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We invite you to make time to reflect and be inspired by God and each other as we journey through Advent to the birth of the Christ child. A special thank you to each person who wrote an inspiration.

Faith Formation for Adults Mission Team, 2016

Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit

Copyright Permissions “Savior of the Nations, Come” (ELW 263), Text: attr. Ambrose of Milan, 340-397; Martin Luther, 1483-1546; tr. hymnal version, Text © 2006 Augsburg Fortress. Copyright © 2016 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission under Augsburg Fortress Liturgies Annual License #SAS000593. New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The Message (MSG), Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson Contemporary English Version (CEV), Copyright © 1995 by American Bible Society 2

Sunday, November 27 “Advent: the time to listen for footsteps – you can’t hear footsteps when you’re running yourself.” Bill McKibben The quote listed above really hit home for me. Like many people, waiting does not come naturally to me. We live in a world that encourages instant results. I find myself looking for the quickest check-out lane at the grocery store and I get annoyed when the internet is too slow. Waiting is hard as we often want results quickly and on our terms. Advent is a time for waiting, anticipation and hope. It is a time to prepare for the coming of Christ. Life is often too loud and too busy for us to notice those God moments that are part of each day. We are reminded at this time of year to slow down and reflect upon the true meaning of Christmas. Patient waiting allows us to reflect upon God’s activity in our daily lives. I encourage you to take time this Advent season to appreciate God’s presence in the people and events in your lives. Prayer Gracious God, during this Advent season, help us to remember the greatest gift that has ever been given, your son, Jesus Christ. As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, help us to grow in our understanding and wonder of His birth. In Jesus name we pray. Amen Karin Kahler Faith Formation for Children

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Monday, November 28 “Therefore we have been buried with him through baptism into death, in order that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too may live a new life. ....So you too consider yourselves dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” Romans 6:4, 11 Have you ever thought about what it would be like to be so near death that you would need someone else's heart? ...And then get it? How might that change your thinking? Would you live differently? Would you live doing what you could to honor the life given for you? Does all this sound familiar? Someone did die for you and for me. Each of us has already been given a new heart. Now that you and I have a new heart, Jesus' heart, how should your life and my life look? How should we be treating that other driver on the road? That person in line with us at the store? The person in the desk next to ours? That person with totally opposite views than ours? Who else do we need to be treating as if we have had a heart transplant? We have been restored to life! Let's live it to honor the Giver. Prayer I lift before you these people I have failed to treat as if I have Jesus’ heart. Fill me with the overwhelming knowledge of your presence within me. May I live more and more as you would have me live. Amen. Vi Ballard Worship

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Tuesday, November 29 Where Do You Dwell? That was the question asked by Jennifer Baker-Trinity as she commented on a hymn sung at a Lutheran Hymn Festival in Lansdale early in November. I expect that “dwell” is a word most of us consider a bit outdated, so maybe “where do you live” or “where do you spend your time” may be a little more user-friendly. Jennifer went on to observe that we are often “pushed” toward places we are not sure we want to go, or at least not yet. I couldn’t help but think of the stores I had visited with all of their Christmas decorations on full display before Halloween, or the holiday-season TV specials that had already started to air. I can’t blame the store owners, since their annual profits may depend on holiday sales. I can’t blame the people who wish to get a good start on their gift-giving plans. Still, I couldn’t help but wonder how much of all that activity was based on secular commercialism and not the hope of the Advent season. I couldn’t help but think I was being fast-forwarded toward a holiday rather than being allowed to reflect on the real meanings of Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the virtues of patience and hope in taking steps toward a more Christ-centered life. I was living, as all of us do, in a very confusing situation. Where was I spending my time as the activities of holiday preparations exploded all around me? Was I being consumed by the mall version of “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” and the TV ads for gifts the grandchildren cannot possibly do without? “Listen, God is Calling” – that was on the hymn festival program. A pointed reminder that in the midst of the loud noise, the quiet messages of the Advent and Christmas seasons tell of what God has done, is doing, and will be doing using our hands; that ultimately God and God’s people will receive and possess the kingdom of God. Prayer May God be with us as we discern what is really important to us, our families and our communities. May God ensure that our ears hear the messages of Advent. Amen. Rick Doty Member Care

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Wednesday, November 30 Psalm 124

Isaiah 54:1-10

Matthew 24:23-35

The Coming of the Son of Man Being asked to prepare an Advent Devotion doesn’t seem like too tall an order; after all, I’ve done this in the past. How hard can it be, right? But then, we were asked to make our devotional inspirational. Hmm… OK, so a bit more pressure. However, we were given the 3 daily Bible readings for each of the Advent days – so back to: how hard can it be? So, as I sit at my desk on Reformation Sunday afternoon, on Halloween weekend, the temperature outside pushing 80 degrees and a forecast of thunderstorms. Not yet Halloween, let alone Thanksgiving, and the Hallmark Channel has already started with their steady diet of Christmas movies. Reformation, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas… Wait a minute, where’s Advent, the season of waiting and preparing! Where’s inspiration? Good grief! So, turning to the Bible readings for today. I read them through once, twice, a third time. I search Google and all the Bible summaries one can find there. Yikes, the Bible readings for today don’t strike a familiar Advent chord or point, for that matter, in any discernable Advent direction. They speak to the fall of the temple in Jerusalem, the deliverance of Israel and the 2nd coming of Christ. OK, so now my stomach is starting to ache. Why did I say I’d do this devotional? It had been fun in the past. Where’s inspiration? Good grief, Charlie Brown! Then the clouds begin to thin, at first just a little, then the wind blows them away. It’s almost as if Linus were speaking to me, not Charlie Brown, his awkward friend, in that classic cartoon. There is inspiration in the Bible readings, just not what and how I was expecting. This afternoon there isn’t inspiration in the seasonal calendar, the unseasonable weather, or our goofy cultural phenomena of rushing our seasons. There never has been or will be. Psalm 124:8; “Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” Isaiah 54:10; “For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed, says the Lord, who has compassion on you.” Matthew 24:35; “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words will not pass away.” These words of God and Christ, who we wait and prepare for during Advent, are the “true” inspiration of Advent. When we read God and Christ’s words, they reassure us and reaffirm our bedrock of faith, at Advent and through every season. Praise be to God! Prayer Father, thank you for reassuring us, fulfilling your promises and giving us your word for inspiration. This Advent season quiet and clear our hearts so that we can find inspiration for the preparation for the birth of our Lord, your Son. Amen. Rob Smith, Church Growth 6

Thursday, December 1 Advent Amidst the Gift Wrap “Are you ready for Christmas?” asked a guy I see at the train station every day. I thought of the long list of gifts I still needed to buy and the calendar crammed with holiday events and parties, and I shook my head. “Hardly,” I said, and we both laughed knowingly. On my train ride downtown I turned off my iPod and let my mind ponder that question a little deeper. “Am I ready for Christmas?” This time I thought about the meaning of the holiday— the Son of God coming to earth to dwell among us and show us the way to eternal life. Again I shook my head and murmured to myself, “Hardly.” It was then that I vowed to take advantage of every opportunity to prepare my heart for the coming of the Christ Child into the world—the world you and I live in. What I discovered was that if we know what we're preparing for, everything we encounter on the way to Christmas can prepare us for the coming of Christ, not only in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago but also into our homes, our families, our workplaces, and our communities. The usual December distractions can instead become holy moments when we find the Christ Child in our midst. Having the right attitude and perspective on the season will help you and your family avoid the excesses that make certain Christmas preparations frantic, yet draining and disappointing. As theologian John Shea says, “The task seems to be the delicate one of learning to make the customs and traditions of Christmas serve the Spirit.” Take a look at some of December's demanding activities with new eyes, eyes that fully expect to find God in every moment of this season of hope. Prayer God, give new eyes to expect and see you this Advent. Amen. Tom McGrath author of Raising Faith Filled Kids, Loyola Press

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Friday, December 2 Psalm 72: 1-7, 18-19

Isaiah 30: 19-26

Acts 13: 16-25

The inspiration for my meditation comes from the book of Acts Chapter 13 where Paul reminds the Children of Israel of God’s faithfulness from the time they entered the Promised Land after their escape from Egypt. The land of Canaan was occupied by seven hostile Nations which had to be eliminated in order for the Israelites to have a peaceful land to occupy. This was accomplished at God’s hand. For 450 years after they entered into the Promised Land the people were ruled by judges. Then the people desired a single strong leader so they ask for a king. God gave them Saul who ruled for 40 years. After that time the Lord raised New King David, who God called “A man after my own heart.” In Acts 13:23 the Lord said, “Of this man’s seed (David) hath God given according to his promise raised until Israel a Savior, which is Jesus.” So we can see God’s leading of the Children of Israel hearing the prayers of the faithful. It is in our place today as present day Christians to put our faith in and Trust in God’s hand who gave us Jesus the ultimate savior. Prayer Dear Jesus, help us to understand that all of our desires may not be what you desire. Help us to seek that which is best for us, our families and our church family in order that we may please you. In Jesus name we pray. Amen. Glenn Fretz Center for Faith and Life

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Saturday, December 3 Psalm 72: 1-7, 18-19

Isaiah 40: 1-11

John 1: 19-28

Loy is his first name. A strange name you might say, but then again, he is a native Tanzanian. I met Loy when the team from Holy Spirit visited Tanzania this September, and specifically when the team visited the Ilboru Special Needs School. Loy’s faith (and action out of that faith) basically willed the Special Needs School into existence. Schools for children with disabilities are not just uncommon in Tanzania, but virtually unheard of. So, Loy fought for funding, fought for space, fought for specialized teachers, and started the school in a converted janitor’s closet. Now the classrooms hold 80 children who are deaf, autistic, or have intellectual challenges, and there are 7 specialized teachers in addition to Loy. I reflect on Psalm 72, verse 4 about defending the cause of the poor of the people and giving deliverance to the needy. I think about the passages in Isaiah and John about crying out in the wilderness and making straight the way of the Lord. Loy is on a mission – to provide educational services for children with specialized needs, not just in Ilboru but also in surrounding rural areas, and not just with an elementary school but also with a secondary school. When John the Baptist was asked if he was the Messiah, or Elijah, or the prophet, he answered “no”. So the Pharisees asked him “then why are you baptizing?” John’s answer to that question pointed directly to the one coming after him, Jesus. I think that Loy would also answer that he is neither a Messiah nor a prophet, and I know that Loy points to his faith in the power of God’s Word: God’s Love as to why he continues his work. Loy has hope that God is near and that a kingdom of peace and justice is approaching; his job is just to make the way straighter for our God. Prayer May God grant us faith to see that God is both with us now and coming with power and mercy. May He also grant us the will to comfort and assist those who need our support. Amen. Rick Doty Global Mission

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Sunday, December 4 “Prepare the Way of the Lord” 1In

those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, 2 “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” 3 This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’” 4 Now

John wore clothing of camel’s hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan, 6 and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. 7 But

when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bear fruit worthy of repentance. 9 Do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our ancestor’; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. 10 Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 11 “I

baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with[c] the Holy Spirit and fire. 12 His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” Matthew 3:1-12 In reading this text from the Gospel of Matthew the words that keep jumping out at me are “prepare the way of the Lord.” John the Baptist proclaimed a message of repentance and admonished people to “prepare.” I’m stuck on preparing. Growing up in a family of eight (yes, 6 kids in my family), preparing for Christmas was an exciting time. Lights had to be strung on the front of the house, cookies baked, my mom loved decorating and every room had visible signs of Christmas. We kids were given the freedom to help with the decorating, baking, gift wrapping and tree decorating as we were able. All the while we worked, Christmas records played in the background and everyone sang along. Life was good. My parents were good role models to follow in life and instilled in us the importance of faith in our lives, that the message of Christmas was more than gifts on December 25th. The coming of Jesus was a call for us to care for those in our neighborhood and community that were not as fortunate as we. Christmas dinner and every dinner in our home was a time to thank God for all that we had and how our lives had been blessed. 10

“Preparing” the way of the Lord was a joyous time in my childhood home and has carried over into my adult life. Starting each day with devotions gives me a focus for the day and the week ahead. Preparing for Christmas during the month of December and the season of Advent has always been my favorite time of year. So, why am I “stuck on preparing” this year? I’ve been stuck on preparing since 2010. Six years ago today I was beginning to “prepare” my home for the coming Christmas holiday – stringing lights on the front porch – when I received a call that my mom had died. One year ago today I received a text message in the middle of the night that my brother Bill had died. We knew that week he was in the final days of his life and we wondered if he would hold out until December 4th. I believe my mom was there waiting to welcome him home. So, preparing the way of the Lord has been tough for me when December 4th rolls around. I think of all my mom did to make preparing for Christmas such a special time in my childhood. I remember how my brother made Christmas a special time for his children and family. I miss their presence in my life. I find myself not wanting to move beyond December 4th. For 6 years I have struggled with decorating and preparing. But, today I am reminded of the great love that God has for us, that his son died for us and that we have the gift of eternal life awaiting us. My mom and brother are free of the illness and disease that took their lives. I know they would want me to move beyond December 4th, to give thanks for the way they have molded my life that enables me to share the good news of Jesus coming in my own circle of family and friends. I can now see, after much sorrow and grieving, that they “prepared” me for this journey of Advent that leads to the joy of Christmas morning. My life has been shaped by their love and their faith and I think today I am ready to move beyond December 4th – to begin preparing for God’s great gift – not just for me – but for all people on this earth. I think I’ll put Christmas lights on my front porch this afternoon. Prayer Thank you, Lord, for the gift of family, for the gift of faith, for the gift of eternal life when we will be reunited with those who have gone before us. Give us courage to move from sadness and grief to joy in your presence as we “prepare” the way for your coming. Amen. Alice E. Mudge Rejoicing Spirits

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Monday, December 5 4 Whatever

was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, 6 so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Welcome

one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. As it is written, “Therefore I will confess you among the Gentiles, and sing praises to your name”; 10 and again he says, “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people”; 11 and again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples praise him”; 12 and again Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse shall come, the one who rises to rule the Gentiles; in him the Gentiles shall hope.” 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:4-13 In the living room of my childhood home, sitting on the piano is an old Norwegian Bible. This Bible was my Grandma’s when she was growing up, before that it was her mothers and before that her mother’s mother. This Bible made its way down through the generations and stands as a symbol of the strong faith that has been withheld from generation to generation. As it made its way through time I imagine it bringing hope in various ways depending on the need at hand. Although time separates the owners of this Bible and each owner found hope in their own ways, The words found in the Bible have managed to weave encouragement, hope and faith through several generations uniting us together to glorify God and I know this will continue to weave its way through the future generations as well. It is easy to find despair in today’s world and every day provides its own challenges. These challenges were different from those of the generations before us and will be different from those after us. But it is important that our hope is not lost in the despair, for it is the hope that ties us together and brings harmony. Although that old Norwegian Bible continues to sit on that piano unread, these verses reminded me of the hope that it once brought the generations before me and the hope the same words have brought to me. It is easy for our Bibles to sit on the shelf and collect dust but during the this busy holiday season where it is easy for the harmony to be lost, discord to strike and hope hard to find, I encourage you to remember the words of God. Let them bring you the hope that you need and open your eyes to the peace, hope and joy that can be easily forgotten in your own life and in the world. “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope.” Lydia Griffin Youth and Young Adult Ministry 12

Tuesday, December 6 Isaiah 41:14-20

Romans 15:14-21

Psalm 21

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myself feel confident about you, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, and able to instruct one another. 15 Nevertheless on some points I have written to you rather boldly by way of reminder, because of the grace given me by God 16 to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. 17 In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to boast of my work for God. 18 For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to win obedience from the Gentiles, by word and deed, 19 by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God, so that from Jerusalem and as far around as Illyricum I have fully proclaimed the good news of Christ. 20 Thus I make it my ambition to proclaim the good news, not where Christ has already been named, so that I do not build on someone else’s foundation, 21 but as it is written, “Those who have never been told of him shall see, and those who have never heard of him shall understand.”

Romans 15:14-21

Today’s readings come from three different sections of the Bible; the Old Testament, the New Testament and the Psalms. However the messages in all three readings are similar & consistent: o o o o

We should place our hope and trust in the Lord. The Lord will provide all we will ever need. The Lord will protect us from our enemies. We need to be ministers of Jesus, serving others who do not know the good news.

These teachings are as relevant today as they were in Biblical times. This universal relevancy is what makes the Bible timeless. In this Advent Season we wait for the coming of Jesus who provides all we need and whose death gives us the greatest gift we could ever receive. Prayer Dear God, We thank you for this Advent Season and the gifts provided to us. First you gave your only son to take human form to teach us by words and example how to live a good life. In his death we have been given eternal life. As we go through this Advent Season please help us focus on the real meaning of Christmas; time with family and friends, helping others in our community who may be going through hard times and recalibrating what is most important in our lives. We thank you for the many blessings you have given us. Amen Bob Mueller Congregation Council 13

Wednesday, December 7 33 “Either

make the tree good, and its fruit good; or make the tree bad, and its fruit bad; for the tree is known by its fruit. 34 For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. 35 The good person brings good things out of a good treasure, and the evil person brings evil things out of an evil treasure. 36 I tell you, on the day of judgment you will have to give an account for every careless word you utter; 37 for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:33-37 Today's reading from Matthew inspires us to nurture ourselves to discover our good treasures and speak through the lessons of those good treasures. Matthews writes "for by your word you will be justified and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthews encourages us to make our tree of life and its fruit good. I'm reminded of the Cherokee legend of the two wolves: An old Cherokee is teaching his grandson about life. “A fight is going on inside me,” he said to the boy. “It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One is evil – he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.” He continued, “The other is good – he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you – and inside every other person, too.” The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win?” The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.” During Advent we have a golden opportunity to renew ourselves to the glory and goodness taught to us through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The purity, innocence, and radiance of a new born Jesus can brighten our internal light and feed our fruited tree with life giving sunshine while making the angry, fearful wolf hide in the shadows. Advent allows us to feed the sweet fruited tree and emerge with the peaceful wolf. May we all be blessed throughout the year with the peace and renewal of Advent. Merry Christmas to all. Dean Black Faith Formation for Adults 14

Thursday, December 8 3-9 Don’t

put your life in the hands of experts who know nothing of life, of salvation life. Mere humans don’t have what it takes; when they die, their projects die with them. Instead, get help from the God of Jacob, put your hope in GOD and know real blessing! GOD made sky and soil, sea and all the fish in it. He always does what he says—he defends the wronged, he feeds the hungry. GOD frees prisoners—he gives sight to the blind, he lifts up the fallen. GOD loves good people, protects strangers, takes the side of orphans and widows, but makes short work of the wicked. 10 GOD’s

in charge—always. Zion’s God is God for good! Hallelujah! Psalm 146:3-10, The Message Bible

How often do you make plans? You line up all of the details for a special event or project. All of the bases are covered; or so you think. And then, the unexpected happens! All of your plans are shattered! What do you do? To whom do you turn? You turn to the Lord who is the master of all the universe. God is in charge – always! Psalm 146 reminds us that God is the source of hope. He is true to his word. His plans are for all time. So as we go about our daily lives, we must remember that God's plans have us covered. Give thanks for His goodness and mercy. Louise Davis Center for Faith and Life

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Friday, December 9 13 Boaz

married Ruth. She became his wife. By GOD’s gracious gift she conceived a son.

14-15 The

town women said to Naomi, “Blessed be GOD! He didn’t leave you without family to carry on your life. May this baby grow up to be famous in Israel! He’ll make you young again! He’ll take care of you in old age. And this daughter-in-law who has brought him into the world and loves you so much, why, she’s worth more to you than seven sons!” 16 Naomi

took the baby and held him in her arms, cuddling him, cooing over him, waiting on him hand and foot. 17 The neighborhood women started calling him “Naomi’s baby boy!” But his real name was Obed. Obed was the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David. Ruth 4:13-17 11-13 Since

everything here today might well be gone tomorrow, do you see how essential it is to live a holy life? Daily expect the Day of God, eager for its arrival. The galaxies will burn up and the elements melt down that day—but we’ll hardly notice. We’ll be looking the other way, ready for the promised new heavens and the promised new earth, all landscaped with righteousness. 14-16 So,

my dear friends, since this is what you have to look forward to, do your very best to be found living at your best, in purity and peace. Interpret our Master’s patient restraint for what it is: salvation. Our good brother Paul, who was given much wisdom in these matters. Irresponsible people who don’t know what they are talking about twist them every which way. They do it to the rest of the Scriptures, too, destroying themselves as they do it. 17-18 But

you, friends, are well-warned. Be on guard lest you lose your footing and get swept off your feet by these lawless and loose-talking teachers. Grow in grace and understanding of our Master and Savior, Jesus Christ. Glory to the Master, now and forever! Yes! 2 Peter 3:11-18 Today’s lessons are about Hope and believing in a loving God whose love is not fleeting, it is eternal and everlasting, unshakeable and without limits. These lessons also address the idea of lineage, the genealogy of David, again, a reminder that we have a great history that includes all those who have gone before us and will continue long after we are gone. As I write this, we are nearing the end of one of the most bitter national political campaigns that I can remember in my lifetime. I am sure that not all people feel like I do, but I suspect that many of us just can’t wait for it to be over. Sadly, all this will start over again in four short years. 16

It gives me great Joy and comfort to know that God’s love is eternal, it doesn’t last four years, it is indeed after all, the gift that keeps giving. Peter reminds us that our identity in Jesus Christ is the only thing that truly lasts forever; everything else is just temporary, including us. In our consumable society when everything is constantly being replaced by something that can do more, is quicker than the previous model, or has more bells and whistles, we are reminded once again in today’s lessons that God’s love doesn’t work that way. For thousands of years God’s love has remained consistently dependable, it doesn’t change every four to eight years. Peter reminds us that we are to remain faithful to the foundations of our faith, in this season of light and of Hope, let us remember wherein our hope lies, in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, in whom we can trust eternally. Dave Evans Ministry in Daily Life

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Saturday, December 10 From Purple to Blue The word of God came to John, son of Zechariah, in the wilderness. 3 He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, 4 as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth; 6 and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’” 7 John

said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our ancestor’; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. 9 Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.” 10 And

the crowds asked him, “What then should we do?” 11 In reply he said to them, “Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise.” 12 Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, “Teacher, what should we do?”13 He said to them, “Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you.” 14 Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what should we do?” He said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.” 15 As

the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah,16 John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. Luke 3:1-16 The Proclamation of John the Baptist Not so long ago the color for Advent was the same as for Lent: purple, the color for repentance. Indeed, during Advent we hear from John the Baptist out in the wilderness, calling those who would listen to change their ways, to “bear fruit worthy of repentance.” We meet John baptizing with the “water of repentance.” (Matthew 3:1-11) Even today, if you look up the colors for Advent, purple is still listed as the traditional one.

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But some years ago - was it ten or twenty or longer? Some years ago the color for Advent was visualized as blue, the color of hope, of royalty. This year it seems that it’s a toss-up as to whether purple or blue would be the most appropriate. There is much for which we as individuals and a people need to repent. The current election cycle (I’m writing this in early November) has exposed so much selfishness, mean spiritedness, and even hatred between peoples of this country. People don’t seem to be able to discuss and debate civilly, respectfully. It is obvious that many of our systems are not working well because those involved are looking out more for themselves than for the good of all, especially for the good of the most vulnerable. But as Jesus began his ministry, he called for a movement from purple to blue. Mark summarizes Jesus’ message as “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent and believe in the good news.” The One for whom John prepares calls not only for repentance, but also for hope. So, too, we are called to both repent and live in hope. We are called to admit where we have been and continue to be part of the many deep problems. We are also called to work for effective solutions. We are also called to look for and point out signs that the kingdom of God has and continues to come near. God wants to use us to help bring in the kingdom, life as God always wanted it to be: all in harmony and wholeness. So, in the aftermath of the election, let us be about spreading this message: Let us repent. (That is, don’t just complain about what is wrong, work to change it!) let us repent and live in active hope, for the One who brings in God’s full rule is coming and, in fact, can be glimpsed even as we wait. Ruth Doty Global Mission

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Sunday, December 11 “Savior of the Nations, Come” (ELW 263) Verse 3 - Wondrous birth—oh, wondrous child—from his throne, a virgin mild! Very God, and Mary's son, eager now his race to run! The third verse of the hymn “Savior of the Nations, Come” announces our hope—the one who stands on the morning horizon, contemplating the journey ahead. The imagery comes from Psalm 19, “In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and runs its course with joy.” The sun’s light and joy characterize this coming in Psalm 19, but this is not the only imagery in the psalm. It begins with the surprising lines, “day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. There is no speech… their voice is not heard.” The one who comes, the one who surprises us at every moment, holding and directing and leading and guiding us in every moment, is not seen or heard as we see and hear and hold ordinary things. The little child comes not to hurt or destroy but to quietly gather all humanity and all creation into one communion. Prayer Gather us all in, O God, as one family around the manger. Amen. Written by Dirk G. Lange & Fredik A. Schiotz, professors Luther Seminary From 2016 Advent Devotional

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Monday, December 12 Psalm 42 1As

Isaiah 29:17-24

Acts 5:12-16

the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? Psalm 42:1-2

2 My

One of my fondest memories of my time at Philadelphia Seminary was singing with my wife, Mary, in the seminary choir. One year, we were to perform a wonderful jazz baptismal service written by Eddie Bonnemere and performed with Duke Ellington at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in New York City. As we performed during a worship service that actually included a baptism in the below-street level sanctuary, a water main broke and we had water flowing into the nave, forcing a temporary evacuation. The irony of the event aside, the service included a beautifully written and composed arrangement by Eddie of Psalm 42, “As a deer longs for flowing streams, so longs my soul for you, O God.” It had a profound effect on me as we sang it, moving me deeply. Bonnemere’s connecting the waters of baptism with our faith journey is no coincidence. Life is full of challenges and changes, some small and some so drastic that they threaten to unsettle us and fill us with despair. During those dark or desperate times, it’s easy to forget God in our lives, and when we do, we forget the incredible promise that God makes to us in our baptism…that as a child of God, there is no place we can go where God’s love will not seek us out and find us. That’s why the Psalmist can write “Put your hope in God…” During this Advent season, we prepare our lives to receive once again God’s love incarnate in the birth of the Christ Child. The coming of Christ at Christmas is the celebration of the Light of the World coming to those who sat in darkness. Even in the dark times of our journey of life and faith, God’s love sustains us and lights our way, filling us with hope. So the Psalmist ends his psalm with the words, “Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God!” Prayer Dear Lord, as we celebrate this season of Advent, we watch with anticipation for the Light of the World in the birth of your son, Jesus. Fill us with renewed hope and sustain us through our Advent journey and through our life journey that your love will always be there to brighten our path, through Christ our Lord. Amen. Pr. Jim Bowers

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Tuesday, December 13 7 Be

patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. 8 You also must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. 9 Beloved, do not grumble against one another, so that you may not be judged. See, the Judge is standing at the doors! 10 As an example of suffering and patience, beloved, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. James 5:7-10 James always reminds us, in no uncertain terms, that our faith and hope are nothing unless they are active in love. Faith will always bear good fruits. Martin Luther describes this connection as unrestrained. Good fruits flow from faith without us even realizing it! James describes our waiting for the coming of the Lord in very simple terms: vigilance is non-judgmental! Our life on earth is characterized by generosity as we wait. We do not judge our neighbor. We do not hold a grudge against our neighbor. We do not gossip about our neighbor behind their back. Rather, in all things, we seek the best for our neighbor. This does not mean being silent about deceit, about evil and injustice: the prophets are to be our example, James writes. But living out justice is always lived in mercy. This means finding new words, new language as we wait for the one who comes. Prayer O God, come and water the earth of our hearts that it yields new crop, a new language that speaks of our mercy. Amen. Written by Dirk G. Lange & Fredik A. Schiotz, professors Luther Seminary From 2016 Advent Devotional

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Wednesday, December 14 O God, the nations have come into your inheritance; they have defiled your holy temple; they have laid Jerusalem in ruins. They have given the bodies of your servants to the birds of the air for food, the flesh of your faithful to the wild animals of the earth. They have poured out their blood like water all around Jerusalem, and there was no one to bury them. We have become a taunt to our neighbors, mocked and derided by those around us. How long, O LORD? Will you be angry forever? Will your jealous wrath burn like fire? Pour out your anger on the nations that do not know you, and on the kingdoms that do not call on your name. For they have devoured Jacob and laid waste his habitation. Do not remember against us the iniquities of our ancestors; let your compassion come speedily to meet us, for we are brought very low. Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of your name; deliver us, and forgive our sins, for your name’s sake. Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?” Let the avenging of the outpoured blood of your servants be known among the nations before our eyes. Let the groans of the prisoners come before you; according to your great power preserve those doomed to die. Return sevenfold into the bosom of our neighbors the taunts with which they taunted you, O Lord! Then we your people, the flock of your pasture, will give thanks to you forever; from generation to generation we will recount your praise. Psalm 79, NRSV In that day, says the LORD, I will assemble the lame and gather those who have been driven away, and those whom I have afflicted. The lame I will make the remnant, and those who were cast off, a strong nation; and the LORD will reign over them in Mount Zion now and forevermore. And you, O tower of the flock, hill of daughter Zion, to you it shall come, the former dominion shall come, the sovereignty of daughter Jerusalem. Now why do you cry aloud? Is there no king in you? Has your counselor perished, that pangs have seized you like a woman in labor? Writhe and groan, O daughter Zion, like a woman in labor; for now you shall go forth from the city and camp in the open country; you shall go to Babylon. There you shall be rescued, there the LORD will redeem you from the hands of your enemies. Now many nations are assembled against you, saying, “Let her be profaned, and let our eyes gaze upon Zion.” But they do not know the thoughts of the LORD; they do not understand his plan, that he has gathered them as sheaves to the threshing floor. Arise and thresh, O daughter Zion, for I will make your horn iron and your hoofs bronze; you shall beat in pieces many peoples, and shall devote their gain to the LORD, their wealth to the Lord of the whole earth. Micah 4:6-13 It seems to me that all these passages refer to God rescuing us, His servants, and avenging His/our enemies. He will crush Satan’s agents. I’m trying to think warm, fuzzy, Christmas thoughts – Jesus our infant savior, etc. In Psalm 79 we are referred to as “Sheep of your pasture”. Bottom line, I guess, is to FOLLOW, FOLLOW, FOLLOW and the Lord will “redeem you out of the hands of your enemies” (Micah) – maybe not in this life, but in our Eternal Life! It may not be easy, but Jesus the Christ has come to show us the way and lead us – we are called to FOLLOW. Christine Bolen, Faith Formation for Adults 23

Thursday, December 15 2 When

John heard in prison what the Messiah was doing, he sent word by his disciples 3 and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?” 4 Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them. 6 And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me.” 7 As

they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed shaken by the wind? 8 What then did you go out to see? Someone dressed in soft robes? Look, those who wear soft robes are in royal palaces. 9 What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is the one about whom it is written, ‘See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’ 11 Truly

I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. Matthew 11:2-11 God relates to the world through mercy. This mercy is liberating. It frees us from all those moments when we condemn ourselves, when we allow the pressures and stresses of life to define who we are. God’s mercy enables us to see the many powers and influences and values in this world that dictate and control us. We can let go because God’s mercy is forever, God’s mercy dismantles and undoes all that binds us. God’s mercy is called good news. In these long days of waiting and worries and stress and work, filled with multiple demands on our time, let us take a moment and stop. Let’s catch our breath. God’s mercy prepares a way for us. It is not like any path we’ve traveled on: God’s mercy opens all our inner prisons and touches them with love. It holds us and brings us to a light in the middle of the night. Our own night cannot this light subdue. Now your manger, shining bright, hallows night with newborn light. Night cannot this light subdue; let our faith shine ever new. (verse 5, Savior of the Nations, Come). Prayer O God, take our darkness and through your mercy, turn it into light. Amen. Written by Dirk G. Lange & Fredik A. Schiotz, professors Luther Seminary From 2016 Advent Devotional

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Friday, December 16 Counting Down or Counting Up? The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined. 3 You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.. 2

6 For

a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this. Isaiah 9 When I was in about first grade my father read a pamphlet about making an Advent wreath for family devotions. Following the directions, he took a large board, about 18” square, and drilled 28 holes in a circle. Next he placed 1 purple candle in the center hole on each side and white candles in the 6 spaces between each purple one – 28 candles in all Each night of Advent we would light the candles, read a Bible passage and a short devotional piece and pray. We started on the first Sunday of Advent by lighting just one purple one. The next night we lit that purple one and a white one next to it. Each night we added another candle until we got to Christmas Eve. Some years, when Christmas fell on a Sunday, we lit all 28, some years we didn’t. It all depended on when Christmas fell. Were we counting down or counting up? As children we would focus on how there were fewer and fewer unlit candles. That meant Christmas was getting closer. But, we also noted that as we lit yet another candle, how much more light there was. You can imagine how hard it was to read scripture and devotions with just one candle lit. You can also imagine how much better we could see, how much brighter it became, as we got closer to the final night. This Advent, may the light of Christ shine into your darkness. May your life and your light become brighter and brighter as you open your heart to God’s word and as we approach the feast of the Father’s love. Ruth Doty Global Mission

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Saturday, December 17 10 Again

the LORD spoke to Ahaz, saying, 11 Ask a sign of the LORD your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven. 12 But Ahaz said, I will not ask, and I will not put the LORD to the test. 13 Then Isaiah[a] said: “Hear then, O house of David! Is it too little for you to weary mortals, that you weary my God also? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Look, the young woman[b] is with child and shall bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel.[c] 15 He shall eat curds and honey by the time he knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good. 16 For before the child knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good, the land before whose two kings you are in dread will be deserted. Isaiah 7:10-16 Isaiah prophesies about God’s surprising advent amongst us as a child. This prophecy occurs as an apparent confrontation with King Ahaz—who didn’t have a very good reputation. God acts. God acts in a world that is turned in upon itself. God disrupts us in situations where we think more about ourselves and our own comfort rather than the good of our neighbor, where we build walls rather than bridges. God in our midst, not in a threatening way, not in condemnation, but as a child who is named God-with-us. The Advent Litany refers to this child as a sign who will shut the mouths of rulers, who will turn “business as usual” inside out, who will direct our gaze away from ourselves and towards the many humble, gentle, surprising ways God is already acting in the world. We are reminded again and again about that vigilant hope that marks a whole life of faith. Prayer O root of Jesse, standing as a sign among the peoples; before you rulers will shut their mouths, to you all peoples make their prayer: Come and deliver us, and delay no longer! Amen. Written by Dirk G. Lange & Fredik A. Schiotz, professors Luther Seminary From 2016 Advent Devotional

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Sunday, December 18 Magnificat, Song of Mary, Canticle of Mary My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior; For He has regarded the lowliness of His handmaiden. For behold, from this day all generations will call me blessed. For the Mighty One has done great things to me, and holy is His name; And His mercy is on those who fear Him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones and has exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich He has sent empty away. He has helped his servant Israel in remembrance of his mercy as He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Luke 1:46-55 For me, the Magnificat is one of those special moments in the scriptures. It is Mary response to Elizabeth (Luke 1:41-44). Elizabeth’s spirt-filled words of encouragement move Mary to rejoice in God’s mercy as a humble servant to the Lord. This leads me to wonder, how did God choose this woman? Mary was a humble peasant woman – she cooked, she cleaned, she sewed and she prayed. How is it that God chose an ordinary woman to do an extraordinary thing? Perhaps he was looking for a humble servant – one who would hear the word of God and observe it. Perhaps, he was looking for one who could see the grace-filled moment in their life. Or perhaps he was looking for the one who could see beyond her own joy (Baby Jesus) to a larger joy – God’s kingdom on earth. Prayer Lord, help us to see that each one of us has extraordinary gifts and possibilities in our life. Encourage us to be a grace-filled servant. Encourage us to have courage and humility in those times of tough decisions. Finally, help us to make every moment of our ordinary life extraordinary to others and to you. Amen. Sharon MacCabe Worship and Music

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Monday, December 19 15 God

said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. 16 I will bless her, and moreover I will give you a son by her. I will bless her, and she shall give rise to nations; kings of peoples shall come from her.” 17 Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed, and said to himself, “Can a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Can Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?” 18 And Abraham said to God, “O that Ishmael might live in your sight!” 19 God said, “No, but your wife Sarah shall bear you a son, and you shall name him Isaac.[a] I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his offspring after him. 20 As for Ishmael, I have heard you; I will bless him and make him fruitful and exceedingly numerous; he shall be the father of twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation. 21 But my covenant I will establish with Isaac, whom Sarah shall bear to you at this season next year.” 22 And when he had finished talking with him, God went up from Abraham. Genesis 17:15-22 8 Formerly,

when you did not know God, you were enslaved to beings that by nature are not gods. 9 Now, however, that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and beggarly elemental spirits? How can you want to be enslaved to them again? 10 You are observing special days, and months, and seasons, and years. 11 I am afraid that my work for you may have been wasted. Galatians 4:8-20 We are reminded that God is in control and His power and authority reach to the ends of the earth. As heirs to His promise to Abraham, we persevere in our faith and wait for our coming inheritance. We have hope in the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ through the endurance of our faith and trust in God and we ask Him to keep us focused. Already, but not yet, tells us that we have Jesus in our lives already but we have yet to experience the full extent of His Kingdom. We are called to be patient and look forward to the Kingdom just as in Advent we wait and look forward to Christmas Day when we celebrate the birth of Jesus. John Mosovsky Center for Faith and Life

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Tuesday, December 20 God is Faithful The LORD was good to Sarah and kept God’s promise. Although Abraham was very old, Sarah had a son exactly at the time God had said, Abraham named his son Isaac, and when the boy was eight days old, Abraham circumcised him, just as the LORD had commanded. Abraham was a hundred years old when Isaac was born, and Sarah said, “God has made me laugh. Now everyone will laugh with me. Who would have dared to tell Abraham that someday I would have a child? But in his old age, I have given him a son.” Genesis 21:1-7, Contemporary English Version (CEV) I am writing this devotional as we are preparing to celebrate our daughter Jennifer’s birthday. I love children and as an only child, grandchild and niece, I had hoped for several children. After being married for five years, childless, and considering fostering a child, we received the joyful news that we were having a baby. We were thrilled. Even morning sickness for eight months did not deter my anticipated joy, though it was certainly challenging. Our goal was the due date. The due date came and no baby. It seemed like an eternity to wait even longer, not knowing when. We were ready. We had taken Lamaze and baby classes. The nursery was ready. I had stopped working at the beginning of the month to transition to motherhood. But no baby. We tried any remedy to encourage delivery. I had early contractions but they weren’t the real thing. How long does one have to wait? We were ready. How long, O Lord? Jennifer was safely born six days late. What joy! My first words to her were, “we love you Jennifer Dianne Elliott”. A couple of years later we hoped to have a second child. We went through all the infertility evaluations, questioning, soul searching and treatments. I SO longed for Jennifer to have a sibling. I didn’t want her to be an only child like me. I remember turning 40 and wailing because this longing could no longer become a reality. There have been many times in my life when I have had to wait or not received an answer which has encouraged doubt, fear, and distrust in me. But I have also learned and experienced that God is faithful. God provides for what we need, but in God’s time. It appeared that God did not hear the desire of Abraham and Sarah. When Abraham was older and probably no longer hopeful, God gave Sarah and Abraham a child. God fulfills the promises made to us in our baptism. God dearly loves us more than any other person here on earth. God wants what is best for us and knows what we really need. Will there be struggles? Yes. Will we have to wait? Yes. Does God really know what is best for me? Yes. Will God surprise us? Yes. 29

God’s perspective is a treasure to me. Often in times of pain and doubt, through waiting and prayer, and in my weakness, I really need God. I’ve tried all my human solutions to no avail and need to let go of them. God opens my eyes to see and understand life from a different perspective, from God’s perspective. God’s perspective is really what I’ve been longing for, isn’t it? Sometimes God even surprises me in ways I could never imagine or dream possible. God IS faithful! God does provide for us. God is faithful, even when human beings and things of this world, give us much reason to doubt and question life. God is faithful. God fulfills God’s promises. Let’s wait and see what God has in store. Wait. Look for God. Wait. Be open to a surprise. Wait, your joy will be fulfilled. Wait. God is God! Prayer God, open our hearts and minds to your perspective as we wait for the coming of Jesus, the Christ child. Amen. Jane Elliott, AIM Faith Formation for Adults Worship

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Wednesday, December 21 The earth is the Lord's and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it. Psalm 24:1-2 Here is the foundation for what we call "stewardship" - the realization that the earth is the Lord's. We humans didn't create the mountains or the forests, the lakes or the seas. God did it, through the endless ages of geological time, and through the processes that the creator God had set in motion. We can only stand in awe of these wonders, and consider in gratitude how we can give back. The text reminds us also that it is not only the natural world that God has created, but humanity as well – all those who live in it. There need be no conflict between care of the earth and care of our fellow human beings. We need to preserve the environment, and at the same time, work to eradicate hunger, disease, and poverty among "those who live in it." Both are God's objectives, and both should be ours. Prayer Oh, wondrous God, the Source and Sustainer of this wondrous world, help us to appreciate and to care for your creation. Give us hearts of love for those in need. In Jesus' name, Amen. Lorie and Frank Sherman Stewardship

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Tuesday, December 22 An angel went to Mary and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you. ”Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. Luke 1:29 - 31 An angel appeared to Mary, a young adolescent girl, and announced that she was to be the mother of Jesus. She must have been terrified but she overcame her fear and gave to the world her Son and the beautiful Magnificat. Mary was to become an amazing mother, highly favored by God, thus honoring Mothers of many kinds. Amy Young wrote a Magnificat of sorts to a wide spectrum of Mothers. To those who gave birth this year to their first child— we celebrate with you. To those who lost a child this year – we mourn with you. To those who are in the trenches with little ones every day and wear the badge of food stains, we appreciate you. To those who experienced loss through miscarriage, failed adoptions, or running away— we mourn with you. To those who walk the hard path of infertility, fraught with pokes, prods, tears, and disappointment – we walk with you. Forgive us when we say foolish things. We don’t mean to make this harder than it is. To those who are foster moms, mentor moms, and spiritual moms – we need you. To those who have warm and close relationships with your children – we celebrate with you. To those who have disappointment, heart ache, and distance with your children – we sit with you. To those who lost their mothers this year – we grieve with you. To those who experienced abuse at the hands of your own mother – we acknowledge your experience. To those who lived through driving tests, medical tests, and the overall testing of motherhood – we are better for having you in our midst. To those who are single and long to be married and mothering your own children – we mourn that life has not turned out the way you longed for it to be. To those who step-parent – we walk with you on these complex paths. 32

To those who envisioned lavishing love on grandchildren – yet that dream is not to be, we grieve with you. To those who will have emptier nests in the upcoming year – we grieve and rejoice with you. To those who placed children up for adoption — we commend you for your selflessness and remember how you hold that child in your heart. And to those who are pregnant with new life, both expected and surprising – we anticipate with you. Mothering is not for the faint of heart and we have real warriors in our midst. We remember you. Prayer God, we thank you for Mothers and for their unconditional love for us. Be with them during this busy time of the year and help them to remember the reason for the season. Amen. Glynnis Rea Rejoicing Spirits

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Friday, December 23 Luke 1:1-2:40

Matthew 1:18-2:23

Here’s a fun exercise for you. Tell the Christmas story in your or your families’ own words. (Without looking it up yet.) Where does it start? With Mary and the angel? Before that? What was going on before that? What brought her to Bethlehem? What happened next? And next after that? Now read the story in Luke 1:1-2:40 and in Matthew 1:18-2:23. Look for things you missed and things you never remember hearing before, i.e. note the details. Prayer Good and gracious God, what a marvelous gift you have given us. May we continue to ponder the story in our hearts, trusting in You to take care of each and every detail in our lives. Amen. Vi Ballard M & M’s, Too

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Saturday, December 24 – Christmas Eve “They wrapped him in swaddling clothes and lay him in a manger” “And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a manger…” Luke 2:7 When a new baby is born, the child is often wrapped tightly in a blanket. Wrapped and bound up in the blanket, the nurses tell us, the child would feel more safe and secure. The baby Jesus, in the same way was wrapped and bound by his parents in “swaddling cloths” and he was laid in a manger. Bound and wrapped…ironic isn’t it that this infant wrapped and bound would later be bound with rope and nails and wrapped around a cross. The bound infant becomes the bound carpenter, teacher, prophet, Jesus; bound, for our sake. Ironic isn’t it that in the act of binding and wrapping Jesus to a cross God provided for our security and our safety. Because of Jesus, bound and wrapped to a cross you and I are secure in God’s love and forgiveness and safe from all the dangers of sin, death and evil. The wrapped and bound baby in the manger foreshadows the wrapped and bound Son of God given for us. In Jesus, God reveals to us that He seeks to wrap us in his love and bind us to himself forever. It gives a whole new meaning to getting one’s Christmas wrapping done! May God’s grace and love touch, renew and transform you this Christmas! Prayer Good and Gracious God, you enter our world and bind us up and wrap us in your forgiving love. Wake us to the new day of life that comes in the birth of the Christ child. May we, your hands and arms in this world, wrap the crying and lost of this world in the blanket of your loving care. Amen Pr. Ric Elliott

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Sunday, December 25 – Christmas Day Christmas Greetings “And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14 Like many of you, each year, Jane and I send Christmas greetings to friends and family members. We love sending and receiving Christmas cards and greetings from loved ones and friends from other congregations and ministries where we have lived and served. I actually look forward at this time of year to opening the mailbox (physical or digital) each day, being surprised each day by cards (emails) & letters from far off places, reconnecting with folks who have been dear to us. Over the years the style of greeting we send has changed greatly. We originally designed and reproduced our own Christmas cards. Then when Jennifer was younger, we took the creative approach, such as sending fun filled letters written by the family dog. Lately we have written newsy emails that fall into a newsletter-like format. Christmas cards and greetings have a relatively short history. Did you know that the first Christmas card was designed in 1843 by the Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, Sir Henry Cole? Apparently, Sir Henry became so busy that he could not write all of his normal Christmas greeting letters so he had a card designed. He commissioned an artist, John Calcott Horsley, to craft an illustration. The card pictured three panels, the centerpiece was a picture of a family celebrating with the words, “A Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year to you!” Apparently, the cards were a success because the next year 25,000 cards were produced. For over thirty years Americans imported Christmas cards from England. Then in 1875, a German immigrant, Louis Prang opened a printing shop in the United States with the aim of printing Christmas cards. By 1881, Prang printed over 5 million cards per year. Now each year about 8.5 billion dollars are spent on 7 billion cards. What single message could be so important that we spend that much money and put that much energy into sending it to one another? It is the simple message that Christ is born; that God has taken on flesh and blood and entered our world in the person of Jesus. We call that miracle the “incarnation”; that the “Word became flesh and dwelt among us”. It is an astounding message and one that to this day, still captivates our imaginations and claims our hearts! God is not distant and unconnected. God is here, with us…now! It is a message that inspires, strengthens, uplifts, comforts, encourages, and transforms us. Prayer Gracious and loving Father; thank you for caring enough to send the very best; your son. May our hearts receive your gift of love today and always. Amen! Pr. Ric Elliott 36