Promises Prepare

Proclamation

Advent Devotional 2012

Praise

Foreword
In North America and much of the first world countries, Christmas arrives with anticipated sights, smells, colors, lights, and foods that all bring a anticipated sights, smells, colors, lights, and foods that all bring such a good feeling. Most of us are aware that the opposite was true at the first Christmas. The people in Israel had little to call their own, lived as an occupied country with Roman soldiers surrounding them, and had waited centuries for a promised light to shine on their darkness. This year, our Advent scriptures speak of a balance of both of those aspects of the Advent-Christmas season. You will read in the first two weeks in the Isaiah lessons of a people who faced almost insurmountable bleak odds and a God who required faithfulness when there wasnt always proof of a happy outcome. Our own faithful writers, members of First Christian Church, Fullerton, have wrestled with these passages with a clear and remarkable faith witness. We owe them so much for their helping us see that Christmas only brings authentic hope when it brings a word to those who sit in darkness, and wonder where such a light could be dawning. If you experience peace, happiness, and a traditional Currier and Ives Advent season, enjoy this contribution to your celebration. Perhaps you have friends and family who have been devastated by the destruction of Hurricane Sandy in recent weeks. Please also share this Advent devotional guide with them; electronic copies are available on our churchs website and through the church office. Spread the news how the Light of Christ born this Christmas is sufficient for the times when we spend a first Christmas without a loved one, without our comfortable home or job, without the health or support we used to enjoy. Together we can celebrate when our God does what we cannot do for ourselves.
The Discipleship and Worship Ministry Team, First Christian Church, Fullerton, CA

Promises Prepare Praise Proclamation

This year our Advent worship planning committee has selected the four themes of Promises, Prepare, Praise, and Proclamation to help remind us of these important aspects of Advent. The traditional four Sundays in Advent have also been remembered as Expectation or Hope, Love, Joy, and Peace. December 2: 1st Sunday in Advent On this first Sunday in Advent, we light the first purple candle on our wreath, this year as a symbol of Promises. As we light the first candle, we may pray, O come, thou long expected Jesus, born to bring us fulfillment of Gods promises in our lives and in our country. Amen. We may read or sing from hymn #125 Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus. December 9: 2nd Sunday in Advent On this second Sunday in Advent, we relight the first purple candle and a second purple (or blue) candle, this year symbolizing Preparation. We may pray together as we light these candles, Hope of many nations, help us prepare a place for You in our world as we await your birth. Amen. We may wish to read or sing from the second verse of the Advent hymn #128 One Candle Is Lit teach us how to prepare for a gift... December 16 : 3rd Sunday in Advent On this third Sunday in Advent, we relight the first two candles and now light the third rose or pink candle, this year symbolic of Praise. We may pray together as we light the candles, Joyful, joyful we adore Thee, God of glory, Lord of Love. Praise this, the acceptable year of our Lords birth. Amen. We may wish to read or sing from that hymn #2 Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee, verse 1. December 23: 4th Sunday in Advent On this fourth Sunday in Advent, we light all four candles, the last one symbolic this year of Proclamation. We want to proclaim the great Good News born to us in Jesus, so we may pray together as we light the candles, Lord, at your birth we sound the bells and let your music fill the earth. We celebrate and proclaim your holy birth. Amen. We may wish to read or sing from the Advent hymn #136 Christians All, Your Lord is Coming verse 1. December 24: Chirstmas Eve On Christmas Eve, we relight all four candles and now light the white Christ candle in the middle. As we light them, we may pray together, Holy Jesus, born this special night: born your people to deliver, born a child and yet a King. Let us hush to hear your voice; pause to adore you as our Lord and King. Amen. We may wish to read or sing hymn #143 Joy to the World, verse 1Joy to the world, the Lord is come! 2

Promises
1st Sunday of Advent December 2
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I Thess. 3: 913

How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy that we feel before our God because of you? 10Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith. 11 Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you. 12 And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. 13And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints. Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy express extraordinary gratitude for the members of the Thessalonian church because the Thessalonians bring these three men great joy when they sit in prayer mindful of the church. Do you think every last person in the church agreed with Paul and his fellows? Do you think the church adhered to Pauls instruction perfectly as they sought to follow Christ? One of the reasons we are called to be deeply reflective people who spend time before God in prayer is that such a discipline transforms the way we see others. Gods love for our fellows overshadows any differences we have with them. We begin to see our fellow disciples, our neighbors, and others as God sees them. Our tendency to judge is softened and, eventually, silenced. Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy pray for the members of the church at Thessalonica that they may increase and abound in love for one another and for all. This Advent, lets make that our prayer for one another. Lets consciously work to let go of any differences we have with each other, release any resentments weve developed, and express only love to one another. Such a practice will surely strengthen [our] hearts in holiness that [we] may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints. Darrell McGowan

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Monday December 3, 2012

Isaiah 1: 1020

Youre Invited to Consider Fasting for the Poor on December 3rd The Council on Christian Unity of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), in partnership with the Ecumenical Ministries Commission of the United Church of Christ, our partner denomination, has proposed that members of Disciples and UCC congregations engage in a Fast for the Poor on Monday, December 3rd. They further suggest that the money you dont spend on food that day be donated to a local ministry. We plan to donate any gifts we receive from those who choose to fast on December 3rd to Pathways of Hope, formerly FIES. Please designate such a gift with the word fast. Fasting is an ancient tradition described in both the Old and New Testaments. Today, many people fast for a day, for a week, for a season. Fasting is designed to draw one closer to God by replacing food, or some other commodity that marks our busy lives, with prayer and reflection that nurtures a deeper, personal relationship with God. If you decide to be part of the fast for the poor on December 3rd, our Pastor, Darrell, who fasts from time to time during the year, offers these guidelines for doing so. Fasting is all about slowing down. If youre going to set aside a day to fast from food, you should also fast from unnecessary activity. The idea is to let your mind and spirit follow your body. As you fast, your body slows down, your energy wanes and you are forced to rest more. Your mind and your spirit should follow your bodys lead and set aside activity that isnt essential. Fasting draws our attention away from the countless stimuli and demands upon which we regularly focus. We are unavoidably aware as our body calls out: Im hungry! The experience of hunger is intended to be a reminder for us to focus our mental and spiritual awareness on God. Each time we feel hunger, we should remind ourselves, I hunger for God and for knowing and doing Gods will. Fasting should be challenging, but it shouldnt be threatening. If our physical well-being is threatened by a lack of regular food intake, we should fast from specific foods we love. Try fasting from all bread, dairy products or anything containing processed sugar. That will get your attention. Fasting requires we give extra attention to hydration. Carry water with you and drink water regularly throughout the time you are fasting.

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Fasting can be done for any period of time. You can fast from all food during the daylight hours, or fast for 24 hours, a number of days, or even weeks. If you choose the latter, i.e. weeks, it should be done with a doctors supervision. Choose a period of time that works for you, then stick to it. Allow the fast to draw your attention to your hunger, both your physical hunger AND your spiritual hunger. If you choose to fast on December 3rd, the members of the Worship Ministry, who proposed this fast for your consideration, hope you find yourself drawn closer to God through this experience. Ed Linberg

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Isaiah 1: 2131

An Uncomfortable Word, Actually Many of Them! When I read this passage for the first time after agreeing to write an Advent devotional for this day, my first thoughts produced two questions. Why in the world is a reading like this suggested as a text for an Advent devotional? And, why did I sign up for this one? Then I remembered that a key figure in the Advent readings, long before we get to Jesus, is one John the Baptist. I checked the gospel lesson assigned for this coming Sunday to be sure. And what did I find? The beginning of Johns ministry is the reading for this coming Sunday, December 9th. While that reading ends with Johns quotation from Isaiah 40 about preparing the way of the Lord, I know what follows is an uncomfortable word. Preparation means hearing words of judgment, even if they are uncomfortable. When John sees the crowds coming out to be baptized, he does not say hes glad they have chosen to be baptized. Instead, he declares: You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (Luke 3:7) Then he tells all of them to bear fruits worthy of repentance. (Luke 3:8) He closes by telling them that one mightier than he is coming. He will baptize them with the Holy Spirit and fire. (Luke 3:16b) He also tells them that this coming one will have a winnowing fork to gather the wheat into his grainery: but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire. (Luke 3:17b) In a word, the coming one will bring judgment. So, whether or not it makes us comfortable, judgment is a part of Advent. Checking with my commentary from the study of Isaiah done some years ago with the Parlor Class, I learned that the harsh words from Isaiah 1 were addressed to Jerusalem in the late eighth century before Christ. The prophet begins with a lament that the once faithful city has become a whore and that her leaders love bribes and do not defend the cause of either the widow or the orphan. (vs. 21-23) This is followed by a series of harsh words of judgment 5 4

pronounced by none other than the Sovereign, the LORD of hosts, the Mighty pronounced by none other than the Sovereign, the LORD of hosts, the Mighty One of Israel. (vs. 24) This reminded me of what my father would say after One of Israel. (vs. 24) This reminded me of what my father would say after reading a passage from scripture like this one as our family was at the table. reading a passage from scripture like this one as our family was at the table. Children, remember this. Judgment begins with the house of the Lord. This Children, remember this. Judgment begins with the house of the Lord. This is what I learn from reading and reflecting on these heavy words from Isaiah. is what I learn from reading and reflecting on these heavy words from Isaiah. God holds us to a higher standard! As we anticipate the birth of the One who God holds us to a higher standard! As we anticipate the birth of the One who is coming, our Savior who reconciles us to God, it is appropriate for us to also is coming, our Savior who reconciles us to God, it is appropriate for us to also remember that we confess that He is Lord! His way is the way we are to walk remember that we confess that He is Lord! His way is the way we are to walk faithfully every day. Advent gives us a good opportunity to measure ourselves faithfully every day. Advent gives us a good opportunity to measure ourselves by nothing less than the standard that is Christ Jesus our Lord. by nothing less than the standard that is Christ Jesus our Lord. Prayer: Prayer: As we journey through Advent, deepen our awareness of the way of As we journey through Advent, deepen our awareness of the way of Christ and empower us with your Spirit to walk in His way. Amen. Christ and empower us with your Spirit to walk in His way. Amen. Mariette Linberg (with some assistance from her resident theologian) Mariette Linberg (with some assistance from her resident theologian)

Wednesday, December 5, 2012 Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Advent is a Christians opportunity to remember the promise of Gods Advent is a Christians opportunity to remember the promise of Gods blessings and Gods salvation created in Jesus. We believe in the promise of blessings and Gods salvation created in Jesus. We believe in the promise of peace. Advent reminds us that Christmas belongs to the Prince of Peace. peace. Advent reminds us that Christmas belongs to the Prince of Peace. Isaiah came down from Israel to warn the people of Judah that they should Isaiah came down from Israel to warn the people of Judah that they should stop living faithless lives. He warned that if they continued to live lives of stop living faithless lives. He warned that if they continued to live lives of selfishness, greed and idolatry, the God of promise may not protect them from selfishness, greed and idolatry, the God of promise may not protect them from their enemies and their own undoing. Because of their refusal to give up their their enemies and their own undoing. Because of their refusal to give up their pagan-like worship of things, they soon experienced great suffering, total loss pagan-like worship of things, they soon experienced great suffering, total loss and alienation. and alienation. We, who follow Jesus, have experienced Gods saving grace. Jesus teachWe, who follow Jesus, have experienced Gods saving grace. Jesus teachings and simple life show us how we should live. His death on the cross affirms ings and simple life show us how we should live. His death on the cross affirms the fact that he has already experienced all of the pain and suffering that could the fact that he has already experienced all of the pain and suffering that could ever visit us. When we suffer, the promise is he will be with us every step of the ever visit us. When we suffer, the promise is he will be with us every step of the way. Jesus resurrection reminds us that our salvation has already been created. way. Jesus resurrection reminds us that our salvation has already been created. For us Easter people, Advent is calling us to live faithful lives. By modeling our For us Easter people, Advent is calling us to live faithful lives. By modeling our lives after Jesus, we can know the peace that passes all understanding. lives after Jesus, we can know the peace that passes all understanding. Prayer: Prayer: Redeeming God, help us to remember that your peace is already Redeeming God, help us to remember that your peace is already available to us. Through Jesus you have created the opportunity available to us. Through Jesus you have created the opportunity for us to experience your free gift of salvation. As we celebrate the for us to experience your free gift of salvation. As we celebrate the coming of Jesus to the world, give us the faith that he will be by our coming of Jesus to the world, give us the faith that he will be by our side throughout our times of trial and judgment. May the light of side throughout our times of trial and judgment. May the light of Christmas guide us to your everlasting love. In Jesus name. Amen Christmas guide us to your everlasting love. In Jesus name. Amen Bob Hasty Bob Hasty 6 5 5

Isaiah 2: 14 Isaiah 2: 14

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Isaiah 2: 522

Let Us Walk in the Light of the Lord Todays reading begins with this invitation. O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord. (Isaiah 2:5) From this beginning the text then lays out a series of harsh words that pronounce judgment upon both the house of Jacob and the nations who are the neighbors of the house of Jacob. Listen to some of those harsh words. Their land is filled with idols; they bow down to the work of their hands to what their own fingers have made (Isaiah 2:8) Enter into the rock and hide in the dust from the terror of the Lord, and from the glory of his majesty. (Isaiah 2:10) The haughtiness of people shall be humbled, and the pride of everyone shall be brought low; and the LORD alone will be exalted on that day. (Isaiah 2:17) I suspect words such as these are not what one expects, much less wants, to hear early in the season of Advent, when our thoughts are focused on the birth of Jesus, our Savior and Lord. So, why is todays text an important one to read and, more important, to hear? It is part of a larger section, running from 2:6 through 4:6. (You may want to read this entire section, if time allows you to do so.) In this material, two main ideas are put forth. One is that the God of all nations is to be exalted above everything in the worldhuman wisdom, material wealth, military power and more. The other is that Gods judgment is pronounced so that the house of Jacob has the option of embracing God and Gods ways once againthe doing of which will lead to the coming of a new day. Advent is a time of promisepromise of a new day through the birth of God in the flesh of Jesus Christ. But Advent is also a time of preparationa time to take stock of our lives, as well as our congregations life and ministry, by measuring both our individual and corporate life in light of Gods expectations for us. Key questions raised by the opening verse of todays text are these: Are we walking in darkness? What do we need to change so that we are more faithfully walking in the light of the Lord? By asking these questions, plus diligently seeking answers to both of them, we will begin walking on the path that prepares us, once again, for the coming of Christ into our lives. And, the judgment of God we experience in this process will lead us into a new day.

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Prayer: O exalted God, help me, and those who, like me, are part of your people, to hear these words of the prophet, Isaiah, not as a turn-off, but as a call to a new day. Help me and my sisters and brothers in Christ, to enthusiastically embrace your invitation to walk in the light of the Lord throughout and beyond this Advent season. Amen. Ed Linberg

Friday, December 7, 2012

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Isaiah 3: 184: 1

In that day the Lord will snatch away their finery: the bangles and headbands and crescent necklaces, 19the earrings and bracelets and veils, 20the headdresses and anklets and sashes, the perfume bottles and charms, 21the signet rings and nose rings, 22the fine robes and the capes and cloaks, the purses 23and mirrors, and the linen garments and tiaras and shawls. Instead of fragrance there will be a stench; instead of a sash, a rope; instead of well-dressed hair, baldness instead of fine clothing, sackcloth; instead of beauty, branding. 25 Your men will fall by the sword, your warriors in battle. 26 The gates of Zion will lament and mourn; destitute, she will sit on the ground. 4:1 In that day seven women will take hold of one man and say, We will eat our own food and provide our own clothes; only let us be called by your name. Take away our disgrace! It helps to know that Isaiah starts all this addressed to the Daughters of Zion who are haughty. This is part of a rebuke of arrogance by Isaiah. But even without that framework, I relate to the beginning of this passage as a reminder that attachment toto material things futile. This is the timetime of a reminder that attachment material things is is futile. This is the of year year when material things blockthe real real meaning of Advent and Christmas. when material things block out out the meaning of Advent and Christmas. We We can engrossed in the gift-giving (and(and receiving) furor, lose sightsight can get get engrossed in the gift-giving receiving) furor, and and lose that that remembering all your loved ones with the rightrightisnt the goal.goal.glad remembering all your loved ones with just just the gift gift isnt the Im Im glad we have events like the Alternative Gift Faire whichto focus that material we have events like the alternative gift faire which help us help us to focus that material not the only giftsonly gifts that count. gifts are gifts are not the that count.
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As the passage goes on to describe the shame of these daughters of Zion fighting for the few men left, it is part of the larger picture that Isaiah paints that there is a process of destruction to make way for the new path. The haughty daughters of Zion will reach this new low before the coming of the messiah. The people of God will need to be ready for a better way by giving up what they cling to. The renewal of our spiritual life, which should come at Christmas as hope is renewed in the birth of the baby Jesus, this renewal is accomplished better and more completely if we are willing to tear down a bit, and give up some of the clutter in our life. That clutter can be physical, but more often it is mental and spiritualclinging to old ways, unquestioned habits or past grudges. To make this advent season a true season of renewal, consider a few of the things that clutter up and impede your spiritual fulfillment, and try to let go of them to make way for a better path. Prayer: God, help me to discern and let go of the things that keep me from being fully invested and connected to you and your will for my life. Amen Mitch Hanlon

Saturday, December 8, 2012

Isaiah 4: 26

Isaiah was writing of the Jews in Babylon captivity, separated, life was hard and the people felt alone. Isaiah tells the faithful that one day God will restore the peoples pride and glory. He will give them a safe place to live, with shade from the heat of day and a place of warmth and shelter during storm and rain.

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For most of us, it is hard to imagine captivity and physical separation from our homes and culture for such a long time. It will help to remember Katrina and the evacuation of people to other states for shelter, food and safety. Many of these people have yet to return. The past few weeks we have Sandy and the recent addition of a noreaster which pummeled New Jersey, New York and New England. The exiles in Babylon and the survivors of Katrina and Sandy were or have been looking for a light at the end of a tunnel to provide the end to their misery. are looking for our own light. We seek light of Advent. We seek We are looking for our own light. We seek the light ofAdvent. We seek the light of Bethlehem. Craig Wallace

Prepare
2nd Sunday of Advent Dec. 9, 2012
What are you Waiting For? Advent is a time of waiting. Our children are waiting to unwrap presents and we are waiting to watch them and experience their joy. As a Christian community we are preparing ourselves for the coming of the Christ child. Waiting. Watching. Listening. Some of us are waiting to hear from family members that we seldom see. Some of us are waiting on financial news that will affect our lives dramatically. Some of us are waiting on test results that may change our lives. Some of us are waiting to be touched or even noticed by another human being. Some of us are waiting to hear the voice of God. In this passage the prophet declares that God will send a messenger to prepare the way. This statement assumes that God was not with the Israelites. In reality God never left them. Gods presence was not felt but God was not absent. The heart of Advent is waiting. While we are waiting we must not forget that God is present in every moment and that presence is what we need, whether we happen to feel it or not. It will never go away. Joshua Dorrough

Malachi 3: 14

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Monday, December 10, 2012

Isaiah 5: 817

God came looking for justice. The people of Israel were corrupt, but because they were corrupt the fruit of the vineyard failed. We should not be just like people who enjoyed the wine and music but help the hungry. We should share with others without greed and selfishness. Its fine to have beautiful houses but without God we are nothing. The Lord will be exalted with justice with the holy God. We should take time to be with God in prayer. Verse 17 quotes Then the Lambs shall graze as in their pasture, fatlings and kids shall feed among their ruins. God sends us the Lamb of God, Jesus to show us what Christmas means. Nancy Knott

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Isaiah 5: 1825

The prophet Isaiah is telling Israel of their transgressions against Yahweh, and the judgment that will befall them. It underscores the reversal of morality, told through contrasting metaphors and six woes (materialists, drunkards, defiant, moral perversity, self-sufficiency, and drunken leaders). It accuses them of blasphemy by the reversing of Gods order by calling, evil good and good evil, and darkness for light and light for darkness. Some 2,460 years later, we gentiles, like Gods chosen people, have continued to live that same life. Our clothes, music, and technology have changed, but our hearts are still the same. In Romans 3:23, it states all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God or hamartia, missing the mark. But, there is one change though, that has made a difference in the last 2,000 years, the birth of Gods son. And through Gods gift, Jesus, we are justified, found not guilty. God, has replaced our guilt with Christs guiltlessness. What a gift, the ultimate gift, eternal life with the Father Almighty. So, this Advent season, dont let all the traditions of Christmas, the lights, decorations, cooking, shopping, movies, Santa, etc. take your focus off the true reason for the season. And when youre done opening all of your presents, I have to ask, have you accepted the most miraculous gift of all, Gods gift for you, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior? Prayer: Dear God, through you, help me to accept your wonderful gift and also give me the strength and insight to spread it to all I come into contact with, in Jesus name we pray, Amen. Scott Richmond

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Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Isaiah 6: 113

Advent is a time for us to reflect on how God has called each of us to proclaim the Gospel of peace. When you heard that call, were you ready to go? Were you on fire for the Lord? Did you hear that call, but assumed it must be for someone else? Or, were your thoughts similar to Isaiahs?: Woe is me! For I am lost; [I have] unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips Ultimately, it was Gods refining-fire act of forgiveness that freed Isaiah to speak for God to the people of Judah. Only then could Isaiah respond with, Here am I! Send me! It has not always been easy to be Gods messengers. No in Jerusalem wanted to hear the dire warnings from stranger from the one in Jerusalem wanted to hear the dire warnings from thethe stranger from the north. knew that they wouldnt be be open to Isaiahs words. But still north. GodGod knew that they wouldntopen to Isaiahs words. But God God still wanted the people to hear of promise of of peace and salvation. years to wanted the people to hear of the the promisepeace and salvation. In In years to come, people of God would sit down beside a river in a strange strange land. come, thethe people of God would sit down beside a river in a land. Because Because Isaiah was speak for speak for God, they could remember Gods Isaiah was willing to willing toGod, they could remember Gods promise that, promise God would bring them back to Jerusalem. Because someone sprang someday,that, someday, God would bring them back to Jerusalem. Because someone sprang up and shouted, me, am could me, they could remember up and shouted, Here am I, send Herethey I, sendremember the promise that the was with them wherever life took them. Bringing the them. Bringing the Godpromise that God was with them where ever life took good news [Gospel] good news [Gospel] calling. of Gods peace is ourof Gods peace is our calling. One of my former colleagues instructed his churches that every member is a minister of the Gospel. May we remember that we send a message in the way we live our lives. The love you show to others is the primary way that you proclaim the Gospel of Peace. Prayer: We have heard your voice, O God. We have accepted your call. We have lived your good news. Help us to be instruments of your peace and of your love. In Jesus name. Amen. Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever islovely, what ever is commendable think about these things. Philippians 4:8 Bob Hasty

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Thursday, December 13, 2012

Isaiah 7: 19

If you attended church every Sunday for years, chances are you would never hear these verses from Isaiah read! They are not in our lectionary of readings; and probably were not meant even for this Advent set of readings. But since we are here reading this strange message, let us see what inspiration for Advent we find. In verse 3 the Lord gives a very specific instruction to Isaiah: Go out with your son named Shear-Jashub to meet King Ahaz of Judah by the end of a piece of conduit, an aqueduct, on the upper pool by the highway to Fullers Field( or Wassermans field). The message to be delivered is something we hear the angel announce in Lukes Christmas story: Fear not, or Dont be afraid. In fact, Ahaz is told to keep calm. Now, part of the cryptic message embedded in this verse comes from the sons long name, which some Hebrew translators insist meant A Remnant Shall Return. So ason named a Remnant goes with Isaiah to confront his father Isaiah a Remnant Shall Return Shall Return accompanies King Ahaz with theconfront King Ahaz with the command Fear not. to command Fear not. Theres the closest inspiration for us in Advent, for in some Christian circles there remains the hope that those who hear and receive the Good News of Jesus birth are in fact a part of that so-called saving remnant of Israel, still on hand waiting and hoping for a savior to arrive. Thats you and me waiting there. His birth is at once more than we can handle, for he will call upon us to walk in many new and challenging ways; and it is something so awesome when we perceive it in its cosmic significance, that like Zechariah dumbstruck in the presence of the Holy, we would turn away in fear and trembling if we sensed all his life would change on earth. To us, hanging on as a remnant, comes the word Do not fear. When I let go of my fears, I grow calm. When I am calm, I feel more alive. When I feel alive, I am in that creative place where God can surprise and fulfill my purpose in life. Prayer: Holy Lord God of Israel, catch us by the remnant of our faith this season, take away our fears, and let us celebrate Jesus coming fully alive and calm in your image for our life. Amen. Editor

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Friday, December 14, 2012

Isaiah 7: 1025

Isaiah Gives Ahaz the Sign of Immanuel Immanuel in Hebrew is God with us and was meant to convince Ahaz that God could rescue him from his enemies. A sign of a coming messiah was a promise to the house of David. Ahaz was having trouble trusting in the divine promise. It is easy to look at the negatives when we are faced with some sort of crisis. It is easy to not trust in God during these times. We need to let go of the negatives and see the positives. We need to seek God, Immanuel with us, during these hard times and trust in him. He will always be with us.

During and after hurricane Sandy there were stories and pictures of those who could only hold on to the negative of what was happening to them. Then there were those who no matter what they were going through or had been through they continued to move forward. They were there for their neighbors. They didnt blame anyone but looked to how to rebuild and recover. They had a smile on their face throughout hardship and tragedy. I would like to think at those times they were trusting in God. During this advent season let us remember Gods promise to us. Let us remember that no matter what hardships we may encounter we need to look for the face of God, Immanuel with us, and be comforted. God sent us his son Jesus to show us his love for us. God is always with us. All we need do is trust in him.

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Prayer: Dear Lord, be with us not only during the good times of our lives but also during the difficult times. Help us to remember that promise given so long ago through your son Jesus. Remind us to trust in you no matter what we are going through. You will always be with us. We thank you for your loving care. In your son, Jesus, we pray. Amen. Chris Fee

Saturday, December 15, 2012

Isaiah 8: 115

When was the last time that you received really bad news? Not the kind that you forget about quickly, but the kind that burns that moment into your memory? We all have those moments, and some of us, more often than others. There is never once a promise that everything is going to be hunky-dory all the time and, some of us seem to get more than our fair share of bad news. No matter who we are or where we are in this journey of life we are all going to have events/circumstances/issues that are going to arise that we are not going to know what to do with; we wont know how to react or respond. That certainly would be the case for the people of Israel...they are going along and hearing all this negative imagery, and there was probably the question what am I going to do with this prophecy, with these words that so easily bring fear? What do we do with any bad news? Ignore it and hope it goes away? Run shrieking away and cower in our imminent demise/pain/turmoil? Or, am I going to respond constructively and faithfully to the circumstances placed before me (and perhaps even your family)? There is no right answer, but how we answer that question says a lot about how we see the world and God. Even this scripture brings forth an advent feeling. Verse 8 brings us the name Immanuelwhich literally translated means God with Us. And then in verse 10, it actually says God is with us. The promise that God is with us is embedded into our very world. No matter the circumstances, we are not in this alone, we are travelling together on a journey of advent, to come to know once again the Emmanuel. Aaron and Debra Todd

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Praise
3rd Sunday of Advent December 16 Zeph. 3: 1420
This passage meant so much because it emphasized for mehow muchmusic and singing have been such an integral part ofmy life, especially during the holiday season. When my children were young, we would attend a yearlyperformance of Handels Messiah and, without a doubt, each and every time, the Hallelujah chorus would bring me to tears. Verse 17 bring a smile to my heart knowing that, not only are we singing, but God is singing too! 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 (Zeph. 3:17) The Christmas carols give me a special joy and wonderful, fond memories. May the peace of God surround everyone as we raise our voices during this Advent season. Jane Reynolds

Monday, December 17, 2012

Isaiah 8: 169:1

Israel remained disobedient. The invasion about to come would bring distress on all Israel. Their future was uncertain and there would be much despair. The light would only dawn for Israel by looking to God and heeding Gods words. My interpretation of this was that only through God would there be hope. We all go through times when we feel despair. Maybe we even feel abandoned by God. We turn to many things to help us feel better; drugs, alcohol, infidelity, money, fame, etc. etc. It is easy in our society today to turn to so many things that take us far afield from God. We think they make us happy but in essence we ache for something more. We lose sight of what is really important. God sent his son Jesus to us to remind us of his love for us and to remind us that he will never abandon us. When we follow Jesus we remember the hope God promised us. God is with us through all of lifes ups and downs. He is with us through the good and bad. WhenWhen wein Godin God we can with us through the good and the bad. we trust trust we can turn to him to him times of need of need instead of all that offers. During this time turn in thosein those times instead of all that the worldthe world offers. During of advent let us remember what is important. Let us remember remember that this time of advent let us remember what is important. Let us that our faith is

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grounded in Jesus, Gods precious son, he sent to us so long ago. Our hope is in our faith is grounded in Jesus, Gods precious son, whom he sent to us so long God if we will is inGod if we will ago. Our hope only trust in him. only trust in him. Prayer: Dear Lord, be with us through lifes ups and downs. We accept that we will know despair. When we are faced with the dark times of our lives be ever present with us. We trust in you. We thank you for sending your son Jesus to us to remind us of your love. Help us to always remember that our faith through Jesus is the foundation of our life. You are our hope. In Jesus name we pray. Amen. Chris Fee

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

John 3: 1621

Verse 17 says God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world but in order that the world might be saved through him. As we approach the day of Jesus birth, when God sent himself in the form of a human man, Jesus, we are reminded that Jesus reason for coming to earth was so that we could learn more about God and his unconditional love for us through the way that Jesus lived his life and the lessons he taught. I always choose this day to write my devotional because it is the day one of my daughters and two of my grandchildren were born. Just as I have unconditional love for these three as well as all of my children, I think about Gods unconditional love for us. Nothing we can do can keep God from loving us. He is always there for us. Even when we put God in a box on the shelf and go our merry way, God will be there to pick up the pieces when we fail. He will never leave us. So in the midst of all the Christmas presents, food, and good times with friends and family, I will remember the real reason for the seasonto live my life as close to the way Jesus lived his life for us. Donna Woodbridge

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Wednesday, December 19, 2012

John 5: 3047

The First King Sized Bed Nancy Stevens

Thursday, December 20

Luke 1: 525

The parents of John were the best examples of people who lived their lives for God. Both were from long lines of pious leaders in Israel. But as they approached old age, they have no children. In those days, this inability to conceive was thought to be entirely a womans fault. When it was revealed to Zechariah that he and Elizabeth would have a child, he was quite literally dumbfounded! Elizabeth, on the other hand, joyfully accepted her pregnancy as the work of God. This will remove her embarrassment at being barren. Elizabeths response is a wonderful complement to Zechariahs bewilderment. Each of us thinks of ourselves as ordinary people. Yet Advent reminds us that with the coming of Jesus, we are called to be instruments of Gods love. We ought to expect God to use us for some truly wonderful purpose. We may first respond with Why me! But then we say to God, So be it! We will do our part. Prayer: O God of promise, may our devotions during this season of Advent bring us to a greater awareness of the great things that you have in store for us. We hear the message that soon all will be revealed. Prepare us to respond to your call. You have promised us eternity. May we respond in love. In Jesus name. Amen. Bob Hasty

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Friday, December 21, 2012

Luke 1: 2638

A most beautiful and inspirational scripture that is very special. Imagine a virgin birth to the son of God. Mary was visited by an angel who explained that she was to be the carrier of Jesus even as a virgin. To me, she had to have a tremendous faith as I can imagine women would have doubts and certainly numerous questions to ask the angel but when he told her that she had found favor with God, she immediately erased all doubt and stated that I am the Lords Servant. I pray that I might have unrelenting faith without question and without proof. May we all be Gods children and love and believe in him as he believes and loves us. Bill Martin

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Luke 1: 3945

At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariahs home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Marys greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished! Three days before Christmas. Are you ready? Thats actually a two-fold question, for there is the All-American Holiday of Christmas with its retinue of decorations, lights, presents, gatherings and all that wonderful food! The Christmas holiday is steeped in family traditions but doesnt require faith. Anyone and everyone can participate. Theres even a secular soundtrack to bring cheer to every ear. It takes a lot of time, planning and money, and in some places, the marketing and hype starts well before Thanksgiving. Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas! But thats not the Christmas Mary and Elizabeth were experiencing. Mary believed what the Lord had promised, and Elizabeth could already feel the Holy Spirit within her simply by hearing Marys voice and being in her blessed presence. The miracle of Christmas, the birth of Gods only Son, the Savior who is Christ the Lord, had already begun. And during this time of Advent, we humbly and prayerfully make our own preparations to receive the Christ child in our hearts as the cornerstone of our faith and our salvation. Are you ready? Wishing all of you a Mary Christmas! Luanne Bailey 18 19

Proclamation
4th Sunday of Advent December 23 Luke 1: 4655 4th Sunday of Advent DecemberLord Luke 1: 4655 23 My Soul Magnifies the
My Soul Magnifies the Lord Marys Song, the colloquial name given to these words the writer of Luke Marys Jesus the colloquial shortly after these words the writer cousin, attributes to Song,mother, Mary,name given toshe arrived to visit her of Luke attributes then pregnant with the one we know as John the visit her cousin, Elizabeth, to Jesus mother, Mary, shortly after she arrived toBaptist, provides Elizabeth, then pregnant provocative thoughts inas John theNew Testament. us with some of the most with the one we know the entire Baptist, provides us with some herthe most provocative thoughts in the entire New Testament. Initially, of words focus on herself and her situation. My soul magnifies the on herself and her situation. Initially, her words focus Lordfor he has looked with favor on the lowliness magnifies the Lordfor he has looked with favor ongreat My soul of will callme Surely, for the Mighty One has done the generations his servant. blessed; from now on all generations will call mefor mefor the Mighty One the Mighty Onethings for me generations will callme 1:47-49) for has done great has done great things blessed; (Luke blessed; (Luke 1:47-49) (Luke 1:47-49) things for me However, immediately after these comments about herself, the rest of However, immediately will these comments about herself, the of of Marys words describe what after be the ultimate significance of the liferestthe Marys words describe what will her the ultimate significance of the life of the baby then living and thriving in be womb as the result of the action of Gods baby then living and thriving in her womb as 55, have two interesting features. Spirit. Those words, found in verses 51 through the result of the action of Gods Spirit. Those words, found in verses 51 through 55, have two interesting features. One feature is that all of the verbs Mary uses to describe Gods actions are One feature in the past tense.is that all of the verbs Mary uses to describe Gods actions are in the past has shown strength he has scattered He has brought He tense.

He has shown has filledhe has scatteredhelped down he strength And, finally, He has He has brought down he has on like this when her son has even been born yet? Why is Mary going filled And, finally, He has helped Why is Mary going onspeak this when her God,has even been born yet? Mary, likeis Mary going on like this when her son has remembered Gods past all of those who like about and for son not even been Mary, like all of those who speak done in the past, those who speak for God actions. Based on what God has about and for God, remembered Gods past actions. Based on what God hasare confident past, those who speakdo inGod in the present, including Mary, done in the about what God will for the in the present, including Mary, arebehind thisabout what God will of Marys future. Further, in the Greek text confident English translation do in the future. the past tense used is the aorist tense. TheEnglishtense is used to express words, Further, in the Greek text behind this aorist translation of Marys words,is timelessly true: past, present and future without differentiation. what the past tense used is the aorist tense. The aorist tense is used to express what is timelessly true: past, present and future without differentiation. The other feature is that what God has done, is doing in her pregnancy, and The other feature is that anticipated has done,ministry of the adult Jesus, will yet do through the what God life and is doing in her pregnancy, and will yet the order of things. Mary sings of theministry of thebring down is to reverse do through the anticipated life and God who will adult Jesus, is tomighty the orderGod who will lift up thethe God Marywill bring of the the reverse and the of things. Mary sings of lowly. who also sings down the mighty and the God whowith goodup the lowly. Mary also sings of the God who will fill the hungry will lift things and the God who will send Godrich away empty. hungry with good things and the God whohis servant the who will fill the Finally, Mary sings of the God who helps will send the rich away empty. Finally, Mary sings promise he madehelps his servant Israel, who remembers his mercy and the of the God who to our ancestors, Israel, who remembers his mercy and the promise he made to our ancestors, 19 20 19

to Abraham and to his descendents forever. As Mary sees things through her understanding of the meaning of her pregnancy, the day of the Lord is comingthe day when, as the prophet Isaiah declared: the earth will be filled with the glory of God as the waters cover the sea. (Isaiah 11:9b) As I write this reflection, people are voting for our next President. As you read this, it may be two days until Christmas Day. Depending upon your feelings about the outcome of the 2012 election, you may be looking at the next four years with either dread or with hope. However much more important than the result of Novembers election is the hope that is ours in Christ, whose birth we celebrate, and whose ministry on behalf of the oppressed and the poor we are called to embrace day after day, month after month and year after year. Prayer: God of power and might, whom Mary understood to be at work in and through her life, by that same Spirit, call and empower us to once again be and become instruments of your justice and peace in this weary world you have redeemed in Christ. Amen. Ed Linberg

Monday, December 24, 2012

God with Us

Luke 2: 114

She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. 2:7b

I believe in miracles. As I am writing this devotion a young woman named Krista is going home from the hospital with her newborn baby boy named father). this couple. Raymond (after his father). This is the firstborn for this couple. Our church, along with many other churches, has been praying for Krista and her baby. A week ago, Krista was rushed to the hospital, a medical emergency. The doctors performed an emergency C-Section and delivered a healthy baby but things were going terribly wrong for Krista. She had an amniotic fluid embolism is fatal 85% of the time. Next, it was a cardiac arrest, bleeding and which is fatal 85 % of the time. Next, it was a cardiac arrest, bleeding and pospossible organ failure. She was in a in a drug induced coma a fewadays later sible organ failure. She was put put drug induced coma and and few days later the medication was stopped, Krista woke woke up. She recognized her whenwhen the medication was stopped, Krista up. She recognized her family family and spoke to them her memory was somewhat impaired at the time. and spoke to them thoughthough her memory was somewhat impaired at the time. The doctors told the family was a miracle that that she survivedand The doctors told the family that itthat it was a miracleshe survived and apparapparently with little neurological damage. Her short short term memory ently with little if any if any neurological damage. Her term memory loss is loss is improving. They that any damage damage to was slight and treatable. improving. They also feltalso felt that any to her hearther heart was slight and treatable. A MIRACLE! A MIRACLE! Life is a miracle. Gods creation is a miracle in the design of humanity. How a life leaves this world we know not, except that the heart of flesh left
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behind ceases to beat. How a life enters this world we know not, except that the heart nourished by the mothers heart begins its own beating. (from Gods Little Christmas Book. 1997) Imagine Mary and Joseph and the ordeal they went through before Marys baby was born. They traveled from Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David because Joseph had to go there to register. Caesar decreed it. Mary was at term. She traveled on the back of a donkey and by the time they arrived she was in labor. There was no place to stay, but they were offered lodging in a stable. Envision this stable, animals all around, not the cleanest of places to have a baby, a teen age mom, away from her home and family. The baby was born with Josephs help, no doctor around. She wrapped the baby in cloths that she must have prepared and brought with her. A MIRACLE! But wait, there is more. This is no ordinary baby. Angels tell of the birth, strangers begin to arrive and we are told Do not be afraidGood NewsA savior has been born; he is the Messiah, the Lord. God with us. A MIRACLE! We can hear this familiar story over and over, and it can remain just thatan old, familiar story. We think of it and become sentimental. But the true gift of this story resides in the promise that God really is with us, that we are not alone to sin and self-concern. This day we celebrate day best good news left alone, abandoned to sin and self-concern. This the we celebrate the best good God came to liveGod came to live to die among us and live again ever: that news ever: that among usand among usand to die among us and livewe might come weknow God (from Disciplines 2010). so that againso that to might come to know God (from Disciplines 2010). Sammie Adams

Christmas Tuesday, December 25, 2012

John 1: 114

A Christmas day devotional for children of all ages...

When I was a boy, I had a little Golden Book entitled Santas Toy Shop. live toward Christmas by gazing at my chores, and Every December I would get off the school bus, rush throughjust one page in that book that book to gaze no end. Its the page where one me to no end. get back tothat amazed me toat just that one page that amazedof Santas elves is the page where one of Santas elves is dipping his paint brush in bucket of Itsdipping his paint brush in a bucket of red and black checkeredapaint and painting those checkered squares painting board, without squares on a game red and black checkered paint andon a gamethose checkered the two colors ever mingling in the bucket, on the brush, or on the bucket, on the brush, or on board, without the two colors ever mingling in theboard! To me, that was the greatest miracle of Christmas right there on of Christmas right there on that the board! To me, that was the greatest miraclethat page. I practiced all year and could never get a bucket of two never get a bucket of two colors of paint page. I practiced all year and couldcolors of paint to repeat that miraculous event! to repeat that miraculous event! 22 21

When I grew up, learned of Johns gospel, and what he wrote in the first 17 verses, I got a whole new perspective some other pairs of two things in the real Christmas story that remain distinct, are never blurred, and create the real miracle of Christmas.

On Christmas day, have a discussion with your friends or family and if possible some children or grandchildren of all ages. Show them this picture. Ask What are some of the impossible activities the elves are doing and why do you suppose they are doing them? Then read John 1, particularly verses 514, and ask again What are some of the activities impossible to us that God did answers are upside down below) for us in Christmas ? (some possible Barry Woodbridge, with suggestions from the Tuesday night Mens Bible Anonymous members Praise God for this miraculous Christmas message, and a blessed Merry Christmas to each of us! Barry Woodbridge, with suggestions from the Tuesday night Mens Bible Anonymous members

Answers: Elves: not only the checkerboard paint, but drilling out whole circles with an augur bit, sawing three colors of material into pre-shaped blocks with letters on them. God: the entire power of creation, the Word(Logos), becomes flesh in just one man; the Light shines in darkness and overcomes all the darkness (in us and in the cosmos); and to us who Answers: have little or no power to fix what is broken in us, God gave power sufficient to become the children of God. 22 23

Barry Woodbridge, Editor David Styffe, Designer Worship Ministry Team 2012 Sammie Adams Ted Adams Leslie Beck Anna Van Diest Mitch Hanlon Ed Linberg, Chair Jane Reynolds Ben Stuart Jeanne Tarbell Jack Townsend Janelle Vannoy Barry Woodbridge Donna Woodbridge Ex Officio Darrell McGowan, Senior Pastor Debra Todd, Associate Minister Deb Taylor, Council of Elders Chair

First Christian Church 109 E. Wilshire Ave. Fullerton CA 92832 714.525.5525

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