Friends and Members of Family of Grace are continuing a tradition of preparing devotions to share with others each year. First Sunday in Advent November 27, 2011 Daggers and Nails Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Isaiah 64:1-9; Psalm 8-:1-7; 1 Corinthians 1:3-9; Mark 13:24-37 Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved. (Psalms 80.3) Devotion When I was a 8 I ran away one Sunday afternoon because I didn‘t want to practice piano. I gathered my wooden sword and stormed down the street and into the empty field my street spilled into. About a mile from home I was tromping through a construction site thinking about food and how mad my parents would be that I was gone. I imagined the daggers shooting from their eyes as they grounded me for life. As I climbed a pile of wood I stepped on a rusty nail protruding from a board and I knew I was in trouble. I recognized a man from church at the construction site. (It was a YMCA being built and the Director went to my church) He recognized me as the pastor‘s kid took one look at my foot and offered to drive me home. I told him I didn‘t want to go home. Told him I had run away. Told him I didn‘t want to practice my piano lesson. He laughed, his face lit up and he said, ―I think your parents will be glad to see you. And they were. So often we run from instead of towards God‘s face. Advent is a time to turn towards God prepare our hearts to meet Jesus face to face in a manger, and to be restored. Prayer Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved. Amen Pastor Mark Johnson First Monday in Advent November 28, 2011 War and Peace Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 79; Micah 4:1-5; Revelation 15:1-8 Devotion Psalm 79:10 ―O God, the heathen have invaded your land‖ Micah 4:3 ―Many nations will come. . . He will teach us what he wants us to do: we will walk in the paths he has chosen. . .They will hammer their swords to plows and their spears into pruning knives. Nations will never again go to war. . . 4 Everyone will live in peace among their own vineyards and fig trees, and no one will make them afraid. The Lord Almighty has promised this. Where is Peace? In Psalm 79, the Israelites lamented the invasion of their land and called for God‘s anger to restore it. Seems like a familiar demand to me. Has mankind yet to learn that vengeance is NOT the answer to bring peace? Do tit for tat raids or removing your shoes at the airport bring peace to the world? Micah showed a picture of peace, weapons converted to farming tools, that was brought about by the nations coming to God for teaching. More importantly this peace was brought about by the nations ―walking in the paths He has chosen. Are we ready to seek peace? Can we pound our swords and spears? Can we follow in God‘s paths, the paths that Jesus showed us? Advent is a time to get ready. Prayer Lord, forgive us for looking for vengeance and help us to follow your paths. Help us to seek peace in your name. Sue Van Natta First Tuesday in Advent November 29, 2011 Promises Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Matthew 21:12-22 ―And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith. Matthew 21:22 Devotion It has been almost twenty years now. The 48 year-old father of three was a long-time Boeing employee. His older daughter had just gotten married. Life was great. When he wasn‘t at work, he spent hours enjoying his other ―career as a volunteer fire captain of Station 91, King County Fire District 44-- the former name of the fire station right across the street from Family of Grace. But, when one least expects it, mortality rears its head: a cancer diagnosis. Well, what do you do if this is your spouse, especially if you believe Jesus‘ promises? For example, Matthew 21:22 states, ―And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith. Being scared to death, you pray, you bargain, you plead, you beg, you hope for a miracle. Over and over. It should work because the verse said so, right? As the weeks sped by the man wasn‘t healed. However, by the fifth week of his physical battle with disease, a miracle of another sort occurred. He began to form a bond with a devoted pastor, who visited him often. The minister was able to relate to him, surprisingly enough, not only as a church leader, but also as one exserviceman to another. Gradually, the pastor presented Christianity in a way that overcame a lifetime of resistance and the man asked to be baptized. But, the nagging question still lurks: did Jesus keep his promise? Yes, I think a greater good was accomplished, but not in the way I would have wanted it then. Prayer Dear God, give us the patience to wait on You and encourage us to view the past, searching for the times when You were there guiding us through others. De Ann Schied First Wednesday in Advent November 30, 2011 A Great Promise Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 79; Micah 5:1-5a; Luke 21:34-38 Micah 5:1-5A …..and he will bring peace (Micah 5:5a) Devotion In this text, Micah prophesies that the mighty Jerusalem, even with all its wealth and power, will be attacked and destroyed. But in Bethlehem, a tiny town in Judah, a ruler will be born who will rescue his people and reign as the eternal King. We all deal with problems and sadness every day that are beyond our ability to control. Sometimes during the holiday season, these struggles are exacerbated. We, in turn, tend to doubt God and his plans for us. But, we are asked to remember that God gave us the greatest promise that could be given – the birth of Jesus. If we would just look to God in the midst of our troubles and pray, Jesus will be our peace. Prayer Dear God, I lift to you all people who are struggling and pray that they may know peace. Amen Terry Young First Thursday in Advent December 1, 2011 Decision Free Scripture Reference & Key Verse: 2 Peter 3:9-18 ―The Lord….is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come in repentance. Devotion I was reading in one of my devotion books about a woman who decided that the 3:00 to 4:00 hour at her work would be a decision free hour. She announced this lightheartedly to her staff but was secretly intent on making this a reality. She supervised nearly 30 people, all of whom had access to her because of her open –door style of management. She was used to making decisions incessantly. At first staff found the habit hard to break What can we say if we aren‘t asking you a question? Tell me something‖ she said. ―Anything! Over time people were quick to stop by her office just to say hi, to share some news or to compliment a fellow worker. She found the hour became the most positive hour in the day, and the information she received actually helped her make wiser decisions. So I thought while we are praying and repenting, as in 2nd Peter 3:9: ― The Lord….is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come in repentance‖, that maybe our Lord might also enjoy some time like described above. Maybe He would enjoy some decision-free, no answer required from Me hours with us, His children. I bet he enjoys it when we tell Him what‘s happening, what we find funny in our lives, and what gives us joy. Prayer Dear Lord we thank you for your ever listening, patient ear. We ask you to keep us and all your children always near to you. Amen Katie Himes First Friday in Advent December 2, 2011 Aglow with the Spirit Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13; Jeremiah 1:4-10; Acts 11:19-26 Acts 11:19-26 ―Barnabus was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and many people were brought to the Lord.‖ (Acts 11:24) Devotion I miss my mom and think about her a lot. It‘s been almost a year since she went to be with the Lord. Mama was such a powerful influence in my life. I believe she impacted the lives of many other people as well because she was always aglow with the Spirit. When she used to come to the PNW for a visit and we‘d head off to Pt. Townsend to see her sister, Mama would feel so happy she would burst into song as we set off. “This is the day the Lord hath made…” or “I have the joy down in my heart…” were two of her favorite songs. In her own words, ―By nature I am a happy person. I was born that way. Through happy times and sad times I have always felt that God was in control of my life and I put my trust in Him. She lived to be 101 and the last years of her life were challenging ones spent in a nursing home. Yet she still was aglow with the Spirit. Even in the nursing home she would sing. I‘d push her down the hall in her wheel chair and her mantra was “When we all get to Heaven what a wonderful day it will be, we’ll all see Jesus and sing and shout the victory... “ Then she‘d go right into “This is my story, this is my song, praising my savior all the day long…” The day she lay dying in her bed in the nursing home there was a constant stream of nursing home employees who came in to hold her hand or give her a kiss. I believe they all loved her. Who knows how many people may have been brought to Lord by Mama‘s joyful witness. Prayer Lord, Help me to put my trust in you. Fill me with your Holy Spirit! Amen. Mary Whitten First Saturday in Advent December 3, 2011 Black Friday Shower Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13; Ezekiel 36:24-28; Mark 11:27-33 Ezekiel 36:24-28 ―I will take you from the nations, and gather you from all the countries, and bring you into your own land. I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleanness‘s and from all your idols I will cleanse you. A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you; and I will remove from your body the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. Devotion I wish that we could cleanse the world we have created. Our focus of importance is the deal we can get at midnight on ―Black Friday or when the malls will open earlier and close later so that we can get all our shopping done. Don‘t forget about ―Cyber Monday for those that don‘t have time or are not able to get out to the malls. What if our focus was on people…….? If we stopped or even slowed down long enough to look around…….what would we see? There is that famous phrase, WWJD (What Would Jesus Do?). Turn that back at yourself, what would (should) you do? We should let God lead the way. We need to let God cleanse us, so that we can create a tomorrow where what is in our hearts matters more than what is in our pocketbooks. Prayer Create in us new hearts oh God. Help us see the people in our lives through your loving eyes. Amen. Debbie Ball Second Sunday in Advent December 4, 2011 History for the Stars Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Isaiah 40:1-10; Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13; 2 Peter 3:8-15a; Mark 1:1-8 Devotion Israel began with a promise to an elderly childless couple that from them their children would be numbered with the stars. The woman laughed and out of all the doubt and turmoil Isaac was born. Now into history the promise of childbirth comes to another elderly couple. This time the man doubts and he is made silent until he is asked to affirm their son‘s name, John. What could God be planning for this miracle child? Lofty wisdom, astounding miracles, national deliverance? Locusts and wild honey probably weren‘t on the top of the list. But John accepted his voice was a proclamation God had even more in store and that he must decrease while the Lamb of God must increase. This is the third year of President Barak Obama when Christine Gregoire is Governor of Washington State and God still loves the world. Prayer Lord, You call us. Help me to answer. Peter Stahl Second Monday in Advent December 5, 2011 Family Matters Scripture Reference & Key Verse Psalm 27: Isaiah 26:7-15; Acts 2:37-42 Devotion Walter was a delightful member of our church family: a devout council member and chorister, who loved to share things he baked. When the aids epidemic began back in the 90‘s our congregation changed it‘s communion practice because many of our members were afraid the disease was transmitted through a common cup. It was about that time that we noticed that Walter looked gaunt. He was wasting away. I‘d guess that today‘s verses from Psalm 27 were his silent prayer. ―You LORD are the light that keeps me safe . . . I will trust you . . . .I am your servant LORD . . . Don‘t reject our desert me, even if my father and mother should desert me, you will take care of me. It was his silent prayer until he came ‗out of the closet‘ in an Advent devotion he wrote and we published for the spiritual nurture of our congregation. In his devotion Walter pleaded with the congregation not to reject him as his parents did, for our congregation had become his only family. The month before Walter died, he was in a hospital critical care unit, terrified to be alone. So his immediate friends kept vigil. But he lingered. The nights were long. His friends became exhausted. So we made a sign up sheet for three-hour segments through the night, and invited the congregation to spell his close friends. For two more weeks‘ some 30 members took turns sharing the vigil. I remember the white washcloth and the basin of water by his bedside that we used to cooled his forehead. That is the way Acts 2:24, describes the church, ― . . . they were like family to each other. They also broke bread and prayed with each other. And with each other in these days of Advent, we prepare to welcome the Christ Child. Prayer God of love, thank you for coming to us in times of need and looking after us through our church families. Amen Pastor Don Johnson Second Tuesday in Advent December 6, 2011 The Wonder of Trees Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 27; Isaiah 4:2-6; Acts 11:1-18 Isaiah 4:2-6 ―In that day shall the branch of Jehovah be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land shall be excellent and comely for them that are escaped of Israel.‖ Devotion A big inspiration in my life has always been trees. They are a creation of God and a sign of wonder and power, towering over all and the branches reach out like a comforting arm. This passage shows that God is the branches, is the wonder and towers over us. Also in this passage it tells of how God will, ―wash away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and he that remaineth in Jerusalem, shall be called holy. The idea that God will take away the filth of life is something that comforts me and is something that is imbedded into my life greatly. In fact I have a tattoo that resembles this passage. It is a tree that is darker on the bottom, or the filth, and is lit up on the branches with a candle that is God‘s light, the greatness of God and how he takes away the darkness. I feel so passionate about seeing the darkness of life and seeing that the light or Gods love will over come it, that I put a symbol of it on my body. This passage helps me remember life is tough, but Gods love spreads over all like branches. God‘s love is the light of this world and is as the passage says, ―For over all the glory shall be spread a covering. Prayer Thank you God for the earth and the sky, and all of the life on earth that you created as a reflection of your love. Thank you for the wonder of your love covers and shades us in good times and bad like a tree that shelters us from the elements and offers its bounty for anyone to share. Nathan Himes Second Wednesday in Advent December 7, 2011 To Believe or Not to Believe Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 27: Malachi 2:10-3:1; Luke 1:5-17 ―I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,‖ says the LORD Almighty.‖ (Malachi 3:1) Devotion What it must be like to prophecy. I often wonder, if I knew what was going to happen before it happened, how would I react? Would I even WANT to know? What if I said, ―the world is going to end in the year 2211, and I know this because God told me.‖ Would I be believed? The prophets of the bible, each one, foretold the coming of Christ, hundreds of years before his birth. Were they believed? Or were the people of their time thinking, ―wow, this guy is crazy.‖ Praises be for the faith of things unseen, and for the grace to those who doubt. Prayer Lord, thank you for the gift of your Son. Thank you for following through on your promises. Thank you for holding us in the palm of your hand in times of fear and doubt. Amen. Kristy Monahan Second Thursday in Advent December 8, 2011 Preparations Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 126: Habakkuk 2:1-5; Philippians 3:7-11 Devotion Sigrid, at 18 months old, calls me "bampa Beve". Last Sunday she called me "My bampa Beve." Of course I am her grandpa Steve. I claimed that relationship the night she was born. But what is so special about that Sunday is that she claimed me! It draws a comparison in my mind to baptism where God claims us. And to every Sunday morning at church where we claim God: I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. I wonder. Does God rejoice when we claim him, like I rejoice when Sigrid claims me? Prayer Thank you Lord for claiming Sigrid, and for claiming me. Thank you Lord for the wonder of a precious granddaughter who helps me understand a little more about your love for us. Steve Van Natta Second Friday in Advent December 11, 2011 Listen Up! Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Haggi 1:1-15 Revelation 2:18-29 Matthew 23:27-39 Devotion Wow! Read these and try to exclaim The Gospel of the Lord, Praise to you, O Christ. Here are some hard passages. What have I gotten myself into? I picked December 11 because in 1970 it was the day I got out of Navy boot-camp. So it is a day I vividly remember. What had I gotten myself into? What have the above passages to do with such an accomplishment? You should insert a long pause here as I try to compose a thought—any thought! Maybe what have I gotten myself into best sums it up? God is urging his people to see what they are about. In some cases a change of direction is called for. In Haggi the Judeans have allowed them- selves to become side-tracked from completing the Temple. In Mat- thew Jesus was rebuking the leaders of his day for being more con- cerned about outwardly appearance than inward integrity. On a day when I look proudly back on my accomplishments, what does God see around me that needs to be taken care now? ―He, who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.‖ Prayer Dear God, help us to hear you through the gift of the Holy Spirit. May the Spirit guide us to work and serve as you desire. (cw) Peter Stahl Second Saturday in Advent December 10, 2011 True Joy Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 126: Habakkuk 3:13-19; Matthew 21:28-32 ―...yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.‖ (Hab. 3:18) Devotion One of the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22, 23) is joy. It is not happiness. Happiness is haphazard and dependent on circumstances. Joy, on the other hand, comes from God and is rooted in Him. It is rooted in His love for us. It is rooted in His great plan for all of humankind as demonstrated in His coming to earth to be our Savior. It is rooted in the fact that He ultimately has control over things, people, and circumstances that we cannot control. That gives us great serenity in spite of whatever may be going on around us. That allows us to understand and appreciate the great ―tidings of comfort and joy‖ we celebrate this season. Prayer: Lord, give us this day the strength to ―return with songs of joy‖ (Psalm 126:6) Dave Gale
Third Sunday in Advent December 9, 2011 Seasonal Joy? Always Joy! Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11; Psalm 126; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24; John 1:6-8, 19-28 ―I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God‖ Isaiah 61:1-4 Devotion Rejoice Always Part of this days scripture was also Paul's letter to the Thessalo- nians and he begins it with " Rejoice always". I think sometime many of us on our walk with God have forgot- ten our duty to be joyful. Jesus came to us a child, I like that as I love and appreciate the undeniable joyfulness of children. How many stories have you heard...how many can you tell about when the chips are down and everything seems lost and still joy shines out?! The silver lining, like the butterfly drawings covering the walls of a children‘s barracks in Germany. Butterflies are a universal symbol of joy. Pure joy is joy in God. Kind of like a circle: God gives us joy and we return that joy back to him. At this time of year we need to let joy into our hearts. If your heart is aching this Advent season for any reason, if something is standing in the way of joy let it go, give it to God. Enjoy life, relish every minute! Laugh! Consider doing something that will bring someone else joy. Joy is that circle again giving the person who gives it as much joy as the one who receives it! Be joyful, pray continuously and give thanks to God ALWAYS! Prayer Thank you Lord, for all that is created by you for our joy. Bless this Advent Season with your peace and create in us a clean heart. Amen Katie Himes Third Monday in Advent December 12, 2011 Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Revelations 3:7-13 “I know your deeds. Behold, I have placed be- fore you an open door that no one can shut, because you have little power and have kept My word, and have not denied My name.‖ Devotion God has lots of open doors of opportunity of service today. When He is ready He opens them for us. It is our opportunity to enter them. We can experience Gods open doors by using the sup- ply of talents and abilities He gives us and use them to ―open doors for others‖ This service doesn‘t require spending great amounts of time . It also doesn‘t require extraordinary or professional skills. We can use a gift or talent to serve others. Volunteer for a committee at work, teach Sunday School, join choir or a musical group, talk with students from other countries, or just make an effort to get to know your co-workers better. We don‘t have to open these doors by force. God is working behind closed doors preparing for their ―Opening Day‖. That‘s what Advent makes me think of, preparing behind the scenes for the opening of doors. The coming of Jesus into our lives and living. Revelations3: 11 says; ―I am coming soon. Hold onto and use what you have, so that no one will take your crown. Prayer Dear Lord, Thank you for the opportunities to serve others in your name, to experience your love and workings in lives around us. Thank you for the crown that is you! Amen Katie Himes
Third Tuesday in Advent December 13, 2011 Faith, Hope and Love Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 125; 2 Kings 2:9-22; Acts 3:17-4:4 ―And now, friends, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers.‖ Acts 3:17 Devotion Faith, hope and love, words that speak to our hearts. The thing that struck me about this passage in Acts is how it relates to the current conflict between people and government, consumers and corporations, the 99% and the 1%. Right now many people are challenging the powers that be in our culture from their belief in fairness and decency to every person, not just the privileged, and from their faith and hope that they will be heard and changes can be made for the good of the many, not the few. The disciples came with the message of the Messiah and the salvation he brought for every person. Those in power felt the threat to their status quo and way of life. They often arrested the people who came to hear the message of hope, a message that life after death is theirs if they believe. Through ignorance, intolerance and the threat to their power, Christ was crucified and his followers abused. Then and now, through faith, hope and love, we can find salvation in our God and use our Christian beliefs to find a better way to lead and care for the people of our nation. Prayer Dear Lord, thank you for the advent of the Messiah, your amazing gift to this world. Help all to see the power of this gift. Help all of us, the powerful, the poor and all between, to be- lieve in the love of Christ, his gift of salvation and help all of us find compassion for each other as he taught us. Chris White Third Wednesday in Advent December 14, 2011 A Shopping Spree at Nordstrom Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Zechariah 3:1-10 Revelation 4:1-8 Matthew 24:45-51 ―See, I have taken away your sin, and I will put rich garments on you.‖ Zechariah 3:4 Devotion Pictures of God – majesty, glory, holiness, sovereignty. The imagination goes wild. What will it be like to be in heaven? Contrast those images with the memories of your last camp- ing trip. You‘ve been out in the woods for several days. Bathing has been, shall we say, minimal. All your clothes smell like sweat and campfire smoke. Remember the time you got too close to the fire and your boots started to smolder and burn? As much fun as that camping trip was, how good did it feel to go home, shower, and put on clean duds? God has taken us, smelly clothes, burned boots and all, cleaned us up, dressed us up. Prayer God, help us not to forget where we came from, so that we truly appreciate all you‘ve done for us. Thanks for the greatest Christmas present ever. Amen Dave Gale Third Thursday in Advent December 15, 2011 Forefathers Scripture Reference & Key Verse Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26; 2 Samuel 6:1-11; Hebrews 1:1-4 In the past God spoke to our forefathers through prophets at many times and in various ways but in these days He has spoken to us by His Son whom he appointed heir of all things and through whom he made the universe. Hebrew 1:1-2 Devotion I became a GREAT AUNTIE three times over in 2011 and we have one more coming in March. What a wonderful blessing these new additions are. Many FOG members have become or are soon to become grandparents! YIKES - it's true - we are becoming the FOREFATHERS! How grateful and blessed we are that we have Jesus to share with these little ones. Jesus, God's heir of all things. Jesus who calls us to bring the little ones unto Him. Prayer Thank you God who through your word shares with us our roles and responsibilities are forefathers to the younger ones in our midst. Grant us wisdom and understanding in this and in all we do - in your name we pray - Amen. Karen Stahl Third Friday in Advent December 16, 2011 Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Revelation 5:6-14 9They sing a new song: "You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slaughtered and by your blood you ransomed for God saints from every tribe and language and people and nation; 10you have made them to be a kingdom and priests serving our God, and they will reign on earth." Revelation 5:9-10 Devotion In this passage of Revelation the lamb, a weak, gentle animal symbolizing the crucified Christ, is the only creature worthy to open the sealed scroll. By the blood of the lamb God called to every per- son on earth and created the his kingdom on earth. Through the sacrifice of his son, Jesus Christ, all Christians are brought together to worship and find salvation. During Advent as we anticipate the birth of Christ, this passage reminds us that even the most humble creature can be the instrument of God. Christ came to us as an infant, growing into a kind, gentle man with compassion for all. He gave the people the way to salvation through grace and by example led the way to serving God as saints on earth. Prayer Dear Lord, during this time of Advent, we remember that Christ came to us as a helpless, gentle infant, much like a lamb. We look for- ward with anticipation to his birth and a time to celebrate your greatest gift to the world. Thank you for the gift of your son and the gift of grace and forgiveness that he brings us in your name. Chris White Third Saturday in Advent December 17, 2011 Justice, Mercy and Compassion Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Zechariah 8:9-17, Revelations 6: 1-17, Matthew 25: 31-46 "He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.' Matthew 2:45 Devotion The King of Kings was the tiny newborn infant in a stable greeted by royalty from the East. What a curious encounter with people from different walks of life. He arrived on earth so hum- bly. His needs were basic and simple. It is not by accident that this baby asks us to reach out to those in humble situations with the most basic and simple things like a drink, food, clothing and care. If we see someone hungry or thirsty, what are we called to do? If we see a stranger, someone needing clothes, ill or imprisoned, what are we called to do? It may sound like an easy request, but often it isn't that easy to make the right choice. This Advent season is a time we reflect on the arrival of the King of Kings to see how we can be there for those in need. How can we show we choose the side of true justice, to show mercy and compassion for one another. What is our response to the compassion shown to us? Prayer Lord, we confess that we have not always responded with drink, food, clothes or care. Thank you to you, the King of Kings for teaching us humility. Help us to administer true justice, show mercy and compassion to one another. In this Advent season, we want to respond in love. Help us to see you in our every day walk every- where and help us to respond with your love. Amen Jan Morace Fourth Sunday in Advent December 18, 2011 Declare His Love that Stands Firm Forever! Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26; 2 Samuel 7:1-11; Romans 16:25-27; Luke 1:26- 38 ―....I will sing of the Lord‘s great love forever.....I will declare that your love stands firm forever...‖ Psalms 89:1-4 Devotion Can you reflect on what you ―declared today? Did you help pass on the Good News to people that you were in contact with today? God has made a promise to never change how much He loves us. He dearly has loved every person in the world since time began and He will continue to love all of his children long after we are gone. We are called to show God‘s love to all people. Sometimes it is hard to show love to others who are in our lives. It may be a person in the car in front of you who is sitting there when the light has turned green, holding you up in your busy life. How do we show them love? What about the person at your workplace or school who has been rude to you? How do we show God‘s love to someone who has hurt us? How do we draw the strength to sing, declare, and pro- claim the Lord‘s great love? His love stands firm forever, no matter what we do, say or think. Call on our heavenly Father for the strength to love all of God‘s children. We are so immensely blessed. God loves us so much every second of our life. No matter what we do or say, He loves us with a love that is beyond comprehension. Soak it up and share it. Remember, you might be the only Bible some people will ever read. Praise God for the privilege to declare His love! Prayer Lord, help me to proclaim your love through my words and through my actions so I can help spread the Good News of your amazing love! Karen Frerichs Fourth Monday in Advent December 19, 2011 Simple Trust and Devotion Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Luke 1:46b-55; 1 Samuel 1:1-18; Hebrews 9:1-14 1 Samuel 1:1-18 ...‖May your servant find favor in your eyes.‖ Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast. Luke 1:46b-55 ―My soul glorifies the Lord‖ and my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. Devotion Am I willing to have a meal with my widow neighbor? How about writing a devotional, just one? Will I take a turn being an Assisting Family that prepares all the little details that help make our worship on Sundays warm and welcoming for all? Is there a chance I could give a few hours a week teaching a child? There are times the answer is no but there are other times that unexpected growth and joy can come in the midst of servant hood. As, Hannah, Mama of Samuel, and Mary, Mama of our Lord show us their willingness to serve, may we be open to the many ways we can glorify the God who loves us so. Prayer Thank you Great Lord, Jesus Christ, for tapping me on the shoulder with invites to serve you. Libby Walbridge Fourth Tuesday in Advent December 20, 2011 Brave Faith Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Luke 1:46b-55; 1Samuel 1:19-28; Hebrews 8:1-13 ―for he who is mighty has done great things for me‖ Luke 1 Devotion Mary was a nobody, unimportant, at the bottom of the pecking or- der in her culture. Mary went with haste to her older female relative, Elizabeth. She needed protection as she could be killed by her male relatives for being pregnant without husband, violating God‘s law in Torah* and shaming her relatives. Yet she carried within her the love of God personified in Jesus, our Savior. Mary could not help but praise God even though God‘s ―great thing‖ put her in danger. She carried Jesus within her. Wow! Mary is a model of faith and bravery, filled, literally and physically with the love of God. What am I full of? Do God‘s great works challenge me, my culture, my behavior, my life? Do I refuse God‘s work in me and through me if there is risk or challenge involved? Can I praise God for challenges and risks? I don‘t like my behavior to be challenged or people to think poorly of me. I am pretty much full of myself. And I don‘t seem to be in a praising mood when things seem to be going any way other than the way I want, let alone in a way that seems risky to me. Could I be missing ways to be full of and carry the love of God by my dislike of challenge and lack of bravery and being full of myself? Prayer Lord God, make me more like Mary. Create your love in me and grant me the courage to carry your love for and to others. Pastor Mary Davison Fourth Wednesday in Advent December 21, 2011 Just Say Yes Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Luke 1:46b-55*; 1 Samuel 2:1-10; Mark 11:1-11 Devotion In an era where Rome occupies the world a young woman accepts the glory God has put upon her. We don‘t often associate glory with rumor and scandal, hardship and disappointment, strange elation and urgent escape. Not my idea of a pretty, quiet world; but that‘s the gospel. It doesn‘t come at us with a magic wand and send us off to the ball to find romance; God enters into relationship with us to spread love. Mary nods. Prayer Lord, open my eyes and heart with lips that say yes. Peter Stahl
Fourth Thursday in Advent December 22, 2011 It’s really that simple! Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 96: Zephaniah 3:8-13; Romans 10:5-13 ―The word that saves is right here, as near as the tongue in your mouth, as close as the heart in your chest.‖ Romans 10:8 The Message Devotion ―The word that savesis as close as my tongue, as close as my heart? Hard to get more personal than that, isn‘t it? What is this saving word and what‘s the meaning of it for my life? If your life is anything like mine you‘ve probably gone, or are going, through stuff that brings you to some of the lowest points of your life—maybe even the bottom. You recognize those low points and bottom places (in my life there‘ve been several) by that empty feeling when you‘ve lost your sense of purpose or direction or when a loved one has died, by helpless and/or lonely feelings when you‘re threatened by a serious illness, by crushing feelings of guilt when you make a moral mistake (who hasn‘t?), by feelings of utter devastation when you‘ve been rejected by someone who ought to care but doesn‘t, or when you feel God has abandoned or is far from you (the list goes on). What or who, I wonder in anguish when I‘m down there, can start the process of healing and making things right, restore my sense of purpose and make me feel whole again inside myself and outside, be- fore God and those around me? The apostle, Paul, gives me—and you—a clue in the key verse above: What will save or rescue us are our own heartfelt, spoken words of faith or trust that God, in and through the risen Jesus, already sees us as blameless and will work to make us whole. God simply waits for us to believe (to welcome God into our lives) and tell others that we have done so. The rest is up to God. That‘s it? That‘s all it takes to start God‘s help flowing to me? Paul says, yes! Wow, my own word of faith is what saves me and God is the one who then frees me and empowers me to start anew, to try again, to be- come whole. I am breathless but I begin.... Prayer — Jesus, this Christmas help me believe in my heart. Amen. Debby Beck Fourth Friday in Advent December 23, 2011 The Reason for the Season Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 96; Zephaniah 3:14-20; Romans 13:11-14 ―Besides this, you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers;‖ Romans 13:11 Devotion What an amazing gift is coming to us! Romans 13:11-14 wakes us up to the coming of Christ and reminds us to embrace him and his gift of salvation. It is so easy to lose touch with the true meaning of his birth at Christmas time. How sad and how ironic! We get swept up in the materialism and it‘s so easy to party for the wrong reasons and wrong results! Paul instructs us to let go of the darkness and poor choices so easy to make and accept the light of Christ. Let us put on the light of Christ and live honorably. Embrace his goodness, glory in the light he brings and be thankful each moment for the salvation that comes through him as we prepare to celebrate his birth. What a wonderful way to remember the reason for the season! Prayer Dear Lord, during this busy holiday season where the giving and getting are so often not in thankfulness for your Son, please help us each day to remember your gift and why we are celebrating. Chris White Christmas Eve December 24, 2011 I Wonder About the Wonder Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Isaiah 9:2-7; Psalm 96: Titus 2:11-14; Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) “As the angel choir withdrew into heaven, the sheepherders talked it over. "Let's get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us." They left, running, and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Seeing was believing. They told everyone they met what the angels had said about this child. All who heard the sheepherders were impressed." Luke 2:15-18 Devotion I wonder if I experienced something as wonderful and yet as humble as the shepherds‘ experience on that night long ago, if I would have known instantly that night was different than any other. This spring I watched my third grandchild‘s birth. Such a miracle to see life begin and life given. It seems no one can take their eyes off a newborn. You watch every breath, every blink of the eye and every movement of that little mouth. What wonder did the shepherds see in the Bethlehem birth that changed history? What did the Shepherds see in that manager? Did they stare in amazement? How did they know this babe was like no other? It appears they could hardly contain their joy! I wonder if I would LISTEN to what the angels said? I wonder if I would RUN to find the babe? I wonder if I would BELIEVE upon seeing? I wonder if I would TELL everyone about the babe? What is stopping us now from listening to the news, running with the news, believing the news and telling others the wonderful news? Prayer Thank you for the Good News. Thank you for the birth of a baby long ago that changed the world. Thank you that we, too, can still listen, believe, run and tell others. Thank you for the wonder centuries ago, that is still a wonder today. Teach us to be humble ser- vants just like the Shepherds of long ago. In your precious name we pray. Amen. Jan Morace Christmas Day December 25, 2011 He is Always With You Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Isaiah 62:6-12; Psalm 97: Titus 3:4-7; Luke 2:(1-7) 8-20 Devotion It is December and a family sits around a bed. The air is warm and there is a gentle hum in the air, the hum of Christmas carols. At the end of the hymn the family moved to the kitchen to make that evening‘s dinner, all of the family but the Granddaughter. Once everyone else stepped into the kitchen she grabbed for the paper and began to write. She asked her Grandfather to wake up, she asked that he would see her graduate high school, asked that he‘d see her go on to do so much more than anyone ever thought that she could. Her letter to her Grandfather became a prayer that he would be with her forever. As she finished the note she felt compelled to seal it, but did not have an envelope at hand. She saw some scissors and cut a strand of her hair and placed it in the letter, folded it gently, wrote "open in heaven", put it with her Grandfather, kissed him on the forehead and went to join her family. As the family walked in the doors that night the phone rang with news that during their drive the Grandfather had passed away. Doctors found a note with the body and did not feel right to re-move it. "Open in heaven" was cremated with the Grandfather. Father knew the Granddaughter wrote the note and when she told him about it he replied, "A lock of hair? Now a part of you will always be with your Grandfather." God had given her the best Christmas gift she could ever receive. Prayer Lord, thank you for the best gift of all, your Son Jesus Christ. Amen Kathryn Stahl Second Day of Christmas December 26, 2011 Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Matthew 2:1-12 ―On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and myrrh.‖ Matthew 2:11 Devotion What was the drive, the one purpose of the Wise Men on that trip following the star? To worship Him. Nothing could hold them back. Not hardships of travel, time or expenses. When they found Him ―they fell down and worshipped him.‖ When looking up the word worship I found one definition that jumped out at me: ―Worship has been defined as the overflow of the love of hearts for Him‖. It is our heart-to-heart meeting with God. It is where we can bow before God in adoration and thoughts of Him. I remember learning in confirmation that the word ―worship‖ came down from the Anglo Saxon word ―worth. Worthship was too hard to pronounce so it changed to ―worship. So it could be said when we worship him we acknowledge his worth . I wrote the words of a speaker I heard once ―In prayer we can be occupied by our needs; in praise we are occupied with our blessings; in worship we are occupied with God. I hope to always remember to take the time to worship! Prayer Heavenly Father, Thank you for the example of the Magi, their hearts for worship of you. Help us to be in worship through our lives as you Lord are Worthy of worship. Amen Katie Himes Third Day of Christmas December 27, 2011 Scripture Reference & Key Verse: 1Samuel 1:1-28; Col. 1:9-20; Luke 2:22-40 ―May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from his glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully giving thanks to the Father...‖ Colossians 1.11–12 Devotion We were on the train a couple of years ago and I noticed what people do to pass the time. Some had hand work, some read, some slept, some played with their gadgets. What we do while waiting on God. You may have noticed that instant gratification is not high on the list of the blessings of God. In fact waiting on God seems to be a common thread for people of faith in every generation. What do you do while waiting on God? Prayer Dear God, give us the patience to wait on You. Pastor Mark The Fourth Day of Christmas December 28, 2011 A Word About Trusting... Scripture Reference & Key Verse: John 7:37-52 ―...He cried out, ―If anyone thirsts, let him [or her] come to me and drink. Rivers of living water will brim and spill out of the depths of anyone who believes in me this way, just as the Scripture says.‖ (John 7:37-38) The Message Devotion Who me, Lord? Living water brimming and spilling out of me? How can that be when my life sometimes feels like a chipped or cracked, even broken vessel incapable of holding any- thing life-giving for anyone, let alone myself? Yet you have said it, Lord, ―Rivers of living water will brim and spill out.... Perhaps I can begin to trust the truth of those words, Lord, and be bold enough to act on them if I take a backward glance at my life, recalling your trustworthiness in other times and places. Like when you steadied me by granting that powerful awareness of your nearness, as I reeled from a doctor‘s use of the ―C word. Or when, in my 30‘s, fresh flowers meant for someone else became the affirming sign from you, as I questioned my leadership abilities (desperately needing to know I‘d done a good job). Or the time you prompted me to show up on a friend‘s doorstep, only to discover she was at the lowest point of her life. You, indeed, are trustworthy, Lord, and I will open to the living water of your Spirit moving in and through me. Prayer Lord, I thank you for the gift of your Spirit who fills me to over- flowing with life-giving water to share. Amen. Debby Beck Fifth Day of Christmas December 29, 2011 Love One Another Scripture Reference & Key Verse: 2 John: 1-13 ―Love means doing what God has commanded us, and he has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning.‖ (2 John 1:6) Devotion ―Those people should be looking for a job. ―They made their bed, they can lie in it. ―They‘ll never amount to anything. How many times do we hear these words when we see a panhandler or a homeless person, or when someone keeps failing in his or her recovery? His Ministry in Auburn is committed to helping the homeless by providing a hot meal, warm place to sleep, counseling, medical treatment and recovery. Street Bean Espresso in Seattle is a shop started by the teen homeless advocacy group New Horizons. The shop hires homeless teens and trains them as baristas to start them on the road to employment. In this world, love is frequently discussed but seldom practiced. What perfect examples these ministries are of people doing what God commanded – love one another. During this advent sea- son we should reflect on how we as Christians can emphasize the love of God and go out and share it with all of those who are less fortunate. Prayer Heavenly Father, help us to be compassionate and understanding of those who are in need. Amen. Terry Young Sixth Day of Christmas December 30, 2011 What is your diet like? Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 148; Proverbs 9:1-12; 2 Peter 3:8-13 ―She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine ; she has also set her table. Come eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed.‖ Proverbs 9:1-12 Devotion What is your diet like? Not just limiting intake type but what's your diet in terms of what you choose to eat or not eat, and how it effects your health. Jesus said "Those who eat of my flesh and drink my blood abide in me, and I in them." This is not just for our time at the communion table but works for every minute in our day? What is it you feed on every day? All those choices out there, do you go to the table spread by wisdom, or the table spread by anxiety and worry? Which table do you sit at most often? Balance! A little junk food doesn't hurt but we have to balance it with fruits and vegetables, dairy water and protein, if we don't our health begins to fail. Worship..there the food that we need most is together in one place, the word of God and the people of God. Nourish yourself from the table Wisdom has spread take the word and consume it, sing and pray and offer thanks to God. "Come, eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed" Have a snack at Gods Table today! Prayer O God, life of those that love you and strength of the minds that seek you bless the words of our lips and the meditations of our hearts. Amen Katie Himes The Ninth Day of Christmas December 31, 2011 Jesus is the Light of the World Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 148; 1 Kings 3:5-14; John 8:12-19 Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, ―I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.‖ John 8:12 Devotion I love summer. I love the heat. I love the warmth. I love the sunlight. I am always sad when the long, bright, warm days of sum- mer change into long, dark, cool nights of winter. Then I readjust and find the lights in winter very welcoming. The front porch light glows. The night light brightens. The flashlight shines. The moon glistens. The flame in the fire warms. What illumines your path? Summer or winter. Night or day. We have a promise to lead us into the New Year. We are promised light rather than darkness. We are promised life. Jesus is the Light of the World. Prayer Thank you for the light in the darkness. Thank you for the Light of life. Thank you for hope. Thank you for the Light of the World. May Jesus light your world and your new year. In your precious name we pray. Amen Jan Morace Eighth Day of Christmas January 1, 2012 Begin Anew Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Revelation 19:11-16 ―Then I saw heaven opened, and there was a white horse. Its rider is called Faithful and True, and in righteous- ness he judges and makes war.‖ Revelation 19:11 Devotion Christmas and the birth of Christ is a time of beginnings for Christians. We celebrate the birth of our savior with his promise of grace and forgiveness. As the white horse and its rider is revealed, so is God‘s son revealed to the world as the angels rejoice and the wise men come to honor him. On this first day of the new year, we celebrate all that has been accomplished in the past year, and welcome the limitless possi- bilities of the new year and new beginnings, just as the wise men celebrated the birth and promise of the one who was to come. Prayer Dear God, as we celebrate this new year, let us be thankful for the birth of your son and his promise of a new beginning in your king- dom on earth. Chris White Ninth Day of Christmas January 2, 2012 Wisdom in The Message Scripture Reference & Key Verses: Psalm 148; Proverbs 1:1-7; James 3:13-18 ―The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools de- spise wisdom and instruction.‖ (Proverbs 1:7) Devotion: I usually read passages online, on a website called Bible Gateway. I like doing this because occasionally I run across a verse that just doesn‘t speak to me right away, and I can quickly translate it to a modern English version of the bible, The Message, which I find to be rather helpful. When I translated the readings for today, James 3 stood out like sore thumb. Rather than synopsize it for you, I‘ve decided to quote it, verbatim, here: 13-16Do you want to be counted wise, to build a reputation for wisdom? Here's what you do: Live well, live wisely, live hum- bly. It's the way you live, not the way you talk, that counts. Mean-spirited ambition isn't wisdom. Boasting that you are wise isn't wisdom. Twisting the truth to make yourselves sound wise isn't wisdom. It's the furthest thing from wisdom—it's animal cunning, devilish conniving. Whenever you're trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others' throats. 17-18Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor. -The Message, Eugene Peterson Prayer: Lord, I thank you for the gifts of wisdom and discernment. Create in me a longing for continued learning and growth in You. Empty me of my selfishness and replace it with humility and compassion for Your children. Amen. Kristy Monahan Tenth Day of Christmas January 3, 2012 True Wisdom Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 110; Proverbs 1:20-33; James 4:1-10 ―...humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up‖ James 4:10 Devotion My how our Savior set for us the supreme example of humility. He is God, and yet He humbled Himself to the point of being born into the world in the poorest manner. He, who could have been born in a palace, chose to be born in a cold, dark, smelly stable. In my early teen years I lived on a farm on Canadian prairies. If you haven‘t seen farm life, please take my word for it; a barn is not a place where you would want to be born. This is a good reminder for me. I sometimes struggle with feel- ing I‘m more important than I really am. I‘ve been very successful in my career, but it has been by God‘s grace and loving generosity. Oh, the great wisdom there is in keeping all things in perspective. Prayer Lord, I‘m so thankful that at this time of year we are reminded that you ―give grace to the humble. (James 4:6), by the example you set. Dave Gale Eleventh Day of Christmas January 4, 2012 Trust and Obey Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 110; Proverbs 3:1-12; James 4:11-17 ―Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own un- derstanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.‖ Proverbs 3:5-6 Devotion The words of the song "Trust and obey, for there's not other way, to be happy in Jesus, than to trust and obey" go through my head as I read the Proverbs text. We often are so independent, self sufficient, capable - why should we trust? And then I read the words - "lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge him" - a wonderful definition for us of HOW to trust. And what happens when we do that? "He will make our paths straight" - wow - not only are we given the HOW to trust, there is a wonderful gift at the end! TRUST AND OBEY....for there is no other way...... Prayer Lord: Help us to trust and obey you in all things. Amen Karen Stahl Twelfth Day of Christmas January 5, 2012 Harmony Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Psalm 110; Proverbs 22:1-9; Luke 6:27-31 ―Do to others as you would have them do to you.‖ Luke 6.31 Devotion June was a girl in my 5th grade class. She was big and had a stout build, lots of acne, hair that was straight and fell in her face, and was very quiet. My classmates teased her and did not include her in any activities. I was sad for her and observed that she would scribble on paper most of the time. One day I looked at what she was doing as I walked by and saw that she was drawing a picture; a wonderful sketching for someone our age. I started talking to her and complimenting her drawings. Soon my class- mates noticed that I would talk to her. Then a wonderful thing happened. The others noticed her drawing abilities and would converse with her too. June started wearing her hair out of her face, smiling and interacting with our classmates. Who have you noticed in the margins or your presence? Have you thought of reaching out in a simple way? All you have to do as a first step is to really look at them; to notice that they are in your midst and be an agent of change right where you are. In Proverbs we see that the things of value are the things that we do not buy but we get by living in harmony within our community; things like a good name and favors. We ―look out for‖ those that we get along with, but what about those that are not doing things as we would...and are hav- ing a not so good time? In Luke, Jesus tells us to break the cycles of retaliation, aggression and hostility. We have programs to help those that are the object of these cycles; and we are good about supporting these programs. But it is harder to find people to sign up to visit the prisoner face to face. How do we forgive those that we are called to forgive? As we have been forgiven? How about the places in which you find yourself everyday? In the office? classroom? church? Prayer Lord, thank you for the opportunities you give us to share our time, talents and monies with our neighbors less fortunate in our community and the world. Open the eyes of our hearts Lord. Give us the courage to see those in our midst that are hurting and move us to be a light in their darkness. Help us to remember to do unto others as we would have them do unto us. Pam Johnson Epiphany January 6, 2012 Star Light Star Bright Scripture Reference & Key Verse: Isaiah 60:1-6; Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14; Ephesians 3:1-12; Matthew 2:1- 12 ―Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him hom- age.‖ (Matthew 2:2) Devotion One summer evening at confirmation camp high in the Sierra Nevada above Frasier Park, I missed my ride to the pastor‘s cabin. Having no flashlight and having a half of a mile up a hill to travel did not bother me too much. I have decent night vision and new the path well enough to see by the light of the moon. The anxiety started to rise when I realized there was no moon. I would be walk- ing by starlight. I headed out following the stars. I recognized a few in a clearing between the trees and worked my way up the hill to safety. I think about the wise men following a star. I think about the church following the light of Christ. I think about the opening to the Holden Prayer we sing in advent. Prayer Jesus Christ you are the light of the world. Let me always follow your light. Pastor Mark Johnson |
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Advent Devotions 2011 |