ADVENT BOOK 2023
Sunday, December 3, 2023
HOPE
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Colossians 3:2
Did you know that God hopes? Typically, we see hope as being solely a human emotion; but God’s hope for humanity is not tied to human action. Instead, the hope of God draws us to him.
When we look at hope not merely from a human perspective but from the perspective of God’s character, it is an action waiting, wanting to draw all of humanity to Him on an individual level. Suppose you are at a football game and you find yourself observing many components of the game. The stadium houses the seating area, concessions, restrooms, ticket sales, and the press box. As you look around, you notice cheerleaders, band members, fans, and workers cruising the stands selling team memorabilia. On the sidelines you take note of the team members – both your team and their opponents and, perhaps, who is playing which position.
But maybe there is one group you overlook: the security guards. If you see them, it is likely they are not solely focused on the game. They must see the picture as a whole in order to see that which might cause trouble. It is a matter of perspective. Seeing hope not as a human concept but a God-sized, God-initiated, never-ending relational aspect might give us a better understanding of who we are and how we can relate to His promises.
Prayer: Dear Father, Abba Father, as we look forward in hope, help us to see the hope given by You, through the Christ Child, to draw us closer to You. Amen.
Monday, December 4, 2023
HOPE
“I am now a hundred and twenty years old….” Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him
in the presence of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people
into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them….” Deuteronomy 31: 2a and 7a
Birthday cakes and candles summon festive thoughts, coming together with friends and family and birthday wishes. As a child, one of my favorite shows was The Six Million Dollar Man -- so much so that when Kenner came out with a Six Million Dollar Man action figure, I had to have one.
As the candles that filled the cake grew in number, birthday wishes gave way to reality: we don’t always get what we want. Moses was growing old and knew there would be a day when his birthdays would be no more. His birthday wish was a God-sized hope. Not only did he pass on some responsibility to Joshua, but he also shared a hope he had with Joshua: “Be strong and courageous.” Joshua would, indeed, lead God’s people into the Promised Land; but he had to be courageous and depend on God for his strength.
God’s promise, God’s hope of fulfilling the promise to the Israelites, gave way to Moses passing on the mantle of leadership. The reality of the hope of God is not in mere wishing. It is oh, such much more! Hope is woven into the very fabric of the reality of the love and strength of God.
Prayer: God, Abba Father, as we move toward the reality of Your Son’s birth, may we grow stronger in Your hope, and be courageous in all that we seek and do. Amen.
Tuesday, December 5, 2023
HOPE
This oath you made us swear will not be binding on us unless, when we enter the land,you have tied this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down…. Joshua 2:17-18
A cord as a signal. This image sparks memories of a child’s story – Rapunzel. Children, nowadays, might relate the story of Rapunzel to Tangled. In the movie Tangled, as in the fairytale, her hair becomes key to her escape. As her hope of escape would soon be realized, her hair would be a means through which a bond would develop between her and her prince.
The Hebraic word we translate as “hope” is, at its root meaning, cord or rope. The word picture painted by Hebraic language is the idea of binding one’s thoughts with expectation, looking forward to the promises and the strength of being active in a relationship with the Almighty: For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth. (Psalm 71:5)
Hope is a binding of ourselves to the confidence of God’s promises. As the spies were leaving Jericho, Rahab bound herself to a hope that when the Israelites attacked Jericho, she and her family would be saved. The anticipation was grounded in the relationship Rahab had with the spies. And when attacked, she would keep the spies’ secret. That is the expectation, the hope, within a relationship. Hope: a binding confidence within a relationship with the Almighty.
Prayer: Gracious Father, as we grow in our relationship with You, may we grow deeper in our confidence, as we continually look forward to seeing Your promises fulfilled. Amen.
Wednesday, December 6, 2023
HOPE
Then the Lord said to Joshua,
“See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands….March around the city once with all the armed men.
Do this for six days….On the seventh day…then the wall of the city will collapse
and the army will go up, everyone straight in.” Joshua 6:2-5
The military teaches that one must understand the situation before taking action – always referred to as “situational awareness.” Another phrase that is often used in tandem with situational awareness is “tactical patience”: allowing the situation to properly develop without acting prematurely or acting too late. Waiting. Leaders, either military or civilian, must master the art of waiting, waiting with expectation, allowing their workers to accomplish set goals and complete projects.
If ever there was something I was never proficient in, it was waiting. But rushing into something before it is time could preempt the desired outcome. The reality is that if we go ahead of God and act before He is ready, the blessings might not be as great as God would desire.
The hope of God is based in reality. God gave Joshua the hope and the assurance of taking Jericho; but Joshua had to wait and follow God’s instructions. Joshua couldn’t skip over time and execute the attack meant for day six on day one. Within God’s promises is the reality of time, and there is an inherent need to wait.
In waiting, the reality of the promise develops. In waiting, our part is to continue to prepare to receive the blessing – at the right time.
Prayer: Gracious Father, thank You for allowing us to wait, but in our waiting to see Your promises fulfilled. May we focus on You and follow Your will – preparing to receive Your blessings as you grant them. Amen.
Thursday, December 7, 2023
HOPE
For God alone my soul waits in silence, for my hope is from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. Psalm 62:5-6
Having been given a promise, going through the worst of times, and still having to wait, David was anointed king and given the promise he would take the kingdom to the next level. A level of security and prosperity. A level of devotion and worship to God for which the kingdom had longed, and a time of revival. But that time would cost the life of David’s best friend. That time would see David playing the harp to soothe the restless spirit of King Saul one minute, and then the next running for his life.
The promise was out in front of him, but he could get there only one day at a time. Within the promise that was given him, David learned what to expect from God. Life would not be easy. Yes, there would be good times, times of celebration and glory; but even within the promise, there was responsibility. As he waited, he learned to place his hope in God. As David waited, he learned to take refuge in God. And, as he waited, his leadership skills were sharpened and his faith grew.
Within the hope of God, we find expectations. The expectation of waiting. The expectation of learning. The expectation of relying on God when things are smooth and when times get tough. God’s hope carries the expectation of responsibility: that when we receive His promises, we will continue to rely on Him.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Abba Father, as we wait for tomorrow and Your promises, grant us Your strength. As we continually learn to rely on You, may we confidently say, “You are my rock and my salvation, my fortress: I SHALL NOT BE SHAKEN!” Amen.
Friday, December 8, 2023
HOPE
A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.
The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding,
the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge
and fear of the Lord—and he will delight in the fear of the Lord.
Isaiah 11:1-3a
You can’t expect fruit from a sapling. I realize the lack of profundity in that statement, but the practicality cannot be overstated. It has been three years since I planted two peach trees; and this past spring, one of the two had blossoms. I was excited. I had waited three years to see the tree blossom that I grew from a seed. I was excited to see the potential the tree possessed flourish into reality. But the excitement was short-lived. The cold snap that spring shocked the tender blooms and the tree produced no fruit.
As I stared at the trees, the first thought was shrouded in aggravation and loss; but the underlying hope is to wait: to wait for next year’s season to see the potential bloom again. The guidance given was to care for the trees throughout the summer months, and to ensure they had plenty of water and fertilizer. The guidance was to allow the trees to live and continue to grow in the hopes they would produce their fruit in their season.
The lesson is simple: waiting is nurturing. In the season of harvest, “the Branch will bear fruit.” The hope of God is rooted within nurturing, and the excitement of hope is seeing that nurturing blossom in the gift of the Spirit of God.
Prayer: Precious Lord, how we grow impatient while waiting! As we look forward with excitement, help us to focus on listening to Your guidance and help us to follow Your Word. Amen.
Saturday, December 9, 2023
HOPE
He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him.
He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him. Yet to all who did receive Him,
to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God. John 1:10-12
The promise of hope, the hope borne of a God-sized promise, gives us guidance, nourishment, expectations within responsibility. The God-sized promise grants us anticipation, allowing us to rest in the assurance of the harvest. The God-sized promise is hope which binds us together, fixing our eyes on our birthright: “…to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become the children of God.”
The hope of God is born in a personal relationship with God in Christ, for God does not call us His children without giving us hope. God does not call us His children and leave us without promise. God does not give us promise without assurance. For the relationship between the Almighty and His creation is found in the child born of a Virgin and laid in a stall. And the “root of Jesse” grew into manhood and grants us the hope, the assurance, of things yet to be seen. Tomorrow may be a wish whispered in the ears of those who have no hope; but for those who are called to be His children, tomorrow exclaims the hope of continued life.
Waiting. More than the sum-total of moments spent in expectation. Waiting is doing; waiting is seeking. Waiting is nurturing; waiting is gaining strength and understanding of purpose: But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)
Prayer: Heavenly Father, as we continue in our journey toward the celebration of the birth of Your Son, help us run the race faithfully, walk in Your guidance, and hope in Your steadfast love. Amen.
Sunday, December 10, 2023
PEACE
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying:
‘Glory to God in the highest and PEACE ON EARTH, GOOD WILL TO MEN.’ Luke 2:13-14
Music is such an important part of the Christmas season. I know we all have our favorites; one of mine is I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day: “I heard the bells on Christmas day, their old familiar carols play; and wild and sweet the words repeat of peace on earth, good will to men.”
This very familiar Christmas hymn is a Henry Wadsworth Longfellow poem, written on Christmas day 1863. In March of that year, Wadsworth’s son Charles had left the family to fight in the Civil War. On the first day of December, still grieving the death of his wife in a house fire, Wordsworth received word that Charley had been severely wounded in battle. In the midst of grief and despair, he heard the Christmas bells ringing in Cambridge and the singing of “peace on earth” from the church. In the midst of a civil war that was tearing the nation to shreds, grieving the loss of his wife and unsure whether his son would live or die from this war, he penned a statement of faith and hope that resonates with all who read and sing these words.
As we all deal with our anxiety, our loss and our stressors of this season, may these words written long ago bring hope as we prepare for the birth of the Christ during this advent season.
And in despair I bowed my head: there is no peace on earth I said. For hate is strong, and mocks the song
of peace on earth, good will to men. Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: God is not dead, nor doth
He sleep. The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, with peace on earth, good will to men.
Prayer: God, we thank You for the reality that Your love is stronger than any adversities we encounter during this Advent season. May the message of the angels resonate in our hearts as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Your Son on Christmas Day. Thank You for Your peace that surrounds us in this moment as we remember the good news the angels brought to the shepherds and this world. May the bells we hear during this season remind us of Your peace on earth and good will to all. Amen.orld and invited us to be a part of your family so that we can be with Him forever.
Monday, December 11, 2023
PEACE
And while they were there, the time came for her to be delivered. And she gave birth to her first-born son…
Luke 2:6-7a
The Christmas music presented by the choir, church orchestra, and guest soloist had been absolutely spectacular. The music of the season had lifted our hearts and very souls. The sanctuary was filled with Christmas joy and excitement. Everyone was immersed in the Spirit of Christmas. The lights were shining brightly throughout the room.
Suddenly, unexpectedly, the Chrismon tree with its twinkling lights was the only light in the room as the sanctuary was bathed in darkness. As a faint light appeared, illuminating the figures on the podium, we saw Mary with baby Jesus in her arms. She was holding him close and whispering into his ear. From somewhere above in the balcony, a guitar began to play; and a voice filled with awe and love began to sing a song so familiar and beautiful that tears filled our eyes as we looked and listened.
Silent night, Holy night, all is calm, all is bright. Round yon virgin mother and child, Holy infant so tender and mild. Sleep in heavenly peace; sleep in heavenly peace.
I had never felt such peace, such love, such hope at a Christmas cantata before. When the song ended, silence filled the room: with God’s spirit.
Since that night we have sung that song many, many times at Christmas Eve services as the room has been filled with candlelight and God’s Holy Spirit. It has become an essential part of our Christmas experience for millions around the world. Little did I know that, the first time Silent Night was sung, it was accompanied by a guitar because the church organ had been destroyed in a flood. Originally written in German by Joseph Mohr and Franz Gruber, it was entitled Stille Nacht.
For over 200 years, this beloved song has been sung around the world during Advent season. It was even sung in the trenches during World War I when a cease-fire prevailed for a few hours on Christmas Eve, 1914 as soldiers sang in German and English this same tune with words blending together in unity for a brief moment of peace in the midst of war.
Silent night, holy night, Son of God love’s pure light Radiant beams from Thy holy face with the dawn of redeeming grace Jesus Lord, at Thy birth; Jesus Lord, at Thy birth.
Prayer: God we love You and are so grateful to You for sending Your Son to show us how much You love us. May we take the love of this season with us throughout each day of this year. Amen.
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
PEACE
And she wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Luke 2:7b
Our son David was born the week before Christmas, right in the middle of the Advent season. His birth was everything but peaceful. He took a long time to decide to leave the safety of his mom and join the world to start with; and then he decided the night was a great time to play and the day was for sleep. His three-year old sister loved her baby brother very much, but she often wondered why he cried so frequently and so long at night. We wondered the same thing for most of that first year.
We found ourselves singing two very different lullabies to baby David. Since we were in the Christmas season, we immediately started singing Away in a Manger. Sometimes this song has been called Luther’s Cradle Song, but Martin Luther did not write it. It is actually an American original and has been one of the most popular Christmas hymns around the world.
Away in a manager, no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus lay down His sweet head. The cattle are lowing the Baby awakes,But little Lord Jesus no crying He makes.
We all hoped David would learn from the baby Jesus and not cry so much.
The other lullaby we sang is one we all have sung over and over:
Rock a bye baby, on the treetop. When the wind blows, the cradle will rock.When the bough breaks, the cradle will fall; And down will come baby, cradle and all.
Why this one is so popular is hard to grasp. It's difficult to imagine a baby and the cradle in the treetop falling down when the limb breaks.
The birth of a child is an exciting and wonderful time, but few parents think it to be a peaceful time. Expecting a child to bring peace goes against the grain; yet that’s exactly what God did in the birth of the Prince of Peace. He went against the grain.
God sent His Son into a world filled with crying babies, grieving parents, hopeless children, frightened grandparents, angry fathers, isolated mothers, and struggling siblings. He sent His Son to bring comfort to the afflicted and peace to the weary.
Prayer: God, may we all find room in our hearts for Your Son, the Prince of Peace. May we experience the peace that only He can bring to us during this season. Amen.
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
PEACE
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. Luke 2:4-5
Phillip Brooks was a successful Rector who became a Bishop of Massachusetts in the 1890s. He served churches during the Civil War and made a trip to Bethlehem in 1866 following the ending of the war. Weary, sad and exhausted from the strife that had filled the nation for years and struggling with what would happen next following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, he traveled to Israel for a time of respite and reflection. Christmas Eve, as he stood on the hills overlooking the city of Bethlehem, he was inspired and renewed by being in the town where Jesus had been born on this very night: Christmas Eve. A sense of peace and calm came over him that renewed his faith and reaffirmed his ministry.
After returning home, he reflected on his time in the birthplace of his Savior and eventually wrote the words to a song for his Sunday School class in 1868. A few years later, the organist at his church (Lewis Redner) wrote the melody for the local Sunday School children’s choir to sing one Sunday. So this now-familiar hymn, first sung in 1871 by a children’s choir, has been sung every Advent and Christmas season since that year by millions around the world and is one of the favorite hymns for many during this season.
O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see the lie! Above the deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by. Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light, The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
The softness and quietness of this hymn and its focus on Jesus’ birth is in sharp contrast to the world filled with war and destruction in which Philip Brooks had lived for many years. It is also in sharp contrast to the Bethlehem into which Jesus was born, as it was a cauldron of activity and bedlam. People were everywhere because of the decree from Caesar Augustus that everyone had to register in the city where they had been born. People were sleeping on the street and in stables, because there were no rooms left in the inns. It was Times Square on News Years night, but with no electricity or television.
Into this beehive of activity, the savior of the world was born. A baby who changed the world forever came to bring life, hope, love and peace to all.
Prayer: May we receive anew the wondrous gift You have given us in this Son of Yours. May Christ be born in us again during this season as we hear the Christmas angels tell the great glad tidings. O come to us, abide with us, and bring Your peace to our hearts, Our Lord Emmanuel. Amen.
Thursday, December 14, 2023
PEACE
For unto us a child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government will be on His shoulder, and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and of peace there will be no end…. Isaiah 9:6-7
Not so long ago, a group from First Baptist of Columbus journeyed to England to explore the beginnings of our Protestant and Puritan roots and our Baptist beginnings. One of the highlights of the trip was a morning spent at the home of John and Charles Wesley. It was a modest home in a very transitional community in the heart of London.
As the guide took us through the home, she pointed to the small pump organ on which Charles Wesley had composed the majority of his 6,500 hymns. I was astounded that the same little musical instrument from the 1700’s was still sitting in the room where Charles had conceived his great quantity of hymns. The entire home appeared to be waiting for Charles to write another hymn or for John to return from a preaching crusade.
Charles Wesley wrote many hymns for Christmas, the best-known of which is Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. Less famous yet still sung today is Come, Thy Long-Expected Jesus, based on Haggai 2:7 - not Isaiah 9:6-7, as many think. In 1744, Charles penned this hymn which was also influenced by a published prayer of the time. He basically adapted this prayer as the second verse of the hymn:
Born Your people to deliver, born a child and yet a King, Born to reign in us forever, now Your gracious kingdom bring. By Your own eternal Spirit, rule in all our hearts alone; By Your all sufficient merit, raise us to Your glorious throne.
Wesley was motivated by the orphans in his community and had a deep sense of compassion for them. His music reflects his desire to see God at work in the world around him, bringing peace and justice for all:
Come, thou long expected Jesus, Born to set thy people free; From our fears and sins release us; Let us find our rest in thee.
As we welcome the Christ-child anew during this season, may we each find our fears and sins shrinking and the peace which only our savior can provide flooding our lives and our souls.
Prayer: God, during this season may we find the songs that set us free to be Your person more fully during this Advent season. Amen.
Friday, December 15, 2023
PEACE
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises! Psalm 98:4
Would you believe that over the last century the hymn Joy to the World has been the most-published Christmas hymn in North America? It was written in 1719 as an English Christmas carol by minister and hymn writer Isaac Watts. He was inspired by Psalm 98 but gave it a New Testament reframe. The tune with which we are all familiar is not the original one by which the song was sung. In 1848, American composer Lowell Mason took George Frederick Handel’s arrangement and crafted the tune we now sing. Mason was so taken with Handel’s music that, if you listen carefully, you can discover the first four notes of this song are the same notes found in the chorus, “Lift Up Your Heads,” from Handel’s Messiah.
Originally written as a celebration of Christ’s Second Coming, the song has become a favorite that is sung around the world as a celebration of the birth of our heavenly King, the Prince of Peace. The pure joy found by all who sing this carol during this season reminds us that whatever we are facing during these days and times will be overcome by the wonders of God’s love. In the midst of the stressors and trials in our lives, our communities, our nation, our world, we must hold firmly to the reality that:
He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove The Glories of His righteousness, And wonders of His love, and wonders of His love, And wonders, wonders of His love.
It is hard for us, at times, to claim that Christ’s blessings will overcome the evil we encounter in the world. The world is too much with us at times, thanks to our constant bombardment of information and news. The world of Isaac Watts in the 1700’s had its own share of difficulties and bad news as well; but he had no trouble proclaiming his beliefs in God’s ultimate victory in Christ. He wrote this song proclaiming his belief that God is overcoming this world and that His blessings will flow into this world and bring a peace that only God can bring through our Savior’s reign.
Joy to the world! The Lord is come; let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare him room; and heaven and nature sing, And heaven and nature sing, and heaven and heaven and nature sing.
Prayer: Gracious God, help us not only to sing with gusto this song of joy and faith but help us believe and live this out every day during this season of Advent. May our hearts be filled with the joy and peace only the Christ-child can bring. Amen.
Saturday, December 16, 2023
PEACE
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:13-14
It came upon a midnight clear, that glorious song of old From angels bending near the earth, to touch their harps of gold; Peace on the earth, good will to men, From Heaven’s all-gracious King. The world in solemn stillness lay, To hear the angels sing.
War and peace are strange subjects for It Came upon the Midnight Clear, one of our most popular Christmas carols; but as you read the words of this beautiful hymn, written by Edmund Hamilton Sears around 1849, you see that the social unrest, conflicts and wars around the world were shaping his thoughts. During this time in history, wars and conflicts were rampant. This is one of the earliest social gospel hymns written in the United States. The central message of the song contrasts the scourge of wars with the song of the angels: peace on earth, good will to men.
Timeless and true, the relevance of this hymn for our day and age is astounding. The words of this hymn depict the plight of all too many in our modern-day world who are unable to experience the fullness of life due to their circumstances, situation or country of origin.
o toil along the climbing way with painful steps and slow, Look now! For glad and golden hours Come swiftly on the wing: O rest beside the weary road, And hear the angels sing.
The news the angels bring is transformational news. It is the news that will change every other moment and year to come in history. It is the news of the birth of the Savior: Christ, the Lord. It is good news for all, no matter our situation, circumstance or country of origin. It is good news of peace on earth good will to all.
Prayer: God, we want to hear the angels this Christmas. Please open our eyes, ears, and hearts to see, hear, and feel their presence. May we hear their message of love and peace. May we be angels to those around us as we seek to be persons of peace, hope, joy, and love during this Advent season. Amen.
Sunday, December 17, 2023
JOY
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you, He is the Messiah, the Lord.” Luke 2:8-11
My young daughter and I were standing on a beach watching the glorious story of Jesus’ birth unfold in brilliant lights and sound. A deep voice boomed from the darkness, giving life to each scene of the nativity story. Hands clasped, we were mesmerized by the beautiful images of angels, shepherds, Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus!
My two-year-old daughter looked up at me and said, “Mommy, is that God talking?” Laughing, I swept my daughter up into my arms and gave her a big hug. I quietly explained that it was a man talking but we weren’t able to see him.
Oh, the happiness and joy of that moment!
In the third week of Advent, we light the candle representing joy, which is also known as the Shepherd Candle to highlight the joy the shepherds experienced when they received the good news about Christ’s birth.
In Luke 15:20, we read that after the angels appeared, the shepherds hurried off to Bethlehem to find the baby Jesus. After they had seen him, their hearts were bursting; and they began to tell others all the amazing things they had seen and heard. With joy overflowing, the shepherds returned to their flocks, glorifying and praising God.
Although it wasn’t God on the loudspeaker that evening when my daughter and I attended the Fantasy in Lights show, He is always present, quietly speaking to us through times of worship, song, prayer and His Word. He invites all of us to experience the joy of living with Him through the gift of salvation and discipleship.
May the same infectious joy the shepherds felt long ago overflow from our hearts as we share the good news this Christmas season, the gift of God’s only son to the world.
Prayer: Dear Lord, like the shepherds, we are excited to celebrate the birth of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Let us remember that the good news of Jesus’ birth has the power to bring us great joy this Christmas. The joy that flooded the hearts of the shepherds, the angels, the wise men, and Mary and Joseph is still present today and always as the power that overwhelms our hearts with rejoicing. Our joy is a gift from You! Amen.
Monday, December 18, 2023
JOY
Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. Psalm 47:1
I have the joy, joy, joy, joy Down in my heart (where?) Down in my heart (where?) Down in my heart I have the joy, joy, joy, joy
Down in my heart (where?) Down in my heart to stay.
If you’ve ever attended or taught vacation Bible school then you’ve probably sung this song. It’s a catchy tune that usually has people tapping their feet or clapping their hands as they sing along. Right now, I bet you are either singing this song in your head or maybe right out loud.
The song, Joy in My Heart, was written by George William Cooke and, according to hymnary.org, has been published in more than 30 hymnals. Cooke was a minister and associated with a group called the Gospel Crusaders. As a young man, he circled the globe twice in evangelistic tours. I can only imagine how many people he taught this joyful song.
Songs have the power to touch our souls and bring out many emotions. They can make us happy, inspire us, soothe us, and even lull a baby to sleep.
The Psalms teach us the importance of songs as we worship and give praise to our Heavenly Father. Oh, sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord all the earth! Sing to the Lord, bless His name; tell of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous works among the peoples! (Psalm 96:1-3)
May the joy, joy, joy, joy down in your heart spring forth in song as we continue the Advent journey and celebration of Jesus’ birth!
Prayer: Thank You for songs that are simple and catchy, yet hold an important message for all of us. Joy is a gift, a fruit of the Holy Spirit dwelling in our hearts. We are thankful we are able to experience joy because of the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, December 19, 2023
JOY
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7
When the doctor called and said the words breast cancer…I was shocked and barely able to speak. I stayed on the phone long enough to make an appointment before I collapsed in a puddle on the floor sobbing. I couldn’t stay there for long. I had children to care for, a household to run, and work obligations. I forced myself to tend to the daily chores of life.
My doctor informed me the cancer was an aggressive type. I would need a bilateral mastectomy. Numb and in a stupor, I told the doctor I needed time to think before I could make any decisions. “One month,” he said. “You can’t put the surgery off longer than a month.” He suggested getting a second surgical opinion and to consult with an oncologist.
After a few weeks of research, second opinions, countless conversations with survivors, family and my pastor, PLUS a whole lot of praying, I moved forward in faith and hope and made the decision to have surgery.
The day of surgery I was calm and ready to get the cancer out of my body. I asked my pastor to come to the hospital that morning and pray over me. I was nervous, but not afraid. I knew God was with me.
And He was, during the months of healing, chemotherapy, nausea, hair loss, and adjusting to my new body.
The Psalmist refers to God as our Shepherd; and like a shepherd, God provides strength and protection for us – his sheep. God is always present, protecting, guiding, and comforting us…even in the darkest of days.
Today, as a 30-year survivor, I am thankful and rejoice for His presence and protection.
Prayer: Dear Lord, we rejoice today in the knowledge You are always with us. Your promises are true, and You are the source of our peace and rest through the dark valleys of life. Amen.
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
JOY
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
My dad always woke up happy and cheerful. His loud greeting of “Good morning” could be heard all through the house. As a teenager, I found this quite annoying, but now that he has passed, what I wouldn’t give to hear one of those joyful greetings.
My dad enjoyed life; and whether it was grilling with friends and family, watching Alabama football, or singing hymns slightly off key in church, he did it with enthusiasm and exuberance.
According to Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, some of the Greek words relating to joy in the Bible mean “delight,” “gladness,” and “to rejoice greatly.” Webster defines the word joy as “great pleasure or happiness.”
Joy is a fruit of the Spirit and a gift from God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23).
Jesus came so we might have joy AND enjoy life.
During a particularly difficult time in my life, I came to understand that joy and enjoying life are not necessarily tied to our circumstances. True joy, Biblical joy, comes from the Holy Spirit dwelling in us. With hearts attuned to God, we are able to find joy, and even enjoy life, in the midst of some of the most challenging trials of life.
As we continue the celebration of Advent, let us have as our mantra Psalm 118:24: This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Prayer: Thank You for the gift of Your Son who came that we might have life and experience it to the fullest. We know that regardless of our circumstances, You are with us and for us. As we trust in You, let joy be evident in our lives. Amen.
. Thursday, December 21, 2023
JOY
Shout for joy to God, all the earth! Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious. Psalm 66:1-2
As a teenager in the 70s, I woke up every morning listening to Carol King, The Carpenters, Linda Ronstadt, The Eagles, and many other groups of that era. Much to the annoyance of my family, I listened (and sang along quite loudly) to the same tunes over and over and over again.
My love for music started at an early age. Growing up in a small Baptist church, I sang in choral groups as a young child and as a teenager, spent summers singing in musical productions and traveling with a Christian folk group. Through these ministries, the gospel was shared and many hearts were brought to Christ. I was privileged to be a part of them.
Today, my go-to genre of music is Contemporary Christian and I am blessed to be a part of the choir at First Baptist. Most days I wake up singing the anthem that we are practicing for Sunday worship.
Depending on what version you’re reading, the Bible mentions singing more than 400 times, highlighting it as an important part of worship. For Believers, it is an act of obedience; an offering of thanksgiving and praise to God. A joyful expression of our love.
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. (Psalm 100:1-2)
Singing and joy are inextricably linked, part of God’s divine design for victorious living. Joyful songs spring forth from us as we experience God’s redemptive power in our lives. During times of trials, singing helps us feel more connected to God, filling us with peace, hope, and joy. When we lift our voices together as a congregation in worship, we build each other up in faith and give witness to the joy of our salvation.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for the ability to lift our voices in song. Singing brings us joy and for that we are grateful. May we use our voices in worship, giving honor and praise for all You have done for us. Amen.
Friday, December 22, 2023
JOY
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
Romans 15:13
Worry steals our joy! When we allow worry to overpower us, it fractures our faith, and hope seems lost. Peace is non-existent and joy, well, joy is nowhere to be found.
In her Bible study, Joshua: Winning the Worry Battle, author Barb Roose points out that worrying is a matter of trust or, more aptly, not trusting. In other words, we cannot trust God and worry at the same time. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be a worrier - I want to trust God!
And claiming God’s promises day in and day out, sometimes minute by minute, is key to conquering worry. It strengthens our faith and provides us with the ability to persevere through difficult experiences. It allows us to tap into the peace and joy freely given to us through the Holy Spirit.
When Joshua and the Israelites crossed over the Jordan into the Promised Land, God instructed them to build a twelve-stone memorial that would remind them and future generations of the miracles God performed and of his abiding faithfulness to his people. A memorial to the fulfillment of His promises.
I, along with a group of FBC ladies who participated in the Winning the Worry Battle study this past August, built our own symbolic twelve-stone memorial. We stacked up twelve small boxes with our favorite Bible verses written on them. Promises for us to claim when worry invades our thoughts and threatens to steal our joy.
Romans 8:28 Proverbs 17:17; Exodus 14:14 Philippians 4:13; Psalm 139:9-10 Romans 8:18; Psalm 71:2; Job 34:12
Proverbs 3:5-6; Psalm 46:10; Joshua 1:9; Jeremiah 32:17
I encourage you to read these scriptures and build your own twelve-stone memorial: a memorial of God’s promises and faithfulness to you. I can guarantee it will help you win the worry battle!
Prayer: Dear Lord, today we thank You for your everlasting faithfulness. Forgive us when we let ourselves become overwhelmed with worry and fail to trust You. On those days, let us remember to turn to You and claim Your promises that You are with us and for us in all circumstances. You will keep in perfect peace all who trust You, whose thoughts are fixed on You! Amen.
Saturday, December 23, 2023
JOY
So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you
look not only to his own interests, but also to the interest of others.
Philippians 2:1-4
I grinned from ear to ear as I drove through the Elliott’s Walk subdivision. Two young boys rode their bikes. A mother watched her young child splash around in a wading pool. A neighborhood alive with the sounds of laughter and joy.
Elliott’s Walk, a collaborative project between First Baptist Church and NeighborWorks Columbus, is the first new housing community in South Columbus in more than 50 years. A neighborhood that once was only a dream is now a reality because of God’s grace and the vision, generosity, and tenacity of those who find joy in serving others.
It’s a place where families are realizing their dreams of homeownership. For some, this is an especially joyous occasion because they thought owning a home of their own was totally out of reach. This was the case for Tywanna. She came from the “projects.” Those were her words to describe the public housing where she grew up; and in her mind, she would never become a homeowner. With encouragement from a friend, she reached out for help and received the education, counseling, and support she needed to get her finances in order and begin saving toward a down payment. After months and months of preparation, Tywanna, a 50-year old working mother and soon-to-be grandmother, moved into her first ever new home in May 2023!
Jesus came to earth to serve others. Through His life,death, and resurrection He set the highest example of servant leadership. He inspired His disciples to follow His lead and promised that those who serve others would be blessed.
As we continue the Advent journey, let us remember the words of the Apostle Peter: Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
(1 Peter 4:10-11)
Prayer: Dear Lord, we are grateful for Your Son, Jesus Christ, who taught us by His example how to love and serve others. Move in our hearts and show us ways to use the gifts that You have blessed us with to bring blessings and joy to others. Amen.
Sunday, December 24, 2023
LOVE
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples if you love one another. John 13:34-35
During this last week of Advent as we focus on Love, I would like for us to listen for God and have a childlike wonder in our faith. Let us all try to simplify our lives, our schedules, and the expectations we have put on ourselves. Pause, give your mind a rest, a break from planning, wrapping, cooking, and decorating. Breathe deeply, take in the wonderful sounds and smells of Christmas. Spend time in prayer and thanksgiving for all your many blessings. Take the time to cherish old Christmas memories.
Each year, as I bring out a very special nativity scene that I have had all my life, I love remembering my parents telling me how it became mine. As a young married couple, on a very fixed income, while my daddy was a student at Georgia Tech, we went Christmas shopping at Rich’s. I was fifteen months old and became quite vocal when I saw the nativity display near the checkout. I kept pointing and saying, “Baby Jesus, baby Jesus, baby Jesus. I want baby Jesus.” Mama said that I began to cry small soft sobs as Daddy tried to explain why we could not buy the seventy-dollar Nativity scene.
A kind, elderly gentleman was behind us and witnessed our little family. My parents told me that the man said, “Excuse me son, I have been greatly blessed by the Lord. Would you please allow me to buy this for her? It would be my honor to be able to give her baby Jesus this Christmas!” My father tried to refuse this kind offer; but sixty-one years later, it still warms my heart each year when I place the nativity on my mantle. I did not know the man, but I know he was a Christian; and I remember his act of kindness and love. He was listening to God and heard the cries of my tiny heart.
We are called by God to show love - to show love to everyone with whom we come in contact. God gives us opportunities each day to “plant seeds” in the lives of others by our actions or words; or maybe we are the “water” needed on seeds that were planted by others in the past. That elderly gentleman was a stranger, but he shared his love of the Lord in words and action that continue to be a blessing today.
Prayer: Lord, we are so thankful for Your love. Help us to slow down and to listen for You. Allow us to see Your world through the eyes of a child and to see others as You see them. Help us to share Your love by our actions and words. In Your precious Son Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Monday, December 25, 2023
LOVE
How great is the love the father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!
1 John 3:1
As we move through this last week of Advent, open your heart to love like a child. We are all God's children.
One of my cherished memories begins twenty-nine years ago with my youngest son, who was almost five. He wanted to build a stable for the Fontanini figures I was collecting. We went to Reaves Wrecking and spoke with Mr. Reaves. I can still picture standing by a stack of old reclaimed boards as this elderly businessman listened intently, took notes, and sketched out a plan as my son explained in great detail his project.
Mr. Reaves helped choose the perfect two “old looking boards with ragged ends” and gave the sketch to a man who cut the boards for us and loaded them in the car. While the boards were being cut, Mr. Reaves took the opportunity to share with us his faith in God; and he would not allow me to pay him for the lumber or his time. He considered it a gift. He shook my son’s hand and told him how proud he was of him and that what he would build could be with our family forever. I feel that the nativity is an outward visible reminder of our Savior and the promise of salvation to all who believe.
Our church family has a wonderful tradition of presenting a drive-thru Living Nativity as a gift of love to our community. The first year it was presented, I took our four-year-old twin grandsons. They were so excited as we drove to our place in line. I wish I had recorded their precious voices, but I remember them saying, “The people are real; they are moving. There is a live donkey! NeeNee, He moved, the baby moved! Baby Jesus is alive!! Look at the angels, do they know our Nanny?” Then the Wise Men pointed to the star. The boys looked for the star the entire ride home. What a gift!
The second time our church did the Living Nativity, we went again. They noticed there were more live animals, but especially they noticed their mama and daddy (our oldest son and daughter-in-law) who were representing Mary and Joseph talking to the innkeeper, looking for shelter. On the way home, I heard, “NeeNee, that was just like what we put out in your living room!” They had just made the connection between the living room stable that we set up each year and the living nativity we had just witnessed. Mr. Reaves was right all those years ago when he told my young son that what he would build could be with our family forever.
Prayer: Lord, give us a childlike spirit and heart. Thank You for making us Your children. Give us eyes to see all the wonders You have placed before us because of Your great love. In Your precious Son Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
