The United Methodist Church of Kent

Advent Devotional Booklet 2015

United Methodist Church of Kent Advent Devotional 2015

WHAT IS ADVENT?

Advent—from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming”—is the church season comprising four weeks prior to Christmas. For centu-ries, Christians have used this period to reflect about the promise to ancient Israel of the coming of the Messiah and to become open to how Christ would come into our lives today.

Advent this year begins on Sunday, November 29 and continues until Christmas Eve.

Amidst all the preparations that we do in the coming weeks to get ready for Christmas, this Advent devotional book will help us to spiritually prepare—to “get ready” for how Christ would be at work in our lives.

November 29

“Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a shout,

‘Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The fool-ish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise replied, ‘No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding ban-quet; and the door was shut. Later the other bridesmaids came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’ Keep awake therefore, for you know nei-ther the day nor the hour.” Matthew 25:1–13

Advent is about preparing our hearts, so that we are ready to receive how Christ would come to us.

Jesus told several parables about being ready or watchful, and one of the most well-known is the parable of the ten bridesmaids. The parable contains several key messages that resonate with theme of Advent:

• We often need to wait for how God will be at work in our lives. The bridesmaids in the parable do not know exactly when the bride-groom will come, and it is a long wait.

• The decisive actions of God are often at surprising moments. In the parable, it is midnight when the call goes out, “The bridegroom is here!”

• We therefore need to be ready. Readiness in the parable is symbol-ized by having enough oil in one’s lamp. We are called to a spiritual receptivity and an attitude of faith, so that we can welcome the coming of Christ into our lives.

• One person cannot pass on “preparedness” to another. This is rep-resented in the parable in the fact that the bridesmaids with oil cannot give their oil to those without. We each need to prepare our own hearts for Christ.

Such spiritual preparation is what we can do by using this Advent book! As we read each day’s devotion, we prepare our hearts, we “fill the oil of our lamp,” so that we can be receptive to how Christ will be at work in us.

Thought for the Day: Get ready! Christ continues to come to us with grace and power. Let us prepare our hearts for His entrance into our lives.

Prayer: Empower us, O Lord, to keep the lamps of our faith burning, that we may be ready to welcome You today.

David Palmer, senior pastor

November 30

Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circum-stances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Christmastime reminds me of freshly baked cookies, warm apple cider, and caroling rounds of “Joy to the World.” I particularly love my fam-ily ‘s Christmas tradition of bundling up walking around a trail near our house in Snohomish, Washington. For many, this is one of the hap-piest times of the year. We may feel driven by gratitude to help those less fortunate and strive to reach out to others. However, for others, Christmastime can be one of insurmountable pain. We may feel sad-ness when we realize that our loved ones are not here to experience Christmas with us. The holidays can remind many of those we’ve lost and of terrible diagnoses that indicate we may not have as many hol-idays together in the future. When I consider the pain that so many face over the holidays, I often stop to wonder at Paul’s declaration in 1 Thessalonians 5:16 that we must always be joyful. How can we feel hap-piness when so much pain exists? However, I then wonder whether hap-piness and joyfulness are different constructs. Perhaps while happi-ness depends on our physical and emotional well being in our daily lives, joy is a constant peace that accompanies the understanding that we are not alone in our lives. God is with us amidst the suffering, the loneliness, and fear. Understanding God’s constant presence in our lives can bring a deep peace and joy that surpasses all trials. This does not negate the pain that many feel over the holidays, but it does mean that God is with us and that we are not alone. So let’s take joy in that knowledge that we are not alone. Let’s also ask God use us to love and serve others this year who may experience pain during the holiday.

Thought for the Day: Let us remember the people who may not always experience happiness during this season. However, let us take comfort and joy in the understanding that God is with us and ultimately in control.

Prayer: Dear Lord, please help us remember that you are always with us and to feel joy in the comfort of your love. Please help us reach out to others during this season so that you may use us to show others your love. Amen

Alanna Feltner, Graduate Student at KSU

December 1

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. Micah 5:2 (NIV)

Micah lived at about the same time as Isaiah and in this verse pre-dicts the coming of ruler (savior)from Bethlehem. This second verse of Chapter  2 was a message of hope in contrast with the first verse that predicted the siege and destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians and the captivity of the Jewish people that followed. So after siege and destruction follows hope in the future with the prophecy of the coming of Christ. Verse two: HOPE! Today, the world is seized with difficulties on many fronts. But if we allow fear and despondency to overcome us we will contribute to the growth of hopelessness. Christmas gives us an opportunity to grasp the hope of a brighter tomorrow and a time to encourage our family and friends to share that hope with us. How will you do this? Will you take time during this Advent season to make the world a better place where you live in your home, church and commu-nity? It takes a bit of focus to seize the opportunity but there is help. When you see a symbol of the season, a wreath, a candle, a decorated tree, be reminded to look also for a way to bring HOPE to those around you.

Thought for the Day: “Hope springs eternal on the human breast” (Alexander Pope)

Prayer: Our Lord and God, lead me to see the opportunities to bring hope to those around me today. Amen

Roger Stiller Retired Educator

December 2

PRINCE OF PEACE

Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the govern-ment shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)

As we think about this familiar verse, let’s consider three areas—pas, present, and future of the last name of our Messiah—The Prince of Peace.

First, at the time of Christ’s birth there existed a sense of order and rel-ative stability called PAX ROMANA. Into this scene, Jesus entered our earth in the little town of Bethlehem. How fitting that He should bring peace not only between Jews and Gentiles, but also offer reconciliation between sinners like us and God. “Peace on Earth.”

Second, today we recognize the Prince of Peace in our personal lives as a calm and soothing Messiah. Even the most devout Christians some-times are afflicted with despair, discord, and division. We need Him to rescue us from our own lives. All around the world, He offers Himself as a comforting presence for people caught up in persecution, migration, and wars. For graphic details, just listen to the news or read the paper—not much “Peace on Earth.”

Third, at an unknown time, but certain future, we look forward to a day when the Prince of Peace will rule with justice and righteousness over all the nations of the earth as He will sit on the throne of David. There will be no more curse of wards or weapons of destruction—only lasting

“Peace on Earth.”

Thought for the Day: How blessed and serene we would be if we would invite the Prince of Peace into our hearts this Advent season. When things go terribly wrong, when disappointments come, or when people hurt or irritate us, we would remember our dear Lord as the source of true peace.

Prayer: Precious Prince of Peace, surround us with your presence like a warm blanket on a cold winter night. May your peace fill our hurting hearts and suffering souls in this sacred season. Amen

Joanne Senyek, Retired Teacher

December 3

As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. I Peter 4:10 (KJV)

“What did you get for Christmas?” To ask and to answer this question was one of the real thrills we youngsters found in Christmas. Sometimes we were more than pleased with that we got, sometimes a little disap-pointed, (it may be a little jealous), but all in all it was wonderful.

There is another aspect which should grow more important as we come closer to the deepest meaning of Christmas. To sense it, we should ask ourselves not what did I get, but what and how did I give? Here should lie our greatest joy.

Sometimes what we give may be of helpful material aid to our loved ones, our friends, the needy, our church. Thoughtful gifts of “things” should not be disparaged. Always, however, there are other gifts which come “without money and without price.”

Striving to tip the balance of giving over getting, we should remember the simple, intangible things near to the heart of Christmas: the unex-pected, friendly telephone call to some lonely, perhaps almost forgotten person; the special letter or other message to a mother or someone long neglected; an expressed appreciation to some one near you whose kind-ness you have too long taken for granted; a favorite dish on the home table, a plum pudding to a neighbor. . .the list is long, the opportunities many.

Thought for the Day: Always let us remember that at Christmas the Christ-child came as a gift. God so loved. . .that he gave. . .The Wise Men came bearing gifts, the shepherds their homage. . .The Christian life is a giving life!

A.W.V. (adapted from The Compiler, December 1958)

Prayer: O God, who hast given us grace at this time to celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ; we laud and magnify thy glorious name for the countless blessings which he hath brought unto us, and we beseech thee to grant that we may ever set forth thy praise in joyful obedience to thy will; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

(“The Collect” from service bulletin, 12/19/1954)

December 4

Wait for the Lord; be strong and courageous. Wait for the Lord. Psalm 27:14

Now without faith it is impossible to please God, for the one who draws near to Him must believe that He exists and rewards those who seek Him. Hebrews 11:6

What’s the longest you’ve had to wait for something? I imagine almost everyone has a memory of Christmas Eve as a child; squeezing your eyes shut, trying with all your might to go to sleep on Christmas Eve. I remember the year I got my first bike, it seemed like sleep would never come and Christmas morning was an eternity away. Waiting is still dif-ficult. We expect everything to be at our fingertips the moment we have the desire for it. This is the world we’re growing into and it’s addicting. We live in a world of downloads, high-speed email, on demand, and microwave ovens. Yet God finds ways of making us wait. Waiting and faith go hand-in-hand.

In Hebrews  11:13 we are reminded that faith involves trust in God’s promise even if the promises of God are fulfilled long after we’re gone. The writer says, “These all died in faith without having received the promises, but they saw them from a distance. . .”

Advent is about faith and waiting. What are you waiting on God for this year? Remember the years of silence as God’s people waited for the Messiah. Take time today, right now, to reflect on the fact that God’s timing is quite different from ours. The story of Jesus birth gives us assurance and joy because even though the waiting lingered for decades, God broke through at just the right time.

Thought for the Day: Are you struggling with a lack of faith? That’s OK. It doesn’t take much faith to get God’s attention. Jesus encouraged his frustrated followers this way: “If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you” (Matthew 17:20). Most of us try to grow a forest in one day. Jesus, however, invites you to begin with a tiny seed. Watch it grow and wait for it to become all that you dreamed it would be. Are you willing to plant faith and wait upon God?

Prayer: Lord, I remember the years of waiting for a Messiah. I’m often impatient with my life. Please teach me to enjoy You and not just the blessings I see in Your hands. Remind me that when I think I’m waiting for an eternity, it really isn’t.

Rick Stout, Director of Christian Education

December 5

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12 (KJV)

It seems as if I have been writing an Advent devotion every year for years. As I read through the scripture suggestions I check off those I remember using until I find the one that “Speaks” to me.

Many of the scriptures have dealt with the word “LIGHT.” To those of you who know me, you know of my struggles with light. I did not try to hide the light under the bushel basket. I might have worn two pair of sunglasses to protect one eye from the light, but I wanted to walk in the light. I did not want to throw a blanket over my head and live in dark-ness, isolated from the world.

Why? The answer is simple. I can tell you in just a few words.

I believe Jesus is the light of the world, and if I follow him, I shall not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.

Thought for the Day: If I follow his teachings, I will inherit the world. I will obtain everlasting life. I will. . . do so many things.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help each of us to keep our eye on the light in front of us so we will have life eternal. Amen

Judy Smith, Typist, writer, crafter, choir member and circle sister to many,

but most importantly a follower of Christ.

December 6

After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice:

“Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”

All the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures. They fell down on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying:

“Amen Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen”

Then one of the elders asked me, “These in white robes—who are they, and where did they come from?”

I answered, “Sir, you know.”

And he said, “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore,

“they are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence. ‘Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat down on them,’ nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; ‘he will lead them to springs of living water.’ ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’” Revelation 7:9-17 (NIV)

By definition, Advent is a time to prepare our hearts and minds to receive Jesus into our world. Just as those before the first coming of

Christ prepared for his birth (Isaiah  40:3, Malachi  3:1), we too must prepare ourselves for Christ’s coming. He has forgiven us—washed us clean by his blood—though we are undeserving of his presence. As Paul states, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God…” (Romans  3:23 NIV). There is no distinction between Jew and Gentile, Muslim or Christian, “us or them”; we are all born in sin, live in sin, and find luxury in sin. However, Paul goes on in the same sentence to express the gift available to us all through Jesus Christ “. . . and all are justified freely by his grace though the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” (Romans 3:24 NIV).

The gift of Christmas is the forgiveness we find in our Lord. This is something we should approach with reverence and focus; shedding the distractions of meaningless red cups and flashy lights. So this Christmas season, let us step back and focus on preparing our hearts for His dwelling.

I speak to you from the depths of eternity. Before the world was formed, I Am! You hear me in the depths of your being, where I have taken up residence. I am Christ in you, the hope of Glory. I, your Lord and Savior, am alive within you. Learn to tune in to My living Presence by seeking Me in silence.

As you celebrate the wonder of My birth in Bethlehem, celebrate also your rebirth into eternal life. This everlasting gift was the sole purpose of My entering your sin-stained world. Receive My gift with awe and humility. Take time to explore the vast dimen-sions of My Love. Allow thankfulness to flow freely from your heart in response to My glorious gift. Let my Peace rule in your heart, and be thankful. Psalm 90:2 (AMP); Colossians 1:27; Colossians 3:15

Ethan Davis, Youth Intern

December 7

For God did not send his Son into the world to be its judge, but to be the savior. John 3:17

God has to be shaking his head saying, “people, PEOPLE, PEOPLE”, as he views the world right now. He sees people killing people, people hurting people with words and weapons, and people just not valuing each other. He wants us to remember that over 2,000 years ago He sent His Son as a sign of love and peace. He made no distinction between people as far as who was to be loved and who was to live in peace.

But God also finds time to smile when he sees people comforting oth-ers and people feeling genuinely sorry when they see an injustice. He smiles when He sees those who help others heal both physically and emotionally and when He watches His children make peace out of tur-moil. At that point He says “people, PEOPLE, PEOPLE”, in a more caring and tender tone.

Do you ever wonder what tone of voice He’ll use for each of us this Christmas season?

Thought for the Day: What if we really treated others as we would like to be treated?

Prayer: Dear Lord, Help us to be your true messengers. Teach us to be Healers, Reconcilers and Peacemakers in your name. We are thankful for the second chances that you give us. Amen

Andrea Denton, Retired Mental Health Worker

December 8

WISH LIST: 1. PEACE

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27 (NIV)

And the peace of God, which transcends all understand-ing, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

As we await the coming of Christ, the Prince of Peace, take a moment to ponder the concept of peace. We can think of peace on so many levels. In today’s world of unrest in Syria and the middle east, we can think globally, of world peace. We can also bring peace down to our individual level and consider our own peace of mind about our families, finances and day to day worries. How comforting to know that the scripture reassures us that we do not need to trouble our hearts or be afraid of discord in the world or in our personal lives. The Prince of Peace came to provide a peace that surpasses understanding for us. Have you ever felt this peace? Have you ever longed for a peace that is not of this world? Christ provides his peace to us as a gift, and we don’t even have to wait till Christmas day or our own birthday to get it! During this season of gift giving, what better reminder for us than to seek peace on all levels of our existence.

Thought for the Day: How easy it is to get caught up in the stress and overwhelming demands of the season. By taking a minute to refocus our priorities on Christ, we can change our whole perspective on the day. How awesome is it that we can turn to God and receive a peace that transcends all understanding.

Prayer: Gracious and wonderful God, we come to you seeking peace. Help us to take the things of unrest in our lives and turn them over to you. We ask this in Jesus’ name, that we might better touch others in comfort and joy on your behalf. Amen

Carol Pozuc, retired teacher

December 9

Sing for joy to God our strength. Shout aloud to the God of Jacob. Psalm 81:1

A new perspective on joy:

At Christmas, the notion of joy comes in many forms. For my wife and I joy came in July of this year in the form of a child, our first grandchild, Lena Marie Kravitz. I really did not anticipate the exact amount of joy this would bring me, and my perception of joy has forever changed. Joy: simple, innocent, and pure.

The ultimate joy for all mankind also came in the form of a child, Jesus, who was sent to us from his Father so that we may all experience eter-nal joy: simple, innocent, and pure.

Thought for the Day: May we be mindful of the ultimate joy that Christmas and its meaning brings to all of us.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of joy you gave us all at Christmas. May we experience that joy and keep it throughout the year.

Mark Ryland, Grandpa, husband, professor

December 10

For when two or three come together in my name, there am I with them. Matthew 18:20 (NIV)

This church has been like a second home to me. My sister and I went through confirmation together here, played handbells under the direc-tion of our dad, and this past summer, I stood by as the maid of honor as she was married in the sanctuary. I love this place. The people I’ve met, the missions I’ve been a part of, Dr. Palmer’s sermons—they’ve all helped me grow in faith more than I could ever have imagined. This past summer when I conducted interviews for the church’s bicentennial, I learned even more about this building and its history. Though everyone who interviewed had a unique story, I was surprised at how many had similar things to say. That this church had welcomed them when oth-ers hadn’t. That everyone in the congregation was friendly and invit-ing. They always learned something from Dr. Palmer’s messages, were always moved by the music. And most of all, that this church felt like home.

Thought for the Day: We are so fortunate to grow and worship in such a strong and loving church environment. May we never take that for granted, and may we always let those who are searching know they can find a home here.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we thank you for a church that is so united in spirit, in faith, and in service. We pray for your guidance and strength to con-tinue to do Your good works, within our own church walls and beyond. Amen

Brittany Brode, Video Editor

December 11

AN EXPRESSION OF FAITH

No, dear brothers, I am still not all I should be but I am bring-ing all my energies to bear on this one thing: Forgetting what is behind and looking forward to what lies ahead. Philippians 3:13

The scripture above was taken from Paul’s writing to his Philippian friends and all of God’s people in Philippi. Some writers have said, “This letter is the most personal of all of his letters and a testimony reflect-ing on this phase of his life.” I have always enjoyed reading Paul’s let-ters to the early churches because of his words of encouragement and the strong feelings of love and thankfulness he expressed so well. It is remarkable to me because most, if not all, of his letters were written while he was in prison because of what he believed! Can you imagine the conditions and circumstances he was in and yet his words provided encouragement and instructions for living in harmony with others and in obedience to God. When I contrast Paul’s circumstances with mine, I am humbled.

The more experience I get, the more certain I am of Paul’s expression of faith to the early Christians. When God looks at us, He is more inter-ested in our hearts than our heights, the state of our souls rather than our stature, and the structure of our faces reflecting faith rather than fear. He doesn’t see us as too old, too young, too small, or too big. He won’t notice the color of our hair, the source of our W-2 income, or the work we did or do! He zeroes in on the things that matter—our response to His love for us and our concern for other people. (Matt 22:37-39) This month we celebrate the birthday of the one who made this a reality. And, I am certain, if Paul were alive today, he would be writing to all of us who are in union with Christ Jesus! His ancient words would be just as relevant today! See you in Church.

Thought for the Day: When we give away what the Lord has given to us, He is honored, others are helped, and we are blessed.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the lifeline we call prayer.

Nelson Madden Retired Educator

December 12

ADVENT AND THE TWO GREATEST COMMANDMENTS

Jesus replied, “Love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, soul, and mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. The sec-ond most important is similar. Love your neighbor as much as you love yourselfMatthew 20:37–40 (The Living Bible Paraphrased, 1973)

Advent provides the Christian opportunity to practice the two greatest Commandments. Love the Lord, your God, and love your neighbor as you love yourself. Love is seen in the act of giving. During Advent, we give to the Lord through completing our 2015 year pledge, making our 2016 pledge, our Christmas offering, and attending the Advent activities at our church. We express our love of our neighbor by our charitable giving to agencies such as umcor and unicef and delivering Christmas baskets to our local neighbors.

Advent is the time when we thank the Father for His son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit that the Son sent to guide us until He, the Son, shall return again.

Thought for the Day: Make a Christmas list, not of what you want for Christmas, but rather what you are thankful for this season (e.g. friends, family, or health).

Prayer: Lord Jesus, be with us this Advent season and in the days to come, especially with those who are in financial need, unemployed, in ill health, hungry, and often forgotten. Amen

Ralph F. Darr, Jr., Father, grandfather and great-grandfather,

one many times blessed by the Lord.

December 13

Then he said to them all, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23

It occurred to me recently that buried in the words “adventure” and “adventurous” is the word “advent”! I never thought of Advent being a period of adventure, but it certainly is. Just think about it:

. . .2000 years ago, Mary and Joseph were beginning an adventure beyond their dreams. Yes, they knew they were going to be parents and that God would play a significant part, but shepherds—wisemen—a star —an angry king – a flight into Egypt? Not the kind of adventure most new parents would ever experience.

. . .Jesus’ life and ministry were certainly adventurous as well. Going from being a carpenter to being the most important Messiah the world has ever known was an adventure from which we surely have benefitted.

. . .Then the call to his disciples, “follow me”, meant he was not going on this adventure by himself. I doubt if those disciples ever imagined what they were getting into. Even after Jesus’ death and Resurrection, their lives took on what one can only call “adventurous”.

Thought for the Day: Are we preparing for that adventure? As fol-lowers and disciples of Jesus Christ, are we ready to take on the role of adventurers? Let’s use this time to renew our willingness to learn all that God, through Jesus Christ, expects of us .

Prayer: Gracious God, we can not possibly know all You have in store for us. But help us to prepare for whatever adventure lies ahead. May we find strength and assurance through Your presence in our lives. Amen

Rev. Douglas Denton, Minister of Pastoral Care

December 14

“Some of us have been given special ability as apostles; to others he has given the gift of being able to preach well; some have spe-cial ability in winning people to Christ, helping them to trust him as their Savior; still others have a gift for caring for God’s people as a shepherd does his sheep, leading and teaching them in the ways of God.” Ephesians 4:11 (LB)

Look around our church. Take time to appreciate the unique qualities of each member of our congregation. Together, we are able to do God’s work, to tell the story of his supreme love for each of us. Our God-given gifts allow us to serve him with comfort and joy. We have a church full of singers, servers, teachers, preachers, writers, readers, encouragers, leaders and followers. If we all had the same gifts, delivering the mes-sage of God’s love would be challenging.

The church is the people! People willing to share their gifts to tell the story of God’s love.

What is your gift?

How are you using that gift to share God’s love?

Thought for the Day: What is my role in delivering the story of God’s love? How can I be a giving part of this congregation? What is my gift?

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to recognize and use my gift so that I am able to share your love. . .“Here I am, Lord”

Karen Beck Retired Educator

December 15

Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:4-5

Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law? Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.” Matthew 22:36-38

No, I am not becoming forgetful. Yes, the two scriptures above are pretty repetitive. One neat thing about them is that they’re from two very dif-ferent periods of time. Deuteronomy is well considered to be from the 7th century bc, whereas Matthew was written sometime between ad 70 and 200. And while it should be no surprise that Jesus quoted the Old Testament so fluently (it was, after all, the only “testament” in existence at the time and he was, after all, a Jewish rabbi), I always find it comfort-ing to read both and know that this message, this stripped down and rather obvious guidance, had remained identical for well over 700 years. What do they say? If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.

But I love reading these scriptures even more when you place them in context in the Bible. When you do, you see that the second reading is vastly different than the first because Jesus adds, immediately after,

“And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt 39-40).

As I write this, one of the “hot” media topics is the fact that Starbucks decided to offer a rather plain and unadorned cup for this year’s holiday season. There are many people who feel that this is one more step in the de-classification of Christmas. There is a war on Christmas, they feel, and they want their voices heard. And if you read some of the comments and statements, some of those voices are. . . well, they’re mean. They’re divisive. They’re arrogant. They’re unkind. And they’re judgmental. Somehow, because one is not up in arms over a plain red cup, they are not a Christian. They have no faith. They are not worthy of being called a son or daughter of Christ. Feel free to substitute the “Starbucks cup scandal” for any number of other “hot” topics being bantered about today; the whole “issue” is an issue.

Here’s the thing, though. I don’t believe God gave those voices the authority to judge. Psalm 75:7 reads “But God is the Judge; He puts down one and exalts another.” Similarly Psalm 50:6 reads “And the heavens declare His righteousness, For God Himself is judge.” And then God passed that authority to his Son; “And Jesus said, “For judgment I came

into this world, so that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may become blind” (John 9:39). And of course Jesus passed on His own guidance—pretty clearly too—‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

So this season, this Christmas, Hanukkah, holiday, Kwanzaa season, I am going to try and live according to the Lord’s commandment, accord-ing to His example (which we see again and again and again in the Bible). I am going to love my neighbor as myself. Not my Starbucks-hating or my Dunkin-Donuts-loving neighbor, not my tall, short, skinny, fat neighbor, not my Christian, Jewish, Muslim neighbor, not my American, Cuban, French neighbor, not my white, black or Latino neighbor. I am going to try to simply love my neighbor. Why? Because Jesus didn’t add any adjectives to his commandment. And because I’m going to apply the same lesson learned about the 700 year time span for the first two scriptures and apply it to the almost 2,000 year time span for Jesus’ statement. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.

Thought for the Day: In accordance with John  8:12, remember, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate can-not drive out hate; only love can do that.” (Dr. Martin Luther King)

Prayer: Thank you, Father, for teaching us the standard. Help us to remember the clear and simple command given to us by your Son. Give us the faith to accept Your words as written, the courage to act upon them in service to You and others, and the strength to live our lives by Your example.

Maureen McFarland USMC, retired

Aeronautics, KSU

December 16

A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. Isaiah 11:1

When our son was in kindergarten, I used to take him to a nearby farm to cut down a tree for our Christmas celebration. With axe in hand, we were directed to a beautiful scotch pine. He expressed a real sense of remorse as the axe dug deeply into the tree. “Daddy, why didn’t it bleed?”

“Do trees have feelings?” “Will it die?” he asked. The following year we returned to the same spot. Now, a stump occupied the place where the scotch pine once stood, but there was something more. A small green branch was growing from the stump. “Look, Daddy!” remarked my five-year-old, “It didn’t die after all.”

Advent is a season of hope, a time to reflect upon the meaning of God’s coming to us. “The ax of God’s judgment falls upon our entangled lives” (Matthew 3:10). We hear the prophetic word of God calling out to us in our wilderness world. It points to the “God of hope who makes good the promise of Scripture” (Romans 15:5). “Jesse’s tree shall blossom again” (Isaiah 11:1). Every tree is a symbol of God’s promise. Born in a wooden manger, he worked over a carpenter’s bench, spoke of sawdust and beams, and died on a wooden cross! Great David’s greater Son, born in Bethlehem, brings life, joy, and peace. Our hope is still alive!

Rev. Jerry Butcher (from The Compiler, December 1989)

Prayer: Almighty God, who in thy providence has made all ages a preparation for the Kingdom of thy Son; we beseech thee to make ready our hearts for the brightness of thy glory and the fullness of thy bless-ing in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

(“The Collect” from service bulletin, 11/28/1954)

December 17

Put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wran-gling and slander, together with all malice, and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you. Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved chil-dren, and live in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 4:31-5:2

For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of light—for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true. Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. Ephesians 5:8-11

These days there is so much going on in our country and in the world that it is hard to find anything that brings light and love into our hearts and souls. People are hungry, living in fear, full of hate and despair, dying. It is not the prettiest of pictures to paint at Christmas time.

And yet. . .still, we celebrate with joy the birth of a tiny child, a baby born in a stable so many years ago, who would grow into a teacher, a Savior. This baby, Jesus, offers us unimaginable love and light and hope. In the midst of all the ugliness of “real” life there is a star shining so brightly over and in this child that it burns itself into our hearts giving us the opportunity and joy to share Christ’s wondrous light with the world.

Let us keep Christ’s light alive in our hearts and let it shine through our lives now and through out the coming year.

Thought for the Day: “For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. . . .” Ephesians 5:8

Prayer: Creator God, we thank you for the most wondrous of gifts, your son, Jesus. Help us to celebrate the birth of Christ all year through, by shining his light through our hearts to be as a beacon of love and life to a dark and suffering world. Make our lives an “Alleluia!” Amen

Judith Nedel, Retired Production Manager

December 18

In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16

Bombings in Paris, terrorists in the Middle East, refugees fleeing war: Man’s inhumanity to man seems to be everywhere. Why are people doing this to each other? Where does such anger and poison come from? I don’t have answers.

I was recently watching a YouTube video on leadership. The speaker described a situation early in his career when he was a college employee. As he was walking past a line of incoming freshmen students, he stopped to give out candy and joke with several standing in line. He then recounts what happened four years later, a young woman came up to him and told him that he changed the direction of her life. She was one of those freshmen, with whom he joked. His humor and kindness persuaded her that she had chosen the right college. Just at the point that homesickness was overwhelming her, and she thought about get-ting out of line and going back home: he came along.

The funny thing about the incident was he didn’t remember any of it! She had to give him the details.

As I read the passage about holding out our light, I’m reminded of this YouTube clip. In this troubled world, what can I do to remind others of the selfless gift that was given for me in Jesus Christ? As his light of love, generosity, and forgiveness are seen in my day-to-day actions; perhaps I too will touch someone. And maybe I will never know that I did it.

So the command is not to change the world but to just let my light shine. That I can do!

Thought for the Day: As we go about our daily activities, may we do so with the awareness that we touch others—whether that is our inten-tion or not. May we be more deliberate that our actions speak of kind-ness, thoughtfulness and generosity.

Prayer: In some small way today, help me to bring joy and peace to someone when our paths cross.

Jonathan Smith Professor and Pastoral Counselor

December 19

“Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. Therefore, keep awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the eve-ning, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake.” Mark 13:33–37

The season of Advent is a time for many things. It is time for generosity, a time for family, and a time for celebration. It is also a time for tradi-tions. Most of us have time-honored rituals with family and friends that will be reenacted each Christmastime, and that must not be missed; welcoming guests into our homes and hearts. This is part of the beauty and joy this seasons provides to all people, not just Christians. But as Christians, we must heed Jesus and “keep awake.” We must not rou-tinely go through our lives without care and attention to what is around us and what opportunities God is presenting.

The world changes. We see constantly in the newspapers, on the radio, and on television the dramatic and sometimes frightening changes that are happening to and around our world. There are daunting challenges in store for us and for our children and grandchildren. Keep alert! There are things that can be done now, locally, to let the light of Christ shine through us on this Christmas season. If we pray, and open our hearts and minds to the Holy Spirit, we can be guided in ways we never expected.

During Advent, we are celebrating the coming of the Lord in the form of the Christ-child over 2,000 years ago, but we are promised that he will come again. As we ready our homes for the festivities, we must take care of this world, for the Master of the house will come home.

Thought for the Day: During Advent, we celebrate the coming of our Savior, and must keep our hearts and minds open to God’s call. Stay awake and waken the world.

Prayer: Dear Lord, you sent a Deliverer to us to cleanse us of our sins and restore our relationship with you. Guide us, awaken us to your Spirit, that we might make a heaven on this earth, and that we might take faithful care of the creation You have entrusted to our care. Amen

Adam C. Alderson, Church Business Manager

December 20

“The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the Lord.

“This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord.

“I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the Lord.

“For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.” Jeremiah 31:31-34

As humans, we tend to mess up. We mess up a lot. Our hearts are dark; we lie, cheat, and act like we can never do wrong. Justification makes us feel invincible and like we can do anything without punishment. We catch ourselves thinking or saying, “I’m not as terrible as that guy” or

“It’s just this one time”. Justification sneaks in and tells us it is okay to sin even though we know it’s not right.

Could you imagine if someone told you that you had to take punishment for all of the things you’ve done wrong against God? None of us would make it into heaven. It is as simple as that; we all have fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Fortunately, God came to earth as Jesus to fix that. God came as the Messiah to take on our sins as if they were his own. He entered this world just like the rest of us did, as a baby (exclud-ing Adam and Eve that is) and was destined to die a terrible death. To take the punishment for all of us, for you, your children, that stranger down the road, and even the murderers and rapist. Christ was born to be the ultimate sacrifice that we could never fulfill and did so without running away. God lived the perfect, sinless human life and still took

the punishment for our sins without question. He knew what was going to happen. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is.

Thought for the Day: This Christmas season, take time to remember the new covenant that God made with us through Christ. He made us perfectly in his image, but we still messed up. Through this new cove-nant, we couldn’t break it like we had with first covenant he had with the people of Israel and Judah. We didn’t have to redeem ourselves any more because He did for us, but not because we were awesome. We were anything but awesome. God loves us, all of us, so unconditionally that He himself took on the burden of all our sin and has forgiven us no mat-ter where we are in life.

Amanda Reed, Youth Intern

December 21

We must grow up in every way into Christ . . .Ephesians 4:15

You are the light of the world. Let your light so shine before oth-ers that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14,16

When Mavis and I first moved to Kent, there was a little spruce tree in the back of our yard that was too closely planted to other trees. We moved it to an open space in our front yard, which was easy to do, because the tree was just two or three feet high.

Today it is more than twenty feet high. During Advent, I decorate it with little white bulbs. It takes 1,500 bulbs to cover the tree! I use a sixteen foot pole to lift the light strands to the highest branches. Last year the pole was quite adequate. This year I had to stand on a stepladder with pole in hand in order to reach the top. The tree is rapidly growing!

It takes some effort to get all those bulbs up—and some perseverance when the light strand slips off the branch where I was trying to hang it—but what a result! At night, the tree shines gloriously. People in the neighborhood have often stopped and commented about it.

To me, that tree is a wonderful symbol of the two Scripture passages above. It is first of all a symbol of growth, and how we are to “grow up” spiritually. If the tree had stayed small, it never would have made much of an impact on our street; but because it grew – gradually and often imperceptibly from one year to the next—it came into a position to really shine. So we are called to grow in faith! Our spiritual growth will likely be gradual and even imperceptible in the short term, but as we continue to open ourselves to God’s Word and the guidance of God’s Spirit, we come to be able to make a real difference in the world.

At the same time, the tree makes a difference because it “lets its light shine”! Every night, a timer turns on the power, and the tree shows forth a blaze of light that inspires many who pass by. So through the empow-erment of God’s Spirit we can shine forth the light of Christ, to bless the lives of people around us. May we embody the words of Jesus during this Advent season—“to let your light so shine before others, that they may see your good works, and give glory to your Father in heaven.”

Thought for the Day: Keep growing in your faith, so that the light of Christ can shine more and more from you into the darkness of today’s world.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are the true Light; let me come into such a con-nection with You that Your light can brightly shine from me.

Dr. David Palmer, senior pastor

December 22

HOPE OVERCOMES THE FEAR OF CELEBRATION

And we rejoice in our hope. . .and hope does not disappoint us. Romans 5:1–5

Children have a great natural capacity for enjoying themselves. Anna has a short attention span at 15 months, and touches every base several times in the course of a day—but she relishes all of it. A little later she will begin to stay with one activity fro much longer, and I know she will experience what we all experienced as children. She will play the same game over and over again, as if she were going to be playing it for the rest of her life. We adults know, of course, that bath time and bed time will come, and she will have to leave the fun behind for a while. But the child will enjoy the fun as if it would never end.

Sadly, as we grow older, we focus so much on the fact that happy activi-ties cannot last forever, that we don’t enjoy them while they are happen-ing. When something very, very goof happens, we are a little fearful of rejoicing too much, lest we cause it to end sooner.

Thought got the Day: Hope is that gift of God that enables us to celebrate with great rejoicing, even though we know that happy times may be fol-lowed by hard times.

Prayer: O God, hope does not disappoint us, and we can rejoice in our hope, because our security is in you, and you do not change. Help us to laugh and sing and dance as freely as children, so that when the day comes that we cannot do these things, the memory will bring a smile to our hearts. Amen

Rev. James E. Magaw, Storyteller and grandpa

(Taken from the 1993 Advent Devotional Booklet from when Rev. Magaw was Senior Pastor)

December 23

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the govern-ment will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his peo-ple with peace. Psalm 29:11

Do you feel the anticipation building? Lights are going up, malls are busy and holiday songs have taken over the radio waves. Christmas sea-son is upon us! In the midst of all the to-do lists, wish-list-making, and wish-list-fulfilling, I often remind myself to slow down, to be fully pres-ent in each day. Christmas time is supposed to instill us with a sense of peace, yet sometimes we find that through the hustle and bustle of preparing, peace may be lacking. During Advent, we read Scripture about the stories of those who waited for Jesus, while recognizing that we all have a story. Our stories are ones that reveal both joy and sorrow during this season. I find comfort and joy as we remember how to be people who wait well, through good and bad. I don’t want to miss the beauty in the waiting this Christmas.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the fresh reminder that Advent, a period of waiting, not only defines who we are waiting for, but also defines us—the people who wait. Create in me a clean heart; renew your steadfast spirit within me. Fill me with awe, wonder and thankfulness as we read through stories of your people leading up to the birth of Jesus. Remind us that we continue to wait; to focus on, and share, stories of peace and hope. Teach me what this looks like in my day-to-day journey growing nearer to you. Give me the boldness to love generously and the patience to wait well. Thank you for the greatest gift of love, grace and perfect peace through Jesus. Amen

Lynnette Begue-Lavery, Financial Coordinator

December 24

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

This year again there will be tens of thousands of words written about the message and spirit of Christmas. On the radio, in the press, from the pulpit we will be told that Christmas means peace on earth, the spirit of giving and sacrifice, love, good cheer, mirth and many other things.

While these are true in a measure, the real meaning of Christmas lies elsewhere. We will find it expressed most pointedly in these words from Luke  2:11, which should make music in our hears, especially at this season: “For unto you is born. . .a Saviour.”

The very heart of the gospel—the good news—which has made men, women and children overflow with joy throughout the centuries—is the announcement that we have a saviour.

A Saviour! The meaning of the word is too little understood. A sav-iour is one who delivers, one who rescues us in a situation from which we are powerless to save ourselves. This is the message which makes Christmas meaningful; God has provided a Deliverer! This wonder-ful message was written into His very name; He was to be called Jesus because he would save people from their sins.

But there is another word in the message to the shepherds which should likewise be underlined in our hearts. “Unto you is born. . .a Saviour.”

Thought for the Day: The whole message of the scripture, including the words of Jesus Himself, assures us that this statement applies to us. God is not willing that any should perish. Hence, a Saviour was sent!

Prayer: May God deepen the realization of these things in our hearts and make us know the true Christmas joy of one who belongs to Him who came that we might have life and have it more abundantly.

Rev. Carl T. Pierson (adapted from “Notes from the Study,”

The Compiler, December 1965)

United Methodist Church of Kent 1435 E. Main St. Kent, OH 44240

www.kentmethodist.org