1

A Word of Welcome . . .

The devotions you hold in your hands were submitted by the members and staff of Memorial Presbyterian Church. Each one was a gift for me to read and I pray, as we mark the season reading these devotions, that you will be blessed by the wisdom, humor, and grace found on each page.

The seasons of Advent and Christmas can be filled with family, music, gatherings, gift giving, and special events; they can also be lonely and filled with loss. However you experience the season, carving out time to draw nearer to God helps us to slow down and turn our attention to the gift and grace of Immanuel, God with us.

In order to make the most of these devotions, I encourage you to set a consistent time and place for this spiritual practice. Maybe the early morning works best for you. Perhaps at the dinner table to discuss with family. So gather your Bible, this devotional, and a pen (perhaps some colors if that speaks to your soul) to prepare for Christ’s birth in a special way. Glory to God in the highest,

Pastor Mike Goodwin

A Suggested Pattern for Study:

Pray: Light a candle and open your devotion time with a prayer. Read: Read the full scripture reading and the devotion for the day. Reflect: Reflect on the devotion, journaling in the margins as the Spirit

leads you. Connect: Connect in conversation with others at home or in your

community about the devotion, or write down your reflections in the margins.

Bless: Close your devotion with the closing prayer and blessing. Something like: “May God bless your words going out and coming in. Amen.” Or “May God bless you now and forever. Amen.” Or “May God walk with you every day of your life. Amen.” or “May God be the loudest voice in your head. Amen.”

Do: By acting on what we learn, we make God’s word come alive. What is God calling you to do through the scripture reading and devotion?

2

ADVENT

Marana tha = Come, our Lord! Maran atha = Our Lord has come. These two forms of a Latin word highlight the already and not of Christ’s coming – the preparation and expectation of Advent. The season of Advent emphasizes both our remembrance of the past and our hope for the future. In Advent, the beginning and end times meet. In Advent, we hear the words of the prophets: Daniel, Ezra, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Elizabeth, and Mary, for the prophets remind us of how God has acted in the past to deliver and redeem God’s people. Reclaiming God’s promises of old helps us to claim God’s promises anew for times such as these. This Advent, what are the promises of God you need to claim once more? Where in your life and in this world are you praying, “Come, Lord Jesus!”?

Copyright © 2017 Clergy Stuff. Used with Permission. Find more online at ClergyStuff.com.

3

Different Names, Same Story Sunday, December 3, 2017 Pastor Mike Goodwin Daniel 3:1, 8-30

They disobeyed the king’s command and yielded up their bodies rather than serve and worship any god except their own God. (Daniel 3:28b)

A fiery furnace seems an unlikely place to begin Advent and the journey to Christ’s birth. Yet, we have the gift of reading scripture backwards. From the perspective of the empty tomb we can hear the words of the prophets anticipating Christ’s birth on the one hand. On the other, in prophets we see God’s faithfulness in every time and place. In the prophets we see God’s power over the powers of the world and God’s track record of doing in this time what God has always done—save God’s people.

The powers of the world go by different names: Pharaoh, Caesar Augustus, Herod, Charles I, Davis, Hitler, Botha, or Jim Crow; in Daniel’s day the name was Nebuchadnezzar. The king decreed, as all despots demand tribute be paid to the symbols of empire, that all the people in his empire should worship a golden statue under punishment of death by fiery furnace.

In every time and place there are people who stand up to the powers of the world. The three friends refuse the king’s command at the risk of their lives. Seeking to make an example, the king prepares to burn the friends in a furnace.

This story has given people of faith throughout the centuries hope and courage to face adversity, within church walls, before civil rights marches, and in fields while slaves in exile. The power of this story isn’t that the friends emerge unscathed or even that the king comes to defend their faith. The hope and courage that comes from this story is the good news of Advent: God gets involved in human history, joins us in our humanity and adversity in order to turn the world around, establishing justice and peace.

Prayer: Merciful God, in all times and places you hear our cries and know our pain. In this Advent season, we long for Christ to come again among us to dry our tears, to confront the powers of this world sowing hate and fear, and to bring hope in the depths of despair. We pray in the name above all names, Jesus Christ, amen.

4

Writing on the Wall Monday, December 4, 2017 Emily Guttenberg Daniel 5:1-12

Immediately the fingers of a human hand appeared and began writing on the plaster of the wall of the royal palace…. (Daniel 5:8)

As a small child, Advent meant that Christmas was coming and that meant there were toys, food, cookies and family. At Pastime Drive, I was pretty sure Christmas was all about me. I recognized Christmas as a receiving holiday instead of a giving holiday, right up until I turned six. That year, my mother signed up our family to deliver a Christmas meal to a local family in need. We prepared the fixings for a 6-person meal and delivered it several days before Christmas so the family could warm it up and have a meal together.

It was uncomfortable going to that house. It was an old house with peeling paint, a tin roof and a sagging front porch – and it smelled. Living there was an elderly couple and their three grandchildren . . . and they hoped the mom might be able to join them on Christmas. Mama chatted with the couple and seemed at ease, while I was embarrassed by the smells and the things around me. As we got in the car to go home, I began to criticize them for how they kept the house.

Patiently, mama talked about the things that we had been given in life and how not everyone enjoys those same gifts. She talked about how people in different life circumstances can still be good people and that we should try not to judge. Then mama talked about Mary and Joseph looking for a place in Bethlehem and only finding a barn. She reminded me it may not have smelled better or been any nicer than the house we just left, but it provided shelter for the Christ Child, Mary, and Joseph.

In today’s scripture, King Belshazzar needed Daniel to translate God’s writing on the wall. I needed my mother to teach me that the writing on the wall can be subtle and I had to learn to open my eyes, ears and heart to listen to God’s message. This Advent season, I wish for you an open heart and mind so that you hear God’s message. Prayer: Dear God – as we prepare for the arrival of the Christ Child, give us the ability to open our hearts and our minds to the message of the season. Give us patience and understanding so that we can recognize the writing you have placed on our walls. Amen.

5

But I Like Silver and Gold Tuesday, December 5, 2017 Beth Lepinski Daniel 5:13-30

But [you] have lifted up yourself against the Lord of heaven…you have praised the gods of silver and gold…and the God in whose hand your breath is…you have not glorified. (Daniel 5:23, World English Bible)

Yes, I do like silver and gold, not to mention “bronze, iron, wood and stone” and all my pretty things. I don’t actually fashion idols out of them or put up an altar and burn incense to them. But when I ask, do I think about them, value them, more often than I worship God, “in whose hand my breath is”? I’m afraid I do. From Genesis and Exodus through Isaiah to Amos to Christ to Paul, throughout scripture God tells us again and again what should be important and what should not. Over and over God’s people see and learn this lesson only to forget it again, just as the Babylonian Kings in Daniel forgot. People turn away from God to these bright, shiny things. It is no doubt good for us to be reminded, in this brightest, shiniest season on the year, where our heart and soul and mind belongs, and how we should treat our neighbors.

A recent post on the “Happy to Be a Presbyterian” Facebook page asked whether members read the “Summary of the Law” as part of the worship service. I was not at first sure what was meant by that and I’ve not experienced reciting it during worship in almost 5 decades of more or less regular Presbyterian church attendance, but it is one of my favorite verses in Scripture. And preparing this devotion, I discovered that it is right there on page 36 of our hymnal:

SUMMARY OF THE LAW Matthew 22:37-40 Our Lord Jesus said: You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” That is our job description as Christians, in a nutshell. Prayer: Patient and long-suffering God, I turn to you in this Advent season, asking again for your forgiveness for forgetting what is truly important and for your help and strength to keep your commandments. Amen.

6

Looking For the Light Wednesday, December 6, 2017 Greg Braatz Daniel 6:1-19

Although Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he continued to go to his house, which had windows in its upper room open toward Jerusalem, and to get down on his knees three times a day to pray to his God and praise him, just as he had done previously. (Daniel 6:10)

I think we all try to do the right thing. We work hard at our jobs. We do our best to love our families (even that weird cousin that came for Thanksgiving dinner). We try to give back to our community as much as our crazy, hectic schedules will allow. But sometimes the world conspires around us. Office politics become overwhelming. There are days when your spouse or kids drive you up a wall. And if you have to add more thing to your schedule, it will simply push you over the edge.

That’s where Daniel is. The office politics have gotten to be too much. Daniel not only did his job well, he did it too well. He did it so well that he didn’t just get pushed over the edge, he was pushed into the lion’s den. The lion’s den would have been dark, frightening and lonely.

Advent can be a time of darkness and fear, and more than just a little melancholy. But we have an advantage over Daniel. While Daniel believes in his God, Daniel didn’t know if he would ever see the light again. As an Advent people, while we might sometimes live in darkness, fear and loneliness, as Christians we know there will be a light. Once we have lived through darkness, at the end of the Advent tunnel we will experience the light given by the birth of a baby boy. In him we will experience light, love, hope and faith. Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, there are times when we live in the darkness. There are times when it feels like life is conspiring to push us over the edge. So, God, please stay and hold us close as we prepare to celebrate the birth of your Son, the Light of the World. Amen.

7

Devoured or Delivered? Thursday, December 7, 2017 Rosemary Fraser Daniel 6:19-28

O Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God whom you faithfully serve been able to deliver you from the lions? (Daniel 6:20b)

What will you be this holiday season? At this most reflective, yet often frantic time of year, Advent invites us and challenges us to pause, slow down, and step on the brakes. It is a time of anticipation and waiting. But, do we wait in hope or fear? That can truly make all the difference.

Daniel in the lions’ den is a familiar story for most of us. It fired our childhood imaginations. It is a story of God delivering faithful people. It is the iconic story of Daniel thrust into a den of lions by King Darius and surviving remarkably unscathed: “…no kind of hurt was found upon him, because he had trusted in his God” (Daniel 6:23-24).

Darius the King comes through this experience to believe in and to ultimately embrace Daniel’s God. It seems that Daniel waited in hope and was confident that his faith would indeed sustain him. Can you imagine the trauma of waiting in fear? That, no doubt, was the plight of his accusers.

Faith like Daniel’s can allow us to face the trammels of our lives. It can also help us navigate the real and imagined threats and dangers. For most of us, I think we wait somewhere between hope and fear, perhaps simply in anticipation. Anticipation that all will be well, that we will endure the trials and tribulations ahead. The holiday season is a rollercoaster ride of events, commitments and often unrealistic expectations. We must, like Daniel, have hope in God’s promise. The promise that we too shall be delivered, and isn’t that enough? Steve Thomason writes, “The lions’ den leads us to two places. Sometimes you get devoured. Sometimes you get delivered” (www.stevethomason.net).

I would argue that there is a measure of choice in that contention. Embrace the stressors and obligations that can easily dog and “devour” us at this time of year. Have faith, like Daniel, that you will not be overcome but that you and yours will indeed be “delivered.”

Prayer: Gracious God, help us to trust in you, to pause, to slow down and to find hope for these days in you. Amen.

8

Does Anyone Know the True Meaning of Christmas? Joel Screnock Friday, December 8, 2017 Ezekiel 1:1-3; 2:1-10

And he said to me, ‘Son of man, I send you to the people of Israel, to nations of rebels, who have rebelled against me. They and their fathers have transgressed against me to this very day . . . But you, son of man, hear what I say to you. Be not rebellious like that rebellious house; open your mouth and eat what I give you.’ (Ezekiel 2:3, 8 English

Standard Version)

“I won’t let all this commercialism ruin my Christmas.”

Charlie Brown, A Charlie Brown Christmas

We like to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season, don’t we? We, just like everyone else, decorate our houses, rush to find the perfect gift, and travel all over the place to see as much family as we can. Don’t get me wrong, these are not bad things; in fact, they are some of the reasons I love this time of year. But there are just so many things that can distract us from the reason we are celebrating in the first place.

It happened to Charlie Brown, who, after getting the worst Christmas tree known to man, wanted to know if anyone knew what Christmas was really about. So Linus steps in and tells him the Gospel. It’s a short (and, by now, rather old) anecdote, but it’s a good one. Christmas is celebrated worldwide by people who don’t share our view of Christ or the meaning of Christmas. This is a unique opportunity for us to share holiday traditions with our neighbors, while at the same time bringing a message of good news to them. Like Ezekiel, at this time we can be used a mouthpiece for God to those who have not heard his message.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for giving us this season to reflect on the gift of Jesus that you brought to us. Help us to use this time to reach out to others and share the news of your Son. Amen.

9

Speaking God’s Word Even When People Are Not Hearing Richard Dodge Saturday, December 9, 2017 Ezekiel 3:1-11

[The Lord] said to me: Mortal, all my words that I shall speak to you receive in your heart…then go to the exiles…. Say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord God’ whether they hear or refuse to hear. (Ezekiel 3:10-11)

Ezekiel was commissioned by God to speak God’s words to Israel. At that time, Israel had turned from God and was not listening to God’s word. But God wanted Ezekiel to speak God’s word anyway. The words needed to be spoken, even if the audience did not want to hear them. Perhaps in time they would recognize and hear the divine words that were spoken to them.

In the midst of this Advent season, we think of John the Baptist, sent to prepare the world for the coming Christ. Some people listened to John, many did not. John, in the end, paid the ultimate sacrifice for speaking God’s word.

As we think about the world we live in during this Advent season, we are anticipating the coming of our Christ, born in a stable. However, does the world want to hear about this, or does it want to hear about presents or shopping or Santa or parties? How are we called to speak God’s word during this Advent time? Like Ezekiel, God gives us the opportunities far more often to speak to “our people,” not some far off distant people: Is it a family member or friend struggling with their faith that we are being called to speak to about our faith, even if we’ve spoken to them many times in the past? Could we invite them to a church service, perhaps on Christmas Eve?

Is God calling us to speak loving words into a relationship that is not particularly loving at this time? Will our example of loving words heal a fractured relationship during this special season?

Prayer: Dear God, Give us the courage of Ezekiel and John to speak your words, even to an unwelcoming world. Like them, help us to boldly speak your words in those situations and relationships that we find ourselves during this Advent season. Amen.

10

Words Create Reality Sunday, December 10, 2017 Pastor Mike Goodwin Ezekiel 37:1-14

‘Mortal, can these bones live?’ I answered, ‘O Lord God, you know.’ (Ezekiel 37:3)

My favorite Christmas movie is The Muppet Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens’ classic as told by Kermit the Frog and company. Near the end of the movie, Ebenezer Scrooge, wonderfully played by Michael Caine, pleads to the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come:

“Who was the wretched man whose death brought so much...glee and happiness to others? Answer me one more question. Are these the shadows of things that will be...or are they the shadows of things that may be only?”

Scrooge’s “humbug” world finally caught up with him and he wanted to know if he could change his ending.

When God showed Ezekiel the valley of dry bones, God was revealing the way things are now and offering the possibility that the future might be different. Through Ezekiel’s words, prophesying hope, promise, and renewal, the people didn’t just live, but they thrived in all the ways God intends for God’s people. And it all began with a word from the Lord. When Scrooge awoke he knew he was given a second chance; the way things were didn’t have to always be. The change was captured in a word: no longer “humbug,” but “Merry Christmas!”

Whether you are watching the news, awaiting test results, caring for sick family members, or struggling at a job you don’t love, it’s easy to believe that the way things are is how they will always be. Yet the promise of Advent and the hope of Christmas is God’s light breaking into our darkness, calling forth life among dry, weary bones. Where are the glimpses of hope? Who is speaking words of promise you need to hear right now? How might the words you speak into the world help to create a new reality?

Prayer: Holy God, give us eyes to see the world as you do. Give us a glimpse of our lives and this world as you intend. When we are tempted to give in to helplessness and hopelessness, speak the word we need to hear to be brought back to life. Call us back, Loving Lord, to Bethlehem, when Christ was born and the world was made new. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

11

Hope and Restoration for God’s People Monday, December 11, 2017 Connie Volkmann Ezekiel 39:25-29

Then my people will know that I am the Lord their God—responsible for sending them away to Exile and responsible for bringing them home. I will leave none of my people behind. And I will never again turn my back on them, for I will pour out my Spirit upon them says the Sovereign Lord. (Ezekiel 39:28-29, from the New Living Translation Bible)

After judging and punishing Israel for their sins against God, God now decides to show them mercy and returns Israel, now forgiven, from captivity to their Promised Land. To quote Dr. Mike Bagwell from Standing with the Bagwells, “Israel begins to know God as never before . . . at first as Advocate, Defender, even Creator, but by verse 29 as Savior.”

I think sometimes we need that “tough love.” We need to learn a lesson the hard way. As human beings, we certainly keep making mistakes, yet our God is always there for us no matter what.

The thought of disappointing God to the point he would turn his back on us is unbearable to me. Spiritual life and just living our real lives is hard. It’s too easy to just do what we want and not think about the consequences. I’ve experienced this in my own life. I felt something was missing; there had to be more than just being.

Hope . . . of course, it was HOPE! It’s one of my favorite words. It’s HOPE that’s helping me search for a way to repair rejection from an angry sibling. HOPE helps me find comforting words for my Father who is preparing to die. HOPE helped me find my way out of my own exile and back to my promised land, my church – a place to learn Jesus’ teachings, a place of comfort and friendships, a place where God “pours out his Spirit upon us.” I am grateful to begin to “know God as never before,” to know he is my Lord and Savior and will never turn his back on me – ever.

Prayer: Thank you, Father God, for always hearing my prayers, for your grace and mercy and for not leaving THIS soul behind. Amen.

12

Change of Heart Tuesday, December 12, 2017 Jill and Jon McElhaney Ezra 1:1-11

Thus says King Cyrus of Persia: The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he has charged me to build him a house at Jerusalem in Judah. (Ezra 1:2)

Have you ever had a change of heart? Maybe a spouse or friend let you down, your boss gave you a bad review, or you had an argument with someone. We have all felt hurt, sad, and alone and that no one gets us – but then you get a smile from a stranger, a hug from your spouse or friend, a thumbs up from the boss and everything changes. It may take a while, but if you persevere, let go and let God reveal his plan, great things can and will happen.

In Ezra 1:1-11, Cyrus, King of Persia, listened to God’s plan. God softened the heart of Cyrus who had recently conquered Babylon, in which many Jewish people had been held captive by the previous conqueror. As a matter of practice, conquerors did not allow the conquered people to maintain their own places of worship, often plundering the temples to use these valuables for their own purposes. Cyrus, as king of a foreign country, was expected to follow the same path as of this time.

However, God spoke to Cyrus, softening his heart, to allow the Jewish people to restore the temple to its former splendor and ensured that the needed resources and treasures were available to them to accomplish this goal. Cyrus not only assisted in providing monetary resources for the effort, he also made sure that the Jewish people had the time to restore their temples. Due to too many years of repressive rulers, God’s followers thought God was gone, but he was always there. God touched Cyrus’s heart and changed it. Sometimes it is all in the timing. Prayer: Savior of the world, we come to you with hearts that need to change. We need to love each other, pray for each other, and know with God in our hearts we can change for the good of us all. Amen.

13

The Timeless Thread Wednesday, December 13, 2017 Steve Weber Ezra 3:1-7

. . . they began to offer burnt offerings to the Lord. But the foundation of the temple of the Lord was not yet laid. (Ezra 3:6)

Something highly unusual happened in the 6th century BCE. Persian King Cyrus II liberated Babylon, authorizing the return of exiled Jewish religious leaders to Jerusalem to oversee the rebuilding of the temple. Gold and silver religious articles confiscated during the Babylonian exile were to be returned to Jerusalem. In addition, the king guaranteed that there would be sufficient funds for this to occur. What could possess a Persian king to such an expensive and politically charged action for the benefit of the Jews? And what does this have to do with Advent?

Perhaps the historical record of the rebuilding of the temple in the Book of Ezra can be viewed as a metaphor for how God works through people, individually and collectively, of different faiths, and over time. The Jews were exiled. The first temple destroyed. The holy site was still there awaiting the right time to be built upon once again. God's promise to be with the Jews was honored through a conviction within Cyrus to take action. Along with this, the hearts of the Jews were stirred to seize the opportunity to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple whose foundation still exists, today, as a symbol of faith.

Advent is a mystery. The idea of God with us is a mystery. Our limited vision leaves us unaware of the full implications of God with us. Still, as a church and as individuals, we have boldly taken action in many ways over the years. Emboldened by the confidence that God will guide us and use us as we venture forward if only we ask in faith, and believe. The journey provides assurance that God is with us. The journey can and has involved large groups of people. The journey can also be personal. The promise made to the Jews to be their God. The promise made to us through Jesus to be loved and used by him. Glory to God in the Highest. And to all, peace on earth. Prayer: Lord. God. Jesus. Spirit. Omnipotent. Timeless. Bless us with vision to see the way you worked before the coming of your Son. Mold us to your purpose. Bless us with peace, understanding, compassion, wisdom. Give us hearts to serve. In Jesus' name. Amen.

14

Overwhelming Joy Thursday, December 14, 2017 Jeanne Ryerson Ezra 3:8-13

With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord: ‘He is good; his love toward Israel endures forever.’ (Ezra 3:11)

Can you recall a time in your life when you were overcome by your emotions? You didn’t even consider what you should do, but just reacted to your feelings. Perhaps, you were so ecstatic and overwhelmed with happiness that you exclaimed with a loud shout of joy. If so, then you can relate to the Levites in today’s Bible passage.

They had finally laid the foundation for the altar to the glory of the Lord. Their singing, rejoicing and praising the Lord with exclamations of thanks created unbelievable sounds filled with excitement and mingled with cries. After many, many years of exile and unrest, the Levites were able to express their gratitude and acknowledge the Lord’s goodness and mercy.

Thus, when we display our feelings without restraint, do we have an emotional connection that brings us even closer to our Lord? Are we even more thankful for His love and mercy that endures forever? Prayer: Dear Lord, during this time of Advent, may our emotions help reveal and renew our connection with you. As we express our heartfelt thankfulness for your love, may we be overwhelmed with anticipation, joy and wonder of Christ’s birth. In your name, we pray. Amen.

15

Good News! Friday, December 15, 2017 Jeff and Kathy Privatt Isaiah 52:3-10

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.” (Isaiah 52:7)

Good news sometimes appears when we least expect it, and yet, in that moment, we are fully reminded that God is God. My wife is a cancer survivor, and she has a vivid memory of heading into the surgery that we hoped would remove the cancer. Her surgeon produced a heart-shaped pillow and told her that the shape could increase her comfort at night and in the car. Then my wife opened the tag on the pillow – it was made by members of MPC. How beautiful was that good news!

We’d had prayers with the pastor the night before, we knew we were being held in prayer by our church family, but here was tangible proof of the faith and hope we shared. After surgery, I wanted to get her home as quickly and painlessly as possible. Volunteers appeared and knew just how to put my wife into the car with that pillow so she could travel comfortably. That “good news pillow” was a message that God was with us.

In the passage, the writer acknowledges that bad things happen, that God is always present, and then uses poetic verse to express the joy of receiving the message of hope and good news that God always reigns. Cancer definitely counts as a bad thing, but that pillow with its note attached was a physical message from our church family of hope and comfort.

Now, when bad things happen, we have a saying at our house: “God is still in His heaven.” We use this phrase to remind one another that even though things may be tough, and we may not feel God’s presence or hear the good news in that moment, God is always there.

Prayer: Lord, help us to remember that you are always there, and that your good news is never ending. This Advent season, guide us to hear and discover the ways we can be your messenger bringing that good news to the world. Amen.

16

Leap of Faith Saturday, December 16, 2017 Roy Hoglund Isaiah 54:1-10

“For a brief moment I abandoned you, but with deep compassion I will bring you back. In a surge of anger I hid my face from you for a moment, but with everlasting kindness I will have compassion on you,” says the Lord your Redeemer. (Isaiah 54:7-8)

“Do not fear!” “Do not be discouraged!” Easy enough to say, but exceedingly difficult to put into practice. Prepare and set your sights on better times – whatever “better” is? Talk about a leap of faith.

My colleague’s son is nearing the end of his young life. How can his family make their way through what is supposed to be a joyous time of year? Future Christmas seasons for them will always be remembered with sadness for Tony's brave struggle. Yet, much like the ancient Jews in Isaiah’s passage, this passage implores them to be open to the support that is given and develop hope for the future for they, too, have not been forgotten.

This passage, this “Eternal Covenant of Peace” refers to the promise God made to the Jews. “Sing, O barren one who did not bear” is an odd suggestion when they were in their darkest moments. The Babylonian exile left the Jews feeling as though God had forgotten them. They felt shame like barren women would have at that time. Yet they must rejoice and plan for a large and growing family for they will have larger families than those who bore children. Even if they have been abandoned and forgotten, they should see God as filling that role – and that God will provide.

This illustration of hope for the future with the promise of better times even in the darkest hours is important in our daily lives, especially at this time. Focusing on a positive future and attempts to bring light into the darkness gives hope. During this Advent season, we often become bogged down in details and unrealistic expectations instead of seeing Christmas for what it is – hope for the future of all. Prayer: Lord, in this challenging time of year, give us the strength and vision to remember your promise as we look toward the future. Amen.

17

Don’t Miss the Gift this Christmas Sunday, December 17, 2017 Connie Olson Isaiah 55:1-10

Incline your ear, and come to me. Hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you – The sure mercies of David…. Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. (Isaiah 55:3,6)

Christmas is nearly upon us and the hustle and bustle of the holidays can get in the way of why we Christians even celebrate this season. It is so important that we don’t miss the gift this Christmas. In our Bible text today, the Prophet Isaiah is giving so many directives as to how we should live our lives. God promises that if we listen to the Lord, we will have everlasting life, and God will be there for us, just as he was for King David.

”Seek the Lord while he may be found” tells us that possibly God won’t always be open to us. What do we do with that? We get closer to God. Right now. We have a one-on-one personal relationship with Him. Do we always put God first? Is God a priority in our lives? Do you consult with God about decisions before acting? Do you spend time in prayer each day? Do you read God’s word daily? Do you listen for God’s voice? Those are the things the Lord wants from us.

God’s gift to us is that he loves us more than we can ever imagine. He has a plan for each of us, but without being in God’s presence, we will miss it. God created each of us to connect with Him, live out God’s plan for our lives, and to be with God eternally. Will you be there?

Don’t miss the most important gift of all this Christmas.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, You have blessed us abundantly. You want only the very best for us, so help us to remember to spend time with you, honoring you, and listening for your words so that we know you intimately and our relationship will continue to grow. Only then can we live into the plan you designed for each of us. Amen.

18

A Word to the Wise Monday, December 18, 2017 Janie Stevenson Proverbs 8:1; 22-26

Does not wisdom call? Does not understanding raise her voice?” (Proverbs 8:1)

We learn, we know, we experience. We discern and judge what is true and lasting based on all three. Wisdom.

As I reflect on the 8th chapter of Proverbs, two sayings come to mind: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”; and “A child is smarter than you think, but not as wise.” How true they are! Both simple in principle, but neither one is easy to accept or sometimes, comprehend.

The “wisdom to know the difference” is tough. How hard do we struggle with trying to make changes over that which we have no control? And in turn, it’s not always easy to say, “I have to accept what is.”

And just because our children are so smart and strong, know how to ride a bike at three, read and write by the time they’re four, doesn’t mean that they are wise to the dangers of the road or can fully comprehend the words they read. That takes experience - growth.

In everyday life we make decisions from what we know, what we study, what we experience. In Proverbs, Wisdom tells us that she was here from the beginning and is here now, instructing us with a “how to” manual to help us attain insight and strength; prudence and righteousness.

We are told to educate ourselves, listen to instruction and follow where wisdom leads; that actively seeking wisdom may bring happiness and pleasure, knowing that we are forsaking wickedness. When we read and study and reflect on life experience, we may hear the voice of wisdom. And for us today, we may gain understanding through studying the Word of God, through the teachings of Jesus. Prayer: In anticipation of Christ’s birth, we pray that in our daily search for understanding, we grow in the knowledge that we are the children of God and that we clearly hear the Word to the wise. Amen.

19

Step Outside Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Cori Marinan Proverbs 8:27-31

…when he made firm the skies above, when he established the fountains of the deep…” (Proverbs 8:28)

I feel the presence of God the most when I am out in nature with the quiet calming sounds and the soothing colors. We live in a world so entrenched in flashing lights, artificially bright colors, with a constant hum of technology (heater, computer, refrigerator, you name it) accompanied by the chatter of the TV, radio or a podcast. It’s so easy to get lost in this “human world” and to feel out of touch with God. Mix in Christmas. While this season is rooted in Christianity, it’s all too easily lost while one runs from one Christmas concert or gift exchange to the next. And yet if you take a moment and step outside and watch the colors of the sky as the sun rises or sets, or listen to water lapping the shores of Lake Michigan, or explore a freshly fallen snow (yes snow!), you will be able to experience a peaceful moment with God. Prayer: Dear Lord, During this busy time of year, full of shopping and tinsel, gift exchanging and parties, help us remember to take the time to step outside…outside the hustle and bustle so we can soak up the skies and seas to experience a quiet moment with you. Amen.

20

Why Us? Wednesday, December 20, 2017 Kari Zink Psalm 8:1-9

When I look at the sky, which you have made, at the moon and the stars, which you set in their places – what are human beings, that you think of them; mere mortals, that you care for them? (Psalm 8:3-4)

To me, this verse really brings forth the question, “Why us?” What makes humans worthy of the birth of your son and dominance over your other creations? What is it about us that set us apart from all the other amazing creations?

It seems to be something that has long been stupefying to most of mankind. Why are we worthy? Are we, in fact, worthy of the place we have in the grand scheme of things? Placing us just below the angels but above the creations that came before us?

Perhaps it’s a wise person who questions this. It shows humility to question what God was thinking to place such importance on mankind. When I look at the world around us today I truly question our worth for such a status but perhaps that’s the frame of mind God wants us to be in. When we start feeling like we deserve it, we stop seeing His greatness and become numb to it all; unimpressed and jaded. As Mr. Rodgers always looked for the helpers in times of tragedy, let us also look for those questioning, “Why us?” For those are the people who still see the wonder in God’s creation and the coming of his son and do not take for granted our place in it all.

Prayer: God, please let us always see the wonder in your creation. Let us remain close to you and all that is around us so that we never lose sight of your love. Amen.

21

Hope Sprouts Thursday, December 21, 2017 Kim Goodwin Isaiah 11:1-9

A green Shoot will sprout from the Jesse’s stump, from his roots a budding Branch. The life-giving Spirit of God will hover over him, the Spirit that brings wisdom and understanding, The Spirit that gives direction and builds strength, the Spirit that instills knowledge and Fear-of-God. (Isaiah 11: 1-2, The Message)

The first spring after we moved into our house we quickly realized that the previous owners had neglected the care of the trees on our property. They were crowded and sick, so we cut down several. It’s been nearly six years since they have been cut down and every summer I think it might be the year they rot into the earth. But year after year I am surprised, shocked, and frankly a little annoyed to see little green shoots sprouting out of those stumps. How are these old stumps bringing about life? Why do they keep trying to live? But every year we now expect that they will return with the hope that they will grow. Grow into a budding branch and then a mighty tree. Persistence and Hope.

Every December we enter Advent with a year’s worth of stumps in our lives and in the world. Broken, sad, lonely, angry and weak stumps. We often become comfortable with our stumps. We try and protect them from the hope of a green shoot. We don’t always want to let Jesus into our lives, as Jesus tends to make us uncomfortable and insist that we grow. Growing can be painful. So we pluck out those green shoots. But Jesus is persistent. Despite our best efforts, Jesus breaks into our lives. Giving us hope. Hope that we can be different. Hope that the world can change for the good.

Where do you see green shoots in your life? Are you tearing them away? Or are you nurturing them? Prayer: This Advent, let us accept the green shoots of hope found in you. And also let us be Christ in the world, that we also might be a little green shoot of hope that grows into a budding branch and then a mighty tree. Amen.

22

Humble Servant Friday, December 22, 2017 Francie Kopecky Luke 1:26-38

Here am I, the servant of the Lord... (Luke 1:38)

Imagine Mary, a young Jewish peasant girl, engaged to be married, just going about her business when the angel Gabriel interrupted her life with some staggering news. Somehow all of a sudden she is the "favored one" of God, who would conceive and bear the "Son of the Most High." Naturally she became confused and frightened. Gabriel entreated her to not be afraid, and told her that the Holy Spirit would "overshadow" her and she would, seemingly impossibly, conceive a child who would be Jesus the Christ.

In the end, Mary accepts this new reality, and consents to God's call as a "servant of the Lord," even though the path ahead was bound to be extremely difficult, seeing that she would need to explain this turn of events to Joseph, her family, and her community. But serving the Lord was more important than the difficulty it caused, so she submitted to God's will, and said yes, "Here I am, the servant of the Lord."

The Lord our God calls all of us to be his servants, in so many ways on so many days. He calls us because we are all God's children, his "chosen and favored" ones. How do we respond when God calls us? Do we ignore God and take the easy way out? Do we assume that some things are just not possible? Do we become fearful and worried? God presents us with opportunities to follow and to serve, some more difficult than others. We might worry what others might think of us if we follow God's call. Sometimes we try but fail. Sometimes we stumble. Sometimes we go all out, face our fears, and march on to do our best to accomplish the difficult and impossible work that God calls us to do. No matter what is going on in our lives and in the world, God is patiently yet insistently interrupting us, urging us to follow, have faith, trust God, and do God’s work in this world.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, please help us to be like Mary, who let go of fear and submitted to your call. Help us to answer "yes," not just for the easier work, but also for what we think might be impossible, even when it scares us. Help us to not be afraid and give us the strength to be the hands and feet of Christ on earth. Amen.

23

My Soul Magnifies Saturday, December 23, 2017 Leota Ester Luke 1:46-55

[The Lord] has brought down the powerful… he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. (Luke 1:52-53)

Few approach the Christmas season without hearing Mary's Song, "The Magnificat," sung as she meets Elizabeth, pregnant with the future John the Baptist. Mary praises God after being told that she will bear a child, given to her by the spirit of God.

As I think of the song Mary sings, it seems unlikely that a young girl could suddenly "magnify" God as she does. Surely, she had been steeped in the religious heritage of her family and community to accept a message from God that she is to bear God’s son and then to sing this song of praise.

In the Song, Mary seems to know what her son, to be named the Son of God, will do. He will be merciful, show strength, scatter the proud, put down the mighty, exalt the lowly, fill the hungry with good things, and send away the rich, empty. This is what God does. With a mother who sings these to her unborn child, how can he do otherwise?

Mary was surely teacher, guide, nurturer of this child. She had to have been. A child doesn't come, even "having grown in wisdom and stature," a 12 year old, to ask questions of his elders without being taught. Nor become, suddenly, a 30-year-old rebel who breaks the rules of both government and synagogue with a new message of love, healing, salvation.

I find myself, a Protestant, considering the role of Mary anew. Having wondered at the role of Mary as observed by Catholics, I see her differently now. I see her as a forerunner, not only of teaching her son, but all of us, of God's word. During this Advent season, we sing with Mary that "our souls magnify the Lord," rejoicing in the birth of such a One, with such a mother, and with the life Jesus exemplified and would have us live.

Prayer: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior… for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.”

24

God With Us Sunday, December 24, 2017 Pastor Mike Goodwin John 1:1-18

And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory…full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)

I’ve joked from time to time that every sermon I preach eventually comes back to this biblical text. I love Eugene Peterson’s translation from The Message, “The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood.” The truth is, John 1 captures the whole of the Christian faith and life.

The content of our faith is this: God enters history, saving us from our sin, reconciling humanity with God and one another, destroying death, conquering the powers of the world dealing in death and destruction with love and grace.

Christ’s birth on this silent night, holy night—like God hearing the cries of the Israelites and coming down to confront Pharaoh (Exodus 3), like God raising Jesus from the dead—is the everlasting promise of God’s relentless love for all of creation.

The Christian life is lived in joyful response to God’s relentless love in Christ. “We all live off his generous bounty, gift after gift after gift” (John 1:16, The Message). In this life, we are: the shepherds who run to tell the good news of Bethlehem, the women who find the tomb empty, the disciples who go to the ends of the earth in Jesus’ name; recipients of grace, disciples of love, and bearers of Christ’s light in the world. The light shines in the darkness, this night and all nights. Glory to God in the highest!!!

Prayer: “God of mystery and might, we praise and worship you, for you came in silence, while all lay sleeping, to enter our world as a child of humble birth. We thank you for your Son, Jesus Christ, born of your handmaid Mary. In his face we behold your glory, for in his life as in his death is your gift of salvation. By your Spirit, make our hearts burn with thanksgiving, that we may give as we have received. Let our whole lives be gifts of praise to you, God of love and peace, in the gracious name of Jesus Christ, your Son, by the power of your Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen” (from the Book of Common Worship).

25

CHRISTMAS

For Christians, Christmas marks the coming of God to us; the birth of Immanuel declares the divine entry in the midst of humanity. Henri Nouwen describes the majesty and mystery of Immanuel this way:

Truly the good news is that God is not a distant God, a God to be feared and avoided, a God of revenge, but a God who is moved by our pains and participates in the fullness of the human struggle. God is a compassionate God…By calling God Immanuel, we recognize that God is committed to live in solidarity with us, to share our joys and pains, to defend and protect us, and to suffer all of life with us. God-with-us is a close God, a God whom we all our refuge, our stronghold, our wisdom, and, even more intimately, our helper, our shepherd, our love. We will never really know God as a compassionate God if we do not understand with our heart and mind that God came and lived among us and with us. (Nouwen, Spiritual Direction: Wisdom for the Long Walk of Faith, page 74.)

Christmas doesn’t end when the decorations come down, when the kids go home or back to school, or when the gifts given are forgotten. Christmas changes reality for God is with us. God’s grace is for us. Receive the gift of Immanuel anew. In the next twelve days in the season of Christmas, put down your figgy pudding and receive God’s grace. Perhaps pray a breath prayer wherever you go, “God is in this place.” Or pray for the people you are with if they need an extra measure of God’s love or your need an extra measure for them, “God is with this person.” I wonder, will you see people, places, and current events differently? Will others see the world differently because of your Christmas witness? God with us. God for us. Immanuel. Grace overflows.

26

Be Not Afraid Monday, December 25, 2017 Joe Lindsay Luke 2:1-20

But the angel said to them, “Be not afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. (Luke 2:10-11)

Beth Willis Miller, noted author, provides an uplifting analysis of this scripture:

This is the first bidding sent from heaven to men when Jesus Christ was born. To the shepherds of Bethlehem these words bring with them inestimable power and significance. The birth of Jesus Christ was the answer they had all been waiting for.

These words which the angel spoke were but anticipations of the words with which Jesus carried into his ministry on earth. We hear from His own lips continually—“Fear not.” He meets us at every turn of life with that cheery invocation. He passed through His ministry day by day repeating this anthem of warfare. The disciples heard it every time they were troubled, cast down, and afraid. When they shivered at the thought of all the foes and dangers which awaited them, there came reassurance with the voice, “Fear not, little flock.” When He was leaving them, one of his last words was: “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (https://bethwillismiller.blogspot.com)

Perhaps the most striking thing to us about this story is that we can so easily put ourselves back into that situation of fear, for by far the dominant mood of the hour today is that of fear. The presence of Christ in our lives ought to bring us, as Christians, the absence of fear and the presence of joy. The Angel’s words instill sense of deliverance, a sense of freedom, a sense of release-intended to be an ongoing process. We don't face dangerous and frightening situations just once or twice in a lifetime; we face them every day.

Prayer: Eternal Father, you gave to your incarnate Son the holy name of Jesus to be the sign of our salvation: Plant in every heart, we pray, the love of him who is the Savior of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen. (The Book of Common Prayer)

27

Boxing Day Tuesday, December 26, 2017 Paula Hoglund Luke 2:21-38

...for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. (Luke 2:30-32)

I first became aware of Boxing Day when we welcomed our British son-in-law into the family. By most accounts, the term “Boxing Day” refers to the centuries-old tradition of the wealthy providing tips to those who have served them, or even “boxing” up food and gifts to their servants in appreciation for their year's work. In more recent times, many British folk see this national holiday as a day to relax and rest from the hectic Christmas preparations, to take a walk, to visit with neighbors.

It was with this in mind that I read the account of Simeon in the temple with Jesus, a mere 40 days following his birth. The Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he, an old man near to death, would see the Lord's Messiah before he died. What joy he must have felt, cradling this little baby in his arms and praising God, with Mary and Joseph watching with amazement! We, too, have just witnessed the birth of our Savior. We have decorated our homes, sung the carols, and read those oh-so-familiar scriptures, and yet the tale rings anew each year with love, hope and joy.

Yet even in this moment of elation, Simeon warns Mary that trials await for Jesus and that his life will difficult. We certainly know that, as well – it will only be a few short months when we will journey through Holy Week. But for now, let us revel in this always new-found joy. Our lives will return soon enough to its usual busy-ness, so let's take our cue from our friends across the pond and use this day to rest and to savor the birth of our Savior. Prayer: Dear Lord, Be with us on this day as we take the time to let your light enter our souls so that we may be a witness to our faith in you throughout this coming year. Amen.

28

Don’t Leave Jesus Behind Wednesday, December 27, 2017 Renee, Tom and Claire Boldt Luke 2:41-52

“Child, why have you treated us like this? Look, your father and I have been searching for you in great anxiety.” He said to them, “Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” (Luke 2:48-49)

When we read the passage from Luke about Jesus being left behind after the festival of the Passover and his parents’ frantic three-day search for him, we agreed that Jesus’ answer when they finally found him was more than a little bit insensitive. Jesus was twelve years old, and certainly from Mary and Joseph’s perspective, far too young to be deciding on his own to stay behind in Jerusalem to spend time sitting with the teachers in the Temple. His reply when Mary asked him why he treated them this way was “Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” Well, obviously they didn’t, and Luke goes on to say that Mary and Joseph did not understand his reply.

What we thought was most interesting, however, was that although all who heard Jesus were amazed at his understanding and his answers, he didn’t stay behind to teach, but to listen and ask questions. Although he was God incarnate, he was also human, and needed to grow and mature in preparation for His ministry. Like Jesus, we too must grow and mature in our faith, and remember that nothing should hinder us from access to those things that contribute to our spiritual growth. Hopefully, our discipleship won’t cause the kind of anxiety that Jesus created for Mary and Joseph, but if Jesus’ spiritual growth was so important to him, then it should be equally important to us. We think of Jesus as a teacher, but he was also a listener and a questioner, and it is in all three roles that we believe he modeled for us how we should carry out our own faith development.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to remember that nothing should hinder us from access to those things that contribute to our spiritual growth. Although we may become distracted, help us regain our focus, so that all we do is a reflection of your love for us and our gratitude to you. Amen.

29

Get Over Your Fear Thursday, December 28, 2017 Crystal Lillge Luke 1:5-25

But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.” (Luke 1:13)

“Nope. I will never be able to do that. That will never happen.”

From your first bike ride without training wheels to leaving home for the very first time to deciding to grow your family to saying goodbye to a loved one. We have learned to live with, and through, paralyzing fear at so many points within our lives. Looking back, we often see marked personal growth that comes after the moment of fear. Even for Zechariah, fear overtook him in a moment and he was filled with disbelief in the goodness that comes from faith. Fear causes us to feel things we do not normally feel, to worry more and trust less. This passage reminded me of a few lyrics from the Mumford & Sons song, “After the Storm,”

But there will come a time, you'll see, with no more tears. And love will not break your heart, but dismiss your fears. Get over your hill and see what you find there, With grace in your heart and flowers in your hair.

In our journey to realize and experience the life that God has for us, we will be faced with moments of fear. Moments that cause heartbreak and tears. But when we lean on faith to get to the other side of that fear, we will be rewarded. For Zechariah, the reward was a long-awaited son. For you, it may be a new career, recovery from illness, new relationships. You will breathe a sigh of relief. A weight will be lifted. Your faith will be stronger.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we know that we will experience fear in our lives. It may be a short passing moment; it may be a daily struggle. Please be with us in those moments, keeping our faith strong, so we can emerge from the other side ready to live the life you’ve designed for us. Amen.

30

Discerning Divine Guidance Friday, December 29, 2017 Alice Baumbach Luke 1:57-66

On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to name him Zechariah after his father. But his mother [Elizabeth] said, “No; he is to be called John.”(Luke 1: 59-60)

When the time came for Elizabeth to give birth, she gave birth to a son. The custom was to name a son after the father, but both Zechariah and Elizabeth decided to trust Gabriel’s message and name him John. I imagine they communicated via writing tablet and sign language about the Gabriel incident, agreeing it made sense to give their son a name which would reflect the promise of his future.

I believe that divine guidance has been available to all throughout history. I have not yet had an angel appear to me. However, I have experienced what I call divine guidance events. In 1987, Jim and I had been staying with his parents in Shawano following his father’s stroke. When it was time to resettle ourselves, we explored nearby cities with airports.

One day I decided to take a drive down by Shawano Lake. I was frustrated and simply asked out loud, “Where shall we go? Should we just look at one of these little lake cottages for now?” Suddenly I heard a voice saying boldly, “No, go to Appleton!” I stopped the car, locked the doors and found myself emotionally shaken. When I revealed this event to Jim, he listened and we talked about the wisdom of the message. We then made our plans to move to Appleton.

As I have reflected on that experience in light of the Zechariah and Elizabeth story and the naming of John, it was important that we, as they, discerned together that the guidance was of divine origin. As Zechariah and Elizabeth did, we paid attention, discussed, trusted, prayed, and acted accordingly.

When have you heard God’s voice? How did you respond? How is God calling you now in the Christmas Season?

Prayer: Promise Keeping God, help us to trust your guidance. Help us hear your voice. May we follow you faithfully no matter where you lead. Amen.

31

Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord Saturday, December 30, 2017 Fred Umland Luke 1:67-80

You my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High God. You will go ahead of the Lord to prepare his road for him. (Luke 1:76, Good News

for Modern Man Version)

In Luke 1 we learn that Zechariah, while filled with the Holy Spirit, shared God’s message that Zechariah’s son, John the Baptist, was to be God’s prophet and was to go ahead of the Lord and prepare his way. He was to tell the people that they would be saved and their sins would be forgiven. John was to set the stage for Jesus and his teachings.

I often wonder what would have happened if John the Baptist had not been there preparing the way. Would anyone believe that Jesus was the Son of God, or would he just be seen as another unstable individual? How might we respond today?

Right out of college I worked in the inner city of Chicago as a childcare worker. Occasionally I came into contact with individuals who I suspected had serious mental health problems. Some were hospitalized, but most were not. A couple of people I came into contact with actually claimed to be the second coming of our savior Jesus Christ. It was easy for me to immediately discount what they were saying and blame it on mental health issues, but how could I know for sure? I wondered if I would have had the same doubts about Jesus.

It is difficult for me to say how I would have handled things in Jesus’s time, but I find the presence of John the Baptist to be helpful. He provides us with a confirmation of Jesus and his message of salvation. Throughout the Bible God sends prophets to provide direction for his people. According to the book of Luke, John the Baptist was sent to prepare the people for Jesus. His preaching has made it easier for mankind to understand the Christmas story and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior.

Prayer: We thank you for sending John the Baptist to prepare the way for our Lord. Please help us remember his message that Christ came to save mankind and forgive their sins. Amen.

32

Be a God-Revealer Sunday, December 31, 2017 Greg Braatz John 1:19-34

The very next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and yelled out, “Here he is, God’s Passover Lamb! He forgives the sins of the world! This is the man I’ve been talking about, ‘the One who comes after me but is really ahead of me.’ I knew nothing about who he was—only this: that my task has been to get Israel ready to recognize him as the God-Revealer. That is why I came here baptizing with water, giving you a good bath and scrubbing sins from your life so you can get a fresh start with God.” (John 1:29-31, The Message)

It’s the morning of New Year’s Eve! The day is bright and filled with hope and promise. I have yet to do anything foolish to help bring in the New Year. All of my New Year’s resolutions are still unbroken. Soon it will be a new year, a clean slate, a time for sins to be washed away and a time for a fresh start.

But as I look at my list of New Year’s resolutions, they are somewhat centered on myself: finally balance the checkbook, lose weight, get in better shape, etc. All of these things may allow me to think differently about myself, but what does it reveal about myself to the rest of the world?

In Eugene Peterson’s Bible paraphrase The Message, verses 29-31 it states, “(Jesus) is the great God-Revealer” and that he (John) was giving you a good bath (through baptism) and scrubbing sins from your life so that you can get a fresh start with God.” Maybe my New Year’s resolutions should be less about myself and more about how my life can be a God-Revealer to others. Now that I have been given a good bath and scrubbing, maybe my New Year’s resolutions need to more about what can do to get a fresh start with God.

What do you need to do to get a fresh start with God this New Year?

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Mother and Father, help me start this New Year with a fresh start with you. May the actions that I take this New Year help me reveal you to others. Amen.

33

Getting in the Spirit Monday, January 1, 2018 Linda Boldt 2 Kings 2:6-12

When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me what I may do for you, before I am taken from you.” Elisha said, “Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit.” (2 Kings 2:9)

The prophet Elijah was about to be taken up to heaven. He asked his apprentice Elisha if there was anything else he could do for him before leaving him to carry on as God’s prophet. Elisha asked for just one thing: a double share of Elijah’s spirit.

What an inspired request! Elijah was passionately devoted to God, confronting King Ahab for worshiping Baal and blaming his faithlessness for causing a severe drought. He was courageous, continuing to preach despite being marked for death by Queen Jezebel. He was steadfast, enduring wind, earthquake, and fire, until the voice of God finally came to him in a still, small voice. He was daring, too, challenging the priests of Baal to a contest to see whose god could cause a sacrificial bull to spontaneously catch fire.

As we enter the New Year, we are aware that these are challenging times for the church. For some, these challenges are evidence that God is at work reforming the church to be a better witness and servant in a new century. If we want to be part of the Church’s rebirth, we will need to have the same spirit that Elisha requested – and in double measure! Prayer: Gracious God, we face a new year with challenges as well as opportunities for the church. We may not know where you are leading us, but we do know that you need us to be steadfast enough to listen for your Word through all the noise around us, passionate enough to live every day as you would have us live, courageous enough to speak your Word to a fearful and angry world, and daring enough to risk trying new ways of being your Church. Grant us the same spirit that was in Elijah for the living of these days. Amen.

34

A Bridge between the Old and the New Tuesday, January 2, 2018 Christine Cornell Malachi 4:4-6

[The Lord] will turn the hearts of parents to their children and the hearts of children to their parents.” (Malachi 4:6a)

The book of Malachi is the last scripture of the Old Testament. The definition of Malachi is “my messenger.” The author of these verses shares a message of what God has said and done in the past (“Remember the law of my servant Moses”) and what He will say and do in the future (“I will send you Elijah the prophet”). The message is an indictment of the corruption and wickedness into which people have fallen and urges them to avoid complacency and to strive constantly to be faithful.

While I honor and cherish the stories of God’s influence as noted in the Old Testament, in writing this message for January 2, 2018, I choose to look forward to the future, to God’s final victory and the effects of God’s merciful word.

In today’s world, we read and hear about atrocities and spiteful words and deeds on both national and global events. We may ask, “Where is God in all of this? Can’t God fix all our problems? Why does God allow such events to happen?” You and I know we as humans may never fully understand…but must believe in and cling to the notion of God’s mercy. Whether you look back and remember the law of God, or look forward and see the victory of God, the point comes through: God has turned his heart toward you in Jesus Christ. This is a most wonderful message.

Prayer: Loving God, I humbly and joyously reflect on the words of this scripture. Your everlasting goodness overcomes the sins of your people. I bless you and thank you for your eternal mercy and rejoice in the salvation of all through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

35

Now What? Wednesday, January 3, 2018 Joel Screnock Luke 3:1-18

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

3:10-14, English Standard Version)

We’ve been blessed with this season of Advent, but now we face the reality that the festivities are coming to an end. It is time to move on from Christmas and on toward the upcoming year. How are we to live, in light of the birth of our Savior? Lucky for us, John the Baptist gives us a little glimpse into life after Advent. John tells the crowds that “every tree that does not bear good fruit will be thrown into the fire.” In response, the crowds ask what they must do to bear good fruit. His responses are not the typical answer we would look for if we asked the same question today. We expect to hear some sort of answer like “go to church” or “read your Bible,” or perhaps some reiteration of the Golden Rule. Rather than say these things, John responds with a message of social activism. Give to the poor and hungry. Don’t take more than is necessary. Don’t take advantage of others.

John’s response to the coming of the Lord is not one of personal holiness, but rather of being a good neighbor. Jesus came down to the world to walk amongst us, heal our sick, give to our needy, and feed our poor. Are we not also called to do the same?

Prayer: Lord, thank you for coming to Earth and giving us an example of the lives you want us to live. Help us to be more like you, and to look for ways to help those in need. Amen.

36

Living in Our Baptism Thursday, January 4, 2018 Eric W. Edwards Matthew 3:13-17

And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17)

I was baptized when I was two months old at the First United Methodist Church in New Ulm, Minnesota. My baptismal gown was special because my mom sewed it from the same fabric she used to make her own wedding dress. My Grandma and Grandpa Cornell and two great grandmothers were present.

When Jesus asked John to baptize him, John was not sure he should do this, because Jesus was already the Son of God. Jesus told John that this was God’s plan. For us Christians today, Jesus has set the example for us to follow. The promises we make in baptism are similar to those in a wedding, so it was perfect that my baptismal gown was of the same fabric as my mom’s wedding dress.

Baptism is so important for Christians. I love the baptism service at MPC: seeing the little babies and the love of their parents; also the promises to teach and encourage the child we as a congregation make. I have been honored when I was a Deacon at MPC to help with baptisms.

When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit came in the form of a Dove…..And God spoke, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.” We know that we are all God’s children; we should aim to live in a way that is pleasing to God.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for sending your Son Jesus to be our Savior. Because of His baptism by the Holy Spirit, your love shines through us and throughout all Christians. Please help us to live in ways that are pleasing to you and to fulfill the vows taken and received at our baptism. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

37

People Like Me Friday, January 5, 2018 Greg Braatz Matthew 4:1-11

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. (Matthew 4:1)

This story from Matthew is about Jesus being tempted by the tempter. I don’t know about you, but I have never been swept away to have a conversation with a visible devil. I have never been given the opportunities that were presented to Jesus – the opportunity to never be hungry, the opportunity to call down angels to help me (being confident they will show up), nor the opportunity to rule the world. (I only get to pretend that I rule in my own house.)

If these are the issues Jesus gets to deal with, what can he possibly know about the temptations that we face on a daily basis? With such big issues to deal with, how can Jesus possibly have time to think about such things as loneliness, depression, failed relationships, too many bills and not enough money at the end of the month? These worries are a long way from deciding if I want to rule the world.

Where I find my comfort and my hope is in the fact that Jesus passed on all of those opportunities. Jesus decided not to spend his time with these mind-blowing opportunities. Jesus decided to spend his time with people with mental health issues. Jesus decided to spend his time with people who were in failed relationships. Jesus decided to spend his time with the poor and homeless.

So maybe, just maybe, Jesus wasn’t interested in spending time with those who were interested in ruling this earthly world. Maybe, just maybe, Jesus was more interested in spending time with people like me.

Prayer: Dear Creator of all, thank you for spending time with people like me. Amen.

38

EPIPHANY

The word “epiphany” is from the Greek “eiphaneia” and “theophaneia,” meaning “appearance” or “manifestation of God.” Epiphany as a liturgical season celebrates the appearances of God in the midst of human life, exalting the revelation of God to the world in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. So in Epiphany we lift up stories of the magi following the star that revealed Christ’s birth, Jesus turning water into wine, and Jesus’ baptism when God says the words we all long to hear, “This is my son, my beloved, with him I am well pleased.”

During the season of Epiphany, I invite you to be on the lookout for where God is revealed in the world around you. Henri Nouwen offers wise counsel on how to focus our eyes to glimpse God’s disruptions. He writes:

We are surrounded by the reality of the unseen and the unknown, which fills every part of our life with terror but at the same time holds the secret mystery of our being alive. That secret is this: ‘though we walk in darkness, we have seen a great light.’ And this light, while it can be masked, cannot go out, as it shines for all eternity.

The light of God is beyond the darkness—beyond our hearts and minds, beyond our feelings and thoughts, beyond our expectations and desires, and beyond all the events and experiences that make up our lives. Still God is in the center of all of it.

In prayer and meditation, God’s presence is never separated form God’s absence, and God’s absence is never separated from God’s presence in the heart. The presence of God is so much beyond the human experience of being near to another that it is quite easily is misperceived as absence. The absence of God, on the other hand, is often so deeply felt that it leads to a new sense of God’s presence.

Renewed by the promises of Advent and Christmas, may we enter the season of Epiphany with hope and confidence to pray, proclaim, and practice the promise of our faith: Our Lord has come!

39

God is the Word Saturday, January 6, 2018 Ashley Zuege Matthew 4:12-17

This Isaiah-prophesied sermon came to life in Galilee the moment Jesus started preaching. He picked up where John left off: “Change your life. God’s kingdom is here.” (Matthew 4:17, The Message)

In my devotional I am choosing to focus on the last verse that reads “He (referring to Jesus) picked up where John left off: ‘Change your life. God’s kingdom is here.’”

God is telling us to change lives. For one person to change another's life is hard, but we can certainly help. When we notice that a friend is feeling down, help them to seek God's comfort in the darkest of times. There are so many ways to communicate with others when we cannot reach them physically. The technology we have is phenomenal if you use it for good. We can send a nice message, post something sweet on Facebook, or call them.

One of the ways I feel God working through me is by sending my friends and family a message thanking them for being here for me and reminding them that I am there for them, and also to let them know that God loves them. We can reach the other side of the country in less than a minute. To be able to spread the word of God to someone living across town or someone living across the world is astonishing. We can teach the message of the bible in a text message. So go on, change someone's life by telling them all about God's wondrous works of the world and what Christmas is really all about.

Prayer: God, help us to spread the message of your love to others this season and to help us be thankful. Let us do good things in your name. Thanks for all you give us and your unconditional love. Amen.

40

What are You Looking for? Come and See Sunday, January 7, 2018 Pastor Mike Goodwin John 1:35-51

When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come and see.” (John 1:38-39a)

The Christmas season has come to a close. Christmas trees are drying out. The snow after a season of travel no longer looks like a winter wonderland. Yet the dawning of Epiphany invites us to be on the lookout for the mystery and wonder of the incarnation every single day. This is the final devotion in this booklet. I pray that each one has blessed you and deepened your spiritual practice throughout Advent and Christmas.

In this final scripture reading, we hear about Jesus’ first encounters with his would-be followers. As you leave this spiritual discipline, I invite you to spend some time praying and reflecting on the question Jesus asks the disciples: What are you looking for? In the year to come, at home, at work, at church, in your relationships. What are you looking for? The invitation he extends to the disciples, Jesus extends to you now: “Come and see.” In the days to come, take note of where Christ leads you and of the grace you receive along the way.

Our Lord has come! Let us live by the light of God’s grace shining up on us through Jesus Christ!

Prayer: “God of majesty and light, you hold the whole world in your hand. So we give you our great praise that in Jesus Christ all people may see your glory. We thank you for revealing Jesus to be your Son, and for claiming our lives in baptism to be his glad disciples. By your Spirit, may peace descend upon us that we may follow him with grateful hearts. Take us and all we have to be useful in your service, God of all nations, in the gracious name of Jesus Christ, your Son, by the power of your Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen” (from the Book of Common Worship).

1

Schedule of Advent & Christmas Events

Sunday, December 3 – Meet Justin Sundberg, Mission Co-worker

8:45 am – “Doing Good: Together” Discussion on PC(USA) Mission in Nicaragua 10:00 am Worship Service

7:00 pm “Nicaragua: Happiest Country on Earth?”

Monday, December 4, 6:30 am Breakfast with Justin Sundberg

Thursday, December 7, 6:30 p.m.

Lights of Love: Advent by Candlelight Women’s Event

Saturday, December 9, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm SERRV Sale featuring unique, handcrafted gifts, food and décor

made in fair-trade conditions

Saturday, December 9, 7:00 pm “Holiday Fantasia” Handbell Concert, featuring Encore Handbell Ensemble,

directed by Paul McKlveen. Freewill offering will be taken.

Sunday, December 10, 10:00 am Worship Service & Deacon Sunday

Sunday, December 17, 10:00 am Worship Service & Baptisms With “A Christmas Parade” Children’s Christmas Program

Sunday, December 24

10:00 am Family Christmas Eve Service 9:00 pm Candlelight Christmas Eve Service with Communion

Sunday, December 31, 10:00 am Worship Service

Sunday, January 7, 2018, 10:00 am Worship Service with Communion

Elder & Deacon Ordination & Installation

*******************************************

Memorial Presbyterian Church

803 East College Avenue Appleton, WI 54911

920.734.1787 info@mpcappleton.org mpcappleton.org