Memorial UMC Advent Devotions 2011

December 25, Christmas Day

2011-12-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 25, Christmas Day

“A Musical Touch,” by Rev. D. Scott Johnson

Scripture: “At once the angel was joined by huge angelic choir singing God’s praises: ‘Glory to God in the heavenly heights, Peace to all men and women on earth who please Him.’” Luke 2:13-14 (the Message)

Our family loves Christmas music. There is something about it that lifts the spirit and actually is so much better than a lot of the music we listen to the rest of the year. I have wondered why that is the case. What is it about Christmas music that moves the soul unlike any other? Is it the season and our spirits are ready to be lifted? Is it the expectation and excitement that fills the air? Is it the familiarity of the tune and words?

I remember distinctly the first time I heard certain pieces that still give me pause when I hear them each Christmas season: Mannheim Steamroller’s rendition of “The Little Drummer Boy”, Charlotte Church singing “Ave Maria”, Tran Siberian Orchestra “Christmas/Sarajevo 12/24 (instrumental)”, Amy Grant “Breath of Heaven”, and Sandy Patty “Bethlehem Morning”. These are just a few of my Christmas favorites which do not even include my favorite Christmas carols. Each time I hear these songs there is a stirring of praise in my heart.

But, I know that my list pales in comparison to what the shepherds heard on those fields on a night so long ago. What was it like to hear the heavenly chorus singing wonderful words of glory and peace? Do you think they will ever get out of their minds, their spirits, or their souls the stirring impromptu concert for their benefit? It certainly was a story that they would tell and retell throughout their lives.

Maybe God realized that the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem needed that musical touch because mere words would not do. So God added music and stirred the souls of every age. And, I would guess, that whatever your favorite music is on this Christmas morning, God will speak to you, through it, just as God spoke long ago.

Prayer: O God who stirs the heart and lifts the world with the message of grace and peace, come to us anew once again this day through our music and celebration. Amen.

December 24, Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 24, Christmas Eve

“The Holy Mystery of Christmas,” by Rev. Jill Howard

On Christmas Eve, I am always amazed at the two very different birth narratives found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Why are they so different? And how have we gotten them so mixed up into one story?

Let’s take a brief look at the big differences:

Matthew: The birth announcement to Joseph (not Mary!), the star, the wise men (we don't know how many there were), Jesus is found in a house after he is born (not a manger), and the wise men probably found him up to 2 years after his birth after they lost the star and had to find it again (they ended up in Jerusalem first and asked King Herod who consulted scribes and found the prophecy to say Bethlehem!) The wise men are also warned in a dream not to return to Herod, so they do not go on to proclaim and celebrate Jesus' birth, besides the gifts he gets, unlike the shepherds in Luke who go on to proclaim the good news. Also, Mary and Joseph never travel to Bethlehem for a census, because they were supposedly living there, but left only to flee to Egypt when King Herod set a decree to murder all of the boys under age 2. Then after their flight to Egypt, they relocated to Nazareth (not Bethlehem because they were not out of the woods yet!) and stayed there. Not a very warm and fuzzy tale, is it?

Luke: The birth announcement to Mary, her trip to see Elizabeth, Mary and Joseph travel to Nazareth for a census. Jesus is laid in a manger (feeding trough) maybe in a cave, maybe a barn, but also possibly a house, (no mention of animals anywhere) but Mary would have been ritually unclean, and therefore, could not stay in the "inn" we see portrayed in the story, the shepherds get an announcement and visit Jesus (no mention of wise men or stars, etc) The shepherds then go off to announce and celebrate Jesus' birth to all who would listen (unlike Matthew's gospel where danger was ahead if it was celebrated)

Wow! It’s hard to tell which one is correct or what the real story is, isn’t it? I think that each story speaks to its own audience to which it was written at the time. Which story resonates more with you? I think the beauty of these stories is that we get two very different pictures of the Savior being born into the world- it is a divine mystery- a chance to discover again and again what images come to mind, what emotions would have been felt, and what speaks to us even today. Will you be like the wise men who are afraid to proclaim the Messiah’s birth? Or will you be like the shepherds who shout the good news to a world that needs to much to hear it?

Awesome God, speak to us again once more through Scripture. May we wrestle with the stories we read. May they inspire us to learn, to grow, and to see the many ways in which you speak to us. As we our Advent season comes to a close, may we enter into the world proclaiming the good news. Amen.

December 23

2011-12-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 23

“The Gift of Jesus,” by David Pettyjohn

Read: Luke 1:68-80

(Luke 1: 65-66. A deep, reverential fear settled over the neighborhood, and in all that Judean hill country people talked about nothing else. Everyone who heard about it took it to heart, wondering, “What will become of this child? Clearly, God has his hand in this.) What a wondrous gift God has given mankind. Yet the celebration of this gift is so often misguided. We were in Thailand shortly after Christmas and there were Christmas decorations and greetings ever where. Yet, Thailand is only 3% Christian. Were these truly the vestments of thankful followers of Christ’s teachings? I don’t think so. It seems that just as they are here, they best serve the bottom line of the merchants. We have so many in need here that we are duty bound to share our blessings. Personally, I contribute time to Clothe-A-Child and have set an allotment to 14^th and Chestnut. But these are only tokens of sharing. Real sharing occurs every day in our interactions with those we meet. May each of us share our Christmas with those we meet all throughout the year. We are Christ disciples and we are known by the way we love each other as He loved us.

Prayer: Dear God, as we celebrate your gift to us of Jesus Christ this season, let us remember that it is our responsibility to share our blessings with those we meet each day of the year. Blessed be your name. Amen.

Thought for the Day

Blessings shared will be multiplied. Blessings kept are lost.

December 22

2011-12-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 22

“Christmas Imperfection,” by Teela Crecelius

We have all seen National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation in which Clark Griswold sets out to create the best Christmas ever. Throughout the movie, he attempts to put on the best light display in the entire town, to bring home the largest Christmas tree, to bake the most savory Christmas turkey, and to secure a large Christmas bonus. It can clearly be seen that Griswold desires the “perfect” Christmas, but he missed the whole reason for the season. At the end, he realizes that Christmas is about Christ and being with family, and not about materialistic presentation.

I feel that this scenario plays out all too often in today’s society. Most of us desire to have the most beautiful tree, to give the best gifts, and to serve the best Christmas dinner. It is easy to find ourselves forgetting why we celebrate this season – the birthday of the Christ child. We don’t need “25,000 imported Italian twinkle lights” on our house or a 15-foot Christmas tree in order to celebrate Christmas. We simply need to reflect on the Christmas story, celebrate the babe in the manger, and thank God for sending his Son to Earth. Let’s all give Christ the best birthday present ever by remembering Him in all we do this season.

Dear Jesus,

Please help us to remember why we celebrate the Christmas season. Thank you for giving us the most important Christmas gift ever by sending your Son to Earth.

December 21

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 21

“Sitting at His Feet,” by Mallory Metheny

“Be still and know that I am God.” -Psalm 46:10

Growing up, one of my favorite moments of Christmas morning was when my brother, sister and I would sit at the top of the stairs together in wild anticipation until our parents would let us sprint down the steps to witness Santa’s deliveries (last year, however, being the only child at home, I flipped tradition and made my parents sit at the top of the stairs with the dogs. I think they were a little less amused than I was).

There’s so much anticipation during the Christmas season, from the gift-purchasing and giving to cleaning the entire house for visiting relatives. But through all the busyness, God tells us to be still. To take a break from the hand-made card marathon. To not have a panic attack over that one “imperfect” gift. Be still.

We’re told in Mark 12 that the most important thing we can do is to love the Lord with all we have. It is clear that God wants to be the number one priority. Before serving others, He wants us to sit at His feet in anticipation and wonder, especially during a holiday that really is all about Him.

Go about your Christmas preparations. Make that fondue with the secret ingredient and continue to clean where you see fit (yes, Mom and Dad, I’ll still help you). But no matter what age we are or what lists we have to accomplish, the most significant and honorable thing we can do is sit at God’s feet this Christmas, knowing that His life is the coolest and best thing that could ever happen to us.

Dear Lord, as we anticipate the season, help us to anticipate you even more. May we be still and recognize that you are worthy of all our attention. Amen.

December 20

2011-12-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 20

“A Happy Holiday Menu,” by Shanda Johnson

Christmastime has always been a season of sharing in my family. When I was young we had a large family that would gather and exchange gifts and share food and enjoy catching up on recent events that had occurred in each of our lives.

There were grandmas, grandpas, aunts, uncles, seven cousins, mom, dad and me. My mother enjoyed having Christmas dinner at our house. So for a week in advance we cleaned and decorated and soon the smell of Christmas took over our senses. How great it would be to go back home for the holidays and see and share with everyone in my early family. When my daddy passed in March I lost the last link to what used to be. All the cousins gathered for the funeral. We talked about what used to be before we married, left home and lost contact.

I have come to realize that God gives us opportunities to become part of and participate in the family of Christ which is so much bigger and better than my family unit to which I want to go back. The rewards of knowing Jesus and being part of his family are every day in every way there for the taking. I look forward to each gathering with God’s people.

The following is from a Christmas card I received many years ago and choose to read annually:

A HAPPY HOLIDAY MENU

HAPPY HOLIDAY FARE

Served with freshly made Best Wishes

Appetizer of Happiness

Hearts of Gladness*Thick Slices of Joy

Generous Portions of Cheer*Warm Friendships

Casserole of Kindness*Soufflé of Laughter

Good Times to Relish*Assorted Pleasures

Well-seasoned Delights*Sparkling Merriment

Combination Good Health and Good Fortune

Sweet Memories

Thank You, God, for sending Jesus to show us the way.

December 19

2011-12-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 19

“Christmas Through New Eyes,” by Christian Hines

As a stressed and sleep-deprived freshman four years ago, I regarded the holiday season with profound indifference, if not irritation. Christmas heralded the end of term, yes; but before that, it meant a week of essays and grueling exams. For the past thirteen weeks or so, I had been in pure survival mode. I studied, ate, and slept—in roughly that order of priority. The last thing to cross my mind, in short, was whether this Christmas would offer some significant personal truth. In fact, after the emotional turbulence of starting a new kind of life in an unfamiliar place, I felt like I had left behind more than friends and family. It seemed I had left behind a previous life—and all the certainty and stability that were part of that life—altogether.

Perhaps this is why, after a semester in which everything had seemingly changed, the Christmas holiday brought three of the most reassuring and intensely happy weeks I can remember. I took great delight in simple acts, like enjoying dinner with my parents or sharing stories late into the evening with old friends. For all the year’s upheaval, there were still people and places and experiences to which I could return.

The Christmas season gives us much to ponder, some of it worthwhile and some of it not. Returning home forced me to think about what in our lives provides a sense of constancy and stability. Although friends and family can fill this role to a certain extent—as I discovered four years ago—Christians are also called to recognize a deeper, more enduring source of steadfastness, namely the promise of salvation introduced through the birth of Christ.

Father, as we enjoy the many blessings that give us happiness throughout the holidays, let your followers also remember the even deeper and more permanent contentment you have promised.

December 18, 4th Sunday of Advent

2011-12-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 18, 4^th Sunday of Advent

“Turn Busy Time Around,” by David Peter

Deadlines. Appointments. School assemblies and programs. Pictures. Travelling. Grocery shopping. Christmas cards. Gift giving. Lines.

The holiday season is fast approaching. It can seem like there isn’t “ENOUGH” time to get everything done. We run from place to place, trying to fit everything into a day. It’s so easy to get tired trying to do everything. It’s so easy to become disagreeable when we don’t get everything done.

But this is the time to stop, to pause and just slow down. This season is the ultimate gift of God to man.

I try to remember that no matter how busy or over-scheduled I may be, I need to take time and give thanks. I’ve been given the gift of time, and I need to be thankful for that gift. I will take time to stop and listen. I will take time to pray, and grow in my faith. I take time to spend time with my family and friends. Sometimes the greatest gift can be a hand-written card, a telephone call, or a visit with friends and family. Time is priceless.

Dear God, Help me to remember to take time to give thanks for Christ, your gift to us. Remind me that I’m never too busy. Help me stop, pause and give thanks. Amen.

Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord;
Abide in Him always, and feed on His Word.

United Methodist Hymnal #395, William D. Longstaff, 1882 “Take Time to be Holy”

December 17

2011-12-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 17

“Through the Eyes of a Child,” by Paula Metheny

Though I’m ashamed to admit it, my family used to consider me to be a bit of a Grinch at Christmas time. Many of the holiday festivities with friends and family happened at our house, and though I loved the idea of having everyone over, making it happen the way I wanted was a whole other thing. I wasn’t satisfied until the house was spotless, the decorating finished, and the Tupperware containers were filled with homemade goodies, nothing store-bought, for heaven’s sake! Put simply, I wanted perfection. And if my family was not going to help, they better look out! I was miserable; they were miserable. Honestly, I was glad when Christmas was over. It’s hard to feel so much stress and keep smiling for the relatives.

Enter grandchildren. First Aiden, then Owen was born earlier this year. What joy they bring! Now, the Christmas preparations I make are with them in mind, instead of who I might impress this year with my decorating talents. Believe me, they don’t care about the color of bows I make, or if the decorations coordinate with the new wall paint color. They care most about strings of sparkling lights, bright packages under the tree, wrinkly wrapping paper, and can they touch Grammy’s nativity set (of course!). Having the boys around has taught me that the joy of Christmas, and life, is found by seeing through the eyes of a child.

Charles Dickens said, “It’s good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas, when it’s mighty founder was a child himself.”

Our Heavenly Father, thank you so much for sending your son Jesus Christ, and for all the little children in our lives. May we be able to see like they do, the simple things that are most important to you. Amen.

December 16

2011-12-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 16

“The Words of Christmas,” by Megan Kendall

This is by far my favorite time of the year.

Traditions come to life and focus turns to friends, family.

God enters the household in an enveloping embrace.

In one word, togetherness.

It is a time to remember that you are not alone.

Families come together as children come home.

The kitchen smells turn sweeter, the nights begin twinkling with light.

Another word, tradition.

It is a time to remember that you are not alone.

My family has Christmas traditions that

grow year by year. Trivial things appear insubstantial,

but mean more than you know. Tradition lives as a tender reminder, that come every December, I know I will soon be returning home.

In one word, time.It is a time to remember that you are not alone.Years pass by quicker than the next,too fast sometimes to grasp the fleeting days.

Tradition grounds you. Slows things down.

People come and remember why they are together.

Another word, thoughts.

It’s a time to remember that you are not alone.

Time passes too fast and I’m spinning to hold on, but

God catches my hand and pulls me close.

At the smallest moment his light shines

and you remember. He is there through the people that surround you.

I love this time of year.

As a reminder why I am who I am.

God is our comfort and guide, and

enters the household as time slows down.

One final word, touched.

You are never alone.

I wish you the greatest holiday season.

December 15

2011-12-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 15

“Cookies at Christmas,” by Jessica Sell

One of my most favorite family traditions is making homemade cut out cookies and decorating them. It all started when my brother, Scott and my sister, Erica and I were small, with our parents, Kevin & Sandy. After a couple of years, we started to invite family and friends in to help with the fun. For the past several years the “cookie” day has taken place at my grandparent’s house, Keith & Carolyn Diss. We still invite family to join us. Over the years we have had Great-Grandmothers, Aunts and Uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, close family friends, even a boyfriend or two.

While we all work hard to bake and decorate, we always find time for a little mischief. Someone (or more than one person) will usually wind up with a “flour” hand print on their backside or other strategically placed locations. Three years ago I found out how meaningful this day was to me. I could not get home from college in time to join in the fun. I was really disappointed and feeling pretty low. It was like I missed a big part of Christmas. I came to realize that although baking and decorating cookies is fun. It is the coming together of family and friends that make it a special day. Christmas is not about the gifts, and the lights and the shopping (I do enjoy all of these things),it is about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and spending time with those who you love.

Dear God, may we find time in this holy season to love, to give, and be surrounded by those who mean the most to us. May we slow down and let your glory fill our lives. Amen.

December 14

2011-12-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 14

“God’s Greatest Gifts,” by Betty Porter

All of my life I have loved Christmas and everything about this wonderful holiday. As a child, born during the great depression, Christmas meant getting rare treats such as candy, nuts and oranges - and toys.

As an Adult, I loved being able to give my children (and now my grandchildren) lots of gifts at Christmas, and to help them enjoy the magic of this holiday. Certainly I taught them why we celebrate this day.

As the years have passed, and I have matured in my faith, I see Christmas and gifts in an entirely different context. First , God has given me the gift of life. More importantly He has made it possible for me to know Jesus as my personal Savior, and whose earthly birth is why we celebrate Christmas.

From Jesus, and His teachings, I have the opportunity to give more important gifts to those less fortunate.

He has given me a compassionate heart to help those living with a mental illness by way of a support group. Nami – National Alliance on Mental Illness. He has taught me to be a peace maker in times of trouble. He has given me empathy for others through lessons in life that I have learned through His love and direction. He has taught me to pray for His will, and to trust Him with the answer. He has given me the gift of good health so that I can continue to work at a job that I love.

As I look back on my life, I am amazed at how God shows His love and protection for me and my loved ones. Indeed, God’s greatest gifts to me, and each of you, is sending Jesus to us. Jesus is the true gift of Christmas.

Dearest God,

Thank you for sending Jesus to us, and for His teachings, so that we know how to live a Christian life.

In Jesus name, Amen

December 13

2011-12-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 13

“Memories of Christmases Past,” by Susan Helman

“And the angel said unto them, “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”

Luke 2:10-12

As a child I always loved hearing Christmas carols and joining in in the singing of them. My early memories of Christmas include spending Christmas Eve with my mother’s family at my grandparents’ home on Oak Street, enjoying the company of not only my immediate family, but also my grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. We would enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner, and there would be gifts for the children. Just a few years into our marriage, Larry and I and our son, Troy, moved to Oak Street, a short distance from Memorial, and at some time thereafter began attending Memorial. On Christmas Eve we would go to our traditional family get-together hosted by one of the relatives or us, then as 11:00 P.M. would draw near, Larry, Troy and I would go to Memorial for the beautiful Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. Just as the singing of Christmas carols as a child always made me feel full of the spirit of Christmas, walking into the sanctuary and soaking up the wonderful atmosphere of the feeling of Christmas was always very special to me, and I am very much looking forward to attending the service again this year.

Dear God, thank you for sending us your son, Jesus Christ, for family and friends, and please help us to remember always the true meaning of Christmas. Amen.

December 12

2011-12-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 12

“The Sounds of Christmas,” by Karrin Frost

Christmas has always been my favorite time of year. I love the lights, decorations and even the weather (the more snow the better as far as I’m concerned). And then there’s the music – the sounds of Christmas are everywhere you turn. I never realized what a powerful message music could bring until I was a sophomore in college and participated in a performance of The Messiah, an event that is held annually during the holiday season. The emotional impact of standing with 1000 other students to sing “hallelujah” was unforgettable. To this day, the music of Christmas brings special feelings to me. I can better understand the wonder and joy of the birth of Jesus through these songs. I hear it in my daughter’s voice and see it in her face, as well. The birth of Jesus was a wonderful gift. By sharing our music we can also share that gift with others in a way all can understand.

Dear God,

As we celebrate the birth of your Son Jesus Christ, let us truly listen to the music and experience the season in a new way. Let us feel the joy of Christ’s birth, the wonder of those who saw the star, and let us share the joy with those around us.

Verse: Psalms 98:4

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises.

December 11, 3rd Sunday of Advent

2011-12-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 11, 3^rd Sunday of Advent

“Giving of Self,” by Karen Perry

When I was young I had many colds and earaches, especially around the holidays. I was sad one year because of being home sick the last weekend before Christmas. My parents tried their best to “entertain” me, but I soon became bored. We were in our living room watching TV (which was a new past time) and admiring our Christmas decorations and tree, when we heard voices outside singing carols. I can still picture that scene of looking out our front windows and seeing a crowd from our church youth group caroling in the snow. I felt so special that they came to my house and sang for me.

They even asked for a favorite carol to sing and that made it even more special. They didn’t stay at our house very long, but the impression they made did last a long time. It really made that holiday season special. I recovered in time to have a wonderful Christmas with family, but experiencing the care and concern of this group of carolers made me realize how important the “giving” of self is especially during the holiday season. When we do this we always receive more of a blessing than we can imagine by celebrating Christ’s birth and sharing his message.

Dear Lord, may we give the gift of ourselves all year to further your kingdom and honor your Son. Amen.

December 10

2011-12-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 10

“Traditions,” by Lynn Biggs

We have several family traditions during the holiday season. The busyness of the holiday season is always present, but it’s the family traditions we continue every year that make the holiday season so special.

We have always had a traditional “search for the perfect live Christmas tree” experience. We traipse up and down the rows of trees, and Joe braves the branches to cut down the “perfect” tree. Last year, Joe and I tried to talk the kids into buying an artificial tree. “No” was the resounding word we heard in response to our idea.

A couple of days before Christmas, the kids and I make dozens of cut out sugar cookies. Over the years, it has become a fun day filled with music, laughter, and creativity. This past year, the kids finally admitted that the cookies never really taste that good. It’s the fun we have while making them that matters.

Christmas Eve dinner and attending the Christmas Eve service has also been a family tradition. We eat the same thing every year, and we attend Memorial’s traditional service. The service always helps us to reflect on the importance of Christ in our lives.

One of our devotional questions is, “How do you experience Christ in the ‘busyness’ of the Advent/Christmas season?” Time spent with family, the memories created, and the traditions followed all prepare us for renewing our commitment to Christ and celebrating the Holy season. Our commitment to Christ is ever present in the way we interpret Christmas and make family memories.

Let us pray, “Heavenly Father, thank you for the comfort of family traditions. Let us remember to take time during this busy season to celebrate each other and the gifts You have bestowed upon us. Amen.”

December 9

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 9

“When Do We Feel Christ In Our Lives?” by Linda McNichols

As I ponder the times that I have felt the true meaning of Christmas and/or feel the spirit of Christ in my life, thoughts drift to memories of family and friends, present and past. Each year I think of my Sunday School teacher Wendell Sims who taught us to always show our love and respect for Jesus Christ by writing out “Christmas” and not use an X in place of his name, ie: Xmas, because he is worthy of so much more than being “crossed out”. Wendell taught that group of feisty kids many things but this one will never fade!

As a mother of three and grandmother of four precious children, I cannot help but equate the anticipation of each of their births with the anticipation we feel leading up to Christmas. In each case there was excitement, mystery, and certainly a state of awe as the unborn child was being nurtured and prepared inside the womb. The whole process is such a miracle! The culmination of nine months’ anticipation draws congratulatory wishes from relatives and friends near and far. The opportunity to witness the birth of a child, or to hold and care for a new baby must surely be one of our greatest blessings from God as we are offered some insight of the “wonder and awe” that was felt on the first Christmas with the birth of Christ.

Our “newest” family member is Lydia Jane Szabo, born on August 20th to our daughter Janie and husband John Szabo. Undoubtedly Miss Lydia is the most popular family member in recent days, although it is not an easy task to steal her away from her parents! This week our precious little one started daycare and Mommy started back to work at Rose Hulman. The daily reports from daycare have been “glowing”….she is sleeping a lot, is enamored with watching the “big kids” at play, etc. Janie says Lydia hasn’t slept quite as well at night, although she reports to me “Lydia’s bed is right beside ours and I can just reach over to touch her.” Janie goes on “ she was wiggling and fussing and woke me up, so I rolled over to check on her and when I looked down at her she just smiled a really big smile!”.

Christ is with us. May you feel the warmth of “his” big smile this Christmas!

Prayer: Lord, help us have the strength and compassion to understand that you will be with us in good times and in bad. May we be mindful to serve as you have shown through Christs’ example in a loving and gentle manner, carrying the warmth of your love within us to share with others.

December 8

2011-12-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

"A Special Meaning of Christmas," by Buddy and Pam Coard

No one really knows what day the birth of Jesus occurred, but in 336 AD the Western Church of Rome selected December 25^thto celebrate this very special day. The time around Christmas has always been a very special time for my family. Seventeen years ago, Christmas became even more special with the birth of our daughter Emily on December 22. The date of our daughter’s birthday is the same day that Mary most likely started her 65 mile trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Both my wife and I remember the time of waiting for the birth of our daughter as a time of hopes, dreams, and anticipation similar to Mary and Joseph eagerly awaiting the birth of Jesus. Fourteen years ago with all of the great celebration of Christmas and the birth of our daughter we celebrated the birth of our son Fletcher born on December 27. The celebration of all three births makes the Christmas season more special as we celebrate the birth of our daughter 3 days prior to Christmas and celebrate the joyful birth of our son 2 days after Christmas. With our son, just like the birth of Jesus, there is a celebration of the future and a connection to the past because he carries forward the traditions of our family. With the birth of both of our children around the glorious day of the birth of Christ, the celebration of Christmas is very special to our family.

As the angels said to the sheppards in the field shortly after the birth of Jesus, “Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, good will towards men”. Let us remember these words as the time of Christmas draws near. Thank you Heavenly Father for the gifts that you have provided us in your son Jesus and for all of our children. Amen.

December 7

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 7

“Birthdays,” by Maddie Pritchett

Birthday are for presents.
Of this you can't deny.
But the one with Holy presence,
He knew He had to die.

He lived every day
Knowing He'd give his life,
But He went on anyway
Pushing through the strife.

On His birthday
The world was saved,
He gave you your life.
And for your ways
He did pay
Though it hurt like a knife.

And so today
Don't forget to pray
And thank Him for the way
He saved your soul
At such a toll
And gave you this day.

December 6

2011-12-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

December 6

“Experiencing Christ during such a busy time…” by Leslie Garcia

This is something that I find increasing harder each year. It feels like every year there is more and more to get done, more to buy, more places to go. It seems that it gets harder each year to just sit back and remember the true "reason for the season"…

As a family we have decided to make a few commitments that we will honor during December so that we do our part to remember the "reason for the season"….

Brian:

Makes a commitment to purchase a Christmas devotional for the family to read and participate in each day during the month of December.

Grace:

Makes a commitment that we will pray together as a family before bed each night in December.

Graham:

Makes a commitment to make a poster to hang in our home the month of December that says, "Jesus is the reason for the season" to remind us each day to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

Leslie;

I make a commitment to SLOW DOWN. Worry less about the cleanliness of the house, the things on my calendar, finding the perfect gift… and spend time with my family and friends celebrating the true reason we have this amazing season.

Ally:

Ally is going to read us a little something about Jesus each day that she is here with us.

Dear God, thank you for the giving us such an amazing season. Thank you for family and friends and our wonderful church. Please help us all to take a little bit of time each day to slow down and enjoy all the gifts you have given us.

Amen.

December 5

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December 5

“Wonderful Christmas News,” by Becky Proctor

Hospitals are open 365 days a year. People don’t choose when they get sick or injured. And they need care regardless of the date on the calendar. As an ICU nurse, I was always disappointed when I had to work on Christmas Day rather than be with my family.

One Christmas, I went in to work and was taking care of a woman with a severe head injury, who had been in the ICU in a coma for several weeks. Her husband was at home with their 5 children, trying to make Christmas as normal as possible without mom. At one point in the day, I went into the room and though she had had her eyes open before, now she was focusing on me. I went over to her side and said “hi!” After being unresponsive for weeks, it took my breath away. I was thrilled to be able to give her family the wonderful news on such a special day.

Though I was not able to spend the day with my family, I felt that I was where I needed to be. I felt the spirit of Christmas in the miracle that I experienced that day.

Dear God, help us to be mindful that you are present in all times and spaces in our lives. Open our eyes to those moments that take our breath away, and we know that you are among us. Amen.

December 4, 2nd Sunday of Advent

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December 4, 2^nd Sunday of Advent

“Christmas Day,” by Ed Ice

The table is set

The presents all bared

The joys of the children

With everyone shared

Loved ones all gathered

Tho some are away

For miles apart

On this Christmas Day

We keep in our mind

Of the happiness we sing

Of why we’ve all gathered

To honor the newborn King

Tho the children are joyful

We miss those not here

Sharing joy and love

And Christmas cheer

Jesus was born

For us to rejoice

The love in our hearts

Ring out from one family voice

Keep close to the heart

Our loved ones away

And remember why they call this

Christmas Day

December 3

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December 3

“Simeon,” by Rev. Corey Howard

Luke 2:25-35: “Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah…. The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too”

I really like Luke’s account of the birth of Jesus. He gives us so much backstory and pulls in relatives and strangers to give us a great picture of the birth of this Child. We get to see the parallels in the birth of John and Jesus, we see the extended family preparing for these children, we see Mary’s transition from fear to excitement.

And we see Simeon. He’s an interesting character. The story tells us he was a good guy, righteous and devout. He had been eagerly awaiting this child’s birth. And after all that waiting, he finally gets to see Jesus. Now, I imagine this would be a pretty joyous occasion. He is clued in that this child Jesus is going to be a big deal. The Messiah, even. He knows this. But what does he tell Mary? Reading over what he said, I think it is safe to say that Simeon maybe wasn’t the best guy for breaking the news. I’m guessing he wasn’t a spokesperson by trade. Instead of “oohing and ahhing” over the new baby like most people are prone to do, he gives Mary some unsettling news. He essentially says “Hey, um, Mary… your child is, well, he’s going to do some amazing things, but some people aren’t really going to like him and it’s going to end badly for you.” Um… thanks?

I wonder how Mary reacted. Scripture doesn’t tell us. When we think about the ordeal Mary had already endured up to that point- getting pregnant without being married (by God, no less), social stigma, trying to figure out if Joseph was going to leave her, dealing with divine visitors, etc., I wonder if she just let it slide, rolling with the punches. Given how crazy her life had recently become, it was probably just another day in the crazy life she was living. Maybe she was just so excited and focused on this new child that it didn’t bother her.

Maybe that’s how we should be. Despite the crazy circumstances we face, the busy-ness of our lives, the problems and troubles and hurdles, despite all those things, perhaps we need to remain focused on the Advent season and the celebration of this Christ child. Perhaps we need to bask in the excitement and celebration of the Messiah. Mary’s life was completely changed by this Child. May ours be as well.

“God, may we remain focused on the beauty and celebration of this Advent season and the coming of the Christ child. Help us to ignore potential distractions and focus on the wonder that you would dwell among us, our Immanuel.”

December 2

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December 2

“Christmas thoughts on Jesus and St. Nick” by Steve Metternich

St. Nick comes once per year...

Jesus is always present.

St. Nick requires you to stand in line to see.....

Jesus is waiting for the mention of His name.

St. Nick invites you to sit on his lap.....

Jesus embraces you in His arms.

St. Nick doesn't know your name and asks for it....

Jesus knows us before birth, current and future.

St. Nick has a belly like jelly......

Jesus is full of love.

St. Nick doesn't want you to 'cry'......

Jesus wants you to 'cast all your cares' on Him.

St. Nick's elves make the toys....

Jesus makes our lives new.

St. Nick offers a jolly 'Ho, ho, ho'.....

Jesus offers health, help and hope.

St. Nick may give you a chuckle.....

Jesus gives you joy that is your strength.

St. Nick gets around in a sleigh.....

Jesus rides on the wind and walks on water.

St. Nick comes down your chimney when he wants.....

Jesus enters your heart when invited.

St. Nick leaves your stockings filled with goodies....

Jesus supplies all needs.

St. Nick leaves gifts under the tree.....

Jesus is our gift.

St. Nick live at the North Pole......

JESUS IS EVERYWHERE!!!!

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him

should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16)

Lord Jesus, I want to know you personally. I open the door of my life to You and ask You to come in as

my Saviour. Bring peace to the world this Christmas and help me to be the kind of person You want

me to be. Amen

December 1

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December 1

“Christ is the Light of the World”

By Shirley Martin

Christ’s light means the world to me:

Joy to the world! The Lord is come;

Let earth receive her King;

Let every heart prepare Him room,

And heaven and nature sing.

This song was written in 1719 and later some parts and phrases were used in Handel’s, The Messiah, first performed in 1742. The song emphasizes the reverent joy that Christ’s birth brought to mankind. The entire Advent season is filled with rejoicing as we renew God’s great gift, His son Jesus Christ.

Christmas is a special time for me and my family. Every year we have a big family Christmas dinner and exchange grab bag gifts. We get pretty excited about the gifts but we share that excitement by talking and praying about God’s precious gift. Imagine being a shepherd in a quiet field and suddenly one night the sky is lit with angels and singing filled the air. An angel announced that a very precious gift had just come for them - baby Jesus. They left their sheep and went to Bethlehem to find Him. God sent Jesus to earth for the shepherds, for you, for me, and for everyone else. My family shares in the excitement about God’s precious gift every year. My world with God is constant in everything I do and I can describe God’s world to me in the last verse of the Christmas song Joy To The World.

He rules the world with truth and grace,

And makes the nations prove;

The glories of His righteousness,

And wonders of His love.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for Your continued grace. Help me fulfill Your plan for my life and give me a heart to hear Your voice.

November 30

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November 30

“His Birth and Our New Birth,” by Linda Everly

‘Behold the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,’ which is translated, ‘God with us.’ (Matthew 1:23)

“...that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God” (Luke 1:35). Jesus Christ was born into this world, not from it. He came into history from the outside. Jesus Christ is not the best human being the human race can boast of - He is a Being for whom the human race can take no credit at all. He is not man becoming God, but God Incarnate - God coming into human flesh from outside it. His life is the highest and holiest entering through the most humble of doors. Our Lord’s birth was an advent - the appearance of God in human form. (Oswald Chambers)

Just as our Lord came into human history from outside it, He must also come into each of us from outside. Have we allowed our personal human lives to become a “Bethlehem” for the Son of God? We cannot enter the realm of the kingdom of God unless we are born again from above by a birth totally unlike physical birth. “You must be born again” (John 3:7). At the time of this rebirth, we yield ourselves so completely to God that Christ is formed in us. He indwells us and begins His work through us.

This is what is made so profoundly possible for all of the human race by the redemption of man by Jesus Christ.

Let us remember our redemptive rebirth as we celebrate the birth of our Redeemer.

Almighty God, thank you for your Son. Thank you for our redemption. Thank you!

November 29

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November 29

“Seeking and Celebrating the Real Meaning of Christmas”, by Teresa Hewitt

It was mid October. Entering the grocery store, in search of Trunk or Treat items for the church, I was startled by several large displays near the checkouts and exits. There, nestled in between the bins of fresh Halloween treats, were stacks of boxed Christmas chocolates and stocking stuffers. The Christmas season had begun and October wasn't even over!

Sometimes it seems that the gap between Christmas and the rest of the year is getting shorter. This eagerness to get a jump on holiday cheer is purely practical from a retailer’s point of view. Stores typically make more than half of their yearly sales during these few short weeks. Shopping has become a pretty substantial part of the North American Christmas tradition.

Yet Christmas is and should be so much more than what we buy. Gifts are fun, both to give and receive, but they are only symbolic of a much greater gift:

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

The love of God came down to earth - now that is something to celebrate!

It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the busyness of Christmas. That doesn’t mean we have to lose track of the significance of this time of year, or miss out on the opportunities it can present.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to remember "the reason for the season", and to celebrate with every opportunity we are given. Amen.

November 28

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November 28

“New Life” by Kevin Ward

Our family will be celebrating the birth of my brother’s second child at some point this Advent season, which has caused me to reflect a little about the story of the Birth of Christ. In preparing for the new baby, there has been the preparation of a new nursery, preparing his older brother’s rooms, getting everything in the right place, and also for all the company that will drop in to welcome the new one. All of this causes me to think of Christ’s birth, and think about what it must have been like for Mary and Joseph.

They were traveling to Bethlehem for a census, where there was nowhere for them to stay. There was no nursery for the new baby and Joseph couldn’t just run to the corner convenience store for a package of Pampers. Joseph and Mary must have been overwhelmed. In fact, we have this picture of a perfect little stable in which Jesus gave birth; however, it would have been filthy and smelly – nothing like the hospitals we have today.

All of this had to happen so that Christ could endure a difficult life and be crucified. It doesn’t seem quite fair, but it is God’s gift to us – Christ’s birth, life and death. This season we celebrate the happiest moment and we continue to prepare with Christmas trees, baking, and buying M-cards for our loved ones; as we celebrate, we should also remember how great God’s love is, that he created this plan. This is not just one small moment, but part of a bigger picture.

As this season progresses, I pray that all my family – immediate, extended, church, work, and community – will know the peace and joy that this holiday brings. God has given us so much and we take it for granted. I look forward to holding my new niece or nephew in my arms just as Mary and Joseph looked forward to holding their new son.

Bible Verse: Luke 2: 1 – 7

Dear Lord,

Thank you for this great gift we are celebrating this holiday season. Help us to remember that it is all a part of your great plan for us. Watch over us and protect us as we do our own preparations for the birth of your son. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

November 27, First Sunday of Advent

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November 27, 1^st Sunday of Advent

“An Angel is a Messenger” by Pamela Crane

As we enter another Advent Season I am reminded of a memorable Christmas card we received a few years ago. This particular card came from a friend who had written a Christmas poem and enclosed a small handmade angel with it. I contacted her to tell her how much I appreciated the original poem and she deflected the favorable comments by responding, "It wasn't me, they were God's words." I cherish the image of this humble servant sitting down and letting the Spirit of God flow through her in writing the poem and crafting the tiny angel ornament. With her permission I am sharing her poem.

An angel is a messenger

Sent from Heaven above.

To bring God's word to all mankind,

His messages of love.

I'm just a tiny angel

My heart is very small.

But I bring a Christmas message,

The very best news of all.

God's own son was born in a stable,

His bed a manger of hay.

He came from Heaven with a mission

On that first blessed Christmas day.

So when the world's busyness

Leaves your heart hassled and worn,

Remember the babe in the manger

On that very first Christmas morn.

He came to the world for a reason.

From his mission he would not be moved.

The reason God sent Him from Heaven

Was to show you how much you are loved.

Orthanna K. Yager,2004

When you feel overwhelmed in the next few weeks reread the last two stanzas to help keep your focus on the "Christ" in Christmas.

Prayer: Glorious God, Thank you for sending your Son, Baby Jesus, to our dark and broken world. Help us to remember that You sent Him as a gift of your love. Prepare and enable us to reflect a portion this tremendous love to others throughout this Advent Season. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Welcome to the Advent Devotional 2011!

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Welcome to Memorial United Methodist Church’s Advent Devotional, 2011!

Life is a Constant Advent Season…

"Life is a constant Advent season: we are continually waiting to become, to discover, to complete, to fulfill. Hope, struggle, fear, expectation and fulfillment are all part of our Advent experience. The world is not as just, not as loving, not as whole as we know it can and should be. But the coming of Christ and his presence among us—as one of us—give us reason to live in hope: that light will shatter the darkness, that we can be liberated from our fears and prejudices, that we are never alone or abandoned.

"May this Advent season be a time for bringing hope, transformation and fulfillment into the Advent of our lives."

-From “Connections,” 11-28-93

On behalf of the Spiritual Formation committee, we invite you to take these poems, memories, and stories of Advent and use them to open the doors of your heart and mind to the wondrous Christmas season, and to the message of hope it brings. Take some time out from this busy time and share these stories with your family and friends, and above all, may you share the message of Jesus Christ with someone new this season. May this year’s Advent devotional bring you a renewed sense of love, hope, and peace that only God can bring.

Hallelujah! The Lord is come; let earth receive her King!!

Spiritual Formation Committee:

Rev. Jill Howard

Becky Proctor

Jim Waugh

Betty Porter

Carol Waltersdorf

Pam Crane

Advent Activities for Worship, Fellowship, and Celebration- Please Join Us!

Tuesdays, Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13, 20, 6:30-8:30 pm: “The Journey” Advent class with Rev. Johnson

Thursday, December 1, 10:00 am-12:00 pm: United Methodist Women’s Luncheon

Friday, December 2, 5:00-8:30 pm: Parents’ Night Out! (United Methodist Women will provide childcare for families- get your Christmas shopping done!)

Friday, December 2, 7:30 pm- Farrington Grove Chorale Christmas Concert at First Congregational Church

Sunday, December 11^th, Advent Sunday:

8:45 am- Sunday School and Crafts

10:00 am- Worship

11:15 am- Catered Meal

Thursday, December 15^th, 10:00 am: Memorial Preschool Christmas Program and Reception

Monday, December 19, 6:30 pm: Christmas College Dinner at Mogger’s Restaurant

Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship, Saturday, December 24

7:00 pm- Family Candlelight Service

11:00 pm- Traditional Candlelight Service

(Open Communion Served in the Chapel from 6:00 pm till Midnight)

Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25

10:00 am- Christmas Day Worship Service (One Service!)

New Year’s Day, Sunday, January 1

10:00 am- New Year’s Day Worship Service (One Service!)