November 29 – December 24, 2020
Advent We celebrate the season of Advent during the four Sundays that lead up to Christmas. Advent begins on the Sunday that falls between November 27th and December 3rd each year. This year we begin Advent on November 29. The new Christian year begins with the twelve-day celebration of Christmastide, which lasts from Christmas Eve until Epiphany on January 6. Advent presents an opportunity for communal discernment and personal examination as we prepare to celebrate the nativity of the Lord and look with hope for Chris’s return. We celebrate Christ’s coming into the world and watch with expectant hope for his coming again. How to Use This Guide This guide is intended to provide families, individuals, or study groups with a devotional to study each day of the Advent season. • Start by centering yourself mentally during your time of devotion. • A reflection is provided to share some experiences and/or provide a topic to contemplate. Some reflections are written by our friends in the Village Church. Others are excerpts from writings of theologians and authors from outside the church. • Each day there is a Scripture to study from Psalms, the ancient songs of God’s people. After reading the Scripture, pause and meditate on its meaning in your current life situation. How can that Scripture be applied for you? • A prayer is provided each day. Some prayers are written by members of the congregation and others are from authors outside our church. The bishop of Carthage, Cyprian (200- 250) said “When you pray you speak with God; when you read, God speaks to you.” Read the prayer provided, then spend some time speaking with God in your own words! • A picture is provided each day. Some people from the church contributed some of their artwork and other artwork is from other artists. Use the artwork to contemplate what you have experienced through the reflection, Scripture and prayer. What might God be speaking to you through the picture? • The devotion each day ends with a music video. If viewing the devotional electronically, you can click on the link. If reading in written form a link is provided for you to paste into a browser window. Use the music video to end your devotional time in worship. Music can be an excellent way to put ourselves in tune with God’s spirit.
The Advent Wreath The Advent wreath is a Christian tradition that symbolizes the passage of the four weeks of Advent in the liturgical calendar of the Western church. It is usually a horizontal evergreen wreath with four (three purple and one pink) candles around the wreath and a fifth, white candle in the center. Beginning with the First Sunday of Advent, the lighting of a candle can be accompanied by a Bible reading, devotional and/or prayer. An additional candle is lit during each subsequent week until, by the last Sunday before Christmas all four candles are lit. The fifth, Christ candle, is lit on Christmas Eve. The custom is observed both in family settings and at public church services. There are instructions on which candles to light on each Sunday of Advent and on Christmas Eve in the devotional.
NOVEMBER 29, 2020 FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence. REFLECTION: Written by Laura Metzger Advent is a time for slowing down and remembering, We are in the process of preparing our hearts to celebrate the incarnation of our God – the day Jesus became God With Us. This remembering is a time for our own deep reflection on how God is here with us in our daily lives and it is also a time of remembering to teach others about the God we love and worship. What a wonderful opportunity to teach our children and grandchildren, our friends, and neighbors what it is we hold dear. Our faith has a deep history. What are some interesting ways you can share your testimony, through both actions and words? SCRIPTURE: Psalm 78: 1-4 My people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth with a parable; I will utter hidden things, things from of old— things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us. We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.
Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894), a Scottish novelist, poet, and travel writer. Loving Father, help us remember the birth of Jesus, that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and worship of the wise men. Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: Joy Williams: Here With Us https://youtu.be/EosUH0orVUg Sunset painted by Catherine Montgrain of our church
If using an advent wreath, light the first purple candle, which symbolizes hope and is called the Prophet’s Candle. The prophets of the Old Testament, especially Isaiah, waited in hope for the Messiah’s arrival.
NOVEMBER 30, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Nina Pope Holiday traditions vary from family to family and add their own special joy to the Christmas season. Over the years, some of our family’s traditions have been altered as one generation grows up and establishes its own traditions, some old and some new, in their own homes. One thing that remains a favorite at our house is a collection of Christmas books gathered and treasured over the years. Some are by well-known authors, some written for children while others are more adult, some new and some so long a part of our collection that they are now out of print. Some feature illustrations of great art and others have colorful artwork less well-known. What they have in common is that they are all books about some aspect of what I call the real Christmas story. One particular favorite offers the traditional Christmas story by a Venezuelan poet in a style reminiscent of a Medieval manuscript; it combines Christian elements with drawings of toucans, cheetahs, monkeys and other animals in the perspective of South American culture. The books have been gently treated over the years and during the holiday season reside in a large basket in our family room where they are accessible to all for a leisurely or quick read depending on the moment. Sometimes the books are enjoyed by a single reader or read to aloud to eager young listeners. When it is the moment to take them off the shelf and put them into the customary basket, it is like opening the front door to welcome in treasured friends and neighbors that you haven’t seen for a season and whom you cannot help but hug. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 22:30-31 Posterity will serve him; future generations will be told about the Lord, and proclaim his deliverance to a people yet unborn, saying that he has done it. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Kathleen Norris, a contemporary American poet and essayist. Bless us, Lord, as we seek Christ in the lowly mangers of this world, bless us, as we seek to honor the mystery of the Incarnation in our midst, remembering always that you made us, and all humanity in your divine image. Help us to gladly welcome today and all days, your Wisdom, your Power, your Emmanuel, your Prince of Peace. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: King Digital Media: Mary Did You Know? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYe7odIJLF0
Early 1904 Postcard
DECEMBER 1, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Tsh Oxenreider, a contemporary writer. This is an excerpt from her book “Shadow and Light: A Journey Into Advent.” Advent means “arrival,” and it speaks of a beginning—the beginning. Advent assumes the arrival of something – or someone. It is more than counting down the days until Christmas with paper cutout doors revealing chocolate, biding time until most children’s favorite day of the year finally dawns. Like someone anticipating the arrival of a dinner guest, we are invited into the rhythm of Advent to prepare. We do more than impatiently drum our fingers on the table until we’re allowed to open gifts under the tree. We prepare ourselves. Similar to our culture’s view of the first day of January as an invitation to reinvent ourselves, Advent gives us the chance to transform our lives—but in small, much more significant ways than a new workout regimen or a less cluttered closet. We are offered the chance to pause the push of holiday merriment and slowly inch asway from the shadows. This is a small but significant cultural resistance we can practice in our homes, minds, emotions, and relationships. Soon we will mark the arrival of the Christ child. For now, we revel in this invitation. First, we prepare inwardly. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 147:1, 5-7 Praise the Lord, how good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him! Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit. The Lord sustains the humble but casts the wicked to the ground. Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Luci Shaw, a contemporary American writer and poet. Merciful God, in this Advent season we thank you that you can rewrite the script of our lives, moving us from wandering to arrival, from self-hatred to acceptance, from distance to nearness, from loneliness to belonging, from weakness to energy, and all this because of the enfleshment of your dear Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus, who became one of us and showed us the way. Amen.
Click on the link to see and hear the music video. La Jolla painted by Catherine Montgrain of our church MUSIC VIDEO: All of creation, all of God’s story, all of us, long for Christ’s coming. This video illustrates (through painting and song) how all of history culminates in the birth of Jesus. Skit Guys: Come Thou Long Expected Jesus. Come%20Thou%20Long%20Expected%20Jesus.%20%20%20https:/www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLcTLC CpI5A&list=RDVLcTLCCpI5A&start_radio=1
DECEMBER 2, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Joanne Melton Knowing that many of you have a similar memory, I would like to share mine with you. As a young family, Christmastime was the highlight of our year. The children’s choir rehearse sweet carols such as, Away In A Manger,” and What Child Is This....” Along with the children’s choir, there was practice for the Christmas Eve presentation of the journey of Mary and Joseph on their way to Bethlehem, and ultimately, the birth of the Christ Child. It is a time when church staff, moms and dads, and grandmothers and grandfathers begin the process of casting who will be Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the Magi, and of course, the angel. The stable needs to be built, costumes need to be sewn, hours of practice take place so the children will feel confident in their telling of this wonderful story. There are smiles, laughter, and tears. Always some last-minute glitches...tummy aches, or reluctance to take that first step, say that first word. It is the sweet innocence of the retelling of this special story, that we all know by heart, that means so much. The narrator begins the story. Mary and Joseph find no room at the inn. They find comfort in the humble stable with all of God’s creatures who witness the birth of the baby, Jesus. The star shines brightly in the sky! The shepherds bring their sheep. The Magi bring their gifts. The children present this precious story as their gift to the congregation. It is given with love, innocence, kindness, and humbleness to remind us of the greatest gift...The Christ Child. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 89:1-2
I will sing of your steadfast love, O LORD, forever; with my mouth I will proclaim your faithfulness to all generations. I declare that your steadfast love is established forever; your faithfulness is as firm as the heavens. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Emilie Griffin, a contemporary American author who writes about religious experience, prayer, and spiritual life. Lord, give me hope. Let me see your providential hand at work in every corner of society. And let me be refreshed by the innocence of children, Lord Jesus. Let me be amused by their antics, their sudden laughter, their glee. Help me to be touched by the naivete of the Christmas narrative, the angels bringing word to humanity, Mary and Joseph escaping with their child into Egypt. May the light of the Incarnation flood my heart. Help me bring your peace into the world. Amen. Click on the link to see and hear the music video.
MUSIC VIDEO: Over A Thousand People Came Together To Break a Record And Bring This Moving Christmas Hymn To Life: Gloria in Excelsis Deo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5mdybeyLVc
DECEMBER 3, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Vickie Stone In 2014 I was updating my kitchen. I very much wanted to create a mosaic backsplash for above my stove top. But I struggled on what to create that I would be happy with how it turned out, since I had only created one other mosaic and was quite new to this art form AND this backsplash would be in my kitchen for a long time! One Sunday while sitting in church and gazing at our lovely Rose Trinity window behind the church altar, it occurred to me -- I could find a similar design that had meaning to me and it would be the perfect addition to my remodeled kitchen. After some online research, I settled on a design known as a four point or Quaternary knot; a traditional Celtic design. For me, the design's outer circle represents the continuity of family love. And the four interlocking 'petals' represent myself and my three siblings in my family. I am very happy with how it turned out and to this day I also enjoy the knowledge that our church's window was the catalyst for my design.
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 22:27-28
All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the LORD; and all the families of the nations shall worship before him. For dominion belongs to the LORD, and he rules over the nations. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Emilie Griffin, a contemporary American author who writes about religious experience and spiritual life. Dear God, my life is a maze of ordinary things: work, family, church, correspondence, bill-paying, filling out forms. Help me to see that in fulfilling my obligations I am serving you. Let me be open to the grace of the random encounter. Give me glimpses of your reality in the middle of things. Let me recognize the Messiah, as Simeon did. And help me to live by your commandment of love, no matter what the cost. Amen. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: Tim McGraw: Mary and Joseph https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6lU1s6zpfM
Photo submitted by Vickie Stone of our church
DECEMBER 4, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Valerie Weaver It was Christmas, 1968. I had just joined my husband who was in the Navy stationed at Cubi Point, Naval Air Station in the Philippines. We were waiting for a place on base and living in a small apartment in Olongapo City. Our personal shipment had not arrived and our small apartment was bare and Christmas was almost upon us. We felt far from home and family, alone and adrift in a strange culture and land. Just before Christmas Day we learned that the Navy had shipped in a load of Christmas trees from Japan. We rushed to get one and quickly set it up in our empty living room, but we had no decorations. At a local market we found some small Chinese lanterns that became the only decorations for our little tree. Finally, our temporary shelter felt like home. It wasn’t really the tree or the small lanterns but the act of starting our celebration. We realized that we could celebrate the birth of our Lord no matter how far we were from our geographical home. He was with us and we were indeed home wherever we were. I use those lanterns still every Christmas as a reminder that He is with us always and wherever we may be. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 24:1-2
The earth is the LORD’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it; for he has founded it on the seas and established it on the rivers. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Richard John Neuhaus (1936-2009), a Christian cleric and writer. Awaken, O Lord Jesus, our hearts and minds to your presence in the world of your love's creating. Forbid that we should stumble through this day oblivious to the wonder in the ordinary. With your grace, startle us into faith's perception of your continuing creation in our lives. Amen. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. Christmas Lanterns photo submitted by Valerie Weaver MUSIC VIDEO: From A Christmas Carol: A Place Called Home https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPFHZ99C4Ak
DECEMBER 5, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Larkie Cook. This praying mantis on our gratitude rock (see picture below) reminded Jim and me of how grateful we are for our health, a loving family, and a loving God. Even during these trying times, we consider ourselves thankful to be living in such a beautiful location with perfect weather and with support from wonderful friends from our church and community. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 138:1-3
I will praise you, LORD, with all my heart; before the “gods” I will sing your praise. I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your unfailing love and your faithfulness, for you have so exalted your solemn decree that it surpasses your fame. When I called, you answered me; you greatly emboldened me. Pause and meditate on the Scripture.
PRAYER: Written by Richard Neuhaus (1936-2009), a Christian cleric and writer. Liberate us, we pray you, Lord, from the getting and grasping to which we are prone. Teach us the royal way of the law of the gift, that in giving not only things but ourselves we may know even now the life abundant you promise to bring to perfection in eternal life with you. Increase in us gratitude for your gift of yourself, and let that gift of gratitude inspire us to the greatness of living our lives as love in in response to love. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: Celtic Women: Joy to the World https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDmIddF7DfQ
Photo submitted by Larkie Cook
DECEMBER 6, 2020 SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Barb Hoekstra, a contemporary Christian author. This is an excerpt from her devotion Advent: Lessons in Waiting.
In the case of waiting, experience does not generate expertise. We all have experience waiting. We endure short-term waiting in lines, at stoplights, or for commercials to be over. We endure long-term waiting for decisions to be made, diagnoses to be given, and events to occur. With all this experience, we think we should be good at it. Unfortunately, we aren’t usually very good at waiting. We wait in a variety of unhealthy ways: passively, helplessly, anxiously, and angrily. Waiting is so pervasive and encompassing it moves beyond being a mental act, causing bodily responses such as thumb twiddling, hand wringing, nail biting, and fist pounding. I can remember feeling physically sick as my husband and I waited for our son, Max, to come to our family from an orphanage in China. Thirteen months felt like an awful endlessness. During this very uncomfortable wait for Max, I was driven to consider waiting in better ways. I was led to an Advent reading by Henri Nouwen, titled Waiting for God (1993). Nouwen showed me that the Bible is full of “waiters”—Zechariah and Elizabeth, Mary, Simeon and Anna—and these people are representative of the remnant of Israel. Nouwen asks and answers the question, “How are they [people of the Bible] waiting, and how are we called to wait with them?” Nouwen’s conclusions are insightful and practical: 1) People who wait have received a promise that allows them to wait; 2) while waiting, we are to be fully present in the moment; 3) a waiting person is a patient person who believes something hidden will be evident to us; 4) waiting is open-ended, filled with hope for what God desires to bring us beyond our imagination; 5) we wait together; and, 6) we wait patiently in expectation. While we wait for the mundane or the Magnificent, let us wait like Zechariah and Elizabeth, Mary, and Simeon and Anna: attentively and expectantly.
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 33:20-22
We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love be with us, LORD, even as we put our hope in you. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: From the Gelasian Sacramentary, a book of Christian liturgy, which is the oldest western liturgical book that has survived. The book is linked to Pope Gelasius I. It was compiled near Paris around 750. O Lord our God, make us watchful and heedful as we await the coming of your Son, Christ our Lord, that when he comes and knocks, he will find us not sleeping in sins but awake and rejoicing in his praises; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Bethanie Sulleza: Waiting
Click on the link to see and hear the music video.
MUSIC VIDEO: Cherokee Hills Church: Beauty in the Waiting https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXuHnQKlnJU
If using an advent wreath, light the first purple candle and the second purple candle. The second candle represents faith and is called “Bethlehem’s Candle.” Micah had foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, which is also the birthplace of King David.
DECEMBER 7, 2020
Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Jan Caldwell We wait…for information about the virus that is sweeping the world, to see if we, or a loved one contracts the virus, for Zoom calls, for Amazon deliveries, for tomorrow…We remember…what our lives used to be like, going to restaurants, traveling, visiting friends in their homes, hugs…We pray this next year will be one of preparing….with vaccinations, continued care to keep ourselves and each other safe and well, how to return to our public and busy lives, how to tell our hearts to beat again…We rejoice always in the knowledge God is with us and He will never leave us. In this season of uncertainty, we turn to Him for courage, discernment, peace, love. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you”. (Deuteronomy 31:6)
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 118:5-9
Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me in a broad place. With the LORD on my side I do not fear. What can mortals do to me?
The LORD is on my side to help me; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to put confidence in mortals. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to put confidence in princes. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Emilie Griffin, a contemporary American author who writes about religious experience, prayer, and spiritual life. Dear Lord, there are signs of trouble and anxiety all around me. Give me confidence to trust in your incarnate presence in a fearful world. Help me know that I am a child of God. Amen. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: Animated Faith: Fear, Fear Not Mary https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-I5MBcL3L8
Painted by Connie McCoy of our church
DECEMBER 8, 2020
Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Juan Carlos Acosta Advent is a time in which, with Joseph and the pregnant Mary, we journey to Bethlehem in anticipation of the birth of Jesus. Pregnant is a word that we most often associate with human conception, but it of course has other meanings. There can be a pregnant pause, or we can be pregnant with grief. I love thesauruses. I keep a slightly yellowed paperback thesaurus within arm’s reach of me at my desk, and I don’t grasp for it as often as I should. The synonyms of pregnant speak so much to the season of Advent. Significant, weighty, potential; fertile, inventive. This year our expectation and longing for change are heightened. At forty years of age I am not young (likely older than both Mary and Joseph) and yet I am aware that these anxieties and issues are not new in history. I think of the civil and social unrest of the sixties or the pandemic a century ago that shut down churches, schools, and whole cities. The trappings of Christmas are charming, but I often feel that if we get wrapped up in those (pun intended) that we might miss the significant, weighty, potential, fertile and inventive that are represented in Jesus the Christ being born into this world as very fragile and precious human infant. Despite all that we are facing I have hope. Hope because I believe that the ways of Jesus can truly change the world if we let them change our own hearts first.
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 67:1-3 May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, Selah that your way may be known upon earth, your saving power among all nations. Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Luci Shaw, a contemporary American writer of poetry and essays. Oh my Lord, keep me from frustration and impatience when I see little evidence of your living and growing in me. Reassure me that waiting time is not wasted time. That your purposes for us all are large and all-embracing enough to hold firm and prevail, no matter the obstacles or distractions. You have told us that "now is the accepted time...now is the day of salvation." But perhaps your "now" is different from ours. You see our lives from the infinite perspective of eternity, of kairos. We want immediate action, change, growth in chronos, in "real time." We want to see our problems being resolved. Now. Help us to realize, as those who love and believe in you, that we, too, are pregnant with Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit, and that day by day we are being enlarged. Augment our hope, widen our imagination, and nourish our Painted by Connie McCoy of our church anticipation that the astounding fact of "Christ in you, the hope of glory" will turn true in each of us in your good time. Amen. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: Sacra Profana: O Come, Emmanuel (submitted by Juan Carlos Acosta) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dr2pY7fCBzU&feature=youtu.be
DECEMBER 9, 2020
Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Ruth Grendell One of my mother’s many favorite psalms was Psalm 139. She reminded me many times that we are created as unique individuals. There is none exactly like each one of us. I remembered her words as we were caring for young women in a clinic in a rural village in India. As the day progressed, we noted an elderly woman standing outside alone and watching the young women as they left the clinic. She looked at each one, but no one approached her. We learned that she wanted to see the American nurses who were helping the women in her village. I wanted to speak with her, but our different languages prohibited any communication. She looked so frail, that I wanted to hold her in my arms, but I knew she would back away. So just our smiles would have to suffice. Later, I talked with the hospital personnel who were aware of this village problem, but they noted that ancient traditions that included the label as “unclean” are difficult to change. They hoped the continued presence of the Christian health care contacts would help. As I reflected upon this experience, I remembered that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Leprosy had robbed her of her feet and hands—but not of her mind and spirit. I wished I could learn more about her life. I wondered how long it had been since anyone in her family had hugged her. Then, I realized that she had received her Christmas gift. Her wish had been granted. She had wanted to see that the young women in her village were receiving the care they needed. I have mourned for her knowing that long term medication therapy can alleviate the bacterial disease. However, I know nothing was available for her. My Christmas gift was when I wondered what more I could learn from this experience. What more could I do to provide body, mind, spiritual care? Then, I thought of an old familiar hymn, Open My Eyes That I May See that directed my thoughts and informed me what to do (listen below).
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 139:13-14 For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother’s womb, I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; that I know very well. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Richard John Neuhaus (1936-2009), a Christian cleric and writer. Correct our eyesight, we pray you Lord, with the gift of faith that, as we see you in the baby of Bethlehem, so may we see and hear you in those who speak your word and so may we serve you by serving those in whose distress you are disguised. As at Christmas you came among us to love the unlovable, so teach us to love with the love by which we are loved by you. Amen. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: Clara H. Scott: Open My Eyes, That I May See (submitted by Ruth Grendell) El Greco: Christ Healing the Blind https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxBX9FkQz2k
DECEMBER 10, 2020
Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Vickie Stone It was our annual tradition. My neighbor Sue and I toured the Point Loma homes all prettied up for the All Souls Episcopal Church Holiday Home Tour. We loved seeing the homes, many with stunning views to the San Diego Harbor below with tiny sail boats and the downtown skyline in the distance. Several years ago on the tour, Sue noticed a nativity scene with a missing baby Jesus at one of the homes. Sue volunteers at several local thrift stores and noticed when an exact matching baby Jesus was donated; the perfect, unique one that would complete that home's creche! The following December Sue was under the weather and did not make the tour that year...then last December, Sue again had the baby Jesus ready. We walked up to the gate at the home on the street that we visited 2 years prior and rang the buzzer. A woman came out the front door and walked down the sidewalk to open the gate. Sue introduced us and explained why two strangers were standing at her gate. The lady listened intrigued and fascinated. She was clearly touched. She opened the bag and unwrapped the delivered baby Jesus and gasped, putting her hand over her mouth. Her eyes started to tear and then said her creche was her mother's who put it out every year. Her mother had died 17 years ago. During the woman’s childhood, it had never had the baby Jesus. Her mother had fashioned one from a round button and some cloth, so the manger would not be empty. But this baby Jesus was indeed an exact match to her set. She said her mother was certainly smiling down from heaven! She was touched and said it was the kindest thing she recalled someone ever doing for her. She said she would continue to keep her mother's hand-made Jesus but would now also add this real, matching one so she could tell everyone the special story of how it arrived to her nativity set. Witnessing this generous act of kindness was perhaps my favorite gift last Christmas season. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 25:4-5
Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.
Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Donald J. Shelby (1931-2012), an American pastor, writer, and speaker. Lord, the calendar calls for Christmas. We have traveled this way before. During this Advent season we would see what we have never seen before, accept what we have refused to think, and hear what we need to understand. Be with us in our goings that we may meet you in your coming. Astonish us until we sing "Glory!" and then enable us to live it out with love and peace. In the name of your Incarnate Word, even Jesus Christ. Amen. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: Simon Khorolskiy: I Wonder As I Wander https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zF3zb4Hbmhk
Virginia Wieringa; Advent Starry Night
DECEMBER 11, 2020
Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Kathleen Loftman Last year, as I was going through a difficult time with my mother passing away unexpectedly, I heard a breathtaking new carol for the first time, written by American composer, Christopher Rouse, who had also passed away during the same timeframe as my mother. The music spoke to my heart. Karolju is a suite of original Christmas carols for choir and orchestra. The work was first performed November 7, 1991 by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. Here are the words of the composer, describing the music: “Two paths led to the composition of Karolju. The first was the great body of Christmas carols written over the centuries, a collection I value as highly for its spiritual meaning as for its glorious music. The second was Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana, which made an unforgettable impression upon me when I first heard it in March of 1963. As I wished to compose the music first, …I decided to compose my own texts in a variety of languages (Latin, Swedish, French, Spanish, Russian, Czech, German, and Italian)… It was rather my intent to match the sound of the language to the musical style of the carol to which it was applied. I resultantly selected words often more for the quality of their sound and the extent to which such sound typified the language of their origin than for their cognitive ‘meaning’ per se. I also elected to compose music, which was direct and simple in its tonal orientation, music which would not seem out of place in a medley of traditional Christmas carols. Karolju is … one which I hope will help instill in listeners the same special joy which I feel for the season it celebrates.” Traditions are handed down from one generation to another. Christopher Rouse established a new tradition when he composed Karolju to celebrate his daughter's first Christmas in 1990. This music can now become a tradition for all of us. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 5:11-12
But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, so that those who love your name may exult in you. For you bless the righteous, O LORD; you cover them with favor as with a shield. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Henri J.M. Nouwen (1932-1996), a Dutch priest, professor, writer, and theologian. Lord Jesus, Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas. We who have so much to do and seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day, We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us. We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom. We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence. We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light. To you we say, "Come Lord Jesus!' Amen.
Click on the link to see and hear the music video.
MUSIC VIDEO: Christopher Rouse: Karolju (submitted by Kathleen Loftman) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8O5U6YzHOc
DECEMBER 12, 2020
Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Andrew Kukla, a contemporary author. This is an excerpt from a devotional he wrote about the song “Breath of Heaven.”
Mary received a visit from the angel Gabriel saying that she would conceive a child and give birth to a child who would be holy and be named the Son of God. Mary had to figure out how to stay in relationship to a husband who was not father of her child, and had to journey to Bethlehem while pregnant and give birth in the most grueling of circumstances. Mary questions how she could do it, but also was humbly willing to serve – who responded to an unexpected calling with the simple but profound response “Let it be with me according to your will.” Mary went through a challenging sacrifice – and not because she signed up for it. It is popular today to talk about serving in ways that you are gifted, that bring you pleasure, and that line up nicely with your gifts and talents. And yet, this is hard to find in the biblical stories. Mary didn’t sign up. Mary didn’t feel gifted, and Mary only found the pleasure later… after the sacrifices… So many of our stories of faith are about unexpected people being called to serve in uncomfortable ways that end up fulfilling them.
She didn’t walk the path alone. Her initial reactions are changed when Elizabeth rejoices at Mary’s pregnancy. The community makes her see it all from a different perspective. And the shepherds will give her more news that she will ponder and treasure. Many people will encounter her and her story and when she sees the profound impact her life will have on them that which was a burden she could not imagine carrying became her greatest blessing. What burden are you carrying for the sake of others? What burdens are we avoiding because we lack the imagination to believe we are the right person for the job? How might God be calling us to just this kind of “sacrifice” which is actually great good news to all people… and blessings to our lives that we didn’t know we needed? Advent waiting and preparation – incarnation explosion… how is the Christ child wishing to be born through you this season in unexpected ways?
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 51:15-17 Open my lips, Lord, and my mouth will declare your praise. You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: From the Mozarabic Rite, a liturgical rite once used generally in the Iberian Peninsula, in what is now Spain and Portugal. Developed during Visigoth rule in the 500s AD. O Lord, let your mercy be upon us, and let the brightness of your Spirit illumine our inward souls, that he may kindle our cold hearts and enlighten our dark minds; who abides with you in glory forever. Amen. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: Amy Grant: Breath of Heaven https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWo3qlqyW1c Painted by Connie McCoy of our church
THIRD SUNDAY IN ADVENT December 13, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Juan Carlos Acosta It may come as a surprise as a church/choral musician that I am not particularly fond of Christmas music. Besides the fact that Advent/Christmas has always been our most busy season keeping us from family gatherings, holiday parties, or even shopping. Most choral musicians start working on Christmas music months ahead of time, and as a conductor I have often been preparing that music since August. We circle back to the same dozen or so carols, despite hundreds or even thousands of truly wonderful settings. I know that familiarity and nostalgia are hallmarks (pun intended) of the season, however I find that because those settings are so familiar, we might miss the profound message that they hold. “O Come Emmanuel” is one of a very select group of familiar Advent carols that we use. I love the traditional hymn and tune, and the original Latin chant is quite stunning. The setting by Sir David Wilcocks for organ, choir, and congregation somehow feels like home. However, occasionally a new setting captures my imagination and helps me hear again and perhaps in a new way the words of these familiar songs. Contemporary composer, conductor and author Elaine Hagenberg composed a hauntingly beautiful new setting of “O Come Emmanuel.” I have now programmed it three years in a row for three different groups and I keep coming back to it. (You can hear the different versions on other postings!)
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 47:5-7
God has gone up with a shout, the LORD with the sound of a trumpet.
Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises. For God is the king of all the earth; sing praises with a psalm. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Scott Cairns, a contemporary American poet, professor, librettist, and spiritual essayist. Unknowable One, we stand before you, hardly daring to look up. We offer you our hearts, and pray that we may, this day and ever, worship you in ways that are true. Forgive us those days when we have worshipped false and faulty images we have shaped. Help our frail senses, that we may apprehend your Presence and your Love. In the everlasting Name of the father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: The Gesualdo Six: Veni, Veni Emmanuel (Latin setting). Submitted by Juan Carlos Acosta https://youtu.be/MSRocN1dTrM Rochelle Blumenfeld: Hear My Praise
If using an advent wreath, light the first two purple candles and the third rose-colored candle. This candle symbolizes joy and is called the Shepherd’s Candle. To the shepherd’s great joy, the angels announced that Jesus came for humble, unimportant people like them, too. In liturgy, the color rose signifies joy.
December 14, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence. REFLECTION: Written by Deirdre Smith When I fall onto my pillow anticipating sweet slumber, its soft, down coolness delights my form. Throughout the night I flip the warm side of the pillow, trading it for the cool side for the ultimate in refreshment and comfort. This pillow-flipping of mine is a ritual. What’s more, I often hug the pillow and hold onto it in a tight embrace, as if my life depends on it. I suspect I am not alone. There are others like me, you who seek refreshment and sanctuary, now, more than ever. Of course, there are more obvious, traditional ways to seek refreshment. Refreshment for my daughter no doubt comes in the form of ice cream. Yesterday she begged to stop at a local ice creamery on the way home. Since I had spent the morning cleaning out the refrigerator, a task made difficult by neglect, it wasn’t hard to convince me that I had earned a healthy serving of coffee ice cream with chocolate chips. Pure joy and sweet refreshment! Swimming in the pool has been a lifelong favorite of mine and means to finding refreshment. Although our local pool is supposed to be heated, we question it is so as we slowly immerse ourselves in ice-cold water, but once we are fully immersed and recovered from the shock, we experience splendid refreshment. For others, refreshment or restoration is found in a haircut, a massage, shopping, a favorite beverage, an invigorating walk on the beach, or reading a good book. Netflix is a new one for me; as I write this, binge watching a dramatic series provides escape from daily COVID statistics and voting projections. When I was young, I sat on the carpet with my ears next to a large floor-speaker belting out ballads with Barbra Streisand, Carly Simon, Barry Manilow and the Carpenters. This probably wasn’t good for my hearing but these artists carried me away… As we close this arduous year of pandemic, politics, wildfires and more, we need refreshment and calm definitively. Further, we need refreshment for the soul. May we focus on Jesus habitually and seek to be refreshed in prayer repeatedly. God welcomes us to delight in Him and find refreshment and peace for our souls. He restores us. As we embark on the Advent Season may we find in Jesus’ birth complete refreshment, and may we hold fast to Him, the babe born in a manger, and refuse to let go. He will never leave or forsake us. Let us cling to this promise as if our lives depend on it.
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 23:1-3
The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Deirdre Smith
Lord, you are my peace and refreshment, far better than earthly Painted by Connie McCoy of our church pleasures and beyond compare. I hold fast to you. You are my Rock and my Salvation— my comfort and restorer in a turbulent world. Amen.
Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: Fernando Ortega: I Need Thee Every Hour (Submitted by Deirdre Smith) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZIMDcgrF-Q
December 15, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Michael Dyer The search for Jesus and his birthplace by the Magi has forever seemed fascinating to me. These were people of prominence and stature in Middle Eastern society moved to make a long journey across foreign lands to an undefined location. No GPS, not even a rudimentary road map, they were guided by celestial navigation. In addition to the burden of an indeterminate itinerary, they came laden with valuable gifts, which made them a target of highway bandits. What a frightful journey for those who could have just as easily stayed at home in a comfortable tent! Yet God guided them in their quest and they found Jesus, the Christ child. Christ came not only to free the lowly shepherds, the outcasts of society, but the Magi as well, people of wealth and privilege who still needed and sought God's saving grace. What a wonderful Savior we serve. Merry Christmas.
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 29:1-2
Ascribe to the LORD, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. Ascribe to the LORD the glory of his name; worship the LORD in holy splendor. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Richard John Neuhaus (1936-2009), a Christian cleric and writer. Father in heaven, you came to earth in the person of your Son, Jesus Christ. At the coming of your Spirit upon Mary inspired her to welcome the One who is her child and her lord, so also open our eyes to the gift already given. Forgive us our restless searching for your presence according to our expectations. Direct our searching according to your gift. May we, like the star-led sages of old, be ever guided to the appointed meeting place in the Child of Bethlehem. Amen. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: Kirk Franklin: We Three Kings (Submitted by Michael Dyer) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFgByOyX-FQ Rubens: The Adoration of the Magi
December 16, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Vickie Stone How perfectly appropriate to use Psalms as the focus for this Season of Advent. What other season does music feature as such a significant part of the celebration?! No doubt many have their favorite Christmas carols, yet this year for me, thinking of a song that was especially poignant for 2020 is the song "There Was Jesus". I only heard about this song when I was on Zoom for the choir's retreat in September. Renown pianist/lyricist/music arranger Joseph Martin (who has worked with our choir on many occasions) was the guest speaker from Austin TX. He happened to mention he recently worked with Dolly Parton for arranging a song she did as a duet with Zach Williams. Now I adore Dolly Parton- her authenticity and her Christian heart. So when I watched the music video (included below) and then read the lyrics I was captivated by how perfectly this song fit with all the challenges the world has faced in 2020.
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 24:7-10 Lift up your heads, you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory?
The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.
Lift up your heads, you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is he, this King of glory? The LORD Almighty—he is the King of glory. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: From a 6th century Gregorian Rite. O Lord Jesus Christ, by your incarnation you united things earthly and heavenly. Fill us with the sweetness of inward peace and goodwill, that we may join the heavenly host in singing praises to your glory; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: Zach Williams and Dolly Parton: There Was Jesus submitted by Vickie Stone https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=F_cXBD1LkrI
Yongsung Kim: Calm and Stars
December 17, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence. REFLECTION: Written by Alan Goodman Advent is all about “Coming”. La Costa Glen residents have been severely “shut down” for months and months to protect our vulnerable citizens. In the midst of not being able to go to church, going “virtual” as an alternative, we have experienced God’s presence here in a most unexpected way! This at a time when God was effectively shut out! La Costa Glen Management agreed for the FIRST TIME EVER to actually BROADCAST all the Village Church services AND the Village Church Bible Studies on our in-house TV system. We now reach almost 900 potential viewers, most of whom have never even experienced our church at all! Without this pandemic, this would never have happened! When I think of “coming”, Jesus is being broadcast to more people here than ever before! It has been amazing to hear from non-church residents, Catholics, and other denominations who are seeing our Pastors every week providing the Jesus message. I know non-Village Church LCG residents watch because they call me about these TV broadcasts. In addition, Glenbrook Health Center also is showing all the Village Church services to those in Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living on their own in-house TV system. That also has NEVER happened before. Glory be to God! He sure has come to this retirement community in all his glory during this pandemic. Hallelujah!
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 105:1-4
Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.
Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: The O Antiphons are used at Vespers of the last 7 days of Advent in Western Christian traditions. The exact origin of the O Antiphons is not known but Boethius (480-524) referenced them. This translation is from the Church of England’s Book of Common Worship liturgy. O Wisdom, coming forth from the mouth of the Most High, reaching from one end to the other, mightily and sweetly ordering all things: Come and teach us the way of prudence.
Click on the link to see and hear the music video.
MUSIC VIDEO: Carrie Underwood and John Legend: Hallelujah https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LTwPO1_HmY
Lindisfarne Scriptorium: Glory
December 18, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence. REFLECTION: Written by Irene Dickson (Part 1) My dad was a miner in the coal pits on the east coast of Scotland. Christmas Day was not an official holiday until 1958, and most folks worked unless Christmas fell on a weekend. When I was 5, and my sister was a week old, my dad left to work in the mines on the Gold Coast of Africa. My mom, sister Elaine, and I followed him a few weeks later and we spent the next 10 years on that continent where my dad worked in the Ashanti Gold Mines in Ghana, in the copper mines in the Ruwenzori mountains of Uganda, and at the construction of a hydroelectric power station at the Kariba Dam in Zambia. Like many Christians in remote areas of the world today, we celebrated Christmas in any way we could. There were no department stores, many foods were difficult to get, and of course nothing came by mail except for trinkets and candy for my sister and me, along with dried potatoes and other necessities that were ‘smuggled’ in newspapers-the Sunday Post and the East Fife Mail-sent by relatives from Scotland. Christmas Day was spent at the community pool, along with all the other ex-pat families-many from the same area in Scotland as us. In Kilembe, Uganda, there was an Anglican Church. All were welcome and at Christmas time I remember the beautiful African voices singing our favorite carols accompanied by traditional African instruments mostly made by hand from sticks and animal skins. (Continued tomorrow). SCRIPTURE: Psalm 96:9-10
Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth. Say among the nations, “The LORD reigns.” The world is firmly established, it cannot be moved; he will judge the peoples with equity. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: The O Antiphons are used at Vespers of the last 7 days of Advent in Western Christian traditions. The exact origin of the O Antiphons is not known but Boethius (480-524) referenced them. This translation is from the Church of England’s Book of Common Worship liturgy. O Adonai, and leader of the House of Israel, who appeared to Moses in the fire of the burning bush and gave him the law on Sinai: Come and redeem us with an outstretched arm.
Click on the link to see and hear the music video.
MUSIC VIDEO: God’s Grace Orphanage Nakawuka, Church in Kilembe, Uganda Uganda: Merry Christmas https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbKraBj1b-I
December 19, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence. REFLECTION: Written by Irene Dickson (Continued from yesterday) In the remote setting on the northern shores of Lake Kariba there were no churches. The village built to house the overseas workers was basic with dirt roads and not many facilities except a swimming pool…. and a factory shell that would soon be a sparsely stocked grocery store. My dad decided there should be some kind of celebration, so on Christmas Eve 1971 he organized all the families to gather in that empty building and celebrate the birth of Jesus. We had no pastor preaching the familiar story, no orchestra or choir leading us in worship, not even a chair to sit on. We did have candles-only because the electricity was not yet connected! A group of Christians worshipping together, someone shouting out the first line of a carol and everyone joining in, singing the words we all know and love. The Village Church is beautiful in all seasons. The message and the music are powerful and relevant, particularly at Christmas when the campus is breathtaking, the meaning of the season profound. On Christmas Eve as I sit squeezed into the pew with John, our three young adult children, and friends who’ve chosen to join us, emotions overwhelm me. Whether in Methil, Kilembe, Kariba or Rancho Santa Fe, the songs, words, feeling and meaning of Christmas are the same. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 100
Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: The O Antiphons are used at Vespers of the last 7 days of Advent in Western Christian traditions. The exact origin of the O Antiphons is not known but Boethius (480-524) referenced them. This translation is from the Church of England’s Book of Common Worship liturgy. O Root of Jesse, standing as a sign among the peoples; before you kings will shut their mouths, to you the nations will make their prayer: Come and deliver us, and delay no longer.
Click on the link to see and hear the music video.
MUSIC VIDEO: Gabie Ntaate for NTV Uganda: Christmas in Peace and Harmony Jesus Mafa (Cameroon): The Birth of Jesus with https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9QzKMQSLJM Shepherds
FOURTH SUNDAY IN ADVENT December 20, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence. REFLECTION: Written by Laura Metzger Joy is an emotion directly connected to Christmas. We think of the joy of exchanging gifts; the joy of children on Christmas morning; the joy of spending time with family and friends; the joy of celebration. Sometimes happiness and joy are confused, however. Happiness is often driven by earthly pleasures and is an emotion that can quickly disappear if things don’t go as expected. Joy, however, is a deeper emotion than happiness. Joy is a choice we make to pursue a life focused on God. Joy is more than feel good happiness; it is the inward peace and contentment we feel based on knowing God’s goodness. Joy is a deep-rooted happiness in the Lord’s strength and peace. Joy is trusting when we want to doubt. Joy is celebrating when we want to fear. Joy is finding peace in times of anxiety. We demonstrate our joy by serving others, by seeing God’s work in the world, and by allowing our hearts to fully love each other. This Advent season is a great time to build Christ-centered joy into our lives by keeping Jesus in the heart of our celebration this year. Rejoice, pray, and give thanks that God is with us – experience the true joy of this season. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 28:7-9
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. The LORD is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one. Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.
Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: The O Antiphons are used at Vespers of the last 7 days of Advent in Western Christian traditions. The exact origin of the O Antiphons is not known but Boethius (480-524) referenced them. This translation is from the Church of England’s Book of Common Worship liturgy. O Key of David and scepter of the House of Israel; you open and no one can shut; you shut and no one can open: Come and lead the prisoners from the prison house, those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death.
Click on the link to see and hear the music video.
MUSIC VIDEO: Andrea Bocelli/Mary Blige: What Child is This https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EbvwwwTqeRo Melani Pyke: Good News of Great Joy
If using an advent wreath, light the two purple candles, the rose-colored candle and the third purple candle. The fourth candle represents peace and is called the “Angel’s Candle.” The angels announced that Jesus came to bring peace--He came to bring people close to God and to each other again.
December 21, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence. REFLECTION: Written by Allan Anderson All Christians are aware of the Advent season. The story of Jesus’s impending arrival becomes foremost in our minds during the month of December and culminates with his birth on Christmas Day. It is the most demanding, joyous and family-focused month of the year. The year 2020 has added some additional dimensions to what we all may hope is coming, in addition to the most wonderful gift ever offered us, the birth of Jesus! Life outside of the church community is concerned about other comings. Will the end of the year bring the arrival of a new vaccine to offer protection against the continued COVID virus? As we move through December will doctors and scientists have brought forward new therapeutic regimens to help with current treatment options? Will we be able to gather together as a church community to celebrate our savior’s arrival? Will families be able to join together in celebration and thankfulness for this very special time of year? There are also questions surrounding the arrival of the New Year, 2021. We will have completed the November election and hopefully begun the work of giving our nation continued positive direction that benefits us all. Vaccines, therapeutics, medical advances, and the sacrifice of so many will blend together and will direct a healthy and revised pathway that leads us in our faith, work, and caring efforts for the New Year and beyond. Advent is the “coming” and the arrival of our savior, Jesus Christ. God will send this light once again to strengthen our daily lives and actions that reflect our continued desire to follow Jesus, for life. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 27:1, 5
The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: The O Antiphons are used at Vespers of the last 7 days of Advent in Western Christian traditions. The exact origin of the O Antiphons is not known but Boethius (480-524) referenced them. This translation is from the Church of England’s Book of Common Worship liturgy.
O Morning Star, splendor of light eternal and sun of righteousness: Come and enlighten those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death.
Click on the link to see and hear the music video.
MUSIC VIDEO: Hillsong Worship: O Holy Night https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8LuKI7cSkU Painted by Connie McCoy of our church
December 22, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence. REFLECTION: Written by Helen Harter The kids were home from college, Grandma had arrived and after a busy day of cooking, baking and present wrapping, all were ready to attend the Christmas Eve services at church. We left two friendly Golden Retrievers at home to "guard the house" and we headed off to church just a few blocks away. The service was inspiring, and my granddaughter joined the choir, lending her pure, sweet soprano voice to the beloved Christmas music. We joyously discussed our favorite parts of the Christmas program as we returned to the car in the chilly winter evening. Upon our return home we were faced with the aftermath of a break-in and robbery. A rear window had been broken to gain entrance, bedroom drawers were emptied on the floor, jewelry and electronics stolen. Though everyone was unsettled, we still could thank the Lord, for we believe we returned home earlier than expected, and the robbery was aborted. When they heard the garage door open, they fled out the back as we entered the house. The two dogs, though very skittish, were unharmed and all the beautifully wrapped gifts were untouched. After the police searched, dusted for prints, and had gone on their way, my son received a call from a "Good Samaritan" several towns away who, when going for an evening walk with his daughter, had discovered a discarded back-pack lying in the street. Inside was my son's business card which enabled the man to call with news of his discovery. Christmas afternoon my son was able to go and retrieve much of the stolen jewelry. Why the backpack was discarded we will never know, but we do know that all things work together for good to them that love God!
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 126
When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
Restore our fortunes, LORD, like streams in the Negev. Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.
Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: The O Antiphons are used at Vespers of the last 7 days of Advent in Western Christian traditions. The exact origin of the O Antiphons is not known but Boethius (480-524) referenced them. This translation is from the Church of England’s Book of Common Worship liturgy. O King of the nations, and their desire, the cornerstone making both one: Come and save the human race, which you fashioned from clay.
Click on the link to see and hear the music video.
MUSIC VIDEO: Libera: Carol of the Bells https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQadcm_dwEM
December 23, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence. REFLECTION: Written by Lois Blanchard Eades (1919-2011), an American poet. If Jesus came to your house to spend a day or two And I wonder...if the Savior spent a day or two If He came unexpectedly, I wonder what you'd do with you, would you go right on doing the things you always do? I know you'd give your nicest room, to such an honored guest and the food that you serve Him, Would you go right on saying the things you Would be the very best always say? Or would life for you continue as it does from day to day? You'ld keep assuring Him, you're glad to have Him there That serving Him in your own house, is Would you take Jesus with you everywhere you joy beyond compare go? Or would you maybe change your plans for just a day or so? But when you saw Him coming, would you meet Him at the door with arms outstretched in Would you be glad to have Him meet your closest welcome to your Heavenly Visitor? friends? Or would you hope they stay away until His visit ends? Would you have to change your clothes before you let Him in? Or hide some magazines, and put the Would you be glad to have Him stay forever on Bible where they'd been? and on? Or would you sigh with great relief when he at last was gone? Would you hide your worldly music and put some hymn books out? Could you let Jesus walk right It might be interesting to know, the things that you in, or would you rush about? would do, If Jesus came in person, to spend some time with you. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 46:7, 11
The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: The O Antiphons are used at Vespers of the last 7 days of Advent in Western Christian traditions. The exact origin of the O Antiphons is not known but Boethius (480-524) referenced them. This translation is from the Church of England’s Book of Common Worship liturgy. O Emmanuel, our king and our lawgiver, the hope of the nations and their Savior: Come and save us, O Lord our God.
Click on the link to see and hear the music video.
MUSIC VIDEO: Choir of King’s College: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (submitted by Juan Carlos Acosta) Mark Price: If He Came to Your https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcIIZpnZPgo&feature=youtu.be House
CHRISTMAS EVE December 24, 2020 Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence. REFLECTION: Written by Margot Wallace In Matthew 2:1-12, we are told how the wise men from the East, carrying gifts for the new ruler of the Jews, made their long, perilous journey. With great faith, they followed the star to Jerusalem to worship the king. They were filled with joy as they worshipped the baby Jesus. They avoided returning to Herod, who wished to impose harm on the Christ child.
How many of us have embarked on a trip with great anticipation, expecting a celebration in an unknown place? Trips are exciting but also demand focus to ensure the necessary connections for a successful journey. While we are limited in our ability to travel at this time, we still hold dear vivid memories of adventures in distant lands. I recall doing just that one birthday. I was going to Florence for the first time to meet friends and celebrate! Unlike following a star as the wise men did, there were many connections to ensure timely travel. My anticipation was great. Upon arriving, there were many new people to meet and places to see. The atmosphere was merry. Many gifts were presented to me on my special day. Like the three wise men, I had been led into an unknown environment, relying on faith, to proceed to a new place. The evening hours progressed with much celebration. The memories of this birthday are fresh and vivid. Do you have similar travel stories? Think of one such favorite memory where you travelled to an unknown environment with great anticipation for the coming celebration by nothing more than an itinerary (star). Perhaps on the way you encountered a "Herod" with his own deceptive agenda?
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 98:4-6
Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the LORD with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—shout for joy before the LORD, the King. Pause and meditate on the Scripture. PRAYER: Written by Kathleen Norris, a contemporary American poet and essayist. Giver of all that is good, we thank you today for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who was born into poverty in a hard and cruel time, who gave himself for us, and lives with you in glory. We thank you for all your friends and prophets who have gone before us, and those who taught us to celebrate this feast of the Nativity with beloved Scripture and beloved carols and loud rejoicing. Help us to teach those who come after us that Christmas is a holy time, a time to seek reconciliation and peace. Click on the link to see and hear the music video. MUSIC VIDEO: All is Calm, San Diego Opera: Silent Night. Three Wise Men: Painted by Margot Wallace https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Os-3yveSxLg from our church
If using an advent wreath, light the two purple candles, the rose-colored candle, the third purple candle and the center white candle. The fifth white candle represents light and purity and is called “Christ’s candle.”