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2011-12 Advent Devotional Booklet |

Faith's Advent-Christmas -The Epiphany Devotional Booklet is here! All Scriptures in this booklet are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible. The prayers used on the Sundays in Advent and the Antiphons and the Responsive Prayer used on the Wednesdays in Advent
May these writings bless all of us. |
TO THE GLORY OF GOD! LOVING THANKS TO ALL THE PEOPLE WHO MISSION STATEMENT: Faith Lutheran is called through the Gospel to:
Faith Lutheran Church in Chico has declared its vision statement to be: More and more people Find us on FaceBook @
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Welcome to Faith Lutheran’s
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| Sunday, November 27, 2011 | FIRST SUNDAY IN ADVENT |
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LIGHT DAWNS ON A WEARY WORLD Refrain: (See music printed on back of booklet) |
Blessed are you, O Lord our God, ruler of the universe. Light the first candle. |
| Monday, November 28, 2011 |
| “He shall judge between many peoples, and shall arbitrate between strong nations far away; they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore;” (Verse 3 of Micah 4:1-5) |
Ever wonder what it would look like if, say tomorrow, human conflict on our planet ended? If that comprehensive vision seems unimaginable, what about picturing your own life as a place where compassion, empathy, and love replace discord, anger, and prejudice? How do we transform the tools of war we see employed globally and locally every day into the implements of peace? Fr. Henri Nouwen, one of the twentieth century’s most gifted religious thinkers, believed that the power of forgiveness far outweighed the power of vengeance. Understanding that fundamental fact, he argued, would help us recognize absolution as “love practiced among people who love poorly.” Nouwen suggested that we move one step farther, let go of the hurts we’ve received and inflicted, and experience the liberation that accompanies forgiveness. None of this is easy, but neither is beating swords into plowshares. |
| Let us pray: Gracious God, help us every day to choose the path of peace and forgiveness in all that we do. Amen. |
Lisa Emmerich |
Celebration Activity: Sometime during Advent, individually or as a family, choose a service project to be involved in. Some examples might be ringing the Salvation Army bell, serving a meal at the Jesus Center, checking with the Esplanade House to see what their needs are, visiting people in convalescent hospitals who do not have family or friends to visit them. |
| Tuesday, November 29, 2011 |
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"Great and amazing are your deeds, Lord God the Almighty! Just and true are your ways, King of the Nations!" (Verse 3b of Revelation 15:1-8) |
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The Lord God does indeed do great and amazing deeds. In our almost 12 years in Chico, moving here from Buffalo, NY and now returning to Rochester, NY we have had quite the journey but we could feel God's presence the entire time. At times we questioned the purpose of our lives in Chico but in the end God's ways were so very just and true and the next phase of our lives was clearly revealed to us. We were so blessed with the time we had at Faith Lutheran and we will always treasure the friendship and support we have received. It is a very special church with very special people! We wish God's blessings on all of you. |
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| Let us pray: May we be constantly aware of the great and amazing deeds of the Lord God Almighty and be grateful for them always! Amen. |
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Celebration Activity: Decorate a “Sharing Jar” for your table. At each meal until Christmas or the Epiphany, have each family member put in some loose change. Choose together the ending date. Add the change to the “noisy offering” basket on the altar for the building of the Rwanda church. Or choose together how you will use this money to help others. |
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| Wednesday November 30, 2011 |
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FIRST ANTIPHON O Wisdom, proceeding from the mouth of the Most High, pervading and permeating all creation, mightily ordering all things: Come and teach us the way of prudence. |
“A voice cries out: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.’” (Verse 3 of Isaiah 40:5) |
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SECOND ANTIPHON “Say therefore to the Israelites, 'I am the LORD, and I will free you from the burdens of the Egyptians and deliver you from slavery to them.’” |
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RESPONSIVE PRAYER: Our world stumbles blindly toward chaos— come, source of wisdom, and reveal yourself to us. What we imagine to be strength is really weakness— come, mighty Lord, and fill us with your true strength. We long for a standard to look up to— come, Root of Jesse, claim us as your own. We languish in prisons of mind and spirit— come, Key of David, and set us free. The darkness grows thick around us— come, Light of light, and dawn upon us. We are scattered, lacking a sure leader— come, Prince of peace, and lead us. We need to know that God is with us— come, Emmanuel, and dwell in our hearts. Amen. |
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| Thursday, December 1, 2011 |
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| "We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Verses 2-3 of 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10) | |
| This letter was written to the church in Thessalonica, and is the earliest of Paul's writings still extant. It is the earliest document in the New Testament, written about 43-50 C.E., or around 15-20 years after Jesus' death and resurrection. Thessalonica was the capital of the Roman province of Macedonia, in northern Greece, and was an important center of trade, by both land and sea. Archaeological finds have confirmed that the people there worshipped Julius Caesar as "God," and Emperor Octavian as a "son of God." It is therefore likely that members of this early Christian church would have been severely persecuted, and is probably what Paul was referring to when he praised the people for their "steadfastness of hope." Later in this letter, Paul addresses the concerns of church members for their fellow believers who have died waiting for Christ to return. He reassures them that all believers "will be with the Lord forever." (4:17) For our Advent meditation, let us remember how much easier it is for us to be "steadfast" in our worship of our Lord Jesus Christ than it was for those early believers, and be truly grateful. |
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Let us pray: Dear Lord, we thank you for the wonderful gift of your presence on Earth, both to give us a model of the godly life we are to live, and to save us from our sins. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. |
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Eileen M. Terran |
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| Celebration Activity: Prepare a Christmas stocking for Jesus. Each night at dinner name something for which you are thankful. Write it on a slip of paper and put it in Jesus’ stocking. On Christmas Day have fun reading all the blessings that were counted during Advent. | |
| Friday, December 2, 2011 |
“When (Barnabas) came and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast devotion.” (Verse 23 of Acts 11:19-26) |
How often do we witness God’s grace? Barnabas was sent on a mission from the Church in Jerusalem to investigate reports of Gentiles (non-Jewish people who did not worship God) being converted into believers! Barnabas saw the founding of the first Gentile Church and this is where believers (just like us) were first called Christians. Barnabas witnessed the power of the Holy Spirit working through people practicing and sharing their belief with non-believers and God’s grace changed them into believers! An exciting experience for Barnabas as he shared his faith and encouraged the new believers. True grace from God through ordinary people (like us) spreading the message of Jesus’ love and forgiveness. An amazing experience for Barnabas I am sure! As Christians we have the opportunity to experience or witness God’s grace in our lives by how we live and respond to different situations, by how we share our own Christian experiences, by how we listen, encourage, or comfort those in need, and by showing God’s love to someone who is hurting. I am sure you can add many more to this list! As we enter into Advent and the Christmas season let’s look at the grace we have been given: the gift of Jesus on Christmas morning—God’s wonderful gift of grace that did encounter people through Jesus’ life and how we today continue to be empowered through the Holy Spirit in our lives today. What a wonderful gift. |
| Let us pray: Loving God, thank you for your love and grace. May we continue to grow toward you, sharing your love and grace with others. Amen |
Mark Chrisman |
| Celebration Activity: Play Christmas carols while you eat dinner. Enjoy hearing the message of Christmas through music. |
| Saturday, December 3, 2011 |
“As (Jesus) was walking in the temple, the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders came to him and said, ‘By what authority are you doing these things? Who gave you this authority to do them?’” (Verses 27-28 of Mark 11:27-33) |
The leaders of the church at that time were questioning the authority of the actions Jesus had previously taken. Recently Jesus had cleansed the temple of money changers. Allowing His Word, His actions and His directions to permeate my life are the best part of my life. Please let me share a story. When I moved to Chico I had an elderly aunt with me. Now this is a woman who had been in church her entire life and she was now 99 ½ years old. I’m sitting by her bed one day and she asks, “How is it you can be so sure of heaven?” I WAS STARTLED! I said, Let’s look in your Bible and let God tell us.” I picked up her Bible and it OPENED TO JOHN 14. (Open your Bible and read this: John 14:1-3. You will be AMAZED.) Now I reread these verses to her frequently and about two weeks later, while napping, she fell asleep in Jesus. |
| Let us pray: I pray my heart will always be opened to accepting His Word, His actions, and His directions so I may always do His will. Amen. |
Mary Wolf |
| Celebration Activity: Make a Christmas card(s) that announces the coming of Jesus. Gather card stock or color paper, pens, crayons and materials to decorate the card(s). Send the card(s) to a friend or family member. |
| Sunday, December 4, 2011 |
SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT |
| LIGHT DAWNS ON A WEARY WORLD 1) Light dawns on a weary world when eyes begin to see…all people’s dignity. Light dawns on a weary world: The promised day of justice comes. |
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Refrain: The trees shall clap their hands; The dry lands, gush with springs; The hills and mountains shall break forth with singing! We shall go out in joy, and be led forth in peace, as all the world in wonder echoes shalom. |
Drawing by Rebecca Henderson |
2) Love grows in a weary world Repeat the above refrain: |
Blessed are you, O Lord our God, ruler of the universe. Light two candles. |
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| Monday, December 5, 2011 |
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“In the path of your judgments, O LORD, we wait for you; your name and your renown are the soul’s desire.” (Verse 8 of Isaiah 26:7-15) |
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Although much of Isaiah 26:7-15 seems to be about God’s people waiting for vindication, the words that stand out for me are “your name and your renown are the soul’s desire. My soul yearns for you in the night.” Don’t we all yearn for those times when we feel truly connected to the presence of God? Don’t we all sometimes feel like we’re waiting for God to connect with us? Thomas Merton, a Trappist monk, said “Life is this simple. We are living in a world that is absolutely transparent, and God is shining through it all the time. This is not just a fable or a nice story. It is true. If we abandon ourselves to God and forget ourselves, we see it sometimes and we see it maybe frequently. God shows Himself everywhere, in everything--in people and in things and in nature and in events. It becomes very obvious that God is everywhere and in everything and we cannot be without God. It’s impossible. The only thing is that we don’t see it.” From an audiotape of Merton in 1965. |
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God is here and we don’t have to wait. We just have to notice and listen. |
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Let us pray: Loving God, help us to open our eyes, ears and hearts to see your constant presence in our world today and always. |
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Gen Brink-Capriola |
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| Celebration Activity: Share a story about when someone told you they were sorry for something they said or did…OR…share a story about when you said you were sorry. | |
Tuesday, December 6, 2011 |
FESTIVAL OF ST. NICHOLAS |
“On that day the branch of the LORD shall be beautiful and glorious…” (Verse 2a of Isaiah 4:2-6) |
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The Gift of All Gifts Today is St. Nicholas Day. There are less than twenty shopping days until Christmas. Have you found the perfect gifts for everyone on your list? A group of women were sharing Christmas gift memories. Some described gifts of riches, surprise, or sacrifice; gifts given out of love and often out of poverty. Then one woman said, “When I was a child we only received one gift each Christmas.” One gift? Why only one? The tone of her reply indicated she thought it was obvious. “God gave only one Jesus on the first Christmas, so we should receive only one gift.” Isaiah is telling the people of Israel that God will in the future give them one beautiful and glorious gift, the Messiah. A gift so perfect and long lasting that it will serve as a shelter, a shade by day from the heat, and a refuge and a shelter from the storm and rain.(v6) A gift that is with us, regardless of whatever personal storm we are enduring. |
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| Let us pray: Lord may we give gifts this Christmas that reflects the one and only beautiful and glorious gift of your Son Jesus Christ. AMEN. |
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Darlene Hollmann |
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Celebration Activity: St. Nicholas was born in the 3rd century in what was then Greece. His parents died while he was still young. He dedicated his life to God. He gave all his inheritance to help the sick and needy. He became Bishop of Myra. He was known for his love of children and his generosity to those in need. Have a conversation about why St. Nicholas is a symbol for giving. |
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| Wednesday, December 7, 2011 |
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THIRD ANTIPHON | |
| O Root of Jesse, standing as an ensign before the peoples, before whom all kings are mute, to whom the nations will do homage: Come quickly to deliver us. |
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| “A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. The spirit of the LORD shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.” (Verses 1-2 of Isaiah 11:1-10) |
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FOURTH ANTIPHON |
Drawing by Taron Zilch |
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| “I am the LORD, I have called you in righteousness, I have taken you by the hand and kept you; I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations…” (Verse 6 of Isaiah 42:5–9) |
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RESPONSIVE PRAYER: Our world stumbles blindly toward chaos— come, source of wisdom, and reveal yourself to us. What we imagine to be strength is really weakness— come, mighty Lord, and fill us with your true strength. We long for a standard to look up to— come, Root of Jesse, claim us as your own. We languish in prisons of mind and spirit— come, Key of David, and set us free. The darkness grows thick around us— come, Light of light, and dawn upon us. We are scattered, lacking a sure leader— come, Prince of peace, and lead us. We need to know that God is with us— come, Emmanuel, and dwell in our hearts. Amen. |
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| Thursday, December 8, 2011 |
“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection…” (Verse 10a of Philippians 3:7-11) |
A resumé might be given in response to someone wanting to know us. What type of education, work experience, and volunteerism or hobbies have we accomplished in our life. |
| Let us pray: O God, allow us to relive the miracle of "the drummer boy" at Christ's birth offering his unconditional love to Christ through his music, in Jesus' name. Amen. |
Jim Henson |
| Celebration Activity: If you are setting up a crèche in your home, leave the manger empty and gift wrap baby Jesus. Place the wrapped gift of baby Jesus under the Christmas tree to be opened on Christmas Eve to remind you that Jesus is our best gift. If you do not use a crèche in your home, you might use a doll or make something to represent baby Jesus to wrap up and place under the tree. |
| Friday, December 9, 2011 |
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“May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy.” |
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Our family is always eagerly anticipating the coming of Christmas Day. The kids love the time they get to spend with the whole family in the morning, with the Faith Lutheran community in their slippers, and dinner with grandparents. It is a joy-filled day as we celebrate the birth of Jesus surrounded by the love of God and family. I find I experience this same type of joy while worshiping with others. It is always amazing to me how the rhythm of the liturgy combined with music can create an atmosphere filled with God’s love. Even after a difficult week, praising and worshipping God causes me to be filled with a joyful heart. |
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Let us pray: Dear God, as we go through this Advent Season, may we experience the joy and peace of your love. Amen. |
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David Henderson |
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| Celebration Activity: Have a container of dried beans or marbles and a decorated collection jar on hand. Everyone praises God or gives thanks to him for a particular blessing. For each praise or thank you put a bean or marble into the collection jar. Do this as many times during the day as you want. Continue throughout the holiday. See how long it takes to fill the jar to the brim. Notice the abundance of blessings! | ||
| Saturday, December 10, 2011 |
“…yet will I rejoice in the LORD; I will exult in the God of my salvation.” (Verse 18 of Habakkuk 3:13-19) |
As Lutheran youth, we think of God as being merciful, not angry and furious. It is scary to think God has the ultimate power to do anything. When evil nations are ruling, God has the power to overrule them. This passage made us feel that in the worst of times, God is still with us, and helps us through them. For this we must praise and celebrate all changes that happen in our lives! |
Let us pray: Serenity Prayer
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Faith Lutheran Youth (FLY) |
| Celebration Activity: Using a favorite or special family recipe, make cookies to share with a neighbor or someone who can’t leave home, or take to a local convalescent home. This is a yummy way to share Christmas Love. |
Sunday, December 11, 2011 |
THIRD SUNDAY IN ADVENT |
| LIGHT DAWNS ON A WEARY WORLD 1) Light dawns on a weary world when eyes begin to see…all people’s dignity. Light dawns on a weary world: The promised day of justice comes. |
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Refrain: The trees shall clap their hands; The dry lands, gush with springs; The hills and mountains shall break forth with singing! We shall go out in joy, and be led forth in peace, as all the world in wonder echoes shalom. |
2) Love grows in a weary world Repeat the above refrain: |
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Drawing by Priscilla Ward |
3) Hope blooms in a weary world The promised green of Eden comes. Repeat the above refrain. |
Blessed are you, O Lord our God, ruler of the universe. Light three candles. |
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| Monday, December 12, 2011 |
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Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power.” (Verse 10 of Ephesians 6:10-17) |
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This scripture also reminds me that we live in troubled times with uncertain futures for our economy, our government and our lives. Many people are hungry for not just food but also for guidance on how to better help others in need. Communication systems are ever improving and expanding, yet we seem to become more isolated from face-to-face conversations. The Church is not just a structure; it is the people, the family of God, here to help us. “Put on the whole armor of God that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” May we all keep Faith in our future. |
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| Let us pray: Grace be with all those that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen |
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The Sample Family |
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| Celebration Activity: Children and adults draw around their hand on a bright piece of paper. Label the picture with your name and the words: “Gift from God.” You might cut out (and decorate) the hand drawings and hang them with yarn on the Christmas tree. | |
Tuesday, December 13, 2011 |
SANTA LUCIA:FEAST OF LIGHTS |
“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.’” (Verse 9 of 2 Kings 2:9-22) |
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Do you like "double dips?” I have to admit, I do! And how about all those cookies tempting us with "double chocolate chips?" Sometime stores have "double coupons" or "BOGO" - buy one, get one. So I have to admit I chuckled when Elisha tells Elijah that he wants a "double share of your spirit.” Of course he does! But then, as I thought about it, I began to understand what a remarkable man of faith Elisha must have been. Not only did he trust his experience with Elijah, reveling in His presence, but he also had the faith to ask for exactly what he needed - an overflowing, expansive inheritance of God's spirit. Elisha reminds us that God wants us to ask, and to be bold in our asking - even if it is for a double dip! |
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Do you like "double dips?” I have to admit, I do! And how about all those cookies tempting us with "double chocolate chips?" Sometime stores have "double coupons" or "BOGO" - buy one, get one. So I have to admit I chuckled when Elisha tells Elijah that he wants a "double share of your spirit.” Of course he does! But then, as I thought about it, I began to understand what a remarkable man of faith Elisha must have been. Not only did he trust his experience with Elijah, reveling in His presence, but he also had the faith to ask for exactly what he needed - an overflowing, expansive inheritance of God's spirit. Elisha reminds us that God wants us to ask, and to be bold in our asking - even if it is for a double dip! |
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Let us pray: Gracious God, may we always be assured of your boundless, overflowing love for us. We pray in Jesus' name, Amen. |
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Margaret Gunnell |
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| Celebration Activity: Make a centerpiece for the breakfast table by placing leaves on the table and intersperse with a number of candles. Serve hot chocolate and sweet rolls. This is how the day would begin in Sweden to celebrate Santa Lucia Day. | |
| Wednesday, December 14, 2011 |
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| FIFTH ANTIPHON O Dayspring, splendor of light everlasting: Come and enlighten those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death. |
![]() Drawing by Taron Zilch |
“By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death to guide our feet into the way of peace." (Verses 78-79 of Luke 1:68-79) |
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Drawing by Olivia Blee |
SIXTH ANTIPHON O King of the nations, the ruler they long for, the cornerstone uniting all people: Come and save us all, whom you formed out of clay. |
“Say to those whoare of a fearful heart, ‘Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God.’” (Verse 4, Isaiah 35:4-7a) |
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RESPONSIVE PRAYER: Our world stumbles blindly toward chaos— come, source of wisdom, and reveal yourself to us. What we imagine to be strength is really weakness— come, mighty Lord, and fill us with your true strength. We long for a standard to look up to— come, Root of Jesse, claim us as your own. We languish in prisons of mind and spirit— come, Key of David, and set us free. The darkness grows thick around us— come, Light of light, and dawn upon us. We are scattered, lacking a sure leader— come, Prince of peace, and lead us. We need to know that God is with us— come, Emmanuel, and dwell in our hearts. Amen. |
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| Thursday, December 15, 2011 |
“Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds.” (Verses 1-2 of Hebrews 1:1-4) |
Have you ever listened to the TV commentators after a State of the Union Address or a political debate? Do their comments satisfy you, or would you have preferred to hear the President, or the debaters themselves? What about a sporting event? If you are a fan of a particular team are you satisfied with a brief recap, or would you rather see the actual game itself? That is what the passage from Hebrews is addressing. Certainly, hearing the Word of God through the writings of the prophets is wonderful; but how much more wonderful it is to hear God’s Word through his Son, Jesus, himself. John 1:1 plainly states: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John also says that “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Though the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. The transition from the Old Testament of laws to the New Testament of grace and truth can best be understood through the teachings of the Word himself. |
| Let us pray: Dear God, thank you for the gift of grace and truth brought to us by your Son, through whom all things were made. Amen. |
David and Janine Rush |
| Celebration Activity: How has God blessed you today? Think about the little, maybe hidden, ways in which he has blessed you. See how long a list you can make individually or altogether. You might consider posting the list until Christmas and see how many things you can think of to add to it over the days until then. |
| Friday, December 16, 2011 |
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“I will sing of your steadfast love, O LORD, forever; with my mouth I will proclaim your faithfulness to all generations. I declare that your steadfast love is established forever; your faithfulness is as firm as the Heavens.” (Verses 1-2 of Psalm 89:1-4) |
The odd thing about choosing this verse is I don’t sing well. Yet, it called to me. I then realized I do love to sing, well or not, especially when I am filled with the joy of God’s presence within me. I want to sing out. The essence of joy for me is love. Then, recognizing that this joy welling up inside is unending, I am overwhelmed. I simply cry. Words fail me, yet I hear the song and singing from my heart, sharing God’s love with others while worshipping and praising him. I am so grateful for the songs we sing each Sunday. The words enable me to sink into God’s steadfast love and be refreshed by the love I am given to share. Each Christmas I am reminded of the gift of Jesus through which we are able to access God’s faithful and eternal love. Again, I am overwhelmed and sing out in joy with each carol, hymn and word of praise. |
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| Let us pray: Lord, let my voice, filled with your steadfast love, rise up in praise and thanksgiving for your faithfulness to us. Amen. |
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Joan Towersen |
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Celebration Activity: Today we are going to be poets. Choose a Christmas word, like HOPE or JESUS or LOVE or MAGI and write it down vertically on a piece of paper. Then list a series of words, each one beginning with the appropriate letter, that relate to the word you have chosen for your poem. Here is an example: |
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| Saturday, December 17, 2011 |
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“He shall cry to me, ‘You are my Father, my God, and the Rock of my salvation!’” |
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Margaret Silf in Compass Points: Meeting God Every Day at Every Turn says, “Read the sermons in the stones along your path.” She is suggesting that we listen for “sermons,” messages from God, in things like rocks, trees, birds along the way when we are taking a walk. This part of Psalm 89 talks about the covenant God made with David…all the blessings God poured out on him. David’s part was to rely solely on God…his creator and his Lord, his Abba, and the rock of his salvation. That is his part of the “conversation,” as it is ours. We are to live lives that cry out: God is my Father, my God, and the rock of my salvation as we surrender those lives to Him. |
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| Let us pray: Gracious and Holy God, we thank you for the gift of your Son Jesus who is the rock of our salvation upon whom we build our lives. |
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Caryl Quinones |
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| Celebration Activity: Pay attention to Christmas decorations you see today. Which ones tell you something about the Christmas story? What are they reminding you of? Or inviting you to? Like, a candle might remind you that Jesus is the light of the world and he wants us to be his light to others. Share those “reminder stories” around the dinner table. | |
Sunday, December 18, 2011 |
FOURTH SUNDAY IN ADVENT |
LIGHT DAWNS ON A WEARY WORLD Refrain: 2) Love grows in a weary world Repeat the above refrain 3) Hope blooms in a weary world The promised green of Eden comes. Repeat the above refrain: 4) Repeat the first verse and the refrain. |
Blessed are you, O Lord our God, ruler of the universe. Light four candles. |
| Celebration Activity:
Join Faith Lutheran for Christmas caroling tonight at 6:00 p.m. Check the bulletin for information on where to meet. |
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| Monday, December 19, 2011 |
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“And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, |
Drawing by Byrd Jensen-Thackery |
Most of us won't experience as dramatic a call as Mary did. Imagine the privilege of receiving an angel’s proclamation announcing exciting news, a message directly from God, news that reveals a great mission. Mary's was to bear and mother Christ, our Savior. "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb." Though most of us will not be visited by an angel directly, we can still joyfully respond, as Mary did, to the opportunities all around to us to bear Christ’s love to the world. |
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| Let us pray: O God, help our spirits rejoice as we magnify you by encountering the world for Christ. Amen. |
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Thomas & Mary Jensen-Thackery |
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| Celebration Activity: As a special Christmas gift, write a thank you note to someone who has been meaningful to you and tell them why. Be sure to mail your note before Christmas. | |
Tuesday, December 20, 2011 |
COMMEMORATION OF
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“Hannah conceived and bore a son. She named him Samuel, for she said, ‘I have asked him of the LORD.’” (Verse 20 of 1 Samuel 1:19-28) |
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Advent is a time of anticipation and patience. Hannah had patience for the Lord to answer her prayer for a son. We are on the brink of the Christmas celebration with the colorful services, and children asking, “When is Christmas? How soon?” In our home when someone was impatient for something “right now,” the other family members gave the refrain, “Patience is a virtue, possess it if you can. Seldom in a woman, never in a man.” Today is the commemoration of Katherine von Bora, wife of Martin Luther. In Wittenberg after the start of the Reformation, the cloisters were closed and the men and women entered normal life. The sisters married, except for Katherine who waited patiently for a husband. She was rewarded when Martin Luther married her in 1525. They lived in the former monastery which often became home for student boarders. They had six children so there were many meals to prepare. Luther became so dependent on Katherine that he called her, “Katy, my rib.” Hannah’s patience was rewarded with the birth of her son Samuel who she gave to the service of God. He served first Eli the priest, and then God used him to found the nation of Israel. He chose Saul, then David, as king. Hannah said, “For this child I prayed, and the Lord granted me my petition which I made to him. Therefore, I lent him to the Lord as long as he lives.” (verses 27-28) Advent has two meanings—waiting, as did Israel for the Messiah, and also waiting with hope for Christ to return in power. Be patient—Christmas is coming! |
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| Let us pray: “Come Lord Jesus, be our guest.” Amen. |
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Dick Bergman |
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| Celebration Activity: Think about some things for which you are thankful. Each person, or all together, write a thank you note to God, decorate it and hang it on the Christmas Tree. Most of all, thank God for sending his Son to be the Savior. | |
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 |
WINTER SOLSTICE |
SEVENTH ANTIPHON “Therefore the LORD himself will give you a sign. Look, the young woman is with child and shall bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel.” |
Drawing by Dora McKenzie |
RESPONSIVE PRAYER: Our world stumbles blindly toward chaos— |
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| Celebration Activity: When you light the candle(s) on your Advent wreath or any candles you might have available, sing “This Little Light of Mine.” Call up a relative or friend and brighten this darkest day of the year by singing this song to them. |
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| Thursday, December 22, 2011 |
“For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’” (Verses 12-13 of Romans 10:5-13). |
What a marvelous vision statement you have at Faith: “More and more people, encountered by Christ, empowered for God’s purposes!” In Romans Paul laid the foundation for this: “There’s no distinction among us; the same Lord is Lord of all, generous to all who call on him.” More and more people, regardless of distinguishing characteristics, need to hear the Good News: that God loves and cares for all who call on him. And our God comes in such an accessible way! Tiny, humble, just like any other human child. Love itself born in a manger, connecting with more and more people, with all people, in the most basic, vulnerable way. All people: addicts and alcoholics, abusers and victims, shamed and arrogant, imprisoned and free, genius and slow learner, athletic and klutzy—All people can call on the all-powerful, all-forgiving love of our Lord. |
| Let us pray: Loving Jesus, grant us open minds and hearts, that we may see, love, and serve all people without distinction, for all are created in your image. Amen. |
Gail Sowell (daughter of Faith, ordained June, 1999) |
| Celebration Activity: Look through the newspaper together and choose an article of interest to pray about right then and throughout the day. It might be a human or animal interest story, an article about a country at war—a situation or person that needs God’s healing or blessing—or a story for which you want to give thanks to God. |
| Friday, December 23, 2011 |
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“The LORD, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing as on a day of festival.” (Verses 17-18a of Zephaniah 3:14-20) |
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What a wonderful gift we have in this passage. It gives vivid insight into God's complex character and affirms the abiding relationship that He holds with his people. On the one hand God is the warrior: strong, active, decisive. But this powerful image is tempered with other important descriptions: He is also partisan—on our side—and always present and among us! The God of the tribes of YHWH is an enduring—and endearing—presence. Here we see a God with a real personality who is happy for His people; intimately and unconditionally in love with them; who seeks their well-being; and who wants to celebrate with them their good fortune at being granted salvation. The best news, of course, is that His people are not just those from a past time, but the chosen people with whom He is connected even now in the Christmas and Easter stories. |
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| Let us pray: Lord, help us to appreciate the incredible hope that we can have in this Advent season which is grounded in your unconditional love for your people. Amen |
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Joel Zimbelman |
The Prophet Ezekiel by Michelangelo |
Celebration Activity: Sitting around the Christmas tree, have everyone choose their favorite Christmas ornament. Share why you picked that ornament and if there is any history about it. |
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Saturday, December 24, 2011 |
NATIVITY OF OUR LORD/CHRISTMAS EVE |
“He (Joseph) went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child.” (Verse 5 of Luke 2:1-20) |
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Christmas Eve! The height of expectation. We’ve been preparing our hearts, planning, waiting for this promised one! We know from “Mary’s song” how she accepted this journey from God. What was on Joseph’s mind? Luke does not give us much of Joseph’s perspective. We know from Matthew’s story (Mt. 1:19-21, 24) that an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.”. How will Joseph proceed?? On his blog titled Unfolding Light Pastor Steve Garnass-Holmes writes this beautiful poem exploring Joseph‘s thoughts: “Joseph. I know, you want to understand, and to control things, and this is beyond those. Learn to listen in a way that the world can't teach you. Learn to know in a way that is not how the world knows. Learn to follow a path the world can't see. Mary is on a quest, discovering the blessing and wonder that I have created in her. Do the same for yourself. Look within. Listen to your dreams. Give your heart a voice. Trust the magnificence of what I desire for you. Never mind people's expectations. Follow my delight. Do not be afraid to change your plans, to risk, to sacrifice, to commit. Joseph, never mind being right. Commit to love. Marry blessing and faithfulness. Marry your doubts. Marry wonder. Marry unknowing. Marry not being afraid. Joseph, awake. I have hidden blessing in your life. Take it as your own, and know my joy. ‘When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him.’” (Mt. 1.21) (Unfolding Light, 12/16/10) |
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| Let us pray: Dear God, I pray today that we will take Mary and Joseph’s lead to know God’s joy in our lives. Help us to commit to your love, to look for your hidden blessings in our lives and to know your joy on this Christmas Eve! Amen |
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The Snyder Family |
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| Celebration Activity: Bake a birthday cake for Jesus. Sing “Happy Birthday” to Jesus. | |
Sunday, December 25, 2011 |
NATIVITY OF OUR LORD/CHRISTMAS DAY |
“And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.” (Verse 14 of John 1:1-14) |
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The “Word” of course is Jesus Christ. However, in the first verse of John it says, “The Word was God.” So really God came into the world as Jesus Christ to live with his creation and with his people. It would be like President Obama putting on a disguise and living among the people in the poorest parts of Chicago or the Appalachian Mountains. We need to note and remember Jesus was not born into a privileged family of the Middle East but to a poor carpenter and his unwed girlfriend. Disgraceful in those days and in many places today. So what does that tell us about Christmas? Helping and working for the poor and disgraceful in our society may just be one of the meanings of Christmas! As for the Word, it continues to live among us and in our hearts as the Holy Spirit! See if you can feel and hear the Holy Spirit this Christmas season. |
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| Let us pray: Heavenly Father, please come into our hearts and minds as you came into the world on Christmas Day so we may know and understand the true meaning of your time on earth. Amen |
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Tod Kimmelshue |
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| Celebration Activity: Sometime today, perhaps around the dinner table, or gathered around the Christmas tree, draw out one at a time the slips of paper in the Christmas stocking you prepared for Jesus on December 1st. Take turns reading the many things for which you have been thankful every day since that day. | |
Monday, December 26, 2011 |
ST. STEPHEN, DEACON & MARTYR |
“While they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.’ Then he knelt down and cried out in a loud voice, ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’ When he had said this, he died.” (Verse 59 of Acts 6:8-7:2a, 51-60) |
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Stephen’s dying words are an awesome (and frightening) example of the amount of strength the Lord can give to his people. Stephen believed Jesus’ word so fully and knew that speaking the truth would be his death sentence. And yet, he did so knowing that God would receive him. Through Jesus he met his death courageously and with forgiveness in his heart. He is so much like Jesus in this moment. Stephen reminds us that to be more like Jesus is the most worthy goal and reassures us to not be afraid for God will not let us suffer. |
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Let us pray: Lord, help us to remember that You are always with us, and with You we are always stronger than when we try to meet our most difficult challenges on our own. In Jesus’ name. Amen. |
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Friedman Family |
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| Celebration Activity: Choose a Christmas card or letter that you have received and reread it. Think about who sent the card to you and then pray for them. Writing them a note would be a nice way to let them know you are thinking about them. This is an activity that could extend beyond the holidays until all the cards and letters have been gone through. | |
Tuesday, December 27, 2011 |
ST. JOHN, APOSTLE & EVANGELIST |
"We declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ. We are writing these things so that our joy may be complete." (Verses 3-4 of 1 John 1:1-2:1) |
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How many things do we declare in a single minute? And how much more in a day? In our yawning and sighs we declare exhaustion. In our eating, we declare hunger. In our attentiveness to others we declare value. Declaration, public announcement, is made in much more than words. Working in an alternative school with marginalized youth, I am constantly reminded of how much trust is communicated in consistency. I am called to fellowship with them. I want to ask you all, my extended family of faith, the questions I ask myself daily: Is your preaching in your walking? And in your actions as well as your words, are you inviting those around you into fellowship? |
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| Let us pray: Gracious Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of your joy and of your fellowship. Today we pray that you would grant us the confidence and the wisdom to declare the joy of your salvation, the hopeful life you have given us not only in our speaking, but also in our waking, our walking, and even our breathing. May we delight in your fellowship and invite the world around us in to your presence. Amen. |
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Mica Wegener |
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| Celebration Activity: Every day until Epiphany give something away like your place in the grocery line, a few minutes with a sick neighbor or friend, a smile instead of a moan when asked to do something unpleasant, a gift for a homeless person. Thank God when it is done. At dinner or devotion time share with others about what you gave away that day. | |
Wednesday, December 28, 2011 |
THE HOLY INNOCENTS, MARTYRS |
“A voice was heard in Ramah, (Verse 18 of Matthew 2:13-18) |
The Scream by Edward Munch |
It is difficult to imagine anything more heart-wrenching than the loss of a child. It was just as true 2,000 years ago as it is today, and yet it still happens. As the Christmas season begins to wane, remain mindful that even in the most joyful seasons of the year not everyone is free from pain and suffering. |
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| Let us pray: Father in heaven we ask you to help us to recognize and do what we can to protect all families from loss and hardship so they can know your love and live in the joy of that love forever, Amen. |
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Ralph Godwin |
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| Celebration Activity: Eat a very light meal for dinner. Think about how it feels to go to bed hungry. Pray for those who do not have enough to eat every day. | |
| Thursday, December 29, 2011 |
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“Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise him in the heights!” (Verse 1 of Psalm 148) |
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Today is my 71st Birthday. As I do every day my first thought is “Praise the Lord.” On this day I am aware more keenly of the blessings (gifts) that the Lord is so extravagantly generous in bestowing on me. In the times of Jesus life expectancy was little less than half the years I have lived. Life was hard; retirement was not even a concept, let alone some stage in one’s life. I have been blessed with over 10 years of retirement, which has allowed me time for family, photography, travel and time to be with God. The gifts do not stop with time; there are also the gifts of health and resources to enjoy this time. In Psalm 148 after the initial praise, there is a call for all creation (including angels, sun, moon, stars, the heavens, and so forth) to Praise the Lord. We are also told that the lord will raise a horn for his people (us). As God celebrates and praises us so out of thankfulness we will PRAISE THE LORD!!! |
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| Let us pray: Thank you God for loving us. You are so extravagant that you send your Son to show us how much you love us, and with the resurrection give us the largest of all the gifts Eternal Life. Praise the Lord!! |
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Julio Quiñones |
Drawing by Brandon Lavis |
| Celebration Activity: As a way of praising God, tell a sales clerk or cashier or waiter thank you for helping you or for being especially nice to you. | |
| Friday, December 30, 2011 |
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” (Verse 10 of Proverbs 9:1-12) |
Advent in 2004 began soon after I became pregnant with our first child. It was the first time in my life that I glimpsed how ecstatic yet terrified Mary must have been to be the mother of the Son of God. I was scared half to death of raising a regular human being; I can’t imagine the excruciating mixture of joyful anticipation and trepidation she must have felt. Advent always brings back these feelings for me. I reflect on the responsibilities, which come infused with these same emotions that come with choosing a life with Christ. When we acknowledge what we fear, though, wisdom follows. In fearing the Lord, I concede my loose grasp of the expansiveness of divine love and mercy. When I desire to know the Holy One, I come to know the Holy in me, in each one of us. Together, we create the Holy Oneness of God’s humanity. |
| Let us pray: God, help us to learn from our fears and carry out our faith with courage and joyful anticipation. Amen. |
Stephanie Tillman |
| Celebration Activity: Life is much like a jigsaw puzzle. We are pretty sure the pieces fit together to form some kind of pattern. Sometimes they don’t seem to fit very well. God has sent us his Son to help us figure the pieces out. We need to be patient while working on the puzzle. God wants to make a beautiful pattern out of all of us. Tonight start a jigsaw puzzle (child’s or adult’s) and think/talk about how God is working in your life and the world. |
Saturday, December 31, 2011 |
NEW YEAR’S EVE |
“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” (Verse 12 of John 8:12-19) |
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If Jesus had come in this century, I wonder if His favorite childhood song would be “This Little Light of Mine.” What a joy to have Jesus as our Light in this often dark and dreary world! Tonight is the last night of 2011, a year of struggles for many. What are your prayers for the coming new year? Financial stability, comfort, boldness to share the Gospel, that God’s will be done in our lives and the lives of others? Whatever our prayers, today’s verse is an answer! Jesus assures us, “Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” When we follow Jesus, it doesn’t mean we have all our needs met or never face struggles; it does mean we have the promise of the eternal, not temporal, Light. We follow so many things these days: Twitter, Facebook, football, the latest TV episode. Let us take time each day to set aside such distractions, to talk with God, to follow Him, and to truly acknowledge Him as our Lord and our Light. |
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Let us pray: Dearest Jesus, Light of the World, thank You for shining bright; help us to share Your Light with those in the dark and to carry Your Light into the new year. Amen. |
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Joyfully submitted by Christina Lynn |
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| Celebration Activity: Think about someone who needs the “light” of Jesus in their life this holiday. Perhaps they have no family. Perhaps they are lonely or depressed. Perhaps they are homebound. Think about how you might bring the “light” to them. Go, be that “light.” | |
Sunday, January 1, 2012 |
FIRST SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS |
When they (the shepherds) saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.” (verses 17-19 of Luke 2: 15-21) |
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Considering ALL that Mary had to ponder from the angel’s visitation until this point, don’t you suppose the words she treasured and pondered made her more keenly aware of God’s presence? As I grow older I value pondering and reflecting more and more. This may take the form of journaling, sharing with another or pondering in my heart. This reflection often reveals the deeper meaning of how that event impacted or changed me and God’s presence in and through it. Take time to ponder this Christmas Season as an individual, with a friend or as a family. What did I experience? What did I think or feel? What surprised or moved me? As a family, each member may have different memories of the same event. “We had the experience but missed the meaning.” -- T.S.Eliot |
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| Let us pray: O Loving God, help us to reflect and ponder, as did Mary, on the surprising ways you work in our lives. In the name of Jesus, the Christ. Amen. |
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Carolyn Kees |
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| Celebration Activity: As an individual or as a family, each person decides on at least one thing they would like to change about themselves (attitude, habit, action, etc.). Write it on a decorated card or piece of paper and place the cards in a box or some type of container. Ask God to give you the power to make that change and pray for the others who participated in this activity. Throughout the year, once a month (or whenever) open the container and each person reads his/her card as a reminder of the change she/he would like to make. If a person wishes he/she may share his/her progress. Be sure to encourage each other. | |
| Monday, January 2, 2012 |
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“Show by your good life that your works are done with gentleness born of wisdom.” (Verse 13b of James 3:13-18) |
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Today we continue our celebration of the dawning of a new year with all its hopes, dreams and promises of a bright future. This is a time of reflection and gratitude for the wondrous blessings bestowed upon us. We celebrate our blessings with those we love and share our abundance with those less fortunate. Time is reserved for internal reflection on the grace we have received. This verse reminds us that our good life is not born of a single season, but rather from wisdom gained throughout the year. Our Lord Jesus Christ guides us through the easy and the difficult times to be kind in our thoughts and actions. Through the wisdom and grace granted us from the Lord, we are better able to handle life’s successes and challenges in a gentle manner and through that grace we are prepared to take action to help ourselves and one another. Thus, as we look towards the wonder of a new year, we can give thanks and praise for the wisdom to do the works for a good life. |
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| Let us pray: Our Lord, we give thanks for your guidance and blessings throughout the year. Amen |
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The Gosselin Family |
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| Celebration Activity: If you are ready to take down your Christmas tree, put it outside and hang peanut butter seed balls on it as a Christmas treat for the birds celebrating that Jesus came for all of Creation. | |
| Tuesday, January 3, 2012 |
"God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." (Verse 6b of James 4:1-10) |
In a culture that values self-esteem to the extent we do, the many biblical references for the need to be humble can seem to be rather heavy handed. Are we to think less of ourselves? But I found that Thomas Merton’s insights on humility give a life and a greatness that self-esteem itself cannot give. For Merton humility is not grounded in self-abasement, but in faith: openness and receptivity toward the gift of God’s grace which redeems and transforms. Humility is mere honesty before God. Humility is the opposite of despair that says “I am so worthless, not even God can save me.” This sort of despair may sound like humility, but is actually a strange sort of pride, in Merton’s thinking. The truly humble person lives instead in continuing praise and is one in whom the light of Christ might shine in and through. (See Merton’s “Humility Against Despair” in New Seeds of Contemplation.) |
| Let us pray: Grant us the grace, O Lord, to see ourselves honestly in light of your love and mercy, receptive of your grace, and reflective of Christ’s glory in our praise and in our actions, in Jesus’ name, Amen. |
The Rev. Richard Yale St. John’s Episcopal Church |
| Celebration Activity: Start a prayer list and post it on the refrigerator or another easy place to access it. Every night add a prayer for someone, for Faith Lutheran church, for something that is happening in the world, etc. |
| Wednesday, January 4, 2012 |
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." (Verses 5-6 of Proverbs 3:1-12) |
This Proverb was made into a beautiful song I used to listen to at church when I was young. I remember it making me incredibly emotional which in part was due to the setting and the guitar. The warm powerful words impacted me as well. Seeing this verse now I can see how that new understanding then left an standing invitation to open my heart to God when I am struggling. |
| Let us pray: Lord, open our hearts when we are hurting or at a crossroads to step back from our own small-scale thinking and trust the bigger picture of your plan to bring us closer to your love. |
Rick Danner |
| Celebration Activity: Share a favorite hymn that you have. Tell the story of why this hymn is special to you. You could also make a picture to go with the hymn. |
| Thursday, January 5, 2012 |
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“The rich and the poor have this in common: the LORD is the maker of them all.” (Verse 2 of Proverbs 22:1-9) |
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My father, a Methodist minister, had a talent for expressing himself. Every year he wrote a message to each of his parishioners on their birthday on a “penny” postcard. People told me how much this meant to them. Just as my father cared for and treated everyone equally so our heavenly father created and loves each of us no matter who we are or what we do. |
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| Let us pray: Thank you, Jesus, for loving us just as we are. Amen |
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Betty Johnson |
Drawing by Alexandria Gilbert |
| Celebration Activity: Each month in 2012 think of one (special) way you and/or your family could continue God’s love in the world (in your family, at Faith Lutheran Church, in Chico, or globally) now that Christmas has happened. Plan how you will do this and take the necessary steps to make it happen. Then, thank God for this opportunity to be part of God’s loving the world. | |
Friday, January 6, 2012 |
THE EPIPHANY |
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“On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.” (verses 11-12 of Matthew 2: 1-12). |
When you hold the story of Jesus’ birth in Matthew, it is quite amazing to read that a group from far away were the only ones who come to the house where Jesus was. That is the only story of Jesus’ birth we get in Matthew, nothing more. And when the three find Jesus the Christ they are filled with joy and offer gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh—outsiders giving amazing gifts. As we wonder about our ministry here at Faith Lutheran, what a reminder to notice that outsiders have gifts to give. In these days when it is not easy to enter into a community that is long established, may our eyes, ears, and our hearts be ready to receive what God is wanting to give to us. Epiphany is the traditional time of giving and receiving gifts. May we be ready in this new year to receive all that God desires us to receive. |
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| Let us pray: Loving God, you surprised the world in giving yourself to be one with us. You did this so that we might be changed to be one with others. As we see, hear, and experience the ones whom we do not know who come as a gift, may we welcome them as you. Amen |
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Bill Kees |
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| Celebration Activity: As a gift for Jesus, each person, or all of you together, do a random act of kindness for someone in your family or for a neighbor. It might be something like raking the leaves for a neighbor or baking cookies for a shut-in. | |

This devotional booklet iswritten by members of and printed byFAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH TO THE GLORY OF GOD |

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