celebration, a father loves and cherishes his children despite their failures. And this is the kind of love that I believe Jesus was trying to instill in his followers.

Today would have been my father’s eighty-sixth birthday. We lost him in July, following a lengthy battle with complications from diabetes. So, this will be my first Christmas ever without my father. Among my many memories of an imperfect but truly loving man is gathering around as a family on Christmas Eve, sitting in my father’s lap, and reading Luke’s story of the birth of Christ. I can still hear my father reading: “And there were shepherds living in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks by night.”

Shepherds watching sheep, fathers watching for the return of wayward sons – both call up images of compassion, care, and steadfastness, love without conditions. This is the kind of love the Christ child would one day teach to us all.

Gracious God: Help us remember to watch, and when we see, to love without condition. For Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Scott Calhoun

Saturday, December 6, 2014

For His eyes are upon the ways of a man, and He sees all his steps. Job 34:21 (NASB)

“God knows what you’ve been doing, everything you’ve been doing…he was looking at the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg, which had just emerged, pale and enormous, from the dissolving night.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby

ast July, in the middle of an ordinary Sunday afternoon, I suddenly realized something was wrong. During my first session as a summer camp counselor at L Camp Illahee, I had lost one of my campers. Once in panic mode, it suddenly hit me that the missing camper, Madison, had said she needed the bathroom at the beginning of the Sunday Water Olympics, which had started at least an hour prior, and the fact that she had never returned had not crossed my mind until now. After some frantic searching, my co-counselor, Katherine, and I eventually found Madison in the bathroom of the dining hall, where she had been for the past hour. She was safe. Katherine and I exchanged expressions of relief, and after I collected myself, all I wanted to do was cry. I had not just forgotten to wash the dishes or remind my girls to brush their teeth, I had lost my camper, which was probably the worst thing a counselor could do.

I had felt powerless and helpless, anxious and horrified. For the first time in my life, I had no option other than to rely on God, rather than on my dedication and preparation, to persevere through a challenge. Like the piercing eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg pictured on the billboard in The Great Gatsby, God was always watching. This constant source of protection provided me with the inspiration that I desperately needed to overcome this setback: a sense of encouragement, I later realized, that I could not have received any other way.

Remind us, God, of your omnipresence. Allow us to feel your love and support so that you may further open our eyes to the glory of your name and to those who need extra guidance and assistance. Amen.

Elizabeth Ferguson Senior, Westminster

Sunday, December 7, 2014

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:10-11 (KJV)

t’s a well-known fact that I LOVE Christmas. For as long as I can remember, it was a family affair to decorate the tree after picking out the “best” one on the lot. It brought I tremendous satisfaction to unpack many decorations and find a special place for each one. Some were handmade with sentimental meaning and others were special gifts of love from family or friends. They all created an atmosphere of magical celebration for the birth of Christ.

Over the years, these traditions continued with slight changes mirroring the stages of life: marriage, children, and the loss of special family members who had always been part of our celebrations. My collection of special decorations continued to expand as my husband and I began the tradition of getting an ornament on our trips and adventures. When our girls came along, the precious handmade works of art marked the passing of time, becoming more treasured each year. Now Christmas is a wonderful journey down memory lane, so gladly shared with those we have in our home over the holidays.

In September 2013, a special family friend and fellow Trinity member, Cynthia Douthat, was experiencing some health problems and by December, had been diagnosed with brain cancer. She knew the outlook was not good but with many family helpers, decorated her house and tree with years of precious memories to celebrate Christ’s birth. Our very special group of friends, aptly named “Trinity Wine Group” or TWG for short, had been gathering for many occasions at Cynthia’s house, since before her husband Marsh became ill and passed away in 2007 with ALS. The bonds of this group continue to grow with joys and trials. As we arrived at Cynthia’s for our Christmas celebration, we marveled at her beautiful giant tree covered in heart ornaments, collected by Marsh and Cynthia. Before we began, Cynthia asked us all to pick an ornament from her tree and take it home to our tree. This was a difficult and teary process but one I will never forget. I chose a glass snowman ornament that had several snowmen clumped together, hugging, reminding me of the bonds of our group. I will always treasure this special gift.

Cynthia spent this past year in a valiant fight with many victories along the way. She was able to see her first grandchild from her son Chad, which was monumental in her life. So many friends and family joined her on this journey, and we were all amazed at the grace and compassion of so many coming together. On October 11, 2014, Cynthia lost her fight, but she will live on in so many hearts for years to come.

This year, as I unpack all of those Christmas boxes, I am sure that Cynthia’s heart ornament will bring a few tears as I hang it with the rest of my precious memory collection. At Christmas, we especially remember those angels we have lost and give thanks for them, as we give thanks to God for sending us his son Jesus.

Dear Lord, We are so grateful for special family and friends who have shaped our lives and taught us what a privilege it is to be able to enjoy your creation in a

wonderful Christian community.

Cindy Stancil

Sophia Grace Kuykendall, age 7

Monday, December 8, 2014

And Mary said, my soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Luke 1:46-48 (NRSV)

here is a crackle on the monitor, and its top lights change from two steady green to five flashing red. Groggily, I roll over in bed, turning down the volume, T silencing the machine, but not the cries of six week old Olivia. I quickly notice that four hours have passed since Olivia last ate. I pull myself out of bed, walk into her nursery and begin her middle of the night feed. Thirty minutes later, I hold a sleeping baby, fearful that if I move she will awaken, but that if I do not, she may fall from my arms due to my sheer exhaustion.

A year ago, this was my life — keeping watch with the aid of modern technology over a newborn baby sleeping a room away — fretting over her every move, day and night. Would she ever fall asleep with the hiccups? Is the room warm enough tonight or does she need an extra blanket, as she sleeps? Or maybe it is too warm?

As I reflect over the past year, however, I realize that while I felt like I was keeping watch over my newborn, exhausting myself physically and emotionally, that that was only half the story. In the midst of all my fretting and watching, a new life was growing, giving and receiving love before my very eyes. It was a miracle that this baby could bring so much joy and love into my life. A miracle that could only be explained by the presence of Christ, entering my life in a new way. A way that transformed all my energy I gave, and returned it as pure joy and love.

Giving God, Thank you that the gift of your presence in our life is wrapped in a variety of packages but is unchanged in its core. Amen.

Sarah Ruffner 17 age Parson, Virginia

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Therefore encourage one another and build another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (EVS)

hen Christmas starts approaching, everyone seems happier. The anticipation of Christmas morning creates a joy that overflows into all facets of life. While W you’re in college though, Advent season also has a looming darkness to it — finals. My experience with the Christmas season over the last few years has been a mixed bag of emotions. One particular example is my preparations for my advanced microeconomics exam. This final should have been the bane of my existence, but listening to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” with my friends while studying made it much more enjoyable. I will forever cherish the memories of those late night study parties filled with baked goods, friends, and Christmas music, although I did not fully appreciate them at the time.

In reflection, I now see that the odd marriage of studying and the Christmas season allowed my friends and me to give a special gift to each other: the gift of encouragement. Finals are filled with pressure and students can fold under the weight of expectations. I have found that the way to get through them is with the help of friends and trust in God. It is important to surround yourself with people who are willing to support you. I am lucky enough to have amazing friends that inspire me to be a better person every day.

This Advent season, be a person who inspires your family, friends, and coworkers. Make sure you acknowledge and congratulate their accomplishments, while encouraging them when they seem down or defeated. Relationships are the most important thing we have, and we should fill them love and praise, even during our own seasons of difficulty.

Dear God, we thank you for the gift of Jesus, our Savior. May we use His example to better ourselves and encourage all whom we love. Amen.

Jackson McCann Youth Advisor & 2014 Graduate, Georgia Tech

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them. Luke 2:9 (KJV)

ast Christmas Eve, I found myself assigned to serve Communion at the 11:00 pm service. In the past, my family and I had always attended church earlier on that L night, so this would be a brand new experience for me. Although pleased to do it, I was also a bit nervous because I am not known as a “late night” kind of person. I like to go to bed early and get up early.

Because of this, my daughters were having a great time kidding me about going to sleep in the chapel pew or snoring loudly if I dropped off during the service! Nevertheless, we went to the 9:00 pm worship to hear the music and scripture readings, and then I made my way to the chapel to wait for my fellow elders serving communion at the late service.

I should not have been concerned, because all went well and it was truly one of the most meaningful occasions I have ever experienced in my faith life. At the conclusion, the congregation slowly walked out into the very cold and dark night, carrying candles which we lit as we stood in a large circle. On cue, we sang “Silent Night.” It was unbelievably moving and I have never felt so close to God and his Son, sent to save us on that evening so long ago. Surely, this was “love’s pure light” and the “dawn of redeeming grace,” as the lyrics said.

Heavenly Father, Please help us find a quiet moment this season where

we see the true significance of the wonderful thing you did for us in the birth of your Son, fully human and fully divine, to be with us forever. Amen.

Amanda DiResta Shelby Halihan, at age 10 age at Halihan, Shelby

Thursday, December 11, 2014

Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. Psalm 73:23 (NIV)

efore cable TV, cell phones and the internet, my family moved to Belgium. Back in the 1970’s, this was certainly not the “norm” and I enjoyed near celebrity status just B prior to our move from Memphis. I had taken two years of French at school, and along with my parents, completed a six week Berlitz intensive language program. The movers arrived at the only house I had ever known, packed the majority of our possessions for storage in Memphis, and one lonely sea container for shipment to Brussels, Belgium.

I disembarked from my very first airplane trip to a dreary gray airport filled with people I couldn’t begin to understand. With my teenage bravado completely shaken, I remember being so grateful for my mother’s hand.

Over the next few months, our family tried to find some sense of rhythm in this strange place. While my father had his job and I had school, my Mom struggled just to find familiar food, buy postage stamps, and simply do laundry in our Flemish commune. We felt extremely alone and isolated since telephone calls to the States were very expensive and mail took thirty days or more to cross the Atlantic.

In the weeks preceding that first Christmas in Belgium, we were not quite sure what to do. Christmas there just did not look or feel the same. And then we found a little Anglican church where they spoke English. Although the service was a bit different than we were used to, the message was the same. The three of us emerged from that service filled with the joy and anticipation of Christmas.

Our first Christmas in Belgium certainly did not look anything like Norman Rockwell. But I will always remember it as one of my favorites. A time when we focused on what was important – the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, and our family.

Dear God, thank you for your abiding presence in our lives. Thank you for the gift of your Son among us and for the church which unites us. Amen.

Nancy Oglesby

Friday, December 12, 2014

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 (NIV)

y father died this summer. He was a great man, doctor, husband, father, and role model for his four boys. It was hard to watch the strong arms, that had wrapped M around me as a child, wither and weaken.

Until the very end, however, he kept a bright smile and an interest in the activities of my life and those of his nine grandchildren. Saying goodbye that Sunday before he died was one of the most difficult things I have had to do. It still tugs deep and has transformed my worldview.

I’m next. I hold my children a little bit closer. Spend more quality time with my spouse. And comfort my mother as she navigates the experience of being alone after 57 years with her lover and friend.

God has given me a gift even as I grieve my father’s death. He has provided me with the unexpected gift of perspective — recognizing what is most important.

Like my father’s gift of love to me, God’s love has been made evident by the birth of his Son, Jesus the Christ.

Thank you Lord this Christmas season for your Son Jesus the Christ, and for your never failing gift of love.

Tom Callaway Elizabeth Long, age 18 age Long, Elizabeth

Saturday, December 13, 2014

Every generous act and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Maker of lights; With God there is no variation or shadow cast by turning. James 1:17 (HCSB, altered)

ver since I was a kid, I have taken gift giving very seriously. One year I decided to get something special for all 34 people in my extended family. It took a year to E repay my mom the $250 it cost, but it gave me so much joy to deliver each personalized present – in my handmade elf costume and hat.

Even today, I keep a lookout for the perfect gifts and spend way more than I should. But I find that the gifts I think are least significant, usually mean the most. When my friend Becca moved off her college meal plan, I made her a recipe box of simple meals my family made at home. To my shock, it brought her to tears. I had forgotten that in high school she would drop by the house frequently after work to eat the leftovers from those same, simple meals.

How many times do we expect the same from God? We listen for His booming voice, we expect extravagant emotions, and we wait for miraculous moments. We forget that His greatest gift of all came in the form of a tiny baby in a barn that most of us would have walked right past.

This Advent season, let us keep watch for God who moves through the simple, the subtle, and the unexpected.

God, thank you for all that you give us. Open our hearts to your children who go unnoticed. Open our eyes to the wonder in the simple moments that might otherwise pass us by.

Olivia Hartley Interim Youth Program Director

Sunday, December 14, 2014

Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. II Corinthians 13:11-13 (NSRV)

Elizabeth Long, age 18 age Long, Elizabeth

EACE AMONG ALL PEOPLE is a spontaneous phrase I often use in offering a meal’s blessing. Centuries ago, the apostle Paul urged the Corinthians to live in P harmony. Today, in a smaller world, the same can be said to leaders of nations around the globe. In 1953, while a junior at Davidson, I traveled with four other students to a United Nations conference, having the theme of global peace.

Convened were world leaders, exalting the need to wind down the Korean “war” with the armistice still in negotiation. We young males subject to military draft liked the UN peace language very much; however, Uncle Sam soon made a call to each of us. Dag Hammarskjold, a future Nobel laureate, led the Swedish delegation and soon became the second UN Secretary-General. Foremost, he believed that people of all nations, faiths and creeds hunger for peace, fellowship and justice. Fast forward 55 years, when Bettye Sue Wright arranged a highly successful Trinity seniors trip to Washington, DC in 2008. One of several highlights was the ceremonial placing of a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by Howell Adams (Navy), Hugh Hunter (Navy), Rezin Pidgeon (Navy) and me (Army). The Trinity members kept watch as the honor guard was briefed and escorted by the tallest Sergeant known to man. That solemn event was moving and memorable.

The prayers among us this Advent season should embolden our faith for the love of one another. And, on a personal note, Marguerite and I steadfastly hope that our six grandchildren, and grandchildren throughout the world, are not called to military service — now and forever. While there is much glory and honor in military service, war brings bloodshed, suffering and pain.

Elizabeth Long, age 18 age Long, Elizabeth

Oh God, hear our cries for peace. Give all people the wisdom to live peaceful lives. —Excerpts from a prayer in corporate worship by the Reverend Pam Driesell on September 28, 2014.

Mike York

Monday, December 15, 2014

Seek and you will find. Luke 11:9 (RSV)

ears ago in a Trinity Sunday School class led by George Goodwin, he presented the idea that “seek and you will find” is a key passage for anyone Y searching for a stronger faith. If you are filled with doubt and uncertainty, and troubled about what to believe, this is a good place to start. If you can believe, that if you seek, you will find, you will be on your faith journey.

To seek a stronger faith means study, prayer, Bible reading, attending worship service, perhaps joining a discussion group, and meditation. As you seek, God will provide answers.

God has a way of revealing himself to those who seek him.

Lord, Guide us in all we do and teach us to seek a closer relationship with thee.

Tom Barrow

Avery Muse, age 7

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

He remembers his covenant forever. Psalm 108:5 (ESV)

friend of mine in the military once wrote me a letter asking “Christmas trees don’t grow in the desert … or do they?” Whether you celebrate A Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, it is the loneliest time to be on the battlefront. This Advent season let us remember the 50,000 brave warriors wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan and now on the long, difficult road to recovery. They may be in a field hospital overseas away from family and loved ones, or they may already be struggling through reconstructive surgery, rehabilitation or therapy. For them, this Advent season will be a lonely and challenging prospect.

For some brave men and women in uniform, a “Christmas Convoy” from the USA will arrive with a Christmas tree, gifts and pre-paid phone cards so that they can talk to their families back home for free on Christmas Day. Surprise, there really is a Santa Claus. As caring Americans, we count on them. They count on us.

The sacrifices that these wounded, sick or disabled veterans have made for me will not be forgotten. The heroes from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf and current conflicts in the Middle East and other wars have paid dearly for our freedom, with patriotic loyalty. May God bless America.

Gracious God, thank you for keeping watch in our lives and for happiness, which is sometimes difficult to find on the long journey of life.

Debbie Overby

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up. Proverbs 12:25 (NIV)

“Worrying is as effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing bubble gum.” — Mary Schmick

hen we hear the song It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmasas a child, our heads are filled with wonder and excitement. As we grow older, the exhilaration W of the season is slowly replaced with thoughts of all the things we haven’t done, and anxiety over what the coming year might bring. It becomes harder and harder to remember the hopeful expectations of our youth.

It’s far too easy to let Christmas become just another checkpoint on the road of life. We sometimes fall into the trap of remembering nostalgically how much better things “used to be,” letting anxiety about children, aging parents, health, relationships, money, work, global instability, and anything else that is part of this life, erase any hopes we have for coming year.

My good friend and pastor, Craig Goodrich, introduced me to the writings of the Reverend Dr. John Claypool. In his book The Hopeful Heart, Claypool says, “Hope is to the human spirit what breath is to the physical body.” I’ve found this to be a simple but profound statement. Without hope, worry, fear and ultimately despair take over.

I have learned that hope can be found in the most unexpected places. The kind word that you really needed at that very moment, the smile of a child, the unconditional love of a parent, an impromptu conversation with an old friend, and a church that embraces us all. Our challenge is to learn to truly live in the moment and relish every experience as unique. Each day is a celebration because we are here to enjoy it. We should celebrate every gray hair as an achievement, every scar as a challenge that we have overcome, and if we’re lucky, every wrinkle as a badge for smiling too much.

Come Thou long expected Jesus, Born to set Thy people free. Amen.

Bentley Long

Thursday, December 18, 2014

And lo, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, Till it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. Matthew 2:9-10 (RSV)

amily traditions abound at and around the Advent season. No matter how wonderful the old traditions are, sometimes it is just the right time to start a new F tradition. That is what happened for George and me many years ago when we were decorating our Christmas tree.

Our first born was taking a rare break from laying train track and building bridges for Thomas the Tank and his friends Percy, Henry and Edward, when he picked up the round tipped scissors and cut out a large star from the side of a cardboard box. I cannot remember if I drew the cutting lines or not, but I am certain it was a young child’s hand that did the cutting. We covered our homemade star in silver aluminum foil, and it sparkled and twinkled. George and I thought it was the most wonderful star the world had seen since the Star of Bethlehem.

A few days later our second child, barely crawling, discovered a roll of gold foil wrapping paper in our collection. The silver star that had been perfect days before, now seemed ripe to be re-covered. So re-cover it we did, and our wrapped silver star was transformed into a magnificent gold star. Then George found several feet of star-trimmed gold wire ribbon that he wrapped around the points of the star. Everything was secured in back with cellophane tape, including a Bounty paper towel tube pulled from the trash, which nicely created a shaft through which the top tree branch would fit.

For almost two decades, this star has been our tree topper, adding almost a foot to the height of our tree. Christmas at our home would not be the same without our gold star keeping watch over our family during Advent.

Gracious God, Keep watch over all of us at Christmastime, as we rejoice in the birth of your Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Nancy Parson

Friday, December 19, 2014

I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, Along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them And make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them. Isaiah 42:16 (NIV)

Sam,9 age

he noise of my father throwing a large log on the fire at the hunting cabin woke me. It was three in the morning and I knew the adventure was to T begin. I was not sure of the ending, but I knew my father would lead us there. We would have to travel by car, speedboat, land and canoe just to begin the hike towards this isolated place. With our bulky chest waders, we began our night hike through the beautiful marshes of the Georgia coast. My father had seen many ducks land in the middle of this marsh island. Our goal was to find this hidden and inaccessible place before daylight.

We had been guided by the light from the stars as we walked quietly through the dark. Thigh high mud was everywhere, a treacherous trap that caught each of us at least once in past years. Once in the mud, extra effort would be needed, to pull harder, escape, and continue. After much struggle, we got to the pond, and yes, the pond was full of ducks roosting in the quiet night. We found a hiding place for ourselves in the reeds and waited quietly for sunlight.

As the dawn broke, the morning sun shown on a pond full of beautiful ducks of many different species. My earthly father taught me through experience that following him and working hard brought great rewards.

Dear Lord, Thank you for your guidance through the night to find your Son, our Savior, lying in a manger. Amen.

Charles Heinz

Saturday, December 20, 2014

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13 (EVS)

ne of my favorite childhood memories was decorating our house at the beginning of Christmas season. My favorite decoration was our Advent O calendar that hung on the wall. The calendar was very detailed with a quilted Christmas tree as the background and each marker was a ceramic button fashioned to look like a star, stocking, or candle. As an only child, it was my very important responsibility to mark the Advent calendar each day. At the time, it was something fun I got to do before breakfast each day. As a child, I did not realize then how important the calendar would become to me.

Now when I return home, mostly grown up, it is such a delight to see the same Advent calendar hanging in our living room each year. Now, I look at the calendar and know why it became so special to me. Now, I know it was handmade by my grandmother and given to my parents before I was born. My grandmother quilted the fabric, and cast each ceramic button in her own kiln. Then the buttons were hand painted with great detail by my grandmother’s lifelong friend, who was a true artist. The very last button to go on the top of the tree was a beautiful pink angel with a star in her hands.

This calendar is a lovely reminder that Advent is more than it appears. There is a greater and deeper story behind this wonderful and joyful season.

Dear Lord, God of hope, guide us to the deeper meaning of Christmas and let our hearts open up, understand, and accept the Holy Spirit and the special stories of our lives and this beautiful season.

Jessica Heberton New Member, October 2014

Jessica Heberton Jessica

Sunday, December 21, 2014

In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Luke 2:8 (NRS)

remember as a little girl, keeping watch on Christmas Eve. I was watching the night sky for unusual lights. I was listening for strange sounds on our rooftop. I was I looking for any evidence that Santa was going to visit our neighborhood. I remember some years telling myself I would not allow myself to be distracted, I would stay awake and watch for his visit. But inevitably, while I was watching for glimpses of Saint Nick, the doorbell would ring and it would be an unexpected visit from friends, or neighbors bringing good cheer, or some of my dad’s basketball players who were far from home. There would be lots of excitement, lots of food, lots of laughter and I could continue my vigilant watch or join in the fun. I chose to join in the fun. Maybe that was what I was watching for all along ~ the joyful gathering of loved ones.

That is what happened to the shepherds. They were keeping watch over their flock, when angels appeared and the “glory of the Lord shone around them.” They turned their attention from watching their flock to the announcement of “good news of great JOY for all people.” Soon their lives centered on this good news and they set out on a journey. Maybe that is what they were watching for all along. Maybe that is what we are all watching for…Good News that is worthy of our lives; Good News that is worthy of sharing with others.

God of surprises, On this upcoming Christmas day we thank you for the surprise of Jesus, who was born in a barn and grew up showing us all how to love and serve others. In the midst of our daily living: watching children, watching the market, watching out for clients, watching for what the teacher expects; help us to embrace the Good News when it surprises us and to share the message Jesus brought us – that God’s love is great joy for all people! AMEN.

Merry Christmas.

Pam Driesell Senior Pastor

Anna Conner Willingham, age 7

Monday, December 22, 2014 No one knows the day or the time. The angels in heaven don’t know, and the Son himself doesn’t know. Only the Father knows. So watch out and be ready! You don’t know when the time will come. It is like what happens when a man goes away for a while and places his servants in charge of everything. He tells each of them what to do, and he orders the guard to keep alert. So be alert! You don’t know when the master of the house will come back. It could be in the evening or at midnight or before dawn or in the morning. But if he comes suddenly, don’t let him find you asleep. I tell everyone just what I have told you. Be alert! Mark 13:32-37 (CEV)

he house I grew up in did not have a fireplace. As a child, I was always concerned with how Santa would get into our house without a chimney to leave presents for T my sister and me, really more for me, but thought I better be “nice” and include my sister. My quick thinking mother assured me that Santa would enter through the back door.

This reminds us of how Jesus often comes unexpectedly into our lives. Sometimes it’s in an encounter with another person, in whom you see a glimpse of God in their words or actions. Maybe it’s in the stillness of the morning before your day gets crazy and people begin making demands on you and your time. Perhaps it’s when you are taking a walk in the woods or on the beach. Sometimes it’s just when you have those precious five minutes of time to catch your breath and refocus your thoughts and energies.

Regardless, scripture tells us to keep watch, to be prepared. We do not know when we will have the opportunity to encounter Jesus, to have an experience with the holy. Most likely, it will be when we least expect it. So be alert!

Dear Jesus, in this season of waiting, prepare our hearts for the unexpected encounter with

the holy and let us be transformed by your presence. Amen.

John Ryan

Director of Youth & Family Ministries Alexander Van Fossen, age 6 age Fossen, Van Alexander

Tuesday, December 23, 2014 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger. Luke 2:7 (KJV)

We recall the words of the carol: The cattle are lowing, The poor baby wakes, But little lord Jesus, No crying he makes. The church pageant director in John Irving’s The Prayer for Owen Meany takes seriously the last line of this familiar carol: he cast the diminutive eleven-year old Owen Meany as the baby Jesus. Owen could be counted on to not disrupt the pageant with crying.

Standing at the manger we can appreciate how the cries of a baby disrupt our peaceful spirit of the season. Trumpets and choruses of alleluias seem more suitable to sound the arrival of a King of Kings or Lord of Lords. But perhaps we need also to spend the moment at the manger with a crying babe so as to fathom the love and grace of a God who chose to enter the world in the most vulnerable form of humankind — a completely dependent infant.

The crying baby may enable us to capture a glimpse of the truth of Bethlehem. God became human to be among us, choosing not to come at the head of an army or to a palace of the powerful, but to a stable or outbuilding — as a vulnerable baby clad in swaddling clothes who communicated in the language of all infants, by crying. The familiar narrative of the Bethlehem baby reminds us that God both understands and values our human condition.

Dear God, give us quiet moments to experience anew glad tidings as we stand at the manger and share the amazement of the shepherds and experience the delight of Mary and Joseph hearing the cries of an infant who would lead us all.

Mac Irwin

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Romans 12:12 (NRSV)

hirteen years have passed since I anticipated the birth of my children. I was indeed great with child, rather children, and expecting twins. My due date T was officially mid-January, but I remember vividly the conversation I had with my doctor, who said “Let me be clear…this is a December event…you won’t make it to January.” These few words gave a hastened structure to our preparation for parenthood.

In December of 2001, our lives mirrored the Advent season as we anticipated the birth of our own children. We had a few false alarms, several brief hospital visits. We were told repeatedly to be patient, to relax and stop counting every second. Sounds like a child awaiting Christmas Day, doesn’t it?

Meredith Von Kleydorff, at age 13 age at Kleydorff, Von Meredith

By the third week in December, my doctor informed us that we had reached the point when the babies would be safer outside of me than inside. When she suggested delivery the following Monday, I said, “But that’s Christmas Eve.” Then she said she would be on call until late Tuesday morning if I wanted them to be born on Christmas Day. I accepted her former proposal, and my children were born a hour midnight on December 24, 2001.

Despite the chaos, that particular Christmas in 2001 was the most peaceful and the most cherished. I focused on the safe arrival of my children, not the superficial hustle and bustle of the season. I enjoyed the calm environment of the hospital and appreciated the Jewish volunteers who worked three-hour shifts on Christmas day to let their Christian colleagues celebrate with their families. Decembers since then have been more hectic, juggling two birthdays, in addition to the demands of the Christmas season. As hard as it is to cram three celebrations into two days, I am always thankful for my Christmas babies, and the yearly reminder of how my own life mirrored the Advent season, thirteen years ago.

Almighty God, Grant us patience in times of anticipation. Help us to remember that while waiting is hard, It makes the prize more precious. Amen.

Sarah French

Alexander Van Fossen, age 6 age Fossen, Van Alexander

Thursday, December 25, 2014

I was hungry and you fed me, thirsty and you gave me a drink; I was a stranger and you received me in your homes, naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you took care of me. Matthew 25:35 (GNT)

s happens every year, the young Mother arrived at the end of Christmas Day 2013 exhausted. She felt the silver bells, the scarlet ribbons and golden glory of Advent A closing in on her. Vaguely claustrophobic, she decided to clear her head by taking a late evening walk, even though it was pouring rain. Cosseted in boots and a poncho, and armed with an umbrella, the Mother slogged out, heading nowhere special. In a few minutes, she found herself at the gazebo, next to the swim & tennis club, in their Marietta subdivision. The weather truly was dark and stormy, and she could hardly see the path. Inching her way, the Mother’s foot made contact with something. Actually, it was some- body. Her initial fright gave way to compassion when she saw a chilled young man, with a bike, and a completely drenched backpack. Not terribly threatening.

After a few halting words, the wet man revealed that he was in his late 20's, with no close family, no job, no home…. The Mother immediately thought, "When I was hungry you fed me…." from the Book of Matthew. Not believing her own words, the Mother told the man he could spend the sodden, nasty night in her children's playhouse behind their home, where her husband and three children had retired to welcoming warm beds.

The young Mother and the wet homeless man arrived at the playhouse, and while he settled in, she went to her kitchen and collected a feast for him from the leftovers of her family’s Christmas dinner. Then she gathered dry men's clothes, a blanket, and a pillow usually reserved for the cats, and brought all these things to the homeless man. Then she left him, and returned to her home, where she began to doubt her “What would Jesus do” reaction and replaced it with “What was I thinking?”

In the morning, the young Mother was the first one up. Now that her head was clear, she realized how she might have endangered her family. Then she remembered Joseph, riskily subjecting Mary and the unborn Jesus, en route to Bethlehem. While her family still slept, she cooked the homeless man eggs and bacon and grits, and served him steamy coffee. When three sleepy children shuffled into the kitchen, they shrugged and grabbed juice boxes before heading to the sofa to watch a movie.

By now, the young Mother had come to her senses and told the man that he must be on his way when the weather cleared. But the weather showed no signs of improvement. So she told him he could spend this second night in her heated but unfinished basement.

Realizing that her sleeping husband really needed to know that a homeless man had found a home, in their home, the Mother swallowed hard, went upstairs and nudged awake the father of her three children, and shared her story. Wide awake now, her husband was thunderstruck. As a certified senior pilot, this Man of the House was authorized to carry a gun, and he did, and he kept it loaded. So that night, as the young man slept in the basement, on a Loony Tunes air mattress, the Man of the House kept watch through the night, armed and ready to shoot, on the living room sofa.

As the sun rose the second morning, all was calm, all was bright. The basement guest took a warm shower, shaved, and prepared to depart, his now dry backpack filled with nearly new clothes. The Mother told the man how to contact MUST Ministries, a charity that could nudge him in the right direction, and help him get a copy of his birth certificate and social security number. The Man of the House had put away his weapon, but had pulled out his wallet, and slipped the guest a little folding money. With profuse thanks and repeated assurances that the young Mother and her husband were angels from on high, the man pedaled up the street, and away from Heritage Oaks subdivision, on his unsteady bike. Christian charity and forty-eight hours had transformed his life.

Oh, Lord, in thee have I trusted. Let me never be confounded.

Sheila Edee

Miranda Borland, age 10

Co-Chair, Advent Devotional Committee Children’s and Youth Art Supervision Nancy Parker Parson & Heather Heinz Szyperski Glynis Holihan, Erin McGee, Evelyn Jones & Candi Cylar

Devotional Recruiting Production Team Nancy Parker Parson &Heather Heinz Szyperski Nancy Parson, Evelyn Jones, Esther Patrick,

Kathleen Poe Ross & Kathy Friestad

Holmes, age 8 age Holmes,

- Leah Leah Black

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Available in electronic form online at: www.trinityatlanta.org