Hope Peace Love Joy - First Baptist...

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but sometimes in the hustle and bustle of the season the true meaning can be pushed to the background or lost completely. Jesus’ virgin birth is one major part of the foundation of our faith. It was this momentous occasion in which God set forth His wonderful plan of redemption for all mankind. His desire is for us to draw close to Him and truly celebrate the birth of His son.

Advent means, “The coming” or “arrival.” Traditionally, it has represented waiting and watching for the Messiah. Just like the wise men were doing at the arrival of Jesus’ birth, we invite you and your family to sit down together each night during the month of December and read the Advent eDevotional. You can access the devotionals daily or choose to download the entire month of devotionals.

These Advent eDevotionals are written by the staff and members of First Baptist Church Montgomery. They follow the traditions of discovering hope, peace, love, joy, and the light of Christ. The eDevotionals include a Bible verse for your family to read, a family activity, and a prayer. My hope is that this Advent eDevotional is a tool that allows your family to quiet your hearts and focus on the Christ Child.

Join with us as we come and worship the newborn King!

Merry Christmas!

Hope Peace Love Joy

“I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in His word I put my hope.”— Psalm 130:5

It’s that time of year again! There’s just a special feeling you get as you ride down the road and see the lights that are displayed throughout our neighborhoods and city this time of year. Those twinkle lights and Christmas crosses shine through the darkness and radiate the hope that Christmas brings. Often times, we can feel worn out this time of year because of all the activities and things to do. Or some could be feeling as if they are walking through the shadows of the holidays without a loved one. Christmas whispers there is always hope.

As we begin this season of Advent, we are reminded that it is a time for focusing on the anticipation of Christ’s coming into this world. Advent is a time of waiting on the Savior in swaddling clothes who makes Himself into the glowing robe of righteousness for us who are worn out. How humbling it is that Jesus gave up the heavens that were not even large enough to contain Him, and lets Himself be held in a hand. He shows us that He will go to impossible lengths to rescue us. Jesus came to change our hopeless end into an endless hope. This Christmas, let’s be a light for those in the darkness. Your radiance may just spark hope for those who are burned out.

Activity:Light the first Advent candle, the Hope Candle. Consequently, be the light of Christ today and shine upon those who need to be warmed with God’s hope.

Prayer:Gracious Father, thank you for your hope that lights on us. Thank you for coming to this earth and saving us from our sins so that our hope can be found in you alone. Help us to shine for you during this Christmas season and all year long. Help us to look for others who need a spark of hope, and let us share your light with them today. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Slade and Alissa Parrish

A Season of Hope • November 27

“O Israel, put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love and with him is full redemption. He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins.” — Psalm 130: 7-8

Hope was lost in the darkness. Stumbling over rocks, falling into ditches, bruised by branches and cut by thorns, Hope was desperately seeking close companions, Faith and Love. Faith took the lead with broad shoulders that blocked the winds and sure footing that seldom strayed from the path. Hope felt secure and protected by Faith. Love was always close behind, offering comfort, support, joy and peace of mind. Hope was content to be in the middle, surrounded by Faith and Love. But the three had gotten separated. Hope felt all alone.

As Hope wandered aimlessly through the night, there was nothing to show the way, no clear direction to go, and no escape from the cold. Hope was tired and hungry; needing something to quench a dry throat, fill an empty stomach and softly cover a soiled and tattered body. But where were Faith and Love? How would Hope find them? Weeping in despair, Hope did not know what to do.

Suddenly angelic voices filled the air and a magnificent star illuminated the sky. Hope rushed towards the bright light with renewed strength; confident that Faith and Love would be where it led.

Hope stopped running at the sound of a baby’s sweet cry, coming from a small stable that was beneath the great star. Stepping into the warmth of the crowded stall, Hope was no longer afraid. Faith and Love were already there, kneeling over the lowly manger, staring at the miracle wrapped in swaddling clothes. The two made room for Hope, as they all marveled at the bundled Redeemer. Hope would never be lost again.

At Christmastime, we celebrate the Hope that is found in Jesus Christ. God brought Faith, Hope and Love together when He gave us His Son who would be our way to eternal life. This is the season to spread the Good News of the joy that Jesus brings. He is our Hope and everlasting light.

Activity:Make an effort to share Jesus’ light with non-believers by inviting them to church, providing a ticket to the Living Christmas Tree, baking them some Christmas goodies, giving them a Bible and showing them where to find God’s truths, listening attentively to their concerns and praying for their needs. Make it a priority to teach others that the gift of Christmas can be shared all year long.

Prayer:Dear God, We praise you for who you are- our Creator, Savior and Redeemer. Thank you for Christmas and for bringing light into the darkness through your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank you for the cherished gifts of Faith, Hope and Love. Help us look for opportunities to show others the One True Way. May the blessings of Christmas bring peace to the world and joy in our hearts. In Your Name We Pray, Amen.

Merry Christmas!Rory and Sherri McKean


“And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our heart through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” — Romans 5:5

Christians, of all people, should be people of hope. The definition of hopefulness is future oriented. Still we need to be reminded that as believers we have placed the basis of our hope in God, our creator, who has promised “that His hope does not disappoint us.” (Romans 5:5)

The hope of Christmas requires us to look back and ponder why God sent His son, Jesus, into our world in the flesh of a little baby that first Christmas. This little bundle of God’s living love brought with him hope for a hopeless world. Without Jesus we have no hope. He came as baby Jesus so that He could bear our punishment at the cross and conquer death by rising from the dead. What a blessed hope we have because Immanuel, God with us, came just to us at the right time! Let’s celebrate this hope that is in us because we believe in God’s son for our salvation – past, present and future!

Activity:Give someone hope this Christmas: While for many, Christmas is a joyful time of celebration with family and close friends, yet for others it is just the opposite. There are people around you that are hurting, lonely, sad and feel isolated. Loneliness and hopelessness can be overwhelming and lead to severe depression. Let me encourage your family to reach out and touch someone who has lost a loved one during this Christmas season or has no one to celebrate with. Be creative and bring hope to someone who feels hopeless and alone.

Prayer:God, our Father, We praise you for sending your only son into our troubled world. We thank you for your priceless grace gift to us! Because you came and dwelt among us we are now in your forever family. Help us as you children to share your love with those who do not know you. Praise and glory be to God our Father who is heaven! Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Jane Ferguson


“Oh, Israel, hope in the Lord. For with the Lord, there is unfailing love.His redemption overflows!” — Psalm 130:7 (NLT)

We So Hope

We hear all the time “I hope...” Maybe it is a kid desiring a gift for Christmas, maybe it is a fan wanting a win on a gameday, maybe it is a lady wishing someone has a good day.But what is the real meaning of HOPE?

Some people says it is to desire a specific outcome or confidently expect something. For Christians, we have ultimate hope because our God is always good, loving, perfect and fulfills His word, and we can fully trust in Him.

Read, mediate and memorize Psalm 130:7 (NLT)“Oh, Israel, hope in the Lord. For with the Lord, there is unfailing love. His redemption overflows!”

The Jewish writer of Psalm 130 felt his pain and sinfulness and yet experienced God’s great mercy, love and forgiveness. He encouraged others to consider the Lord and place their trust in Him. The Hebrew people desperately wanted a Savior. Their history was marked with beauty and pain, victory and disappointment, prosperity and slavery. For hundreds of years, they waited on THE ONE who would rescue and lead them. Most did expect God to answer, but they did not anticipate the Messiah would be a baby born in a manger in Bethlehem. Yet, that baby was indeed the Promised Savior. Jesus came to earth to show us true unfailing, faithful love and provide abundant, overflowing redemption.

Many people here in Montgomery (in America and all over the world) feel hopeless. They may see their personal or political situation and wonder who they should trust – who they should look to for deliverance. It may be that they (or you) are discouraged by government, by school, by sports, by family, by jobs, by friends, or by health. Sometimes life is just hard, yet, there is a Redeemer who loves us incredibly. He is King Jesus! We can completely trust HIM. He has promised He will never leave us, that He has good plans for us, that He gives abundant/meaningful life, that He has provided heaven for his followers one day.

During this Christmas season, may we ponder the Christ. May we put our faith fully in Him. May we experience His love and mercy. May we be like Him – loving, forgiving, humble, and kind. May we, who are followers of Jesus, show HIM to the world. May we offer true hope to those around us...those who do not know His unfailing love, who do not know true freedom and redemption, and who desperately need Life.



Activity:Discuss the following as a family... How would you define “hope”? Have you hoped for something and not gotten it? What was it? Do you really believe that God is trustworthy? (Psalm 145:13) Do you think Jesus is loving and forgives? (1 John 4, 1 John 1:9) How can we show people today that we put our hope in Christ?

Sing “The Solid Rock” (Edward Mote \\ 1797-1874) My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

When darkness veils His lovely face, I rest on His unchanging grace; In every high and stormy gale, My anchor holds within the veil.

His oath, His covenant, His blood Support me in the whelming flood; When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay.

When He shall come with trumpet sound, Oh, may I then in Him be found; Dressed in His righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before the throne.

Refrain: On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand; All other ground is sinking sand, All other ground is sinking sand.

Merry Christmas!Troy, Ann, Jack, Thomas and Mary Evelyn Amster

“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with childand will give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel.” – Isaiah 7:14

Do you know what your name means? Well, there was once a man named Isaiah, and his name meant “God to the rescue!” That might sound like a funny name to you, but it was just the right name for Isaiah because God had a special job for him. You see, Isaiah’s job was to listen to God and then tell people what he heard. Now, God let Isaiah know a secret. God was going to mend His broken world. He showed Isaiah his Secret Rescue Plan: Operation “No More Tears!” This is the message God gave Isaiah (it was like a letter God wrote to His children)…

Dear little friends,You’re all wandering away from me, like sheep in an open field. You always have been running away from me. And now you’re lost. You can’t find your way back. But I can’t stop loving you. I will come to find you. So I am sending you a Shepherd to look after you and love you. To carry you home to me. You’ve been stumbling around, like people in a dark room. But into the darkness, a bright Light will shine! It will chase away all the shadows, like sunshine. A little baby will be born. A Royal Son. His mommy will be a young girl who doesn’t have a husband. His name will be Emmanuel, which means “God has come to live with us.” He is one of King David’s children’s children’s children. The Prince of Peace. Yes, Someone is going to come and rescue you! But he won’t be who anyone expects.

• He will be a King! But he won’t live in a palace. And he won’t have lots of money. He will be poor. And he will be a Servant. But this King will heal the whole world.

• He will be a Hero! He will fight for his people, and rescue them from their enemies. But he won’t have big armies, and he won’t fight with swords.

• He will make the blind see, he will make the lame leap like deer! He will make everything the way it was always meant to be.

• But people will hate him, and they won’t listen to him. He will be like a Lamb – he will suffer and die.

It’s the Secret Rescue Plan we made – from before the beginning of the world! It’s the only way to get you back. But he won’t stay dead – I will make him alive again! And, one day, when he comes back to rule forever, the mountains and the trees will dance and sing for joy! The earth will shout out loud! His fame will fill the whole earth as the waters cover the sea! Everything sad will come untrue. Even death is going to die! And he will wipe away every tear from every eye. Yes, the Rescuer will come. Look for him. Watch for him. Wait for him. He will come! I promise. Love, God

Prayer:Father, Thank you for sending Your Son. Thank you for Your plan to rescue us and to save us. Help me prepare for Jesus’ birth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Merry Christmas!Glen, Lisa, Jack and Mason Leathers

A Season of Hope • December 1

Letter written by Sally Lloyd-Jones

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the powerof the Holy Spirit you may abound in HOPE.” — Romans 15:13

For many people Christmas is a magical time filled with vacations from school and work, family get-togethers, gift exchanges...and don’t forget all the incredible food. Can someone please get my sweatpants ready for December 26? For others December is tinged with sadness as they celebrate their first Christmas without a loved one. This year has been a difficult one for our family as we have grieved the loss of David’s two fathers and a good friend. As we approach this season with some sadness, we have become more grateful than ever for the hope of eternal life that we have in Christ. We have hope that there is more to this life than meets the eye, and it gives us hope that we will see our loved ones again in heaven.

Jesus is our hope when... ...someone we love dies. ...we’re disappointed. ...we make bad decisions. ...a relationship ends. ...the doctor gives us bad news.

The Bible is filled with promises that confirms this hope. Jesus will never reject us. ( John 6:37) Nothing can ever snatch us from God’s hand. ( John 10:28) And nothing can ever separate us from the love of God. (Romans 8:38) Jesus truly is the best Christmas gift ever. Now, someone...please pass the sugar cookies!

Activity:Reach out to a friend who is grieving a loss this year. Let him or her know that you are thinking about them and praying for them as they spend this Christmas without their loved one. It can be as simple as writing a note, picking up the phone or inviting them out for coffee.

Prayer:Lord, thank you for the hope of eternal life that you give to all who believe in your Son, Jesus Christ. I pray that you will comfort everyone who is missing a loved one this Christmas. I ask that you fill me with an abundance of joy and peace this Christmas season so that I may show others what it truly means to have hope.

Merry Christmas!

David, Lisa, Ellie and Sarah Stevens


“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God,and the Word was God.”— John 1:1

Hope in “The Word”

The prologue to John’s gospel has fascinated theologians for centuries. John’s usage of the “Word” (Logos) brings many different ideas into what John was trying to convey to his readers. For the Jews, who read their scripture in the Greek, it would have reminded them of the first chapter of Genesis. For them, the Logos referred to the Word of God through which He created the universe. To the Gentiles, the Logos was the rational principle that controlled the universe. But, for the Christians, a new and more important meaning would be understood.

To John, Logos does not mean simply “word” or “expression,” rather Jesus is the Logos, expression, revealer, or unveiler of God the Father. Jesus no longer simply speaks the word, but He is the Word. “In the beginning was the Word” ( John 1:1) implies Jesus’ eternity. “The Word was God” ( John 1:1), declares His deity. “The Word became flesh” ( John 1:14) states Jesus’ identity with humankind. Through Jesus’ incarnation He becomes our blessed hope to accomplish our salvation.

Thus, the prologue to John’s gospel provides a simple, yet profound message of hope. Jesus is the complete revelation of God to humankind. And “we have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth” ( John 1:14b).

Activity:Place a poster on the wall and have family members list words that describe Jesus as “the Word made flesh.”

Light the first candle in the Advent Wreath.

Prayer:Lord, thank you for loving and caring for us so much that you sent your “Word” to become flesh and dwell among us. We place our hope in You. Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Kenny and Donna Hoomes


“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” — Luke 2:14

Have you ever heard of a peace-offering? A peace offering is a gift given by one person or group to another person or group with whom they may be at war, at odds, or just in trouble. In 1621 the first Thanksgiving occurred when Pilgrims and Native Americans came together and offered gifts of food and good cheer in an effort to bring peace between the two former enemies. Over the centuries during times of war, countries have offered peace offerings to their enemy in an effort to bring an end to the fighting. Husbands who have forgotten their anniversary or wife’s birthday often offer peace offerings in the form of jewelry or Caribbean vacations in order to bring peace to a fractured relationship. In Leviticus 7, God instituted a peace offering for his followers. This was a gift given by men and women, not in an attempt to make peace with God (because no effort of ours can make that peace), but rather as a way to say Thank You to God for extending His love to undeserving people.

But the most amazing Peace Offering was given 2,000 years ago in a nondescript town, in a nondescript stable, witnessed by nondescript shepherds. And this peace offering was not given by the ones who had committed the offense, but rather by the one who had been offended...isn’t that backwards! Shouldn’t those who had broken the relationship be the ones that offered a Peace Offering? But in an act of supreme love and grace and humility, the God of the Universe offered the gift of his Son Jesus to humans...men, women, boys, and girls...who had sinned against him and made themselves enemies of the most powerful ruler in all the world. Because of God’s great love and faithfulness, he did not want us to be at odds with him. So he sent us a Peace Offering, in the form of a little baby, a baby that was the flesh and blood of God Himself, a baby that would grow into a perfect man and whose body and blood would soon be broken and spilled out on the cross — the only action and offering that could ever bring peace.

That’s why the Prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 9:6) called the coming Messiah the “Prince of Peace.” To receive the gift of the Son of God means peace to the receiver. We have peace with God and can be called his friends. We can have peace for eternity knowing that our destination in heaven with God is secure. We can have peace on earth knowing that if God is on our side, who can be against us. We can have peace in the midst of pain, trials, or uncertainty because even if our heart and flesh my fail, God is still the strength of our heart and portion forever. We can have peace in the midst of change because our God is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

If you find yourself stressed or fearful or uncertain or lost, just remember the Peace Offering God gave on Christmas 2,000 years ago. Open your eyes to see it! Open your heart and hands to receive it! And open your mind to remember it day by day! “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus!” Philippians 4:7

Take some time to pray and thank God for giving us a gift we don’t deserve yet he still gave willingly — the gift of Jesus who brings us peace.

Merry Christmas!Russell, Lyndsey, Claire, Margaret Ann and Thomas McCrory

A Season of Peace • December 4

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” — Colossians 3:15

Shoes of Peace?

We all wear shoes. My closet floor is a messy testament to my love of shoes. There you can find tennis shoes, flip flops, flats, heels, boots, wedges and much more. My favorites are my Chacos. They are reliable, durable and comfortable and provide a firm grip on uneven ground. As you put on your shoes each day do you consider what God’s Word says for us to do?

Ephesians 6:14-15“Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”

Peace WITH God can only come through your salvation experience. Peace OF God however is a gift from Him that we must choose daily to activate in our lives. So often we allow Satan to penetrate our thoughts and lead us into fits of worry, anxiety and depression. Instead, we should put on the shoes of peace through prayer (Philippians 4:6-7), thanksgiving (Colossians 3:15), and trust (Isaiah 26:3-4) standing firmly gripped to His sure foundation.

Activity:As the holiday season approaches consider purchasing a pair of shoes for someone in need. You won’t have to look far. As you give the gift of a new pair of shoes pray that the one who receives them will be filled with peace that can only come from Him.

Prayer:Father God help me to leave prints of peace that point others to the Prince of Peace wherever I walk today. Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Troy, Celia, Anne Louise, Mary Conley and Emma Beth Teel


“For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end.” — Isaiah 9:6-7

Candle of Peace

The prophet Isaiah wrote this verse during a time of great darkness for the people of Judah. They had rejected God’s plan for them, but God promised to send a light who would shine on everyone. Today, many live in darkness because they have rejected this “light of the world.” But, as Christians, we can take comfort in the certainty that the Lord is our guiding light.

During the Christmas Season, we reflect on the wonderful gift of Jesus — Light of the World, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, but, for today, let’s focus on peace.

Reading through the gospels, Jesus’ ministry often talked about peace. In the Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5:9, Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” In John 14:27, Jesus said to his disciples – “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.” And in Colossians 3:15, the Apostle Paul tells the church – “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

We are to represent Christ as His followers. Since He is the Prince of Peace we’re called to be ambassadors of His peace in this world. How are we doing with this calling? Are our lives reflecting the peace of God?

Activity:Have each member of your family light a candle and call it the Candle of Peace, as a reminder that Jesus comes to bring Peace to both the world and to people’s hearts. As you light this candle, make this promise to King Jesus – You are my Prince of Peace, and I will live my life for you.

Prayer:Thank you God for the precious gift of Jesus, our Prince of Peace who brings peace to our hearts and to the world. Remind us daily that without Jesus in our hearts, we will live without peace.

Merry Christmas!

Ben and Connie Hulsey


“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

Peace…something everyone longs for. World peace, peace in our homes, peace in our decisions, or inner peace. Aren’t we always striving to find it in some form? There is a short children’s book by author Jill Murphy called Five Minutes Peace. The main character, a mother elephant, is trying her best to escape her energetic children in order to have just a few minutes of peace and quiet. Everywhere she tries to hide, the young elephants find her. By the end of the book, she realizes that she won’t find the peace she so desperately desires and just accepts her situation.

The feverish activity of the Christmas season leaves us all longing for a little peace. However, it isn’t something we can go to the store and buy or something a friend can give us for Christmas. True peace is a gift from God. It shouldn’t be influenced by our circumstances. What a joy to know that God sent His peace, a peace that “passes all understanding” (Philippians 4:7), in the form of an innocent baby over 2000 years ago!

Are you still searching in the world for peace? Our world or situation may not be peaceful, but our hearts and minds should be if we have placed our trust in Him. We no longer have to fear our current circumstances or our future. By placing our hope and trust in Jesus, true peace will always be ours, knowing our treasure is in heaven and we will one day reign with the one true Peace Maker.

Activity:With the hustle and bustle of the season it is often easy to get stressed and loose that peaceful feeling. Start a Positive Log. When you begin feeling that you are being pulled in all directions and you just want five minutes peace, take that five minutes to record as many positive things about your circumstances, relationships, the world, etc. as you can think of. As the list begins to grow, spend some time each day, re-reading and thanking God for your blessings.

Prayer:Dear Lord, thank you for the peace that you generously give us even amidst a world full of unrest. Help us to share with others about the amazing peace that only you can provide. Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Steve, Carol, Anna and Reid Roberts


“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenlyhost praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on

earth peace, goodwill towards men.” — Luke 2:13-14

The angels proclaimed “Peace on Earth” when baby Jesus was born. Today, we wonder as we watch a highly contested presidential election or the evening news, is peace even possible? Peace is one of the greatest gifts the Lord has given us. In these beautiful verses, Luke reminds us of the peace that became possible with the Prince of Peace’s arrival. Peace must be a big deal to God since it’s mentioned over 400 times in the Bible.

Yet often we spend too much time being anxious, worrying about things that never happen, being fearful, angry, impatient or just being plain busy, especially at Christmas time. On any given day, we experience many emotions and let those emotions take control over our heart. We are reading a great book by John Ortberg, called Soul Keeping, Caring for The Most Important Part of You. Ortberg asked his mentor Dallas Willard for some wisdom on growing spiritually in the faith. Willard quickly replied, “There is nothing else – Hurry is the great enemy of spiritual life in our day. You must ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life!”

So this Christmas season, focus on the babe in a manger that reminds us that God cares for us and wants to change our lives — it is only through the Prince of Peace that we will truly have peace of mind for any situation — he will calm your heart and mind if you will just call on him every day and let him rule your calendar! Let’s not get so busy with the things in this world that we forget to invite Jesus to our Christmas party!

Activity:When was the last time you were awake and still? Pledge as a family to eliminate hurry from your life so you can become a better keeper of your soul. As a family, read Psalm 46:10, and take time to be still for 10 minutes. Turn off your smart devices, dim the lights, turn off the music and just sit by the Christmas tree to thank Jesus for being born and take time to listen to what God may be whispering to you. Share with others what you experienced in this time of quietness.

Prayer:(Pray together this prayer written by St Francis of Assisi)Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; Where there is injury, pardon; Where there is doubt, faith; Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; and Where there is sadness, joy; Divine Master, Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.“Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called the children of God.” — Matthew 5:9

Merry Christmas!Chuck and Ann Ashley


“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” — Luke 2:13-14

Some world changing events have entered our universe this year. Last November my mother was diagnosed with stomach cancer and January 11th Walter was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Much like the shepherds, my challenge has been to seek peace amidst the blinding light of terrifying change.

Peace as defined by Webster’s Dictionary is the absence of conflict. The Hebrew word for peace is Shalom; it means to put back together. Christ came to earth that starry night to put us back together: to unite us again with God by bridging the cancer of sin that had separated us.

Do you seek peace this Christmas season? Have events entered your world seemingly from nowhere? Peace is found in seeking Christ. Go to Him as the shepherds did. Approach Him in worship and praise with thanksgiving in your heart and on your lips. Join the Heavenly chorus in recognizing that all that enters our lives, He allows. In doing so, the clouds of doubt and worry separate, revealing hope and assurance that Emanuel, the God of the universe, is still with us and is working all things for our good

Activity:Recognize that true peace comes in giving and receiving the gift of forgiveness. If sin has separated you from God or man, let this be the season to forgive. Go to those you are in conflict with and put your relationship back together. Know that as promised, Emanuel is with you.

Prayer:Father God, thank you for loving us enough to send your son, the Prince of Peace, into the world to forgive us of our sin. Forgive us of doubt and worry that so easily entangle us and shine the light of hope and comfort upon us, reassuring us that You are in our favor and working all things for our good. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Walter, Cathy, Caroline and Mary Cate Norris


“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

In this world today, peace is a precious commodity. Stock markets are fluctuating; wars and terrorism abound in many countries. Disasters, both natural and manmade are on our daily news channels. Fear and anxiety often rule the day for many people. But what does God’s word say about Peace?

Jesus tells us in John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” And in John 16:33 “These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

Jesus is Peace. The answer for peace among people is Jesus. We are celebrating the birth of God’s Son; His peacemaker. The angels told the shepherds that peace was now on Earth. There is a Latin saying that comes from a Christmas Carol I sang in Latin Club in High school; “Pax en terra et Deus.” The peace of God is on the earth. His name is Jesus. “The Prince of Peace.”

When He returns to reign war, anxiety and troubles will cease. But until that time we can have God’s Peace living in us. God’s peace living in us cannot reside with fear, doubt, trouble and anxiety. He gives it to us. The world as we know now will always be in turmoil, but because Jesus overcame the world we can have real peace. He gives us a peace that cheers, that overcomes and guards our hearts. We must stay focused on Him and His Word and His Works. We need to remember this even more so during this season of celebrating His birth. We cannot grow tired and forget the source of our Peace.

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. — Isaiah 26:3

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:7

Activity:Go around the room and tell one thing that makes you feel peaceful...hot chocolate and a fuzzy blanket, cuddles with my children, etc. Help your children to see that peace is more than just feeling that way. It can be a way of life all the time. Then go make that hot chocolate and give lots of cuddles. Make time to do it during this hectic, busy season.

Prayer:Together as a family pray for peace; Peace for our nation and other countries. Peace in our families. Pray for those who are anxious and afraid to find and know the Prince of Peace. Pray for your focus to stay on Jesus — The Jesus who gives us his Peace.

Merry Christmas! Beau and Kathy Cooper


“And walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for usas a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” — Ephesians 5:2

As we write this devotion to our beloved church family, Shelby and I are approximately 52 days, 3 hours and 12 minutes from our long awaited wedding date. On January the 7th at 2:30 pm, we will join together at the altar of Stakely Sanctuary and make a vow before God to unify our lives for the sole purpose of His Glory and His Kingdom! Our engagement has been a rather long one (531 days to be exact). And through this seemingly elongated phase of life, I believe that both Shelby and I have seen a unique glimpse about God’s love for us that few get to experience in today’s culture.

As I think about that moment on January 7th, I can hardly keep myself together. For a year and a half, we have waited for the moment in time that God has planned for us to join lives and loves and in His sight fulfill the mystery of “Becoming one flesh.” Did you know that Jesus in fact is currently engaged? In fact, if Jesus had a Facebook account it would read that he not only “in a relationship.” but in fact he is engaged! Jesus himself is engaged to His Church that he will one day see face to face. Right now at this special stage of life, we feel more relatable to Christ in a unique way than ever before. From this perspective of engagement and betrothal, we have made a few observations about Christ’s love for us:

1.) Jesus is waiting eagerly — I remember the day like it was yesterday. As I sat across from the famed Tom Neville here in town, his big weathered hands revealed a box that held the uniquely designed engagement ring that we had made specifically for Shelby. I was blown away with its beauty! After I got a good look at it, Tom then closed the box and said “The ring totals out to a balance of #$#$#$#$#” My jaw hit the floor. I knew as a poor college student that if I paid for this ring, it would literally deplete my life savings leaving me with a mere 50 dollars to my name. But in my mind the Lord gave me a resounding truth that has stuck with me “Isn’t she worth everything?” As I looked back at the ring, it became a seal of my love for her. I counted the cost and paid for the ring. In the same way, Jesus paid the ultimate sacrifice for His bride and is now in eager waiting till that day when he sees his bride face to face!

2.) Jesus is seeking urgently — When my beautiful Shelby comes down the aisle, I know she will be looking her best. Her hair, her makeup, her dress, her smile will all be glowing like the radiant sun. She will stand before me in purity and holiness. She will in a sense be there with me in ONE PIECE! One head, two arms, two legs etc… In the same way, Jesus will present his bride to himself as a whole. In fact, He will not come back until His bride is complete. Until that day, Jesus is relentlessly searching for his Church faster than a hound dog chases a fox! He will not see his bride until she is complete and ready!

A Season of Love • December 11


3.) Jesus is coming quickly — The past 500 days have become one of the most puzzling phases of life I have ever experienced. On one hand it feels like it has taken forever to get her, but on the other hand I feel like I have blinked my eyes a couple of times, and January 7th is almost here! I believe Jesus too feels this way. For so long, he has waited for his bride and the day is fast approaching. How will we as the church prepare ourselves for the coming of our King?

“When we arrive at eternity’s shoreWhere death is just a memory and tears are no moreWe’ll enter in as the wedding bells ringYour Bride will come together and we’ll sing: YOUR BEAUTIFUL”

Merry Christmas!

Will Spivey and Shelby Scott

“And what does the Lord require of you? To ACT justly and to LOVE mercy,and to WALK humbly with your God.” — Micah 6:8

How does God spell love? Maybe it’s M-I-C-A-H 6 : 8!

We don’t think of this as a Christmas verse, but shouldn’t we?

Look at the LOVE in the ACTS of the metaphorical shepherd that Jesus chose to communicate with us Who He is to us as we WALK with Him….

The shepherd cares for his sheep. They are never without the confidence of his presence. He gives water that is pure and grass that is plentiful. He confidently vanquishes any foe to protect his sheep. When one falls, he reestablishes sure footing and moves his sheep from a position of prey to a rock of reliance. He finds the wandering one who would be lost and restores him to the flock. All this he does along the way as he leads them home. The shepherds in Bethlehem on that holy night became a timeless metaphor for the Messiah. So it is no wonder that God told the shepherds first of the arrival of His Son who loved us so much that He came down to a stable stall to shatter the darkness and save us all.

Activity:Discuss with your family how we can be conduits of God’s eternal love to those He placed in our life’s path. Perhaps choose a family or acquaintance or family member that may need extra prayer this holiday season and together decide on 25 prayers for them. Begin December 1st and lift a prayer up each day. If your family marks off the days of the Advent with a calendar, perhaps write a prayer on each day

Prayer:Dear Jesus, our Shepherd Savior, as we WALK with You through these prayers, please bring to our minds an ACT of kindness you may render through us to those for whom we are praying. Through this simple activity, please help us grow in our LOVE of mercy for others and become more like You, our Shepherd Savior.

Merry Christmas!

Mark and Chris Anderson


“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” — Acts 20:35

Have you ever thought about what it might be like to step back in time and be a guest at one of your family’s Christmas events? I have done this many times. I observed myself and my family through the much older eyes of my current age and Christian maturity. I must confess that I was a selfish youngster. I had high hopes of receiving the best gifts with little or no thought of being a giver myself.

Well, as I flash-forward to present-day life, I realize that many things have changed. Somewhere along the line I became aware of what a blessing it is to give. In addition, I often find it a little embarrassing to receive gifts from others. It’s not that I am ungrateful; it is simply that I have a better understanding of what it means to give something rather than to receive something.

What do Christians count as their most blessed gift? I received my greatest gift as a very young boy. I received Christ.

What do Christians count as their most blessed gift to give away? The most precious gift I have ever given away was leading someone to Christ, or sowing seeds for the Kingdom of God.

Pray with your family or friends that you will be a gracious giver as well as a gracious receiver.

Perhaps you and your family will take time to view yourselves in a futuristic sense and make certain that when you look back, you’ll like what you see!

Merry Christmas!

Ed, Sharon and Patrick Cleveland


“We love because He first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have

seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And He has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” — 1 John 4:19-21

My Grandmother Miller was one of the most delightful people I have ever known. Much of what she taught has stayed with me to this day. I can hear her saying over and over “Let LOVE be the ruler by which you measure your relationships.” It did not take long for me to see why she was loved by so many. She was a perfect picture of what LOVE is. I saw Jesus, up close, in her and I wanted to be like her.

I wanted to be like Jesus – personally, mentally, emotionally & relationally with my life. I wanted to LOVE like Jesus. Christmas is the perfect time to be grateful for the LOVE Jesus showed to us and to pass this LOVE on to all we meet during the season.

Activity:One way we have tried to pass this LOVE on to our children and grandchildren is at an event we have when they all come home for Christmas. After the Christmas meal, we gather in the largest room to give out presents and enjoy the “oohs” & “aahs” with lots of laughter. We then have one of the grandchildren read “The Night Before Christmas” after which I read Luke 2:1-20. As they are sitting together as families, I ask each one to tell us:

1) What has happened in your life this past year2) What are your plans for this coming year3) What do you want us to pray for & how can we help

During this time year after year, we have shed tears of joy and sadness as each one has felt safe to share his/her heart. We have seen them grow in their LOVE for Jesus and their LOVE for each other.

Prayer:Dear Jesus, show us how to LOVE like you LOVE and how to be a reflection to all around us. We LOVE YOU, LORD!

Merry Christmas!

Gil and Barbara Barrow



“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so

loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.” — 1 John 4:7-12

A Christmas Season of Love (In Another Culture)

My childhood memories of Christmas were always filled with love. I spent most of my childhood in Mexico where my parents served as missionaries. We incorporated many American traditions in our home, but also had the pleasure of sharing in some Mexican Christmas traditions. Some of these I learned to appreciate, even if we didn’t observe them in my home. For example, in Mexico they give gifts on January 6th when they celebrate three kings day (this sort of makes sense since Jesus received his gifts when the wise men came…after He was born).

The Christmas season for us meant sharing Christ with our neighbors and friends. We started a tradition in our house of having other missionary families over to our house for Christmas lunch. This was always a great time for us to share the season of love with our missionary family.

The Christmas season was also a great time to share Christ’s love with the people of Mexico. We looked for opportunities to share Christ’s love in many different ways, from putting on Christmas concerts in the parks, to giving gifts to friends and neighbors. We were always looking for ways to share Christ’s love with those who didn’t know Him.

This Christmas, look for ways to share Christ’s love with those around you.

Activity:1. There are many people right here in Montgomery, AL who may have different Christmas

traditions...some of them may not celebrate Christmas at all. Go to a restaurant or gas station where someone from another country works. Ask them if they have a Christmas tradition in their country. If they do, write it down... if they don’t, consider asking them over to experience some of your American Christmas traditions.


2. There are many different ways to say Merry Christmas, Jesus Loves You. Match the phrase with the language:

Prayer:Dear God, thank you for allowing us as a family to celebrate Christmas in America in freedom. Please be with other people from other nations as they celebrate Christmas in different ways. May it all point to you. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Brian, Kristi, Andrew, Eden and Matthew Gay

Answers: a. Arabic b. Italian c. Chinese d. Thai e. Ukrainian f. Haitian Creole g. Spanish

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.” — 1 John 4:7

What we like most at Christmas is visiting our families. We travel three states, Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama taking gifts and worshiping Jesus with them. As we make these trips every year, we are so often reminded of the Christmas story of Baby Jesus, where the wise men came to Bethlehem to worship Jesus, bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Although, we were not taking gold, frankincense, or myrrh, the gifts we did take and presented to our parents, the children, and other family members were an expression of our love for each of them.

Christmas is all about God’s love and forgiveness… Most of us have asked the question, “How do we know God loves us?” Christmas proves He does! God came to earth in human form, as ‘Jesus Christ’ to show that he loves us and wants to forgive us. The Bible says, “God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we can have eternal life through him. This is real love… that he would send his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins (1 John 4:9-10).

Activity:One thing we love to do as the holiday approaches is find a family with children who isn’t as fortunate to afford a day of fun and excitement of going to the Alabama National Fair here in Montgomery, but would love to! Although we should look forward to the holidays and hope that they will be a time of happiness, friendliness, fellowship and harmony; yet the anticipation and excitement turns many individuals into feeling the post-holiday blues. And because God loves all His children and has blessed us with so much; it’s a joy for us to spread the love and joy to others. Watching their reactions of excitement fills our heart with Christ’s love all over again.

Prayer:Father God, thank you for loving us and sending your Son to be the Savior of the world. Thank you for allowing us to experience the presence of your love at this time of the year and always. Lord Jesus, we are grateful that your story has become our story, and we celebrate your birth. In Jesus Name, Amen!

Merry Christmas!

Jeff and Denise Holland


“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights..” — James 1:17

One of the things I love about Christmas is wrapping gifts. Each year, I meticulously pick out paper, ribbon and tags to wrap the gifts for my family and friends. I do this knowing that they will more than likely rip it off without even looking at it! Of course it always comes down to what’s inside that counts, but there’s something about a beautifully wrapped present that makes you excited about opening it!

In stark contrast, two thousand years ago God gave us the greatest gift, His Son Jesus Christ. This Gift didn’t come in a beautifully wrapped package, but a lowly manger in a stable. Through this precious and perfect gift of love, we have eternal life. Have you accepted Jesus as your Savior? If not, take that step today and unwrap God’s Gift of Love for you today. If you have remember to take time this Christmas to share the love of our Savior with those around you.

Activity:Discuss as a family what God’s love looks like. Make a list of things you can do between now and Christmas morning to show God’s love to others.

Prayer:Father God, thank you for loving us enough that You gave us the greatest gift ever — Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to share that precious and perfect gift of love with everyone around us. Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Amanda Smith


“Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joywhich will be for all the people…” — Luke 19:10

A bright, shining angel appears out of nowhere, piercing the darkness with the glory of the Lord! Imagine the shock, awe, and….fear that the shepherds must have felt! But there was nothing to fear. Instead, there was cause for great rejoicing and abiding joy at the message from the angel- a Savior was born.

Many are living in fear today – perhaps not trembling at the sight of a sudden angelic appearance – but paralyzed by sustained fears of various kinds. Yet the message remains the same these hundreds of years later – “Don’t fear- there is good news! There is a Savior, and he has come for YOU.” And knowing this Savior leads to deep, enduring, eternal joy. Joy for today, joy for tomorrow, and joy for all eternity.

This world can indeed be a scary place- full of brokenness, full of danger, and full of hardships. Life can be tough sometimes, and storms of various kinds are inevitable. Yet, we have reason to live every day in the joy of knowing Jesus Christ as our Savior. Especially during this advent season as we celebrate the coming of our Savior and King, born as a tiny baby in Bethlehem so many years ago, may we be proclaimers of that “good news of great joy.” It is for all people. Let us live joyfully and share it with them this month and always.

Merry Christmas!

Jared, Sarah, Ella and Lainey McCrory


“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” — Galatians 5:22-23

JOY is NOT in Christmas but in CHRIST

When I hear the word “joy” I automatically smile. The word “joy” makes me think of happy times: fun family memories such as the birth of a child or grandchild, weddings, birthday parties, vacations, and Christmases spent together.

Everyone is searching for joy. Marketing companies know this. They pay millions of dollars for a spot during the Super Bowl to sell “joy.” Want joy? Drive this car. Want joy? Meet this person. Want joy? Wear this dress or suit. Envision the person who buys into the lie of this “joy.” They get the car, but the car wears out. They meet their “perfect” person but realize they are not so perfect. They buy the new suit, but soon it is out of style or doesn’t fit.

At Christmas, not everyone has “joy.” You can quickly experience this lack of joy by just looking around. You will see this lack of joy when you see people honking and screaming because someone didn’t move quickly enough to get through that green light, when someone is waiting in line for the one item that they soon realize the store does not have, and when families trying to organize holiday calendars realize they have three activities all on the same night!

The joy offered by God is different than the one promised by the car dealership, the shopping center, or holiday activities. God is not interested in putting a temporary smile on our face. He wants to deposit a resilient hope in our heart. He has no interest in giving you a shallow happiness that melts in the heat of adversity, but He does offer you a joy that is a deep seated, heart-felt, honest-to-goodness strong sense of joy that can weather the most difficult storms

What about you? Have you gone through a terrible storm? Has something been taken away from you: death of your spouse or your child, your job, your house, or your health? Death, failure, betrayal, sickness, disappointment. They cannot take your joy, because they cannot take your Jesus. Jesus promised us, “No one will take away your joy.” John 16:22.

Is that to say our lives will be free of storms? Is that to say sorrow will never come our way? No. “In this world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16.33 Assess your joy level: Are you joyful or joyless? Do you spread more pessimism than you do joy? If so, God can give you that everlasting joy! “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” John 15:11

Not only during this Christmas season, but throughout the year we have the opportunity to give the greatest gift...JESUS. Let’s share contagious joy. Joy that others see and will want, not joy that is contingent on people, places, or things. There is only one true way to have joy, and this is through a personal relationship with Jesus.

A Season of Joy • December 19


Activity:Have a family Christmas card night. Let each member make a special card that tells the true meaning of Christmas and the joy that Jesus’ love gives. Deliver these cards to neighbors, hospitals, cancer center, or military. Spread Jesus’ joy.

Prayer:Lord, thank you that you came as a baby to show your sweet love to the world. You loved us so much that you died on the cross for our sin. Thank you for eternal joy through your saving grace. Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Mark and Nancie McQueen

“In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of

David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” — Luke 2:8-12

The shepherds feared when God’s angel stood before them and God’s glory radiated from them. But the antidote to that very fear was the news they would receive. This news was great and joyous news. It sobered the shepherds and gave them a mission: find the Savior, find joy.

We so often try to find joy, or better yet happiness, in so many other things besides Jesus Christ the Lord. This Christmas season you might be seeking joy in a relationship, in your job, or maybe, for the children especially, in Christmas presents under the tree. While you may find some happiness or fulfillment in these things, they will only satisfy temporarily. However, the joy of knowing Jesus is eternal. It is here today, tomorrow, and forever. In your darkest, hardest times when you look to Jesus and remember the “good news of great joy” the angels heralded, you will always seek the Savior as the shepherds did, and you will find joy in Him.

As Tanya McLemore sings so well, “Underneath the tree is where I found His presence. The gift of new life purchased just for me. I will not forget the joy of that moment. When all that I had longed for I found, underneath the tree.”

Activity:Think of how you can bring joy to others this Christmas season, and then do it. Joy is contagious because we spread it as we help others find the Savior.

Prayer:Lord, help me to find joy in you this Christmas season, as well as year round. You have commanded me to rejoice in the Lord always. Your very nature is joy and have given it to me to enjoy. Help me to be joyful in all I do and remember that real joy comes from finding the Savior. Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Justin, Anslee and Brantley Law


“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he

is the Messiah, the Lord” — Luke 2:10-11

“Chairein, my brothers and sisters!”

Chairein (pronounced Ki-rain) was a traditional Greek greeting with the literal meaning “joy to you.” It certainly has a nice secular context, as the dictionary defines joy as “a feeling of great pleasure and happiness,” but from a Biblical perspective it takes on an even greater meaning if we take the time to look even further at the Greek transliteration of the word “Joy.” The Greek word for joy is “chara,” which, properly translated means “an awareness of God’s grace.”

Try inserting it into Luke 2:10:

“Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news and a great [awareness of God’s grace] which will be for all people.”

WOW! I don’t know about you, but that translation moved the definition of joy from head knowledge to heart knowledge for me. Could God’s messenger have stated it any more perfectly? Could the shepherds even fully comprehend? The tiny baby born that day was the greatest awareness of God’s unending grace that the world would ever know. He was grace made flesh. He was God’s unmerited favor made tangible. He was joy personified.

Consider reading Luke 2:10 together as a family. Follow it by reading James 1:2-4. Insert our definition of joy into each verse. Discuss how an awareness of God’s grace can give a follower of Jesus a feeling of great joy during both happy times and trials.

As we continue in our celebration of advent, I pray that you and your family experience joy in its complete fullness. I pray that you experience a feeling of great happiness, but most of all I pray that you experience a great awareness of God’s presence not only this Christmas season, but also every day though out the year.

Joy to you!

Merry Christmas!Holladay and Peyton Strickland


“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus because Hewill save His people from the punishment of their sins.” — Matthew 1:21

Many of us go to school, go to work, work at home and do our best. We do our best to serve the Lord. The bad news: It seems so ordinary and plain and mundane. The good news, however, is that we are just like Joseph and Mary! Joseph and Mary were servants of God. They were about to get married, start a family – living an ordinary kind of life until God chose them to do something extraordinary!

Both Mary and Joseph wondered how God’s Son would come into the world. God told them not to be afraid, which gave them peace. So they were able to trust God and obey Him.

After Jesus was born, Mary and Joseph presented their baby in the temple. A man named Simeon met them and said, “My eyes have seen [God’s] salvation, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to Your people Israel.” The Bible says that Mary and Joseph “marveled” at what was said about the baby Jesus. By this affirmation from Simeon and from other faithful followers, God gave them joy in their new “ordinary” extraordinary lives! He gave them a new perspective – a new way to see this gift of a child. It would not be something to be hidden or to be ashamed of. Instead, it was something to celebrate and marvel! It was God’s blessing! God gave them JOY in their Son’s birth and life.

May we, like Mary and Joseph, continue to find God’s extraordinary gift of His Son to be extraordinary this Christmas season.

Activity:Find some glasses with different colored lenses. Maybe the lenses are pink, yellow, brown or gray. Look through them and see how your surroundings change. Maybe the lenses don’t change your surroundings much, but it changes the way you see them. Now practice seeing your life through God’s eyes. Get His perspective.

Prayer:Thank You, Father, for Your Son Jesus. Thank You for sending Him to save us from our sins. Thank You for the example of Mary and Joseph. Help us to see our lives the way You see them – something extraordinary and special. Help us to live with joy every day, and may we be an encouragement to someone else and share the joy with them! Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Carolyn Bryan


“In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” — Luke 15:10

One of the most precious memories I have of my children when they were small is watching them open their gifts on Christmas morning. They would eagerly tear open the wrapped packages and paper would fly everywhere! Smiles of joy would just explode on their faces and they would hold up each gift with a shout, “Look, Mom, look!!” I felt just as much joy as they did simply by watching them!

As the shepherds watched their sheep in the fields so many years ago, the angel appeared to them to tell them of the Savior’s birth. Their fright changed to great joy as they realized that Messiah had come at last! They raced to the manger to see that special Gift in the form of a tiny baby.

I think our Heavenly Father receives just the same joy when one of His children opens His special Gift and receives salvation through His only Son, Jesus. Luke 15:10 says, “In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” As we share the joyful message of Christmas, God’s gift is given and received over and over again!

Activity:Visit an assisted living facility or nursing home and share the Joy of Christmas by delivering cookies or a small gift to a resident there.

Prayer:Father, thank you so much for your special Gift to us, your Son, Jesus! Help us to give your gift away to the whole world so that everyone can experience that same joy that comes by accepting Him! Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Beth DeBardeleben


“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Christmas is often a hectic time of the year. So often we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of buying the perfect gifts, baking sweet treats, and planning what we are going to do with the little time that we have off of work and school.

Joy often is found in things that we are not expecting. My parents tell the story of how when I was a child they were so excited over a gift that they had bought me for Christmas. They took home my gift and wrapped it up and placed it under the tree. When it came time to open the gifts, I ripped open the wrapping paper to find the Mizuno baseball glove I had been waiting for. Instead of taking the glove out and putting it on, I found more joy in the box that the glove had been shipped in. It wasn’t because I was not excited about the glove, but something about that nice brown cardboard box caused me joy. Christmas can easily become all about us and how busy we are. 1 Thessalonians five gives us a different set of directions that does not just apply to the Christmas season but year round. We as Christians are to “rejoice always,” even when we are in a panic about buying the wrong gift for our spouse or forgetting that we were supposed to bring the turkey for Christmas dinner. As believers in Christ we can have a sense of joy no matter the season of life that we are in. We have a Savior that died on the cross for us, so that we may have eternal life in him. What an amazing gift we have to be JOYFUL over. So no matter what crazy things happen during this Christmas Season, or how people react to gifts, remember that we can have a spirit of joy in all circumstances.

Activity:Take Time to list the things that make you and your family joyful. Now prioritize your list. What is at the top of your list? What is at the bottom? Where do you all find the most joy?

Prayer:Lord, give us a spirit of Joy this Christmas season. Thank you for the many blessing you have poured out in our lives and the blessings we do not deserve. Let us be grateful and celebrate Christmas with Joy!

Merry Christmas!

Spencer and Adele Jones


Serve the Savior as His Manger

The long awaited and joyous day of Christmas has arrived! Christ’s birth was heralded by the angels, foretold by the prophets and architected by God Himself as the greatest rescue mission in history. Jesus’ birthday commands the spotlight of the world’s attention.

On several occasions I’ve traveled to the hallowed birthplace of Jesus in Bethlehem, where a lofty Cathedral marks the spot of a lowly manger that once held the King of the universe. This monumental building, called the Church of the Nativity, has a uniquely minuscule entrance intentionally constructed to force those who enter to bow down. The act of bending low to access this hallowed territory physically manifests the spiritual truth that we do not come to King Jesus on our own proud terms. Instead of strutting into God’s presence with pride and entitlement, we must humbly bow before the King of kings and Lord of lords to acknowledge our sin and need for a Savior.

As we entered the cathedral during my last visit to Bethlehem, the man in front of me was lost on conversation and whacked his forehead on the low doorway. That pop to his top was a reminder to drop and come humbly into the Lord’s presence!

After bending low to enter the Cathedral, we descended the steps to the sacred spot where Mary and Joseph placed the swaddled Savior into a wooden manger – a cow’s feed trough! As we soaked in this wondrous scene, we were inserted directly into that marvelous moment when our Messiah intersected our mess. As I thought of that humble little manger that carried Jesus, God gave me a picture of my humble little life carrying Jesus. Just as he did on that sacred night of Jesus’ arrival, God still invites the humble and ordinary to accomplish the holy and extraordinary! The true meaning of Christmas is this: through his grace and goodness, God repurposes us – the broken and lowly – for his mighty mission!

This Christmas Day you can stop spectating and start serving by stepping inside that lowly stable and becoming the vessel of the saving life of Jesus Christ. Invite God to use your ordinary life to hold his extraordinary presence. When we bow before the King, the simple becomes sacred!

Jesus made a little, ordinary and messy cow’s food box into His carrier and He can do exactly the same with you!

Jay and Mary Ruth Wolf

Lighta season of

The Birth of JesusLuke 2:1-20

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register.

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests.”

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen Him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

First Baptist Church305 South Perry Street | Montgomery, AL 36104

334.834.6310 | www.montgomeryfbc.orgJay Wolf, Pastor

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