Tag: advent

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. —Isaiah 9:6-7 KJV

Picture it! Louisiana in 2020 was going to be my year! I was going to do things I have never done before. I was making big plans! I was not going to use my son Devin as an excuse not to go to concerts, retreats or live comedy shows anymore! I said to myself, “I’m getting out of this house if the last thing I do. Tracy Morgan, I’ll be seeing you at Paragon Casino Resort Saturday March 14, 2020. Whooo Hooo!” I spoke those words to myself on January 31, 2020.

Then March 2020 unfolded like a scene from a horror movie. A mysterious virus spread across the world killing millions of people. Only a few weeks later Gov. John Bel Edwards issued a state-wide mandate that shut down all large gatherings, events and even schools. The mandate included a two week stay-at-home order for all people of Louisiana. This was done as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the dreaded virus into the entire state of Louisiana. COVID-19 had attacked my little world!

Fear gripped me, my peace and joy left me, and I fell into a dark abyss. I feared leaving my house to go to the mailbox, and I didn’t have the courage to go to the store. All the promises I had made to myself about getting out of the house and living my life to the fullest had turned into staying inside, being alive but barely living. I wondered what could be done about something that was completely out of my control? How could I overcome this fear and get my peace and joy back?

I did the only thing I knew how to do. I began to pray to God. I asked Him to restore my peace and joy. I truly began to believe that even in the middle of a world-wide pandemic I could still live life to the fullest. I knew things would be a little different. Now, there are rules that I must follow in order to stay safe, and they also freed me from having to live in fear and darkness. I hold onto the promise of Isaiah 9:6, that Jesus is the Prince of Peace. Now I pray that all of God’s children will cling tightly to the Prince of Peace and allow His peace to cover them.

Dear God, Thank you for Jesus, The Promised One. During this time of change and uncertainty help us to remember that You are in control. Calm our fears and bring us out of the darkness and into your marvelous light. In Jesus name, Amen.

L. Darlene Dickson

Read other Advent 2020 Devotionals or download the book as a PDF.

“Go out and stand before me on the mountain,” the LORD told Elijah. And as Elijah stood there, a mighty windstorm hit the mountain. It was such a terrible blast that the rocks were torn loose, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake there was a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire there was the sound of a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave.

And the voice of God spoke, saying, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” —1 Kings 19: 11-13

I believe when my devotionals aren’t read, my prayers are not said, and my attention is drawn to everything but You. I believe.

I believe when the sun is shining, the clouds are rolling, and the dark is overwhelming. I believe.

I believe with each breath in and with each breath out. I release my dependence on myself, and I believe.

I believe when I look to the sky and feel the wind blowing by. I believe.

I believe when I see how fleeting life is and in the beauty of it just beginning. I believe.

I believe when the illusion of control is broken, and life isn’t what it is supposed to be. I believe.

I believe.

Holy God, you often come to us in quiet and gentle ways. Too often we get distracted by the storms and chaos that swirls around us. In this Advent season, still our busy minds and quiet our rushing bodies, that we may hear the gentle words you speak to us. Help us to believe even in the storms of life. Amen.

Rhonda Tucker

Read other Advent 2020 Devotionals or download the book as a PDF.

Advent Week 4
Sunday December 20, 2020

The “great light” prophesied by Isaiah in today’s text is echoed in the first strains of John’s Gospel of good news: the light that brings peace–that saves the people from all that would extinguish it–has been there from the beginning. The Word is made flesh and dwells among us. This reign is now… will we believe it? Will we continue to put flesh on it, embodying the peace meant for all humanity?

Holy One,
we thank you for the glimpses we catch
of your gift of peace on earth.
Even in the midst of fear,
of challenge, of struggle–
even when we aren’t sure that
goodwill among us can be found,
ignite the flame of peace within us,
that we might glow with its brilliance 
from the inside out. Amen.

(Light the candle of Peace and relight the candles of Hope, Love and Joy.)

Read Isaiah 9:2-7 and John 1:1-18

Litany of Peace

In times when humanity disappoints,
perhaps when even our own thoughts and behaviors disappoint,
it is an important act to call out, name and claim 
the consequences of our wrongs.
And in times of distress, it is a prophetic act to call out, name and claim
our belief in peace for the world.

Hear these statements of belief from members of our own congregation:

When I look to the sky and feel the wind blowing by, I know peace.
Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me

When I am gripped by fear and life seems fragile, let me seek peace.
Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me

When I fall to my knees and do not know what to believe, 
let me pray for peace.
Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me

Renew and restore us to yourself and to each other, 
and let your peace be born anew.

Benediction

We wait for justice
but we do not wait to work for change;
We wait for restored health
but we do not wait to work towards healing;
We wait for wholeness
but we do not wait to work at binding brokenness;
We wait for peace
but we do not wait to work to eliminate hatred.

Go into your lives humming the tunes that keep that peace alive in you and that spur you on in your work of justice and reconciliation. Raise your voices and say, “Do not be afraid!” Amen!

Adapted from Worship Design Studio materials by Marcia McFee.
Used With Permission.

Read other Advent 2020 Devotionals or download the book as a PDF.

One of the things we all love about Advent and Christmas is spending time with loved ones. One favorite tradition is to watch beloved Christmas movies. Each Saturday we will recommend one such movie geared toward families that relates to that week’s Advent theme and includes related Scripture and prayer. We invite you to read aloud these passages and prayers and consider how they may relate to the movie each week. There is also a movie option for grown-ups who want to dive deeper into that week’s theme.

Family Movie: Frosty the Snowman

Mary said, “With all my heart I glorify the Lord! In the depths of who I am I rejoice in God my Savior.” —Luke 1:46-47

Mary has just learned that she is going to be the mother of Jesus, and she is overcome with joy. Joy is more than happiness. It goes deeper. When we’re happy, we smile with our faces. When we have joy, we smile with our hearts. Because joy runs so deep, it helps us get through the ups and downs of life.

Let’s look at some examples of real joy in Frosty the Snowman. How did the characters reach out to help each other? Reaching out and caring for and about others is one of the best ways to find joy. The one character who continues to think only about himself until the end is Professor Hinkle, and he is clearly the least joyous character. When was a time you did something for someone else? How did that make you feel?

Loving God,
Thank you for the gift of joy –
For the joy of simplicity,
For the joy of working together,
For the joy of helping others,
For the joy of being alive!
Amen.

Dive Deeper into Joy: Film Suggestion for Grown-ups

Following the Ninth, available on YouTube

Filmed on four continents, this documentary film looks at the global impact of Beethoven’s hymn to humanity, his battle cry of freedom, his Ninth Symphony. The Ninth was at Tienamen Square in the Spring of 1989 during the student revolt. The same year, when the Berlin Wall came down, the Ninth was there to amplify the celebrations. Under the Pinochet dictatorship in Chile, women marched on torture prisons with the Ode to Joy as inspiration. And in Japan, the Ninth was there to repair and heal after the devastating Tsunami of 2011. Following The Ninth is both inspirational and hard-hitting, and a testament of hope.

Adapted from Worship Design Studio materials by Marcia McFee.
Used With Permission.

Read other Advent 2020 Devotionals or download the book as a PDF.

“So do not be afraid, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:26–31 NIV

I believe even when, month after month, year after year, my hopes are dashed.

I believe even when the vitamins, procedures, and remedies do no good.

I believe even when the doctors can find no answers.

I believe even when I puncture my own skin night after night with over 500 needles.

I believe even when day after day, our 20 eggs dwindle down to one viable embryo.

I believe even when I’m doubled over with nausea.

I believe even when, after 10 hours of labor there has been no progress.

I believe even when my temperature rises and your heartbeat lowers.

I believe even when the scalpel cuts.

I believe especially when I see your smile.

Oh God, you know us so very well. You knew us before we took our first breath, and you have a plan and a purpose for us that is for good. May we trust this Advent season that you not only hold us in your hand, but you call us beloved. Amen

Molly Means

Read other Advent 2020 Devotionals or download the book as a PDF.

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, then you will produce much fruit. —John 15: 5

I believe even when….I feel DISCONNECTED. The pandemic has dragged on long enough now where even I, as an introverted person who enjoys her alone time, am feeling disconnected. I know that most of us have felt that way at some point in 2020. We have felt disconnected from each other…our families, our community, our coworkers, and our church family. For me, the disconnect has now extended to feeling disconnected from God. But what is the GOOD NEWS? God is Emmanuel, God With Us. He is not disconnected from us! And the other good news is that even though I “feel” disconnected, I know that I am actually not. I know in my heart that all I have to do is call on God and He’ll be there for me. He will always be there. He is my Rock. God is connected to us in many mysterious ways. During this Advent season, we are reminded of the most tangible way in which God has connected with us. He sent His Son to dwell on this earth with us, to live among us, to be fully human, to grow into a man who taught us the way, and who teaches us still today. The ultimate connection! God’s Son is born to us again as we celebrate this Advent and Christmas season … yes, even in the year 2020. Hallelujah!

Father, thank you for being near even when I don’t feel You. Thank you for being near even when I have not drawn near. I want to remain connected to you always; help me know Your presence. And thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Kathy King

Read other Advent 2020 Devotionals or download the book as a PDF.

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” —Isaiah 55: 8-10

I believe in God’s presence even when I do not fully understand what God is asking me to do. At this time of year, I begin to obsess about our food ministry’s big holiday event – The Great Turkey Giveaway. This year will be the 10th annual event. When I “heard” God’s call to open a food pantry at our church, I did not fully understand. After all, I had no knowledge of opening or running a food pantry. Obstacles were everywhere. Many hurdles needed jumping and much convincing, asking, and at times begging, was necessary. I told my story over and over. Some people were clearly uncomfortable with me talking about how God told me to “feed my sheep.” At times, I felt very alone in the process. Most people do not go around speaking about a call from God. But I persevered, even when I did not know what the outcome would be. All I knew was that God had clearly spoken to me and God was with me every step of the way. Since the reality of running a food pantry requires many hands and feet, money, and food, of course, I met with multiple potential volunteers and donors …. all while the food pantry was not even in existence. It was still just a vision. But God touched many people’s hearts and opened their eyes and ears to envision the possibilities. During that first Giveaway event ten years ago, we had the funds to give away 100 turkeys. This year, we will give away at least 550 turkeys along with everything a family might need to prepare a holiday meal. Over the years, our feeding ministry has touched countless lives. Those who received food, as well as those who gave food, have all been touched. One might even say that our annual Great Turkey Giveaway is now a holiday tradition for our church. I still do not fully understand the extent of God’s call, but I truly believe I was called to keep giving food to those in need. That persistent thought – “feed my sheep” – is still there. I know that God will always be with me as we live out this calling. Thanks be to God for allowing us to be in His service. Do I love Jesus? Yes, Lord, I do. Then “feed my sheep.” (John 21:17)

Holy God, we do not always understand your ways or the plans you have for us. In this Advent Season help us to listen to your voice that calls us to be like you. Help us always, to see your face in those who are in need, and to offer ourselves where we are able. Amen.

Theresa Sandifer

Read other Advent 2020 Devotionals or download the book as a PDF.

Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. —Isaiah 40: 30-31

There are so many things in life which we want very much, but when we first think of them, we’re not ready for them. So, we have to wait, prepare ourselves, and pray they will come at last. My name is Joseph. My family prides itself on its descent from our great King David, but glory has gone from our house. My father was the carpenter of Nazareth, a village in Galilee. When he died, his shop came to me. I was the carpenter of Nazareth. What I had wanted and waited for had come and I was ready.

Now, Nazareth is small. It has few families. But at that time another family there traced its line to David also, and Mary was a daughter of that house. She was a lovely girl, my choice to be my bride. Now, as you know, negotiations in these affairs are complicated. It seemed as if I waited forever, but preparations were finally completed. We were betrothed in the time-honored Nazareth style. Marriage would come later, one year later. Till that time, Mary remained with her parents, and I was alone in my shop. I hated to think of a whole year of waiting but wait I must.

There was a bright spot though. Each day I saw her at the well drawing water with her friends. Then one day, she did not come with the others to draw water. Three days went by, and still Mary did not leave her house. I began to worry, afraid she had taken ill. I went to speak with Mary’s father. He was hesitant and distant. Finally, however, after I pressed, he spoke.

Without a word I left him. I could hardly believe what I was told. I sat in my room alone. I tried to think. What could I do? How could we marry now? But how could I expose the woman I loved to shame? There was no answer. At last I slept. In my dream, I saw someone standing at the foot of my bed, someone bathed in a golden light. A quiet voice filled my small room. The words I heard were gentle and reassuring. They told me what I was to do.

When I awoke, I went to Mary’s father a second time. We came to an agreement. The wedding would be small and would take place within a week. Mary and I entered the home that we would share with joy. Here her son would grow up. Here as his earthly father I would keep him safe. Soon he would be born, but still there were months to wait.

Lord Jesus, we long for your coming. The days pass slowly, but we wait with joyful expectation. Come soon. Amen.

Guy Johnson

Read other Advent 2020 Devotionals or download the book as a PDF.

You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. —Matthew 5: 14-16

Americans have faced serious trials in the last ten months that may or may not have tested their faith in God. However, when a survivor of the Holocaust can say “I believe in God” even when enduring the horrors of genocide and the systematic persecution of their race, I know I want to have that same kind of faith. My own journey of faith has grown and faltered over my lifetime. Since the shutdown, due to the coronavirus in March, my candle has been flickering, growing stronger as conditions improved but then weakening again due to the political climate, racism, and the natural disasters of hurricanes and fires. Innocent lives have been snuffed out, homes and properties destroyed, and Americans have displayed a profound hatred toward others of conflicting political views. My faith was tested. What was happening and how could it be stopped? I know the answer is FAITH, faith that our God is always with us and will provide. I keep looking for simple words I can fall back on in difficult times to keep my faith strong and alive. Sometimes those words for me can be found in a song. Songs and hymns are often a source of comfort in times of need. As I remember the songs of my childhood, I feel my faith come alive and grow. One of those is a gospel song, called God on the Mountain, made popular by Lynda Randle.

The lyrics are so true and simple:

Life is easy, when you’re up on the mountain
And you’ve got peace of mind, like you’ve never known
But thing change, when you’re down in the valley
Don’t lose faith, for you’re never alone.

The second verse continues:

We talk of faith way up on the mountain
But talk comes easy, when life’s at its best
Now it’s down in the valleys, trials and temptations
That’s where your faith is really put to the test.

The beautiful chorus finishes with:

For the God on the mountain, is still God in the valley,
When things go wrong, He’ll make them right
And the God of the good times, is still God in the bad times
The God of the day, is still God in the night.

We thank you God for the gift of music and the way in which it can refresh us when we are discouraged. Remind us that whether we are up on the mountain top or down in the valley, you are with us, we are not alone. Thanks be to God. Amen.

Bobbi Marino

Read other Advent 2020 Devotionals or download the book as a PDF.

Advent Week 3
Sunday December 13, 2020

This week we turn to Luke’s writing which is an account in two acts: the  Gospel biography of Jesus and then the story of the early church–the “Jesus community.” Whether you were a Jew or Gentile in those days, deciding to become a part of this illegal, early Christian movement could bring punishment for your allegiance. Surely the message in both Luke and Isaiah that the downcast, lowly, and oppressed would rise up is a welcome and inspirational account. Like the Jewish exiled people of Isaiah’s time and like the early Christians, we also sometimes wonder where God is in our suffering. We long to hear the promise that a reason for joyful praise is the good news on the way!

Holy One, 
we thank you for the glimpses we catch 
of your gift of the depths of joy.
Even in the midst of fear, 
of challenge, of struggle–
even when we are not sure of your presence,
ignite the flame of joy within us, 
that we might glow with its brilliance
from the inside out. Amen.

(Light the candle of Joy and relight the candles of Hope and Love.)

Read Isaiah 57:14-19 and Luke 1: 1-4; 26-56

Litany of Joy

In times when humanity disappoints,
perhaps when even our own thoughts and behaviors disappoint,
it is an important act to call out, name and claim 
the consequences of our wrongs.
And in times of distress, it is a prophetic act to call out, name and claim
our belief in the promise of joy. 

Hear these statements of belief from members of our own congregation:

Hear the good news of Joy, Emmanuel is coming
On the hills or in the valleys, God is with us.

Hear the good news of Joy, that a child is to be born
In our slumber and in our work, God is with us.

Hear the good news of Joy, that the angels sang so long ago
To Mary so meek and mild, and to us is Joy foretold

The ancient song still echoes on, of peace and joy to all the world.

Benediction

We wait for justice
but we do not wait to work for change;

We wait for restored health
but we do not wait to work towards healing;

We wait for wholeness
but we do not wait to work at binding brokenness;

We wait for peace
but we do not wait to work to eliminate hatred.

Go into your lives humming the tunes that keep that joy alive in you and that spur you on in your work of justice and reconciliation. Raise your voices and say, “Do not be afraid!” Amen!

Adapted from Worship Design Studio materials by Marcia McFee.
Used With Permission.

Read other Advent 2020 Devotionals or download the book as a PDF.