St.

Johns Lutheran Church

1300 West Benjamin Avenue
Norfolk, NE 68701-2621

stjohnsnorfolk.com
facebook.com/stjohnsnorfolk
402-371-1985

Sunday, November 1, All Saints Day

Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through
them and give thanks to the Lord. This is the gate of the Lord; the
righteous shall enter through it. (Psalms 118; 19-20, NRSV)

We strive to live a life that takes us to heaven through prayer
and good works on this earth -- loving your neighbor as yourself.
Having faith is a struggle, but take these struggles and learn from
them. I think the devil is out there and he tempts us. Man should
never think he knows more than God because God knows all
things. He knows my struggles with life. The gates of
righteousness have been opened to me, and I will enter through
them, as Christ died on the cross for my sins. Through faith and
Gods love I will be granted a place in heaven and will be saved
and live with him eternally. By Sheryl Schweer
Monday, November 2
But those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they
shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be
weary, they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31, NRSV)
Many times in our long lives we have called upon the Lord
for strength to see us through difficult times and those prayers
were always answered. This passage means a lot to us because it
gives us hope and reassurance. By Dick & Barb Adams
Tuesday, November 3
The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for
those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.
(Matthew 4:16, NRSV)
My grandfather sent my father from his homeland, Germany,
so that he would not be inducted into the World War. My
grandfather had been forced to fight and didnt want that life for
his son. During the Vietnam War, I felt I needed to enlist as a
nurse into the Navy. My father was adamant that I not enlist and
instead work here in a hospital to help those in need. As my

grandfather protected my father and my father protected me -- our

heavenly father guides and protects us. He gave his only son
ensuring us of life over death and darkness so that we may live
with him. Only through his grace has he enabled his people
including me and you to have eternal life after death.

By Diana Uhlir
Wednesday, November 4
Come to me, all you who are weary and carrying heavy burdens,
and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from
me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for
your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Matthew
11:28-30, NRSV)
I think you have to let God take charge of your life for he
knows what he wants you to do. For example -- my father was not
a very good church goer, but my mother was. She played the
organ every Sunday in my hometown. When it came time for their
end, they both came to God in their sleep which was very
surprising in my life. I realize that there was a higher being and
that he had plans for everyone. I also was faced with a plan of my
life when I faced cancer and won the battle and am thankful for my
survival. So in closing, remember to let God handle the heavy
burdens and live your life to the fullest.
Thursday, November 5
And again Jesus said, To what should I compare the kingdom of
God? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed with three
measures of flour until all of it was leavened. (Luke 13:20-21,
NRSV)
When I was little, I remember my grandma and my mom
baking every Saturday. I was amazed the first time after adding
the yeast to the basic dough how it would grow and even go over
the side of the bowl. They made rolls and kolaches that were so

good and made so many of them to feed many and everyone

wanted more. The yeast works its way throughout the dough.
Gods Kingdom in comparison to yeast to me is through the
Holy Spirit tugging at us to want more. So we feed ourselves and
others by worship, praying, reading Gods word and fellowship.
Spreading Gods word by expanding, growing, multiplying
serving, reaching others. For this transformation through the
Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, I thank you. By Peg Strong
Friday, November 6
Oh the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable are his judgments and inscrutable his ways!
(Romans 11:33, NRSV)
When Paul wrote this verse the church had reached to Rome,
and was beginning to become more Gentile than Jewish. As a part
of his thoughts Paul tried to show how the covenants of the
Hebrew People and the People of Christ were one and the same.
And that the vision of God was one to create union and unity
between these two groups, rather than separation or enmity. God
was seeking to make these two groups one, and to create an even
greater family of faith.
How often I have thought about this verse in light of not
knowing the plans of God. Of thinking that God might do things I
would question. Of trying to open our eyes to new places for
growth and insight, places where the depth and wisdom of God had
already gone, but the church was lagging behind. And how often I
have had to be brought to a place of insight through prayer, and an
understanding that was from Gods grace rather than any earthly
insight.
As we seek to touch tomorrow together, where might we
sense the grace of God working beyond us as much as with us?
Where might we question the movement of the Holy Spirit, when
God is doing something new? And how will be become humble

enough to bow to the depth of Gods power and desires, without

judgment? When we do this, God is able to use us for good
purpose, and to embrace the world with promise, grace and love.
In faith, in hope, in love God continues to move among us;
and when we realize this truth, we fall on our knees and erupt in
praise. For Gods desire is one always of salvation and grace,
including those whom we never before imagined, so that all might
know the Dominion of Grace. For God always desires mercy and
forgiveness. By Anthony Layton
Saturday, November 7
Without any doubt, the mystery of our religion is great: He was
revealed in the flesh, vindicated in spirit, seen by angels,
proclaimed among Gentiles, believed in through the world, taken
up in glory. (1 Timothy 3:16, NRSV)
This great statement of 1st Timothy reminds us that our faith
is centered not in ourselves, but in what Christ has done for us.
Our faith sees the great mystery of Jesus as one who found in
flesh worked to show the world God. God vindicated Jesus by
sending the spirit of God to create life and health, wholeness and
grace in Jesus life, death and resurrection. The angels were able to
see the power of God within Christ, and ministered to Jesus in the
temptation, in his time of passion, at his death and especially at the
resurrection. We proclaim the Jesus Christ crucified as the center
of who we are as the church, and the reason we exist as Gods
people.
The great mystery of the faith is that God does this for us.
The for us of God, however, is not simply for whom we know, or
our congregation alone. The for us of God is not simply for those
we love, and for those we recognize as Christians. The for us of
God is for the sake of the world, the sake of those we live among
daily, the sake of those who have not yet seen. This is where the
message of Gods great depth and mystery is given for us to share,

and to embody. This is where we show others Christ as we become

Christ for them. This mystery of God is something that encourages
us to stand with good courage, knowing that God in Christ is with
us-every day, every moment, and in every place and time.

By Anthony Layton
Sunday, November 8
Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever
is true, whatever I honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure,
whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is
anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians
4:9, NRSV)
We will continue to learn from and improve our efforts to
follow Gods examples by parenting our children, relating to and
caring about others, and worshipping our God. We will do this
with passion and enthusiasm, which will ultimately bring us Gods
peace.
God, help us to experience peace through your will. Amen.

By Tom & Jill Barr
Monday, November 9
For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the
members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with
Christ. For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one bodyJews or Greeks, slaves or free-and we were all made to drink of
one Spirit. (I Corinthians 12:12-13, NRSV)
The human body has many parts, each performing its own
function. All parts work together and are necessary for the whole
bodily system to work smoothly.
The church is the body of Christ with many parts (members),
each with gifts bestowed by the Holy Spirit, all being useful and
valuable in their own way, uniting the church harmoniously.

Through our baptism we are all united in one body no

matter our race, rich or poor no distinction is made. Each
member of the church, regardless of his position or gifts, is
connected and influenced by one Spirit, the Holy Ghost. This is
one of the happy lessons of Christianity.

Gracious God let us remember we are all created equally
and are all an important member of the body of Christ. May we
use our spiritual gifts for the good of the church. We ask this in
your name. Amen. By Karen Widhalm
Tuesday, November 10
But the Lord said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for power
is made perfect in weakness. So I will boast all the more gladly of
my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships,
persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I
am weak, then I am strong. (II Corinthians 12:9-10, NRSV)
There are times that I realize my weaknesses. Sometimes
they are the same places where in my pride I consider myself
strong. Intellect. Skill with words. Speaking a word that is
somehow valued. But I am reminded that without Gods power I
would not have these gifts, let alone any other strength. As a
human being I am completely dependent upon Gods grace and
favor.
I realize that the grace of God has been with me each and
every day in my life. For God is able to come in those places
where I feel strong, and those places I know that I am weak, and to
redeem them. God is able to carry me through places where there
are issues I face in interacting with others, and to create
opportunities for grace and compassion. For when I come to times
where I think I am able to stand on my own, I am in more need of
the gifts and presence of God than when I am aware of God
guiding and directing me. So, in some ways, God works both in

my strengths and my weaknesses to teach me grace. And Gods

grace is more than sufficient. It supersedes my arrogance and
pride, and supports me in times of uncertainty and loss. And it is in
this mix of life giving power and strength that I am able to
continue in life and ministry, living in hope.
Gods power, you see, is not simply for our times of feeling
successful or strong. It is perhaps more profoundly known in our
sorrows, uncertainties, and times of uncertainty. That is why God
comes not so much in triumph, but in the cross. It is in the cross of
Christ where we see God, for God comes to us in our most dire
need, and gives us strength to move on and be transformed.

By Pastor David
Wednesday, November 11
May I never boast of anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus
Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the
world. For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is anything;
but a new creation is everything! As for those who will follow this
rule-peace be upon them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.
(Galatians 6:14-16, NRSV)
As I considered this passage, I thought of the hymn Be Thou
My Vision (ELW 793). I know that the new creation of God is
something that is my vision, and my peace. And being seen by God
as Gods own child gives me hope, and my soul light. I realize that
God is my shelter, my high tower, and my wisdom. And through
the cross of Jesus I am able to see more clearly the love of God.
Light of my soul, after victory won,

May I reach heavens joys, O heavens Son!

Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,

Still be my vision, O ruler of all. (ELW 793, verse 4)

By Frieda Brown

Thursday, November 12
Gamaliel saidKeep away from these men and let them alone;
because if this plan or this undertaking is of human origin, it will
fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them-in
that case you may even be found fighting against God! They were
convinced by him. (Acts 5:38-39, NRSV)

This word of Gamaliel comes from that time when the elders
were deciding what to do with the disciples. Let them alone,
Gamaliel counseled. He was afraid that in acting against the
disciples they might actually be working against God. At times
when I am wondering about the plans and wisdom of God I am
reminded to not be so convinced of my wisdom or ideas lest they
be nothing but dust and ashes in the presence of Gods good
purpose. When things are happening for good I am reminded to not
stand in the way of God, but to let good flourish. When someone is
discerning whether or not the will of God is directing their way, I
attempt to be cautious, knowing that Gods ways are not my ways.
At times it is important to consider more than simply my
opinion. Sometimes there are multiple good answers. And these
answers may come from others. Who am I to know that God may
be doing a new thing through my sister, my brother in Christ- and
that I by acting contrary to them might be fighting against God? I
find that it is more important to rest and know the grace of God
that be quick to judgment of others. Time will tell the proof of it
all, Gamaliel advises. Allow God the grace and time to work, and
eventually it will be seen if the action is of humans or God. And
then, if the action is of God, we should support the movement of
God in the church and world. By Pastor David
Friday, November 13
If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the
Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you
forever. This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive,

because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because
he abides with you, and he will be in you. (John 14:15-17, NRSV)
When we are created, we are given the gift of free will -- we
can choose to love or not to love. When we choose to love God,
we need to keep his commandments. In so doing, we receive the
gift of the Holy Spirit, which is within us.
God is with us wherever we are -- he is our constant
companion. With the holidays fast approaching, let us be sure to
take some quiet time every day to enjoy His Presence and Peace.
Lord -- help me to worship you in spirit and in truth.
By Mary Lynn Benson
Saturday, November 14
This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have
loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down ones life
for ones friends. You are my friends if you do what I command
you. (John 15:12-14, NRSV)
Gods love is precious and should not be taken lightly. But
how do I understand the kind of love that Jesus asks of his
disciples? Anyone that has been in the armed services would
know, but how would I know? I have been blessed with the gift of
my children. I know that I would have and still would do anything
to protect them. I have a husband that is my other half, enough
said. That is as close as I can come. So, I am going to concentrate
on Love one another as I have loved you.

First, I need to look at myself as if I were seeing me through
the eyes and heart of our Lord. I must see and feel that special
person that God has created within me and embrace her with love.
I can only do that if I see me through our Lords eyes and heart.
How will I know how to really love others and accept their love if I
cannot start with me? If I can accept me with Gods love, then I
am open to sharing and accepting back that same love within you.
Where do I start? With me, family, friends, church, hoping to be
able to expand out. Can I love if I dont agree with you? Hey, we

can love and still agree to disagree. God loves us and we can
honestly think that He agrees with all of our choices? I must
always remember to use Gods eyes and heart as I walk alone or
with you.

How hard is it to spread Gods word of love to the world?
Starting with you and reaching out to those closest to you and
expanding as God allows. Support those family, friends, and those
within our church and city, etc., that are trying to get the word of
Gods love out to others. Pray and hold onto our Lords hand and
open your eyes and heart. Jesus died alone, but He gave us the gift
of Himself, family (home and church), and friends. We are not
alone and that is a big Hallelujah.

Dear Lord, help me to remember to look at others and
myself with love. The same love you bestow upon us. Evil and
darkness surrounds our world. You alone give life, love, and
light. Your light of love is meant to be shared, it is full and free
flowing. I cannot keep it to myself without smothering it. I must
share it. Thank you Lord for your love, a love that reaches out,
supports, accepts, and is alive. Thank you for your light of love
in the dark times. In Jesus name, Amen. By Connie Hagstrom
Sunday, November 15
I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the
world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered
the world! (John 16:33, NRSV)
Jesus was speaking to the disciples just prior to his going to
the cross. He had taught them many lessons in the upper room: be
servants; love one another; abide in God. But in this word Jesus is
attempting to comfort the disciples as to how the world would treat
them, and how the world would provide times of persecution and
disruption as they preached the good news.
The final enemy that inhabits our world is death. Death is the
great equalizer of the powerful and the weak, the rich and the poor.

Yet Jesus himself comes to change the course of the world. Jesus
comes to conquer death, and all other powers that might harm us.
Be of good courage-I have conquered the world Jesus tells
his disciples. Be of good courage? Yes, Jesus says. The powers of
sin, death and the devil have been conquered. The brokenness of
the world has been conquered. The rebellion of humanity has been
faced, and the one who has come to save our souls is present.
There is nothing that the world can throw at us which will defeat
the Word given through Jesus. Nothing in heaven, or on earth, or
under the earth, death, life, angels, rulers, nor things present, nor
things to come will anything else in all creation will be able to
separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Be of
good cheer, Jesus says. I have conquered the world.

By Pastor David
Monday, November 16
Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man
who fell into the hands of the robbers?" He said, "The one who
showed him mercy." Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise." (Luke
10:36-37, NRSV)
This is an excerpt from the parable known as the Good
Samaritan. A lawyer is testing Jesus and asks what he can do to
inherit eternal life. The law says love your neighbor as yourself.
Who is my neighbor? (Luke 10:29). The neighbor was the one
who took compassion on the man that was left half dead. The
neighbor was not the other two men that moved farther away from
the man who was attacked by the bandits. In some translations, the
word neighbor is more like a fellow man. I like to think of it as a
kindred spirit.
Jesus in a way is talking indirectly about himself. Out of
compassion he healed the sick even when he felt like withdrawing
(Matthew 14:14) What is this compassion? Do we resist the
feeling to help someone out of fear? Out of busy-ness? If you feel
moved to help someone in dire straits, you have compassion. You

dont put yourself in the other persons shoes; you reach out and
lend a helping hand while you stay in your own shows. Its not
about giving handouts. Its not enabling or making them depend
upon you either. Its about giving respect: human kindness and
decency.
Tuesday, November 17
Jesus was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished,
one of his disciples said to him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John
taught his disciples. He said to them, When you pray, say:
Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each
day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves
forgive everyone indebted to us. And do not bring us to the time of
trial. (Luke 11:1-4, NRSV)
Jesus was asked to teach his disciples to pray, and so we have
the Lords Prayer, which gives all of us direction. he did not say
that they were not holy enough to speak to god, but gave them a
way to do it. I am going to try to break it down and probably
stutter a little bit along the way. Most of you know, so this is just a
little bit of a reminder:

1. Father = loving head of the universe, not a stranger.
2. Hallowed = very honored, respected.
3. Your Kingdom Come = one day Satan will be banished by
our Lord. YEAH & AMEN. As you can see #s 1-3 we are
acknowledging God and His power.
4. Give us daily bread = food for the body and food for the
soul. I will be alive in both because of God. God alone gives life,
Satan gives death.
5a. Forgive our sins = (we all sin). This is great, God
forgives you and me and forgets. 5b. For we forgive everyone
indebted to us -- Uh oh. Here is where I stub my toe and wrap my
tongue around my teeth. Of course I want to be forgiven and given
a clean slate, but do I want to forgive what was done to me? God,
do you realize how much it hurt me and made be very angry? Why

do both my head and stomach hurt constantly thinking about it?

The doctor said that I have the beginning of an ulcer. It looks like I
need to remember that the person that hurt me really does not care
if I forgive them or not. But God does. How can I expect
forgiveness if I am not willing to give it. I need the Holy Spirit to
teach me how to let go, let God. God is not only willing, but
really wants to be there to share with us ALL things good or bad.
Do I want peace within my mind and soul, or do I want a headache
or an ulcer?
6. Do not bring us to the Time of trial = Each day I sin.
Each day I need the Holy Spirit to direct my path, and remind me
that what looks okay may not be Gods path. I always need to
keep the communication line open between God and me, (He never
hangs up). Only then can my desires and Gods desires not be in
conflict.

A dear friend when asked to pray started her prayer with Of
course, I want to talk with you, God. I want to always be able to
say the same.
Dear Lord, thank you for always being there 24/7. Thank
you for hearing our prayers no matter where we are saying them,
in the car or on our knees. Thank you for all of the blessings
you surround and support us with daily. Thank you for the
power of prayer and prayer support as others lift us up to you. In
Jesus name, Amen. By Connie Hagstrom
Wednesday, November 18
Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Fathers good pleasure
to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give alms.
Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing
treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth
destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
(Luke 12:32-34, NRSV)

Most of us do not see ourselves as sheep, let alone the little

flock of God. Such a vision is unappealing. We prefer to be a
people of strength. To then be told that those things we have
acquired possessions- should be sold that me might give others
alms is disturbing. It implies that the things we have been being
busy with are less important than the treasure we have in heaven.
But that is what we are being told, to hold on to an unfailing
treasure in heaven. Heavenly treasures are more secure. And it is
the Fathers good pleasure to give us the kingdom, not to buy it
with our earthly bank accounts.

It is all about trusting God for our sustenance and needs to be
met. Most times we are focused on the anxiety of poverty, or the
lack of what makes the world go around-money. And our hearts
become closed. Our wills become frozen. Our desire to be
connected to God is short circuited by our lack of trust. Our lack of
trust in God.
Where might our priorities be changed, to realize that God
has met our needs, and gives to us the kingdom? How might we
find places of realizing trust in God, so that what we have and all
that we are- are seen as a gift from God? When will we be able to
let go of our fears in the face of trusting in God? God tells us thishave no fear, little flock, for it is your Fathers good pleasure to
give you the kingdom. Trust God, seek to obey the commandment
to love, knowing Christ is with you. And live in the yes, the good
promise of God. By Pastor David.
Little did I know when I picked up the devotional from Luke
12 that there were such a buffet of topics to choose from. In
summary, verses 32-34 cover the following: dont be afraid, yours
is the kingdom, give to the poor. However, it was just two words
out of those verses that prompted me to choose this devotional,
little flock.

It is those two words that take me back about 25 years ago.

My mother had been admitted to the hospital for pneumonia and
while being treated for that, the Dr.s discovered a tumor on her
heart, otherwise known as an atrium mixoma. We learned that to
have a tumor on your heart was not only very rare, but, also very
serious. Once they discovered the tumor, her surgery was
scheduled as the first case on a Monday morning. Staying with a
cousin at the time, I went to church on that Sunday with my
cousin. As I sat at Pacific Hills Lutheran Church for the first time,
I was distracted and my mind wandered throughout the service
with concern and worry for my mother. I prayed and asked God to
show me a sign that my mom was going to live through this and
recover from her surgery. In my distraction, I pulled out the
hymnal and thought if I could just find the hymn, Have No Fear
Little Flock and read those words, it would be a good prayer of
hope to ease my worry. Looking through the hymn book I kept
asking myself, is it #510 or 500 or 499 or 507? I thumbed through
those pages and could not find it, so I let it go. Well, the service
continued and the Pastor was giving his final announcements,
followed by the benediction and then he said, Lets all stand now
to sing our closing hymn, #502, Have No Fear Little Flock. I was
amazed and my sign had been delivered. I had prayed for a sign,
asking the Lord to give me some nudge or indication that
everything my mom was going through, well, she was going to
pull through. He delivered a sign of hope to me right then and
there, Have no fear, little flock. Tears of relief and thanksgiving
rolled down my face as I turned to # 502 and tried to sing along in
the final hymn. It was from that moment I knew the Lord was with
us and was especially with my mom, the Dr.s and the nurses who
were taking care of her. My mom did make it through the surgery
and I always remember the words of this prayer, or Hymn #502,
Have No Fear Little Flock.

Have no fear little flock, have no fear, little flock,

For the Father has chosen to give you the Kingdom.
Have no fear, little flock!
Have good cheer, little flock, have good cheer, little flock,
For the Father will keep you in His love forever.
Have good cheer, little flock!
Praise the Lord high above, praise the Lord high above,
For He stoops down to heal you, uplift and restore you.
Praise the Lord high above!
Thankful hearts raise to God, thankful hearts, raise to God,
For He stays close beside you, in all things works with you.
Thankful hearts raise to God!
Dear Lord, we thank you for allowing us to touch and see your
presence through the signs you show us in an answered prayer.
Those answers gives us a glimpse of your Glory and the
possibilities of all you have planned for our lives. With You,
there is no fear, little flock. We praise and adore you. Amen.
By Beth Bonderson
Thursday, November 19
But when Jesus heard this, he said, Those who are well have no
need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this
means, I desire mercy, not sacrifice. For I have come to call not
the righteous but the sinners. (Matthew 9:12-13, NRSV)

As a child growing up, I remember wanting to belong, to
fit in somewhere. We tend to be in certain groups based on our
circumstances. During my high school years, the groups I noticed
were the jocks, the bandies, the farmers, the brainiacs, etc; and as I
grew older the groups became the rich, the poor, the criminals, the
homeless, etc. Many of us strive to be in the good group
(whatever that might be) and we think differently or less of those

who are not in our group. In Jesus time it was the Pharisees who
thought they were better than, or superior to others.

Jesus tells us that as His followers, His disciples, we are to
seek out those who are different from us (whoever that may be) to
show them mercy through the love of Christ that lives in us. In
Christs family, we all belong; no one is excluded. Those who
believe they are already good enough, who are already in with
the Lord, have missed the point. As a child of God, we must be
willing to admit that we are all sinners and not one is greater than
the other. We should earnestly and willingly seek out others to
share the good news of the Gospel with and invite them into the
group-the body of Christ-because there are no exclusions in
Christs love.

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your son, Jesus, to
this lost and hurting world to save us all. Help us remember,
Lord, that we are all sinners in need of a savior and that there is
not one who is excluded from your love. Help us to show your
love to others by reaching out to all people, including those who
are different from us. We pray that others will see You through
our words and our actions. That they would come to know You
and receive the gift of salvation that is offered to all by Your
grace through faith in You. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

With joy and thanks to our Lord, Tracy Meister
Friday, November 20
Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me
welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet in
the name of the prophet will receive a prophets reward; and
whoever welcomes a righteous person in the name of a righteous
person will receive the reward of the righteous; and whoever gives
even a cup of cold water to one of these ones in the name of a
disciple-truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward.
(Matthew 10:40-42, NRSV)

Chapter 10 of Matthew is Jesus counsel and exhortation to

his disciples to go and spread the Gospel, but expect not all to go
well. Tough times lie ahead but for all who receive them, they will
be blessed.

I have read accounts of missionaries, some from our church
body, that spent years, even a lifetime evangelizing a disinterest or
even hostile people. There were years of work, yet the converts
were few. These stories have often been disheartening to me. I
wondered how these missionaries carried on. This chapter of
Matthew tells me God has a different scorecard. We are not called
to convert hundreds or to secure x number of church joiners.
Rather we are to focus on sharing the amazing story of Gods love
to us. Our blessing is unrelated to the numbers but is our
connection to Jesus Christ. Our blessing is the same blessing given
those who listen, watch and believe.

Father in heaven. Thank you for being with us today as we
encounter the world. The opportunities are endless to be a light
in an often otherwise dark world. Help us radiate the peace and
love that comes from your son Jesus Christ. Take the I gotta do
this and the I gotta accomplish this from us and instead may
we lean on you. In his name we pray every day. Amen.
Saturday, November 21
Jesus answered them, Go and tell John what you hear and see:
the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed,
the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news
brought to them. And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at
me. (Matthew 11:4-6, NRSV)
Coincidence? Miracle? Whatever you want to call it, Jesus
is at work in our world yet today. I was given this Bible verse off
the top of the stack, not knowing what the verse was. I told Tracy
that I would do my best: the next day my devotional verses in
the Portals of Prayer just happened to be Matthew 11:1-6.
Affirmation!

John was in prison when Jesus was teaching and preaching in

the town of Galilee. John was concerned if Jesus was the one to
come or should they expect someone else? So, John sent his
disciples to ask Jesus about this. Jesus replied to them the above
Bible verse.
You need not look for another. You have your faith through
hearing and reading Gods word, but isnt it pretty awesome when
Jesus makes his love for you known by the miracles in your life?
Receive the blessings of Jesus through the Holy Spirit. Amen.
By Shirley Frowick
Sunday, November 22, Christ the King Sunday
Lift up your heads, O gates! And be lifted up, O ancient doors! that
the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory? The
Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory! (Psalms 24:9-10, NRSV)
The children of Israel were in procession, ready to enter the
gates of the Temple. They came with their offerings, their hymns
of praise, and their desire to worship God. They also came with the
Ark of the Covenant, which carried the 10 Commandments of
Stone, and was a sign of the presence of the God of Israel.

But as they walked to the gates of the Temple, they realized
that they could not enter the holy place alone. They needed the
power and grace of God. They needed the protection of God as
they came upon the Holy. They needed to trust that God would let
them enter, and to give them wholeness.
So they sang aloud a reminder of who was holy, who was the
King of Glory. They pray for God to let them approach the temple,
to enter the gates with thanksgiving rather than lament. They come
with a sense of hope that the God who has saved them and set them
free would open the gates, so that they could enter with him.
We enter the holy place as we come to hear scripture, to be
washed in the waters of baptism, and to be fed with the bread of
heaven and the cup of salvation. We come as sinners, who cannot

enter on our own powers. We come as saints, those who because of

Christ are given invitation to come and know the goodness of God.
As those who are simultaneously sinners and saints, we come
acknowledging the King of Glory, for this one has saved us from
our sins. To Christ be the glory, forever and ever.
By Anthony Layton
Christ the King Sunday was established by Pope Pius XI in
1925, and adopted by Lutherans as well as other Christian
churches as part of "The Church Year.
This was a time in world history when secularism was on the
rise. Statist regimes throughout Europe were putting pressure on
the church, particularly the Catholic Church, to conform to
government dictates.
Sound familiar? Pope Pius XI started "The Feast of Christ the
King" to send a message to the socialists democracies, and
dictatorships in Europe, that as a Christian, Christ is our King!
Whether it's "socialized medicine," the "climate change
agenda," "social justice agenda" or the "definition of marriage,"
today, 90 years later, we still see the church under pressure to
conform to dictates of an "all knowing, all seeing, all being"
central government.
Presently there is just as much distrust of authority as there
was in the early 20th century, if anything it has gotten worse.
Individualism has been embraced to such a degree, and spurred by
social media, that many see themselves as the only authority in
their lives. The individual is the center of the universe, not Christ.
Pius hoped to accomplish these things through the Feast of
Christ the King...
1. That nations would see that the Church has the right to
freedom, and immunity from the state.
2. That leaders and nations would see that they are bound to
give respect to Christ.

3. That the faithful would gain strength and courage from the
celebration of the feast, as we are reminded that Christ must reign
in our hearts, minds, wills, and bodies.
Dear Lord, on Christ the King Sunday help remind us that
you sent your Son to save the world, not condemn it. That Christ
is a King that came to serve the world, not to be served. Let Christ
reign in our hearts, and minds. Amen. By Kevin Bonderson

His love. How can we not give Him thanks and praise from our
first waking moment of each new day until the last breath we take
before drifting off to sleep at night.

Heavenly Father, may we never stop praising you! You
Lord, are the Holy One. You are the Most High. You are our
Father, our Savior, and our friend. You are worthy Lord, You are
worthy! Amen. By Tracy Meister

Monday, November 23
It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name,
O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and
your faithfulness by night. (Psalms 92:1-2, NRSV)

Have you ever had something happen in your life that made
you stop and think, Wow! This is just too good to be true. Its a
miracle! Maybe you won the lottery! Maybe you were able to
conceive and bear a child when all the Doctors and specialists told
you it was impossible. Maybe you were cancer free and no Doctor
could explain how all the scans were suddenly clear of any tumors.
Maybe you ended up with a dream job and arent exactly sure how
you managed to get it. Perhaps your life was spared after an
accident that should have been impossible to walk away from
unharmedbut you did.

These things would all probably be a once in a lifetime event,
but consider all that we are, all that we have, all weve been given
on a daily basis from the time we are born through all of eternity as
a child of God. How can we not stand in awe of Himthe Great I
Am? After all, we are talking about the Creator of the Universe,
the King of all Kings! He is The Alpha and The Omega, the
beginning and the end. The Wonderful Counsellor, the Mighty
God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. The Lord, our
God, knows us each by name; knew us even before we were born,
and knows every hair on our head. He has promised to never leave
us and His promises are good! This is a God who loves us with an
unconditional love so powerful that nothing can separate us from

Tuesday, November 24
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy
name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits.
(Psalms 103:1-2, NRSV)
Our Heavenly Father blesses us daily with so many
wonderful gifts! Often we get caught up in lifes material things
and think this is the only way to be satisfied or find happiness. We
should take time each day to give thanks for those gifts we take for
granted. Enjoy the beauty of nature, the sound of a loved ones
voice, and the ability to use our hands and feet to assist others.
Praise God for our health, home, family and food. Taking a
moment to embrace these gifts would teach us true joy. Thank
God for the love He shows us each and every day. By Cathy Erwin
Wednesday, November 25
Ho, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you that have no
money, come, buy and eat! Come buy wine and milk without money
and without price. (Isaiah 55:1, NRSV)
Have you ever had a craving for a certain food? You know
what I mean, a strawberry covered in chocolate, a piece of
pumpkin pie with whipped cream, movie buttered popcorn, your
Grandmas homemade cinnamon roll? Ever noticed that when you
get one of those cravings, the item that you really want is often not
available to you, nor can you run to the store quick to pick it up?
Even if you did happen to have that very thing you were craving

and you ate it, it would only satisfy you for a short time and then
you would be hungry again.

Jesus tells us that our bodies, even though we may not
recognize it, need spiritual food as well. We need the nourishment
that only He can provide. Want to know the best part? We can
have that spiritual nourishment anytime, and it doesnt cost us one
single penny! Better still, we dont have to go anywhere to get it!
No quick trip to the store, no walk to a neighbor to borrow an
ingredient, no waiting til we get to Grandmas It is free for
everyone just for the asking! The simple truth is all we need to do
is come. Just come. Come to Him with a heart ready to be filled
with His love and ears ready to listen to His word. Come eagerly
and often to a God who meets us right where we are. He waits
patiently for us to turn to Him, be with Him, and spend time with
Him. WOW! What a wonderful gift! Nourishment for our hungry
soul anytime, anywhere, and its all FREE!

Heavenly Father, thank You for the nourishment You
provide to our spiritual souls whenever we need it. Help us to
come to You often and eagerly with hungry and thirsty souls,
ready and willing to hear Your word, let it feed our souls, and
share it with all people. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

With gratitude in Him, Tracy Meister
Thursday, November 26, National Day of Thanksgiving
When you have eaten your fill and have built fine houses and live
in them, and when your herds and flocks have multiplied, and your
silver and gold is multiplied, and all that you have is multiplied,
then do not exalt yourself, forgetting the Lord your God, who
brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.
(Deuteronomy 8:12-14, NRSV)
Why do we have a National Day of Thanksgiving? That is the
question that I mull over regarding this day. What reason do we

come to give thanks? Why do we as a people take a day out of the

year to stop and be thankful?

It appears that humanity has long needed reminders to give
thanks. The Israelites, ready to move into the Promised Land,
might forget that they had started in slavery in the land of Egypt.
They are reminded to not forget who brought them into the land of
milk and honey. They are reminded that the abundance they
experience is not something that they have acquired on their own,
but a gift from God. They are reminded to not forget the Lord, the
God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. They are reminded to stop,
think, remember, and give thanks.

We have a National Day of Thanksgiving to remember that
we experience a land of bounty not because of our goodness, or
our work and toil, but by the gracious hand of God. We remember
that our God has given us opportunity that is not to be used for
ourselves, but for the sake of others. We remember that God is still
present, still speaking, and still moving within our world. We
remember, and then to also remember that without God we would
have and be nothing. God is the focus of our praise, and the center
of our thanksgiving.

So take time today to give thanks. For the Lord is good, and
his mercy is everlasting. And his faithfulness endures forever.

By Pastor David
Friday, November 27
But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he
who formed you, O Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I
have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the
waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not
overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be
burned, and the flame shall not consume you. (Isaiah 43:1-2,
NRSV)

The people of Israel had come to live in Babylon. They had
forgotten the Lord and God of Israel. They lost their land, their

temple, and their king. They lost their freedom. They were
marched through the walls and gates of Jerusalem as they were on
fire from the destruction of the Babylon army. They were once
again a group of slaves, much like they had been in the lands of
Egypt. They traveled through the desert, and crossed the Euphrates
and Tigress Rivers. They were miles away from home, working for
others, lost from the lands of their fathers and mothers.
But in the midst of their exile the Lord appointed a prophet who
spoke a word of hope. The God of Israel would no longer be angry,
but would again remember the Israelites. The God of Israel would
remember his words of promise, and call the people once again to
return home.

And just as the people went through the desert to come to
Babylon, God would return them home. Through the desert.
Through the waters. Through fire and tempest. Through times of
long, long miles walked in the wilderness. God would name them
again as Gods own people. They would be blessed to be a blessing
to the world.

In the midst of your life, remember those times God brought
you from a time of chastisement and pain to a place of freedom
and hope. In the midst of your life, remember that all you have and
all you are, and all you ever will be is held in the hands of a God
who has called you by name. You are Gods own children. You are
Gods own redeemed ones. You are the ones whom God loves in
such a way as to give you a name, a promise, and the hope of life.

By Pastor David

In the grace and comfort that we as believers have in Christ
we can look forward to a new heaven and new earth that God will
create. God will place his people there and we will be blessed with
all that is needed for undisturbed and unending happiness.

The past sins and failings of our sinful nature will not be
remembered. There will be no sorrow, weeping or crying in this
new place. There will only be the joy of being with our Heavenly
Father forever.

Father in Heaven: Even though we are not worthy, your
love is so great for us that you are preparing a place for us that is
beyond our comprehension. Thank you for your never ending
love. Amen. By Mike Widhalm

Saturday, November 28
For I am about to create a new heavens and a new earth; the
former things shall not be remembered or come to mind. But be
glad and rejoice forever in what I am creating; for I am about to
create Jerusalem as a joy, and its people a delight. (Isaiah
65:17-19, NRSV)

Monday, November 30, St. Andrews Day

One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was
Andrew, Simon Peters brother. He first found his brother Simon
and said to him,We have found the Messiah(which is translated
Anointed/Christ). (John 1:40-41, NRSV)

Andrew led his brother, Simon Peter, to meet Jesus. Andrew
was a fisherman, a common person. He did not have great training,

Sunday, November 29, 1st Sunday of Advent

Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to
Jerusalem, and cry to her that she has served her term, that her
penalty is paid, that she has received from the LORD's hand
double for all her sins. (Isaiah 40:1-2, NRSV)

Reading Isaiah 40 conveys a powerful message of peace to
all of Gods children. Reading the first word COMFORT causes
us to feel Gods compassionate heart. God longs to bless us at all
times, longs to help us through our many everyday trials of life.
God has a plan for all of his children; he is at our side in every
problem we face even when we sin and fall down, he remains with
us and ready to forgive, He will give us the Comfort and Mercy
we need. STIR US UP, COME, LORD JESUS, COME.

or skill. He simply had the faith to recognize the Messiah, and to

tell others that simple truth.

I stand in awe of Andrew. His witness is clear, to the point,
and honest. It is a word of love given to another whom he loves.
And he doesnt simply tell Simon Peter about Jesus. He takes him
to Jesus. Or, in other words, he takes Simon Peter to where Jesus
lives and is present.

The witness for us shown by Andrew is a simple one- but one
also simply done. Who might you bring to church with you in this
coming Advent and Christmas season? And in what ways will you
tell others that simple truth that gives you life? By Anthony Layton
Tuesday, December 1
For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for
salvation to everyone who has faith, to the Jew first and also to the
Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith
for faith; as it is written, The one who is righteous will live by
faith. (Romans 1:16-17, NRSV)

As I read through the verse several times, it comes to me that
the gospel is SALVATION for everyone who has faith in Jesus
Christ. We all need to live by faith that Jesus Christ is our
Salvation, that it isnt enough just for the clergy to have faith or the
highly exalted. That the gospel wasnt just meant for the Jews, but
for all of Gods people wherever they might be (GREEKS mean all
of US!) So for true salvation, just be RIGHTEOUS, LIVE BY
FAITH.
Wednesday, December 2
Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God
through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained
access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope
of sharing the glory of God. (Romans 5:1-2, NRSV)

If we justify our work and jobs we only justify man, but by
justifying our faith we become closer to God. It is then by this

closer relationship to God we receive his many graces and become

more aware of his works all around us.
Thursday, December 3
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in
Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set
you free from the law of sin and of death. (Romans 8:1-2, NRSV)

If someone were to ask each of us today, Are you guilty or
not guilty?, the answer would be an overwhelming Guilty! We
are all sinners, all with the sentence of guilty as we continue to
break Gods lawsyou know His commandments: dont place
anything else above the Lord, dont worship false idols, dont use
Gods name in vain, remember the Sabbath & keep it Holy, honor
your Father & Mother, and dont murder, commit adultery, steal,
lie, or covet. Unfortunately, in our humanness, it is impossible for
us to keep all these commandments all of the time. Therefore, we
are guiltysentenced to a life of death in sin.

But wait, because of Jesus, there is hope for this worldfor
you and for me! Jesus came! He took our sentence, and received
the punishment for all mankind. He paid the ultimate price for the
sins of this world by His death on the cross; His blood shed for you
and for mefor all people. Now for you and for me, and all who
believe in Him, there is no condemnation; no sentencing that will
be taking place. We are free! Free from sin and the power of
death. We belong to Christ through the Holy Spirit alive in each of
us. We belong to the one who overcame death, our Lord and
Savior, Jesus Christ.

Lord we thank you for sending your only son, Jesus, to pay
the ultimate price for the sins of all people. You have conquered
sin and death and set us free! Help us to remember that the
same power of the Holy Spirit that raised Jesus from the grave is
alive in each of us today. May we boldly proclaim the good news

of the Gospel through the power of Your Holy Spirit in us.

Amen! By Tracy Meister
Friday, December 4
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not
your own doing; it is the gift of Godnot the result of works, so
that no one may boast. For we are what he has made us, created in
Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be
our way of life. (Ephesians 2:8-10, NRSV)

The dictionarys rendition of FAITH: Trust, belief without
need of certain proof.

How strong is your faith? I lean on my spiritual faith and
sometimes it is tested. When I had my kidney transplant my
spiritual faith served me well. I carried a little medallion that said,
Let Go, Let God. I turned everything over to God and didnt
worry. The weeks and months after the operation were miserable
-- nausea and constipation for several days; diarrhea the next few.
Then this cycle would start all over again. I wasnt hungry or
thirsty and felt lousy every day. I lost forty-four pounds during
that time. The one thing that did concern me was the transplanted
kidney wasnt working. The doctors said that this is sometimes
normal and it make take from one to two months for the kidney to
wake up and start working. They admitted me back into the
hospital for another week and gave me mega doses of steroids and
then started dialysis. Dialysis was extremely painful and took
about three hours or more to administer. They finally sent me
home and I continued dialysis in Norfolk three times a week. My
blood count got so low that I had three blood transfusions in the
first two months.

When you have a kidney transplant they leave the old ones in
your body. They attach the new one in front of your lower
abdomen. The big question was, what if this kidney doesnt work?
Hours led into days and days into weeks. My faith was strong but

as time wore on my faith was not as strong as before. Doubts

started to creep into my mind -- what if? Yet I still trusted God to
work a miracle.

Then one day after blood tests were taken, the doctors said
my new kidney was working. Praise be to God.

Dear Heavenly Father, Through grace you have freely give
love and favor to all mankind. This is truly a gift from God.
Salvation is promised to all who believe and have faith. Thank
you Lord for everything you have given us and one for us. In
Jesus name we pray. Amen. By Ken Hansen
Saturday, December 5
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation;
for in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things
visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or
powersfor all things have been created through him and for him.
(Colossians 1:15-16, NRSV)

Jesus is the Number-One son of God and is the image of the
God we have never seen. He has been with God throughout
Creation. God sent Jesus to us in human form so we would know
God and to teach us how to live, how to love, how to lead, how to
follow, and how to treat each other. Jesus did not come to us as a
powerful king but as a tiny baby with humble, faithful parents, and
he lived a humble life of love and service. He was sin-free but he
knew we were not, so he died a horrible death for our sins and to
save us. Only through Jesus can we find favor with God and
salvation.

Christmas is such a special time of the year because of
Christs birth. I always marvel at the birth of a baby. it is such a
miracle and so perfect. It is truly something only God can do, and
when I see a precious newborn, I always think of Christs birth.
We are so blessed. Jesus taught us so much. He taught us to serve
from the heart and to love unconditionally as He did. We fail

miserably, but through His Grace, we are forgiven and keep trying.
He is truly the way and the life and promises us eternity with Him.

Dear Lord, thank you for your forgiveness and
unconditional love; the same kind of love we get from a precious
baby. Help us to give love the same way. Amen. By Pat Monson
Sunday, December 6, Second Sunday of Advent
John answered all of them by saying, I baptize you with water;
but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to
untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy
Spirit and fire. (Luke 3:16, NRSV)
John the Baptist is a sight. He eats bugs. He dresses in camel
skins. John is passionate, obsessed with Gods word. He is a
sunburned wanderer of the desert, an aesthetic who has attempted
to escape the world. And yet God uses this one to proclaim from
the wilderness a word of grace.
In the baptism John performed for forgiveness of sins and
new life, he prepared the way for Jesus. This Jesus was one who
was more powerful than John. But Jesus power was a power of
love, a word of truth spoken to power, and actions that embraced
those caught in a broken world.
God can use any of us where we are. The Holy Spirit comes
to give hope and grace, and opportunity to serve. We are blessed
by those who hear the call of God. God open our ears! God open
our hearts! God open our lives to your presence. By Anonymous
Monday, December 7
Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and
whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much.
(Luke 16:10, NRSV)
We had been studying the commandments in confirmation
when I asked Pr. Olesen to share his wisdom about lies. How small
of a lie would be a dishonesty? His response -- there are no small
lies.

God knows that the tiniest of seeds can grow the biggest of
trees. He speaks to us constantly, encouraging us and feeding us.
Think of it as playing the piano. Everyone wants to sit down and
just play great music. Ive tried it doesnt work that way. Years
of lessons and practices later, you can sit at a piano and perhaps
play that great music, but it takes desire and commitment.

Blessed Lord, Gather us to you as we continue to grow in
faith. Show us the path and guide our feet on the journey. Amen.
Tuesday, December 8
He shall judge between many peoples, and shall arbitrate between
strong nations far away; they shall beat their swords into
plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not
lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore;
but they shall all sit under their own vines and fig trees, and no one
will make them afraid; for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has
spoken. (Micah 4:3, NRSV)
Oh, how many times has the world known violence rather
than peace? In a historic review of the history of the world
reaching back to 1000 BC, it was determined that if we were to add
up all the days when there was no war the number would not
exceed 70 years.

It is no wonder that we seek divine aid to find peace. Without
God there is no peace. Yet in the foolishness of our hearts
humanity has sought ways of violence to seek peace. Such
violence was inflicted upon the Prince of Peace, nailing Jesus to a
Roman cross. But God had the last word on such violence. Jesus
was raised from the dead.
When might we learn war no more? Why do we act in
violence to impose a false peace? Where will this pattern of
destruction end? How will it take place? Who will be the one to
turn swords into plowshares, and spears into pruning hooks?

Only through the one who is promised- the Christ of God.

And only as the kingdom comes. Even so, come Lord Jesus.
By Debra
Wednesday, December 9
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never
come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your
faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, says my soul, therefore I
will hope in him. (Lamentations 3:22-24, NRSV)
What an amazing gift Gods love. There is no end to this
gift - love. I cant think of anything that doesnt have an end.
Lives end, plant life ends, water can come to an end. Our world as
we know it can come to an end. To know that Gods love and
mercies never cease is a special comfort. We can trust in this
promise and make it our own. The Lord becomes our portion our
enough, our hope, our strength. We are blessed to begin
every day with this promise and end every day still holding on to
the gift. We can smile knowing God loves us always, no matter
what.

With this promise, we can do great things share his love,
serve others and live through the ups and downs of life itself, with
his love as our anchor and rock.

The third verse of Great is Thy Faithfulness says it all:
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside.

By Diane Sobotka
Thursday, December 10
Thus says the Lord God to these bones: I will cause breath to
enter you, and you shall live. I will lay sinews on you, and will
cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put

breath in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the
Lord. (Ezekiel 37:5-6, NRSV)
What a miracle! The vision that Ezekiel witnesses is clear
and better than a thousand words. He understands hope in a
hopeless situation. God chose a vision of a darkness and death to
show that he is Lord, creator of all life, and makes it very clear that
the breath of life is his specialty. Gods breath can seem so small;
yet he leaves a fingerprint on a universe so vast that we can only
begin to imagine His greatness.
Breathe on me, breath of God. Fill me with life anew. Amen.
Friday, December 11
Come, let us return to the Lord; for it is he who has torn, and he
will heal us; he has struck down, and he will bind us up. After two
days he will revive us; on the third day he will raise us up, that we
may live before him. Let us know, let us press on to know the Lord;
his appearing is as sure as the dawn; he will come to us like the
showers, like the spring rains that water the earth. (Hosea 6:1-3,
NRSV)
The part that stood out was on the third day he will raise us
up. This reminds me of when Jesus died for our sins and rose on
the third day. So, leave your sins behind, do not let them weigh
you down. Ask for forgiveness. Jesus saves. He heals. You are
welcome to come back home just as the prodigal son was
welcomed. So put your heart where it is supposed to be and give
thanks and praise above all else to Jesus who saves, heals, and
forgives. By Kristy Booras
Saturday, December 12
He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the LORD
require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk
humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8, NRSV)
If we look into our hearts and minds, we can think of the
times God was more evident in our lives. We remember the

wonderful times, the wonderful people, the wonderful feelings.

We need to realize these are gifts from God and what does God ask
of us in response? He asks us to do what is good with justice, love
and kindness so we can always walk with him. By Cindy Nelson
Sunday, December 13, Third Sunday of Advent
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has looked favorably on
his people and redeemed them. He has raised up a mighty savior
for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke through the
mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we would be saved
from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us. Thus he
has shown the mercy promised to our ancestors, and has
remembered his holy covenant, the oath that he swore to our
ancestor Abraham. (Luke 1:68-73, NRSV)
These words were sung by the priest Zechariah after the birth
of his son, John the Baptist. Zechariah had been struck speechless
by the Angel Gabriel when he disbelieved that his wife Elizabeth
would give birth to a son.
It is a song of pure joy, sung from the heart. The people of
God had been waiting for centuries to see the power of God come
alive in their midst. God had been powerful in the past, but there
had been years since the prophets had spoken in Israel. Zechariahs
song reminds us of life in a world of death, and being saved from
the hands of those who hate us. Mercy is the focus, along with
promises kept and fulfilled.
What times do you stop to remember the power of God made
alive and new? What would make your silent heart start to sing
with such abandon in the promises of God? Where does God come
to break open your speech, and give you a song of joy?
Sometimes it is in the beauty of a child. Or of a job offered.
Or places of rest and healing. Or times where things change for the
better. Where is it for you in this season of Advent? Where might
you stop and break forth into song for the faithfulness of God?
By Midge Hedrick

Monday, December 14
A shoot will come out of the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall
grow out of his roots. The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him,
the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and
might, the spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord. His delight
shall be in the fear of the Lord. (Isaiah 11:1-3, NRSV)
When I was a young girl in Sunday School and we talked
about the fear of the Lord, I was afraid. I envisioned a terrifying
God standing on a cloud and surrounded by crashing thunder and
bolts of lightning. That was my childhood reference of the word
fear. It has taken my many years to fully appreciate what the ear of
the Lord is.
What immediately strikes me about this passage from Isaiah
is not the fact that fear of the Lord is mentioned twice in just three
verses, but the word delight. How often do you see the word
delight and the word fear in the same sentence?
As I look down, God is talking about a tender shoot and a
small branch, his own precious son. There is no mention of
lightning bolts. Then it says the Spirit of the Lord will rest upon
him. I love that The Spirit of the Lord rests upon us; it does not
come crashing around us like thunder.

In my life I have made unwise choices, been intolerant and
judgmental in situations I knew nothing about, followed bad
advice, felt weak and powerless, and been just plain stupid. Yet,
for some reason, the Lord has seen fit to rest on me the awesome
gift of his Son who brings wisdom and understanding, counsel and
might, and knowledge. This gift fills me with reverent awe -- the
fear of the Lord. So, should I be afraid?
It seems to me that delight is the exact opposite of fear. Fear
is cowering in a dark corner and trying to hide. Delight evokes for
me images of sunlight and laughter. Delight cant be hidden.
Delight, by its very nature, is meant to be shared. Let us delight in

the fearsome power of our God working in our lives. This is what
it is to fear the Lord. This is to love God.
Dear Lord, may your presence in my life be always my
delight. Amen. By Maureen Bivens
Tuesday, December 15
But there will be no more gloom for her who was in anguish; in
earlier times He treated the land of Zebulun and the land of
Naphtali with contempt, but later on He shall make it glorious, by
the way of the sea, on the other side of Jordan, Galilee of the
Gentiles. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great
light; those who lived in a land of deep darknesson them light
has shined. (Isaiah 9:1-2, NRSV)
I cant see or hear very well, but besides that, Im doing
pretty well. Thats the phrase I remember most about Ella. I
would visit Ella whenever she would call and ask for communion.
Id get in my car and make the drive to her home on the end of
Main Street. At the tail end of a long line of businesses was her
home. I would knock and then enter, knowing that she couldnt get
to the door to answer. Typically she would be sitting in her recliner,
waiting for my arrival, but one time she wasnt seated there.
Instead, she was in the kitchen, and slowly, not knowing I had
arrived, she made her way through her dining room & living room,
feeling for furniture landmarks along the way before finding her
chair. Somehow, in the midst of the darkness and deafness, she had
figured out a way to live and move and have her being, but it
wasnt the way her life once was. To Ella and to all those who wait
for the Lord, God tells: the people who have walked in darkness
have seen a great light....on them light has shined. Ella knew the
light and love of Christ in her life and it shone through her to
others. How might you, in these days when the suns light shortens,
share the great light of Christ with those around you? O Light
Eternal, shine upon us, so that your Light might shine through

us into the dark places of this world. Chase away gloom and
anguish, and fill us with your love. Amen. Pr. Justin Wiese
Wednesday, December 16
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests
upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty
God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow
continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of
David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice
and righteousness from this time on and forevermore. The zeal of
the Lord of hosts will do this. (Isaiah 9:6-7, NRSV)
God sent us His Son for us -- to save us. What a wonderful
event for believers! Stop worrying about what you dont have or
could have on earth -- be thankful here on earth and be joyous in
what is to come -- what awaits us in the end is so wonderful.
Believe and live your life in His way -- the best is yet to come!
By Linda Downs
Thursday, December 17
O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel, that
mourns in lowly exile here until the Son of God appear. Rejoice!
Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel! (Verse One, ELW
257)
The sharp smell of evergreen and the contrast of the red
candles of an advent wreath come to mind for me in this verse. It
means the preparation of our hearts in the natural evergreen.
Thinking of the coming of the baby Jesus for the celebration of
Christmas. And then one by one when the red candles are lit, the
flame gets brighter and brighter until on the magical night of
Christmas, Jesus is born. The story never grows old and neither
does the preparation, the smell of evergreen or the red candles.

By Cindy Nelson

Friday, December 18
When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the child leaped in her
womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed
with a loud cry, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the
fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me that the
mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound
of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed
is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was
spoken to her by the Lord." (Luke 1:41-45, NRSV)
Imagine how happy and loved Mary must have felt after
hearing these words from her cousin, Elizabeth. Mary was young,
unmarried, and pregnant, and her cousin called her blessed three
times! What wonderful, positive words Elizabeth used to
encourage and help Mary. Elizabeths blessings were just what
Mary needed to hear, to give her strength during this uncertain
time. A blessing is a very powerful and positive thing. The LORD
bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon
you, and be gracious unto you; the LORD lift up his countenance
upon you and give you peace. By Kristy Booras
Saturday, December 19
When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before
they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy
Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling
to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly.
But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord
appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do
not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in
her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to
name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins."
(Matthew 1:18-21, NRSV)
Joseph had decided to marry Mary who was pregnant, then
quietly divorce her later, in order to save her shame and ostracism.
The angel that appeared assured him the child was conceived by

the Holy Spirit and was to be named Jesus, which means God
saves.
Sunday, December 20, Fourth Sunday of Advent
All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord
through the prophet: "Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a
son, and they shall name him Emmanuel," which means, "God is
with us." (Matthew 1:22-23, NRSV)
God is telling us to, Relax, it will be fine. I told you it
would be and see.it is. Not only is someone special coming they
will be uniqueborn of a virgin and ever present in our lives with
a name that means God with us. Youve waited and waited and
you are worried about the outcome. How often is the reassurance
of someone in control, able to calm the frazzled nerves of our
imperfect psyches. Just like a Mother soothing a crying baby that
everything will be okay.you can trust me.Im here.
Today as Christmas is fast approaching, I encourage you to listen
to the song a non traditional Christmas song called Glorious Day
by the musical group Casting Crowns. When you do, listen to
words that describe the number of important stages of Jesus
mission on earth and how it started with the anticipation of the
coming.

Lyrics

One day when Heaven was filled with His praises

One day when sin was as black as could be

Jesus came forth to be born of a virgin

Dwelt among men, my example is He

Word became flesh and the light shined among us

His glory revealed

God with us
Monday, December 21
The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the
world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through

him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his
own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who
received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become
children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the
flesh or of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh
and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a
father's only son, full of grace and truth. (John 1:9-14, NRSV)
Jesus was able to bring the light to the dark lives of people of
his time. Through Jesus, the world would become enlightened to
the Lords message. Jesus came first to his own people, but not all
of his people received the message he gave. To all that did receive
his message, and believed in Jesus, Jesus gave power to become
the children of God, who were born to be Gods own. Not of just
blood or will of the flesh or will of man. Jesus, the Word, became
human and lived among his children, and we have seen his glory.
The Fathers only Son, full of Grace and Truth.
Tuesday, December 22
But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans
of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in
Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days. (Micah 5:2,
NRSV)
Micah predicted the birthplace of Christ some 700 years
before Jesus was born. And where was this blessed event to take
place? In a large and grand city such as Jerusalem? No, Jesus
would be born in the small and humble town of Bethlehem. This
promised king would come from the line of David and would come
to live as a man, even though he had been alive forever (whose
origin is from old, ancient of days). While Jerusalems leaders
were obsessed with wealth and possessions, it would be destroyed
by a king that could not save it; and in small Bethlehem, out in the
cold, a King is born who would save us all.
Dear Lord: Please help me to remember that no matter how
small or insignificant we may feel, you have great plans for us

all. Please help us to realize your plan and to live our lives
accordingly. Amen.
Wednesday, December 23
Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has
risen upon you. For darkness shall cover the earth, and thick
darkness the peoples; but the Lord will arise upon you, and his
glory will appear over you. (Isaiah 60:1-2, NRSV)
Weve all had dark days hard days, sad days, empty days
and days that will not end it seems. Those days can stack up, one
after another and the darkness becomes thicker and harder to
penetrate or see past the crud. Hope is hard to find or even fathom.
If we but raise our eyes just a bit, open our hearts, and breathe
deep, we remember the love of God surrounds us on all days
dark or not. We can hear him calling us Arise, shine, for your
light has come. Our very own piece of Gods light can cut through
any and all darkness. Even in the toughest situations, His light
shines on us and around us and hope come with that light. We are
free from the darkness and can feel the warmth of His light. We
remember we are not alone and God will be there always His
light is always on and available, ready for us to enter and share his
glory that surrounds us. By Diane Sobotka
Thursday, December 24, Christmas Eve
In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the
world should be registered. This was the first registration and was
taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own
towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth
in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because
he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to
be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was
expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to
deliver her child. (Luke 2:1-6, NRSV)

What if we, as a nation, were directed to return to the city of

our birth and be registered. I would have to travel to Long Beach,
California. Regardless of how I would travel, it would be a long
miserable trip. Flying would be horribly expensive. Driving
would be long and difficult, and, most of all, inconvenient.
And so it was for Joseph and Mary. Joseph walking all the
way, leading a donkey that carried Mary, his intended, the woman
he loved. And Mary, who was pregnant with a very special baby. I
am sure she found the trip most difficult, feeling every bump and
step her beast of burden took. Bethlehem, being filled with people
to be registered, found them in a stable that evening. Mary knew
her time was near, and her special baby, her son named Jesus, came
into this world surrounded by stable animals and was laid in a
manger.
I would probably only see the irrationality of such a decree,
the inconvenience. But Mary saw the future. She saw the promise
of an angel coming true. She knew that tiny baby she just gave
birth to was destined for great things. She also knew he was
destined to feel abandonment and hatefulness -- then there was the
pain. But those things Mary knew would come were not for now.
For now was a time for joy -- Jesus was born. This tiny baby was
hers to care for. Listen! She thought she heard someone singing
Joy to the world. The Lord has come. By Susan Hansen
Friday, December 25, the Feast of the Nativity
When the angels had left them and had gone into heaven, the
shepherds said to one another, Let us go now to Bethlehem and
see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known
to us. So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and
the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made
known what had been told them about this child; and all who
heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary
treasured all these words, and pondered them in her heart. The

shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all that they
had heard and seen, as it had been told them. (Luke 2:15-20, NRSV)
Ever been surprised by an old uncle who visits you when you
have just had a baby?
Uncle Levi was a crusty old guy, and smelled of liniment and
cough drops made of horehound. His eyes looked like he got them
from a Bassett Hound, because they drooped and watered, and his
nose was always in a perpetual state of redness. His teethwell,
his teeth were in bad shape, brown from the black coffee he drank
and the tobacco he chewed. We knew he washed his hands, but
they were always cracked because of the chemicals he worked in
probably the reason the rest of his appearance was so memorable.
Uncle Levi walked with a stoop and a limp, was normally
quiet, and usually just liked to be with people on the holidays. He
was a bachelor, never married, and so the kids around him were
looked at with fondness and some wistful sadness. One
Christmastime he was over to celebrate with the family, and he was
watching a new addition to the family in the arms of just about
everyoneeveryone but Uncle Levi, because he would never ask
or impose his wishes on others. But that evening, there was a
miracle. For some reason, the mother of the child looked over at
Uncle Levi, stood up, and walked to him with the baby. Uncle
Levi, would you like to hold her?
Me? he stammered. She placed the baby in Uncle Levis
arms, and stepped back. We wondered if Levi had ever held a child
he looked so frightened to begin with. But all of a sudden Uncle
Levi relaxed and closed his eyes. He was silent, and then,
somehow, he began to hum a quiet tune. For a moment we could
not figure it out, but then Levi opened his mouth and started to sing
sing the refrain from Angels We Have Heard on High. Gloria
in Excelsis Deo he sang, in a cracked little voice. After the song
was done, Levi looked into the childs eyes and said, God bless
you little girlyour life will always give light to others who are

sad. He handed the baby back to her Mama, wiped tears from his
face with a tissue, and was silent once again. He left not long after
thatand then left us all as he died in the first week of January.
We were all stunnedand perhaps humbled, since we had
not afforded such joy to Uncle Levi as he received from a little
babe. But we knew that Levi had been blessed by seeing the
promise of joy contained within the child. And such miracles are
precious to behold. By Pastor David
Saturday, December 26, Stephen, Deacon and Martyr
Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones
those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your
children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and
you were not willing! See, your house is left to you, desolate. For I
tell you, you will not see me again until you say, Blessed is the one
who comes in the name of the Lord. (Matthew 23:37-39, NRSV)
Jerusalem was supposed to be the center of worship and a
symbol of justice for all of Gods people. After all, this was the
ancestral Home of David -- Israels greatest king, and the location
of the temple which was supposed to be the earthly dwelling place
of God. What happened? Jerusalem had turned its back on Gods
ways, and had become insensitive to human need. Jesus expressed
his desire to gather all his people together and protect them as a
hen would protect her brood, but his people dont allow this to
happen. Perhaps they felt that God couldnt provide them with
what they needed. But who better could help and comfort them?
You can feel Jesus sadness and longing for his people and for his
beloved city -- which he knew would soon be destroyed. Where do
you turn for help and comfort?
Sunday, December 27, John, Apostle and Evangelist, First
Sunday in Christmas
And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen
his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and

truth From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.
The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came
through Jesus Christ. (John 1:14, 16-17, NRSV)
Jesus is referred to as the Word. This has special meaning for
both the Greek and Jewish peoples. In Greek philosophy, the
word (logos) was a key term often referring to the power of
reason that undergirds all of creation. For the Jewish people, the
word had great significance, since it was by the word of God
spoken that the world was created. A word would also transform
the people to newness.
In the Old Testament the rules, regulations and sacrifice
supported by the law was given to the Jewish people through
Moses. In the New Testament, or the New Covenant, God is doing
a new thing. The Word, Jesus, became flesh and lived among us.
The Word was tangible and real. God did this because of the love
God has for all of his people was within this only Son, Jesus. Jesus
suffered, died, and was a once for all sacrifice for all people, but in
doing this he showed God to all people both then, and through all
time.
God invades our time and space in the form of one who
embodies the Word. God becomes native with us. God senses all of
our humanity through Jesus, and the brokenness is exchanged for
the hope of life. Through Jesus death we are showed the steadfast
love of God, Gods amazing grace and truth. We live by grace
and in Jesus this grace is multiplied. Thanks be to God!

By Pastor David
Monday, December 28, The Holy Innocents
When Herod saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, he was
infuriated, and he sent and killed all the children in and around
Bethlehem who were two years old or under, according to the time
that he had learned from the wise men. Then was fulfilled what had
been spoken through the prophet Jeremiah: A voice was heard in

Ramah, wailing and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her

children; she refused to be consoled, because they are no
more. (Matthew 2:16-18, NRSV)
When we read todays passage, it first tells us of a very sad
and unhappy time. It definitely does tell us of a dark period in
Biblical history. God, however, always provides us with
opportunities for thought and reflection. It is worth noting that the
lives of these innocent children were sacrificed for the life of the
baby Jesus who ultimately gave his own life for all people. In the
most trying of times, God still provides us with hope. We know
that God welcomed those children to a life with him for eternity.
Also, we need to remember that we should not question
Gods decisions. All people experience difficult times and it is
easy to blame God for the unhappiness in our lives. Just as Rachel
could not be consoled at the loss of her children and not knowing
why God had allowed this to happen, we took dont always
understand Gods plan, and therefore, we find it hard to trust in
him. We need to remember that it is not our time but Gods
time. He always has a plan for us, and even though we will all
experience difficult times we need to trust him.
Tuesday, December 29, the Fifth Day of Christmas
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my
Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.
Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the
Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.
(Luke 1:46-49, NRSV)
One of my favorite things in the Holden Evening Prayer that
we sing with Pastor Justin on Wednesday night Lenten services.
We are singing the same words Mary sang as she magnified the
Lord. The words of the Magnificat are similar to the words
Hannah sang when she was blessed with her child, Samuel. Let us
remember to glorify God when we receive blessings! In all things,
give thanks and praise.

Wednesday, December 30, the Sixth Day of Christmas

In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, the
earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the
deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters.
Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light. And God
saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the
darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called
Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.
(Genesis 1:1-5, NRSV)
There are creation accounts from traditions other than
Christianity in which matter is eternal. In those accounts God
didnt create the universe, but simply rearranged the building
blocks already there. With all due respect to the translators of the
New Revised Standard Version, in my opinion the NRSV doesnt
make it crystal clear that God created everything that is from
nothing (ex nihilo). In the NRSV one could read the first sentence
with the understanding the earth was a formless void and a wind
from God was sweeping over the waters when God created the
heavens and the earth. That reading makes it sound as though the
earth and the waters were already there, and this could confuse our
understanding of the text.

I prefer the translation from the King James version, Revised
Standard Version, the English Standard Version, and probably
many others: In the beginning, God created the heavens and the
earth. There was nothing, and then over six days God called
everything that is into existence.

Take a moment to let that sink in. Seriously, dont continue
reading until you feel a sense of wonder at the enormity of what
that simple declarative sentence represents.

Arguing about whether or not these were six twenty-fourhour days misses the point. What is important, what is vital to our
understanding is summed up in the first four words of the text: In
the beginning, God. Gods action brought the universe into being.


This seems an odd choice of scripture to use for a devotional
during Christmas. But Hebrews 1:2 says, in part, [God] has
spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things,
through whom also he created the world. If we believe in the
mystery of the Trinity then we dont need this passage from
Hebrews to tell us that Jesus was there at the beginning together
with the Father and Holy Spirit. Reginald Heber put it this way at
the end of his hymn, Holy, Holy, Holy: God in three Persons,
Blessed Trinity. If God the Father was there, then the Holy Spirit
and Jesus had to be there, too.

A second great mystery of the Church is the mystery of the
Incarnation. Jesus was truly 100% human. Jesus was truly 100%
divine. This means that In the beginning, God the divine
essence of Emmanuel was there, taking part in the creation of the
universe and all that is in it. This tiny baby, born in a stable,
completely dependent upon his mother and father, was also present
at the beginning of time itself.

Jesus, Emmanuel, God-with-us, left the glory of heaven to
become a child, to grow up as the only human able to live a perfect
life and resist the devil, and ultimately to sacrifice himself on the
cross so that we might have hope of eternal life. At this most
joyous time of year, let us take another moment to let the enormity
of that truth overwhelm us.

Dear Heavenly Father, we marvel at the depth of your love
that Jesus represents. Help us to never forget the enormity of
your power and the mighty works you have performed. Thank
you for this precious gift. Grant us the faith of a child, to come
to you without guile and with complete trust. We ask this in the
name of your Son, Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, December 31, the Seventh Day of Christmas
We declare to you what was from the beginning, what we have
heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at

and touched with our hands, concerning the word of lifethis life
was revealed, and we have seen it and testify to it, and declare to
you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us
we declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also
may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the
Father and with his Son Jesus Christ. We are writing these things
so that our joy may be complete. (1 John 1:1-4, NRSV)
I like New Years Eve. I like the idea of putting to rest what
has gone before. I like the notion of turning the page, a clean slate,
starting something new. I like the promise of a new beginning.
The scripture passage for this day is the first four verses of
the first chapter of the first letter of John -- a new beginning if ever
there was one. Yet the word and the life that is revealed is one that
has been there all along. It has been with us from the beginning. It
is eternal.
I also like to write. I dont do it often and I dont claim to be
any good at it, but I like having a clean sheet of paper in front of
me and a pen in my hand. It is turning a page and starting
something new. Writing these devotions this year and last has been
fun for me. The process has been spiritual, almost like God is
writing and I am merely holding the pen. Now the task is complete.
There is joy in a job well done.
The word complete, though, can also mean full and whole.
The fellowship of the Spirit in this process has been a fully joyful
experience. It has been with me always, from the beginning.
Writing these things for you has made my joy complete. I
pray that fellowship and joy may be yours as well.
Happy New Year -- Maureen Bivens
Friday, January 1, The Name of Jesus
After eight days had passed, it was time to circumcise the child;
and he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he
was conceived in the womb. (Luke 2:21, NRSV)

The Christmas Story is a much loved story for all Christians

and as this passage is read, the entire story comes flooding back to
the reader. However, little more is commonly given, when
recalling the story, as to how the decision was made to name the
baby Jesus. This passage reminds us that the name was given by
God and passed on to Mary by the angel Gabriel in advance of the
actual conception.

The decision on the name was therefore not the result of
earthly discussions as occurs with most births in the present time.
A pending birth today commonly seems to involve months of
parental discussion and perhaps even agonizing about what name
to give a child after birth. Mary and Joseph were spared the
process of making this decision as the name was assigned by God.
Dear Lord, we thank you again for sending your son Jesus
to suffer and die for the forgiveness of our sins. Amen.
Saturday, January 2, the Ninth Day of Christmas
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has
blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly
places, just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the
world to be holy and blameless before him in love. He destined us
for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the
good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he
freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. (Ephesians 1:3-6, NRSV)
Is his name Santa Claus, or Santa the Claus? Is it Winnie
Pooh, or Winnie the Pooh? It is important to remember that Christ
is not Jesus last name. Christ comes from a Greek word which is a
title that means, The Anointed One. In Hebrew, the word
Messiah means a similar thing. If you take Christ out of
todays verses, you would find that we Christians end up lacking
the many good things about which Paul is talking. It is only in
Christ that we are blessed. It is only in and through Christ that we
are chosen and adopted as Gods beloved children. Nothing of our

own doing can earn or buy these incredible gifts of God. The God
and Father of Jesus the Anointed One gives more lovingly and
graciously than Santa Claus ever does. Santa knows who is
naughty or nice and gives accordingly. God makes his sun rise on
the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the
unrighteous. (Matt. 5:45b) Thanks be to God that in Christ, we
arent on the naughty list, and that our names are written in the
Book of Life forever.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for your Son, Jesus the
Christ, whom you anointed to be the one to bless us and the
world even before you created it. Create in us each day a love to
share the blessings you have entrusted to us with others. In
Christs name we pray. Amen. By Pr. Justin Wiese
Sunday, January 3, the Second Sunday of Christmas
Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, Master,
now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your
word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have
prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the
Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. And the child's
father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him.
(Luke 2:28-33, NRSV)
Simeon had faith that the Messiah was coming. He had
waited his entire life for Him! What joy he must have felt to hold
Him in his arms! May I feel that same joy as I hold Him in my
heart. By Laurel Moore
Monday, January 4, the Eleventh Day in Christmas
In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of
Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, Where
is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed
his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage. When
Herod the King heard this he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with
him. (Matthew 2:1-3, NRSV)

There can be a problem when you reach the top: theres

nowhere to go but down. This is welcome news for someone who
is afraid of heights and loves terra firma. But for those who live in
positions of privilege who do and use everything in their capacity
to keep their power, losing status is troubling at the very least.
How might you react if people from another country & culture
showed up in your life and told you that you had been replaced?
Herod the King has everything to lose if a new king is going to
claim his throne. And Jerusalem has no idea whats in store with
the change of royalty. Typically a royal transition wasnt like the
peaceful exchange of power that we often witness in Washington,
D.C. Make no doubt about it: the arrival of Jesus shakes the
foundations of those positioned on the pinnacle. Surprisingly, this
new king teaches that whoever wishes to become great among
you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among
you must be slave of all. For the Son of Man came not to be served
but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many. O, that King
Herod & Jerusalem would not have found this new king to be so
troubling! O God, help us to remember who you are and who we
are. May we daily think of ourselves less and live into the
realities of your kingdom more. Amen. By Pr. Justin Wiese
Tuesday, January 5, the Twelfth Day of Christmas, or Twelfth Night

I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of

God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and
acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be
conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of
your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of Godwhat
is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:1-2, NRSV)
All of our days are busy and filled with tasks, duties and
errands either brought on ourselves or by our daily world piling
onits always important that we recognize that our To Do list
is not really as important as the mission of God in our lives.

When we ask, What is my purpose, God?..Why am I

here?..What is my daily mission, Lord?. It could be but its
unlikely to be.I need to hurry up and mow the lawn again today
before it rains or I need to get to the store to use my coupon
before it expires. These things do not renew our worship.
God has given each and every one of us special gifts, skills,
blessings and talents that we can use to carry out Gods will. Our
biggest fault is that we fight the flow like paddling up a stream. To
worship in Gods favor we need to carefully listen to Gods voice
of truth as it speaks to us.we must recognize those God-thing
moments that occur in our lives and act to follow our heart when
the moment happens. These are the items to check off on our To
Do list. By Joel Dagerman
Wednesday, January 6, the Feast of the Epiphany
When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of
them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped
over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star
had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the
house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt
down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests,
they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having
been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their
own country by another road. (Matthew 2:9-12, NRSV)
Following the custom of the day, noble men would travel to
meet and greet a new king, and present him with valuable gifts.
Even though the child was found in humble circumstances, they
knew this child was Holy and knelt to worship him. They also
went out of their way to protect the child from Herod, again
knowing this child was Holy.