2016

Advent Devotionals

Dallas First Christian Church 1079 SE Jefferson Street

Dallas, OR 97338 503-623-2569

The season of Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day:

First Sunday of Advent –November 27

Second Sunday of Advent – December 4

Third Sunday of Advent – December 11

Fourth Sunday of Advent – December 18

Christmas Eve – December 24, 7:00 pm - Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service

Christmas Day – December 25, 10:30 am only - Worship Service

New Year’s Eve – December 31 7 pm New Year’s Eve Party

New Year’s Day – January 1, 10:30 am only - Worship Service

The candles of Advent serve to remind us to open our hearts and reach out our hands to comfort and help all God’s people so they too would be prepared to receive their Lord and Savior.

Advent is a time in the church where we begin to intentionally prepare for the birth of Jesus. Our world has been preparing for Christmas since September and it has become almost old by the time December comes around. Advent is the four Sundays preceding Christmas Eve where we take the time to remember Jesus’ birth but to also realize that each year we wait for it anew. Because we know what has happened, maybe we lose some of the anticipation, yet the season of Advent is meant to return that anticipation to us.

November 24, 2016

Dear First Christian Church Family

As we enter the time of Advent, the four Sundays leading up to Christmas morning, we enter into a time of preparation, a time of waiting for the birth and coming of Jesus. It is so much more than the tree, decorations, parties, music, and shopping, it is a time where we prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Jesus, Immanuel. There is so much in this world will drown out the simple, still voice of God that comes into the world through God’s Son, Jesus.

This year’s theme is Prepare the Way. This was John the Baptist’s mission, to prepare the people for the coming of and revelation of Jesus in their midst. We too, are called to not just prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Jesus, but to help prepare and announce to the world that Christmas is about the birth of Jesus. The promised birth of God’s Son into a broken and lost world, much like ours. A few people who recognized the promise of God and the fulfillment through Jesus. The way this quiet and simple

birth changed the world and continues to change us and the world today. As we begin the season of Advent and journey to the celebration of Christmas, I want to encourage each of us to pause regularly and remember the simple message of God’s love that came and still comes through simple ways and simple people. It is our hope that this devotional will help us to remember that simple message of Love.

May Immanuel, God with us, be very present and real to you and your family through the season and coming year and the Gift of God’s Love shine through us to the world around we live in each day.

Merry Christmas from your Church Family.

Pastor Darren Anderson

November 27 Expectant Waiting

Matthew 24:36 “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

Waiting is hard. Waiting for something we know is coming and know will happen is hard because of the anticipation of its arrival. Sometime we are waiting for something that we believe will happen but have no idea of the when and wherefore can be even more difficult because we are always looking for signs, announcements, and possibilities for the happening. This is Advent. That anticipation for the arrival of Jesus, who we know has come as a baby born and will be coming again as a triumphant redeemer and restorer. We wait each year during the season of Advent, waiting for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. With all its celebrations and events, we still wait for that simple birth. Something we know is coming and when it will happen. We also wait for the return of Jesus. We believe that Jesus will return one day and set things right, yet we don’t know specifically when or what exactly it will be like. Jesus reminds us that no one knows the time or the day except God the Father. So we wait. Wait for the coming of Jesus at Christmas again and continue to wait in expectation for the coming of Jesus and the new world that will be ushered in with the return of Jesus. May this Advent be a season of expectant waiting full of love and care for all of humanity.

Holy God, as we wait for the revelation of Jesus in the manger and in Your timing, the revelation of Jesus the returning Redeemer, we pray for Your Presence to sustain and deliver us as we show love to all those around us. Amen.

Darren Anderson

November 28 The Way is Prepared

God has already prepared a way for all us. just like he already has a plan set for each of our lives. Like mine for example, I want to be a Pastor when i grow up, but I’m not sure if that is the plan God has for me in my future. I know God is working through me though and He'll reveal His plan for me as I get older. Only God knows His plan for me. Kinda like at Christmas time. we prepare for the holiday by putting up decorations, lights, a Christmas tree, and even go out and buy presents for family and friends. The thought of giving to others is a wonderful feeling. As is family being together and celebrating. Do people actually really know the true meaning of Christmas, i sure hope they do. On this day, God prepared a way for a Savior to be born. One that would eventually give His life for our sins. That was God's plan for Jesus. So, this Advent season remember that you should be Thankful to our Lord for all He has done for you and all that He has planned for you.

Luke 3:4-6 As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: "A voice of one calling in the wilderness, Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him. Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low. The crooked roads shall become straight. the rough ways smooth. And all the people will see God's salvation.'

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for preparing a way for all of us. what you prepare is just amazing. we should always listen to you. even if we don't feel like listening to anyone. You are the King that washed away our sins. I thank you Lord for preparing a way for us to have a

great future. Anything you plan always turns out to be great. even if you think that it is not the right thing for us, then you go back and plan it again. you don't ever give up on us. I thank you in all the ways there are. we love you so much, and i pray this in your son's holy name, Jesus Christ, Amen

Mikayla Cavallucci

November 29 Preparing our Hearts

One of the most interesting things for me to study in the scriptures is the prophecy foretelling the Messiah. For thousands of years God’s chosen messengers were preparing the way for Jesus. As far back as Moses, when writing the creation story, he spoke of Eve’s “offspring” crushing the enemy’s head in Gen. 3:15. Throughout the Old Testament we see many references to a redeemer, a savior, a King whose reign will never end. For hundreds of years Israel lay silent—waiting for the coming of the King of kings, or another prophecy. One day a simple Jewish girl received a visit from the angel Gabriel. He said, “Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you! Don’t be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God! You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David. And he will reign over Israel forever; his Kingdom will never end!” (Luke 2:28-33). You can only imagine the surprise and concern that Mary felt at that moment. In fact, scriptures tell us she was confused and disturbed. However, Mary responded just the way God expected her to. She said yes. She was willing to do whatever the Lord God asked of her.

A few days later, Mary visited her cousin, Elizabeth, who was pregnant with the one who would one day prepare the way for this son of hers. This baby within Elizabeth instantly recognized the presence of God and his little spirit was glad and he leaped with joy within her! At this moment, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied about the baby within Mary’s womb. Mary didn’t have to say a word to her cousin about her condition or the situation she was in. Since it was only days after her meeting with Gabriel, she wasn’t even showing! Yet, the Holy Spirit filled Elizabeth with His message of the hope they’d been waiting for. How awesome to think that God is still preparing us for the coming of His Son, Jesus. He will come again, and He will collect us and take us home to live with Him forever. Is your heart prepared? Are you willing? Does God’s Word have fertile soil in which to grow? Are you ready to receive Jesus and place Him on the throne of your heart? I hope so.

Dearest Father God, We ask today that you will continue to prepare our hearts, and finish the work you have begun in us. May we wait expectantly for your love to come down to earth a second time. We know from your Word that you sent your one and only Son to earth because you love each and every one of us so much. Jesus came as a sacrifice for us and to save us from our sins. Forgive us, Father, when we go astray and find ourselves in disbelief. May we always keep our hope and faith in You. Amen

Heather Ivey

November 30 The "B" Side Christmas Carol

Micah 5:5a

I heard the bells on Christmas Day There old familiar carols play, and wild and sweet the words repeat of peace on earth, good will to men I thought how, as the day had come, the belfries of all Christendom had rolled along th' unbroken song of peace on earth, good will to men and in despair I bowed my head: "There is no peace on earth," I said "For hate is strong, and mocks the song of peace on earth, goodwill to men" Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: "God is not dead, nor doth He sleep; the wrong shall fail, the right prevail, with peace on earth, good will to men. "Then ringing, singing on its way, the world revolved from night to day, a voice, a chime, a chant sublime of peace on earth good will to men!

That hymn was written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. You hardly ever here that carol, but it makes you think, the world hasn't really changed since the 1800's.

We listen to the Christmas carols and feel a warm fuzzy feeling and hope for peace on earth. But there is no peace without the Prince of Peace. And by allowing God's light and love to flow through us, we can help at bringing true peace to a world longing for peace, real peace. t's give the gift of love to all we meet in God's world. Merry Christmas!

Larry Rosen, Elder

December 1 Be Ready

Matthew 24:36-44

So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. How do you prepare for something you know is going to be happening? Growing up, when my parents were out for the evening, we would wait until the last minute to do our chores, clean up our mess, get in bed, etc. because we had a good idea of when they would be home. There were times, though, that they would come home early and surprise us. In school, I usually procrastinated getting papers, projects and assignments done. Sometimes though, something happened that kept me from completing them in a timely manner. How are we to wait for Jesus? Waiting for Jesus’ coming is not about sitting back and passively waiting but actively participating in what God is doing in the midst of our world, our communities, our lives. I think the best way to do so is to live each as He has showed and taught us, by loving God the Father and loving and caring for our neighbors. By doing so, we will be aware of God’s presence around us and throughout the world and see others as God sees them. We watch for opportunities work for justice and show mercy and forgiveness to others. May we wait in eager expectation of God the Father sending Jesus at the proper time, as we participate in what God is doing in today’s world!

Gracious God, May our eyes and hearts be turned toward you and our hands and feet be actively working as we wait for the coming of Jesus. Amen.

Darren Anderson

December 2 Movin’ on In

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

The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son, Generous inside and out, true from start to finish. (Message) John’s telling of the ‘birth’ of Jesus is very different from Matthew’s and Luke’s. While Matthew and Luke talk about the people, and places; John’s telling is much more focused on the person of Jesus and His place with the Father from before time began. Even with the more spiritual focus, John still reminds us that Jesus came and made His dwelling among us or moved into the neighborhood. The physical birth of Jesus, where He became flesh and blood, lived His life, died and rose again three days later, was and still is a turning point in our history. What we can learn from Jesus about loving God and loving our neighbor are just as relevant today as they were during His life. His death and resurrection gave us the redemption and reconciliation back into a relationship with God the Father and the Gift of the Spirit is present with us today. When Jesus moved in, He changed the world for the better, when we choose to follow what He shows us.

Gracious God, may the gift of Jesus turn our world around as we choose to live as He showed us how to live. Help us to remember that Jesus moved into our world and continues to be with us today. Amen.

Darren Anderson

December 3 Preparing for Christmas

The week after Thanksgiving on a chilly Saturday morning, we would get up early and have breakfast. We would dress in our heavy coats, boots, and gloves. We would then go up the hill behind the house and get the right tree. While we were helping Daddy, Mom would be in the warm kitchen doing Christmas baking including home baked bread. After we took off our coats and washed our hands, we would get a piece of warm, fresh bread with butter and strawberry jam and a cup of hot cocoa. Man, was it good. Our Dad would go outside and bring in a very tall ladder and put it in front of the washing machine. He would stand on the washing machine to open the door to the attic where we kept all the stuff to decorate the house for Christmas. We kids would help carry all the boxes into the front room. Daddy put the lights on the tree and then we would go outside and help Daddy put up the lights. We had fun helping with the decorating. While we decorated the tree, we would play Christmas music and sing along with it. After the tree was decorated, Daddy would lift me up on his shoulders so I could put the angel on top of the tree. My Mom had made the angel and she was pretty. I remember the day I found out that Daddy was Santa Claus at our school. I found out because when I went up to tell Santa what I wanted for Christmas, I saw that Santa was wearing the big red ruby ring that my Dad only wore when he got all dressed up. From that day until now I never told anyone what I knew.

Janice Baker

December 4 Preparing the Way

Matthew 3:1-3

In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’” John the Baptist was a character. Dressed in camel’s hair, living in the wilderness, probably didn’t smell very well, and ate locust and wild honey, if he were around today, we would probably dismiss him as a strange crackpot who words that many didn’t want to hear. Yet . . . Yet this is the person who was sent to prepare the way for Jesus and announce and introduce Him to the world. As John called the people to the Jordan River for a baptism of repentance, he was also on the lookout for the One who would be coming after him, who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and would bring about transformation and change in the world. John announced Jesus’ coming and then pointed out Jesus to the people and John’s disciples and told them to follow Jesus. In many ways, we are called to carry on the message of John. We may not wear the clothes and look like John, but our message is similar, to show the people around us who Jesus is and point them to follow Jesus. How do we do that? I think there are so many ways in which we can point out who Jesus is. One way is through our words and actions. The more we live and speak as Jesus would, the more people will see Jesus in us. Another simple way is through a simple invitation to join us for worship, a church event, a conversation about who Jesus is and means to us, a life

change to live according to the love and grace that Jesus gives to us. As we do so, we will begin to see lives changed and in turn communities and the world. Today, look for opportunities to show others who Jesus is and to invite them to follow and have a deeper relationship with Him.

Revealing God, help us to point out to those around us, who Jesus is and invite them to follow as we too follow where Jesus leads. Give us opportunities to be with people who need You, words to share with them, and courage to share who You are to us. Amen.

Darren Anderson

December 5 "Don't make promises you can't keep!"

John 10:10 “ .I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly..."

"People, places and things were never meant to give us life. God alone is the author of a fulfilling life." Gary Smalley & John Trent

Advent is a wonderful season. People go out of their way to find joy and happiness. The world advertises 'things'. We make lists of wants. We struggle with being alone or with crowds. We make promises with the gifts we give, "this will make you happy!" I remember Christmases of long ago. We would get clothes we needed but didn't want and toys we wanted but didn't need. I recall that the toys would many times end up broken and the promise of which would be lost. Such is the way of the world's promises. There is One whose promises are kept completely. John, the Baptist, proclaimed the fulfillment of promise, "Behold, The Lamb of God." John knew the promise of God. He also knew God is faithful. There is a life change coming. It

is the promise of God. All we have to do to prepare is open our hearts and minds to this Lamb that God provides. This is a promise we can trust completely.

Faithful Father, in preparation for this advent we lay our live before You. Grant us the joys of Your promises so we can live the lives of promise. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Gary Ivey

December 6 Preparing The Way

Read Genesis1:26-28

"your optimum body weight is..."

I sat on one of 'those' machines at Rite-Aid to check my weight and blood pressure. According to my height I'm stepping into the obese category. When it told me that I immediately told it to be a little more encouraging. Besides, I know if I were taller I would be exactly the right weight. However, God didn't make me 6'9". Preparing the way consists of realizing the truth. We are who we are. All of us, though different, have a need. Now I'm not talking about weight, but brokenness, sin, depressive darkness that creeps in to our lives. As we accept that we are who we are, then we can actually see that our only way out is ,in fact, 'The Way'. Knowing that and finding The Way calls us into seeking Him. In the scriptures, Israel looked to the prophets. The church seeks to find The Way by study and prayer. It also finds help through worship and service. My shortcut in being the right weight was to be taller. The only way for me to do that is to lie to myself. That does not seem to work. There is no shortcut to finding our way. We

must prepare to walk the walk and then step out in faith to meet The Way, The Truth and The Life.

You Father, are amazing! You have prepared The Way for us. Grant us wisdom and sight to recognize You, love You and live for You, in Jesus' name. Amen

Gary Ivey

December 7 True Heritage

Isaiah 11:1-3

A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord—and he will delight in the fear of the Lord. The Bible tells us that Jesus had a physical heritage, a family linage that traces His family line back to the patriarchs of the Old Testament. If you read the linages in both Matthew and Luke (different sides of His family), you can see the different people who were a part of Jesus’ family. All sorts of different people participated in preparing the way for Jesus. Isaiah’s prophesy here, reminds that Jesus not only had the physical, human linage, but what made Jesus who He truly was, is the Spirit of God that rested on Him, lived within Him and guided all that He did. It is this linage that really identified Jesus, gave Him the power, and ultimately showed us how to live each day. You and I can trace our linage back and it can be fascinating to see where we come from and what it is that

makes us who we are. More importantly, for those who believe, is that we have that same Spirit that rested with and lived in Jesus, guided and empowered Him and ultimately raised Him from the dead. That Spirit rests with us too and helps us to point to and prepare the way for Jesus in the world today. May the Spirit lead us today and throughout the Advent of waiting, to point others to who Jesus truly is for the world today.

Father God, we thank you for who Jesus is, as human and as divine. As the Spirit was with Him, may the Spirit be with us. Amen.

Darren Anderson

December 8 'Avoiding self- pity'

2 Thessalonians 3:1-5 "...The Lord is faithful and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one..." [vs. 3]

I have found that if my focus is on what the Lord is doing and not on what He is not doing, I avoid self pity. Repeat these words aloud: God is faithful He is my strength He is my rock upon which to stand He is the lover of my soul He is the creator of all things He is the creator of all mankind He made me and said, 'it is good' He loves me and has promised to come and take me home He calls me His child He prepares a way for me He will never forget me nor forsake me

God is love and He loves me

"Open my eyes Lord I want to see Jesus, to reach out and touch Him and say that I love Him". Thank You Lord for loving us, help us to love You in return. Help us to take our focus off us and place it on You. in Jesus' name, Amen.

Gary Ivey

December 9 Prepare The Way, Not a Detour

Isaiah 40: 3 - 5

Once again, it's the time of the year when the voice of those proclaiming the upcoming celebration of the birth of our Savior gets drowned out by cries of midnight sales and the latest gadgets to make your Christmas more enjoyable. The rush is then on for the latest sales and gathering the biggest mountain of money for what is considered by society as being a successful Christmas season. They have taken a detour to a dead end spiritually. It's sad that society is so wrapped up in things and not joining those proclaiming the Good News of the birth of our Savior. I'm not saying that buying gifts and having parties is bad, it can be fun, as long as we keep in mind the real reason for the season, the creator and our Savior. The baby born in humble surroundings, showing us that all are welcome and there is room for all who call Him Lord. Praise God for the greatest and best gift we could ever have received, eternal life with the Maker of the universe, Merry Christmas.

Thank you Lord for all You have done for us and for Your endless grace and mercy. In Jesus name, amen!

Larry Rosen

December 10 Christmas, Christmas time is here..."

Matthew 1:18 – 25 "... and they will call Him Immanuel..."

I'm so excited for this time of year. My family gets together and has an exhausting wonderful time. Cousins will play. Kathy and I will enjoy the kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. We will eat [I may nap]. This year Christmas is on Sunday. Along with preparing for our family gathering I will be preparing for a worship service and driving highway 99 with Kathy. I was looking into the face of the children and I saw things miraculous and hopeful. With some of the adults, I saw in their eyes a weariness. Their hope is to pay their bills and have a better new year. Christmas ads came so early this year that some people are more excited with its ending than anything else. This is my concern for us all, the one they called Immanuel is Lord and Savior, Redeemer and Life itself. The biggest part of my joy is the remembering of His coming to give us sight in our blindness. It is exhilarating when I am reminded He has come to free us from all the oppressive things of this life. Baby Jesus, Immanuel, has come to "...restore unto us the joy of His salvation...". I lift my eyes from myself to see how God has come that we might have life and have it abundantly... together and with Him.

Dear Lord, Mighty God, Lover of our souls, restore unto this world the joy of Your salvation... In the name of Jesus, we pray, Amen.

Gary Ivey

December 11 Joseph

Matthew 1:18-25 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

Joseph’s role in preparing the way for Jesus was different from the role of Mary in some ways but in others was still one of obedience to God’s revelation. The normal, societal approved course of action was to divorce Mary and walk away. No shame, no problem. Yet because of the Lord’s message through the angel, Joseph chose a different path, one of obedience that helped prepare the way for Jesus’ arrival and life here on earth. I wonder if at times we are in a similar position as Joseph. We have a choice before us that on one hand society says it is ok and good to go this way. On the other hand, our faith gives us a different path, one that is risky and out of our comfort zone, yet would show those around us who Jesus is for us and for them; preparing the way for Jesus to touch their lives. Which do we choose? I pray that as we are faced with these choices, we would choose to be obedient to God’s call and the faith we profess and trust that God is going to move in ways we could not even imagine.

Open our eyes to the great opportunities that are before us. Creator God, help us to be obedient to Your call on our lives in a way that shows others your love and grace. Amen.

Darren Anderson

December 12 The King is coming to our house..."

Luke 2: 8-20 "...today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ, the Lord..."

'Hear ye, Hear ye... The King is coming. Make ready. Prepare your hearts. Tell everybody. Come and see for yourself...' Can't you hear the sound of the bells ringing in the streets? Can you see the lights spelling out 'joy to the world'? Listen to the carolers singing 'Noel, Noel, Noel. There is a buzz with the children laughing all excited. Families gathered around a birthday cake for Jesus. Good news, yes great news has come to us again. Celebrate with Christians around the world, 'a savior has been born.' How do we make ready for this most precious gift? What will you do? What will I do? Will I fall to my knees and pray? Maybe I'll sing at the top of my lungs 'Come all ye faithful.' Will I look again to the stories of His coming and read them aloud? Will I offer up prayers of thanksgiving? Perhaps, pray for other believers. Can it be that I will take the time to hold up my family and neighbors before the King? My enemies, do I really need to lift them up before the Lord? What does it mean to see the King coming to care for me? For the whole world? Prepare your hearts beloved. Open the doors to your lives and welcome Him in. Know that all He wants from you is to know Him, love Him and follow His will. "...Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests."

Come, Lord Jesus, live in our homes, our hearts and all our lives. Amen.

Gary Ivey December 13 Preparation

Isaiah 40:3 A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.

Malachi 3:1 “I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the Lord Almighty

I have always been impressed by Biblical scholars from years ago who studied the scriptures and were able to find Old Testament verses talking about the coming of Jesus. Now, if you have a computer and internet access, you can find a website like Biblegateway.com and type in the word you want to search for. I typed in “prepare” and got 139 verses. It was then easy to find the specific verses I was looking for. As we prepare for another Advent season, let’s think about how many shortcuts and advantages we have available to us. But let’s not forget the real reason we celebrate Christmas – the birth of Jesus Christ who became human to take on our sins so we can be saved and have eternal life. And let’s be sure to share His story with those around us.

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your son to save us. Help us to share His story and His love freely. In Jesus name, amen.

Marsha Heeter

December 14 God's Gift of Grace

Ephesians 2:8 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”

To expand on this verse further, according to my Bible dictionary: “Grace is only enjoyed within the covenant, the gift is given by God, and the gift is received by people through repentance and faith.” What is amazing is that Jesus loves us so much that He did what was necessary for us to be in fellowship with Him, as part of His family. And what we have to do is to accept Him as our Lord and Savior. There is such a joy in our confession, born of mercy and grace that it's hard to keep the Good News of His Salvation to ourselves. When we allow it to bubble up in our spirit we rejoice at the fact that we will live forever with Jesus and our heavenly Father.

Heavenly Father we are so grateful that You cared so much about us, that You were willing to send Your Son to pay the penalty for our sins. In Jesus’ precious name, amen!

Elder Larry Rosen

December 15 Joy in the Desert

Isaiah 35:1-10 The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the Lord, the splendor of our God.

Can you imagine the picture that Isaiah describes – a bloom, a blossom, in the midst of wilderness and a parched land. Joy that comes in the midst of a dry and desolate place. This is one of the scriptures where we see the coming of Jesus. Even John the Baptist the one calling in the

wilderness make way for the Lord. The coming of Jesus, even as a baby, was that new blossom in the middle of a dry land. A gift that brought redemption and restoration to those who believed. Maybe today, you are in a dry wilderness in your life. Things are not going the way you had hoped. You are lonely, lost, empty. Remember that Jesus brings us the healing and restoration that we need to continue. Our lives may not completely change but we know that we are not alone. Jesus is always with us and our church walks with us too. In John 4, Jesus is speaking to the woman at the well and tells her to ask for the Living Water that comes from Him. A water that brings life and growth in the middle of a desert. As we travel the road of Advent, waiting for the coming of Jesus and all that He brings, may we too trust in the Life that He gives.

Life Giving God, Keep our eyes open to where we encounter Jesus in our own wildernesses. Help us to see and drink fully of the Living Water that comes through Jesus. Amen.

Darren Anderson

December 16 There's company coming ...

Isaiah 9:6-7 "for unto us a child is born, to us a Son is given,.."

I remember when our children were to be born. There was a lot of preparation to be made. Cribs, baby clothes, diapers, doctor visits and even announcements had to be taken care of. I have to admit, even boasting was done. Probably the thing I did the most was to pray for the things I would need to raise up my children in the way and will of

The Father. I think Kathy and I both, out of concern for them and their future, prayed for God's guidance. If we are aware that company is coming there are steps of preparation we know we want to make. Sometimes our reason is so we don't look bad in their eyes. Our real goal should be to proclaim the greatness of God in the birth of our future. I have found that I don't want my children, great-grand children and great-great-grand's to be me but to be themselves people of faith, God's children. My life's work has no value except in my helping to prepare them and others to receive the Lord of life. It is a calling we share as the Church family.

God be with us all, we pray in Jesus' name. Amen.

Gary Ivey

December 17 Pack Up All My Cares and Woes

Isaiah 6:1- 7 "...see, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for."

I've felt like Isaiah at times. There is an overwhelming need that is all around us. It's the depressing darkness in the world and in each of us. Isaiah received the cleansing from God. When he spoke of 'hot coals', we can hear, if we listen closely, that being made clean hurt. However, he cannot answer the call until he is made new. Preparing the way has the message that receiving and recognizing what is coming with the 'Messiah' is what sends us on the way. The things that keep me in the chains of this world looks exactly like self. The I that I worry about locks me in the dark cave. My cares and woes seem to be like walls around me. My anger and disappointments crush my joys and hopes.

Where can I go to be free? Who can I seek to find love? How is forgiveness possible? In the darkness, can I keep from falling again and again? And then, I heard what sounded like the voices of a million angels singing, "Behold We bring you good news of great joy, The Child, Messiah, is born. " Upon hearing that I've decided to pack up all my cares and woes. I will hand them over to the only one able to touch me and make me whole. I've decided to follow Him who has prepared me to do so. Come and go with me, for the promise is for us all.

Thank you Lord for making us whole. Thank you lord for saving our soul. Thank you for being here with us, now and always. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Gary Ivey

December 18 Mary

Luke 1:26-38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.

Mary’s story and place in preparing the way for Jesus’ coming is familiar to us. If you need a reminder, read the full text above and even through the end of the chapter. What I have always found fascinating is that Mary, even as a young lady and even in the midst of her questions and some doubt, was willing to participate in what God was doing in the world. In a huge way, Mary was invited to step outside of her comfort zone and change her entire life and way of living to be used by God to bring Jesus into the world. It’s hard for me to imagine what she when through in those 9 months of waiting. Probably filled with feelings of

anticipation, some fear and questioning, some worship and praise, physical ‘uncomfortableness’ and spiritual uncertainty. In these things, she was obedient to what God had called her to do and be. All of these things are part of Advent and waiting and all of them focus our attention back on who God is and God’s presence in our lives and world. Today, I encourage you, in the midst of your waiting, questioning, anticipation, uncomfortableness and expectation, to remember to focus your eyes and heart on who God is and God’s unconditional love for you and the world.

God of love and hope, show us this day Your calling in our lives to be a part of what You are doing. Help us in the middle of all that we are and feeling, to know Your presence and love in our lives and communities. Amen.

Darren Anderson

December 19 A Christmas memory

Matthew 6:34 "So, don't be anxious about tomorrow. God will take of your tomorrow too. Live one day at a time."

I was just a boy about nine years old and excited about Christmas. On this occasion, it was Christmas eve. I don't think we had purchased any Christmas gifts. As we went down town we walked and looked into the store windows. It was all beautifully decorated. It was like Disney land with its lights and scenes. As I look back, it was amazing how unprepared we were. Dad took my sister and I into the Jewelry store. We were looking for a present for my mother. I remember how we

gazed at all the baubles. I think it was earrings that were selected. Dee and I were excited for mom for Christmas. It was an amazing time. There were a lot of people doing what we were doing...'last-minute shopping'. Our preparation was lacking in those days. So was our money. But our excitement was as high as it is today. We don't do like we used to with today's celebrations because of the anxious moments. Kathy and I 'HUNT' days, weeks even months before so that we would be better prepared. However, we only do that so no-one gets missed. I wonder if God's foretelling and planning might also be so that no-one would be left out. For that I am thankful and excited for Christmas and the joy of the celebration.

Thank you Father for all Your preparation. Your amazing love for us is the real meat on our Christmas tables. Thank you. AND ALL GOD'S PEOPLE SAID, AMEN.

Gary Ivey

December 20 Just Checking

Matthew 11:2-11 When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”

This is a great interaction between John, his disciples and Jesus. Whether John was really questioning if Jesus was the Messiah or just pointing his disciples to Jesus or some of both, Jesus reminds them and us that He was working to bring healing, freedom, and the Good News (Gospel) of God’s love to all. These are signs of Jesus working in our lives and in the lives of those in the community.

When we need reminders of who Jesus is, when we point others to Jesus, when may have questions and doubts, sometimes the best thing to do is to remember the what God has done in us through Jesus and the difference and transformation that has been made in our lives and the lives of those around us through our faith. “Jesus, are you really real? Are you really who you say you are?” When we reflect, and are open to understanding what Jesus does, the answer to these questions is Yes. We can have faith and trust that Jesus is who He says He is and that even in the doubts and questions, we are loved and accepted and Jesus does not hide from us when we are looking and seeking. May today be filled with opportunities to see and to remember who Jesus is and what He is continuing to do in our lives.

Father God, open our eyes to what You are doing through Jesus today in our lives and in our world. We pray that Your movement will increase our faith and draw us closer and deeper to Jesus. Amen.

Darren Anderson

December 21 Are the Arrangements made?

Luke 1: 26-34 The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will over shadow you...

How does the Father make his arrangements? "The King is coming make all the preparations". Clean the beds. Sweep the floors. Reserve the room. Send the invitations out. Make sure you have the right protection. Plan the meals. Do your baking. Make sure there is enough to go around. When you know company is coming how do you prepare? Are you glad they are coming? Do you fill up with joy and

excitement? Do you mark your calendar? Have you ever postponed their coming by not being ready? Our lives are full of so many things that it is sometimes hard to entertain guests. The things they want to do may not be what we want to do. The changes will leave us exhausted. Who does the Father select to do some of the preparations. It's Mary! A young girl who has no idea of marriage. Or does she? Her goal is to be available. Her preparations include a willing heart. She offers who and what she is freely. She listens to the Angel and allows the Promise of God to be fulfilled. How do we prepare for His coming? Where is our heart in this matter? Have we made ourselves available? Have we left our complaining behind? How do we surrender to the King and His purpose? Let us think on these things.

Father, prepare in us a place for your Holy Spirit, so that we would also be carriers of The Good News. We are excited for this Christmas' celebrations. May your will be done. Amen.

Gary Ivey

December 22 The Heart of the Celebration

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that who so ever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

As I was thinking about what to write, the above verse came to mind. Santa Claus may be a symbol of the Christmas season, but Jesus is the reason for the season. He comes as the fulfilment of John 3:16. He came to give us a gift more precious than any gift we may exchange with

each other, the gift of salvation. He gave us His life, the least we can do is give Him our heart and life. As we celebrate Christmas this year, may we keep in mind the perfect gift that was given to us and let us show our appreciation to the Lord and Heavenly Father, our gift to Him, our lives. Praise God from whom all blessings flow and Merry Christmas to all.

Gracious Heavenly Father there is no way to thank You enough in words, but by giving You our lives, in Jesus name, AMEN!

Larry Rosen, Elder

December 23 Getting to Know You, Getting to Know All About You"

Luke 1:26-38 "... I am the Lord's servant, ... may your word to me be fulfilled."

When I read this I am reminded of the God story running all the way through the scripture. From Genesis, with God creating, to God bringing the new Jerusalem in Revelation, I hear God calling, maybe even singing to us, "...you’re getting to know me, getting to know all about me... " Mary was a willing vessel for God. Her understanding of scripture and the promise of God was exceptional. How many of us have that knowledge? Her faith in God's faithfulness, I'm sure, called her to gain that knowledge. There was a relationship that she had with the Father that made possible the coming of Jesus. God could, as creator of all things, been more than able to fulfill the promise without her. He chose not to and she surrendered herself to be whatever kind of servant God asked her to be. What takes place is an amazing

relationship. I believe it was a spiritual and Holy relationship. Paul says, "it is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me." The Holy Spirit came upon Mary. The Holy Spirit came upon Paul. That very Spirit is also the promise given to the Church. In these Advent times we remember the amazing way God works for our rescue. We need to seek Him in these times, not because the world needs Him, but because we and the world need to know Him, "...to know all about Him...".

Dear Father, open our eyes to see you. Clear our minds so we might know you above all other things. Remind us that You have placed beneath the Christmas decorations Your gift of Your Holy Spirit. Fill us, we pray, in Jesus' name. Amen.

Gary Ivey

December 24 The Story of Amazing Love”

If you know me very well, you know that I love to read. I just love a good story. I especially love a beautiful story full of life, hope, and love. Sounds like the perfect Hallmark movie, doesn’t it? There aren’t many things better this time of year than either snuggling with a good book, or watching a good Christmas movie. My favorite Christmas story, however, is the one found in the book of Luke. It tells of the original Christmas story. The greatest love story ever told! It’s a story of life, of hope, of redemption, and most importantly, of amazing love. Another thing you might know about me is my love for music. Here are the lyrics to “Noel” by Chris Tomlin:

Love incarnate, love divine Star and angels gave the sign

Bow to babe on bended knee The Savior of humanity Unto us a Child is born He shall reign forevermore

Son of God and Son of Man There before the world began Born to suffer, born to save Born to raise us from the grave Christ the everlasting Lord He shall reign forevermore

Noel, Noel Come and see what God has done Noel, Noel The story of amazing love! The light of the world, given for us Noel

This Christmas enjoy a good story or two, but don’t forget the “story of amazing love”! I pray that the words encourage you and fill you with great joy. Merry Christmas!

Thank you, God for your story of amazing love! Thank you for all you have done for us and all you will continue to do. I am so glad the story isn’t finished yet, it’s only just begun. Amen

Heather Ivey

December 25 Christ the Lord

Luke 2:1-14

“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” The birth of a baby changes things. Whether it is your first or you have had several children, when that baby is born, your life is never the same. There are diapers to buy, feedings, sleep disruption, visitors, challenges, joys, good times and bad. As your children grow, we realize that their presence also changes the world and others lives in ways we could never imagine or predict. I imagine it was similar with the birth of Jesus, yet the difference He made was so much larger in scope. The difference that one life made would impact the world in ways we, even today, cannot fully understand. Born that day, laid in a manger in the town of David was a baby who is the Messiah, Christ the Lord! I pray that this Christmas morning will be one that is full of celebration, fun and joy. Remember why we are celebrating and remember that the birth of Jesus in not just meant for one day, but is to make a difference each and every day of our lives. “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”

Peace!

Lord, may the birth of Jesus continue to transform and change my heart and through me the world around me. Help me not to live in fear but joyful expectation and anticipation of Your coming into the world. Amen.

Darren Anderson

God’s Gift

Read John 3:16-17

The extra special Story of love God sent to us From Heaven above And the angels that night Sang of His precious Name Who none of us – He would ever condemn of blame! The Wise men Who came from afar Found Him When they followed that star That stopped there As He in the manger lay There they worshipped Him As He lay on the hay! God gave His Son For all to acclaim! Praise the Lord – Jesus is His name! He who gave His life That we might live He made it plain We must forgive No man cometh unto the Father But by Him May this truth in our hearts Never grow dim! He came to this earth All who believe to free Even to save the worst Sinners like me. Thank you, Father, for this most special gift of Christmas. Amen. Beulah Curtiss (from Advent 1995)

May God bless you and your family this Christmas season