Advent Devotional Day 15 - THe Singing Christmas Tree

Day 15: The Singing Christmas Tree

Meditation (3-5 Minutes)

Begin by being still before God.  Read Psalms 9:1-2 and meditate on the words.

Ps 9:1-2 NIV
I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders.  I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.

1)    Be still and know he is God. 

2)    Praise him with all your heart.

3)    Tell him of his wonders.

4)    Be glad and rejoice in him.

5)    Sing praise to his name.

Prayer (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Ask God to speak to you during this devotional time.

2)    Requests of the Christ Child (Appendix 1):
a)    Ask God to send you music this Christmas.
b)    Ask God to help you notice his joyful singing over you. 
c)    Appendix 1: Pray and update.

3)    Gifts from the Christ Child (Appendix 2):
a)    Thank God for music. 
b)    Praise him for the many ways we are able to use music to serve him.
c)    Turn to Appendix 2 and list the ways music has blessed your life.

4)    Gifts to the Christ Child (Appendix 3):
a)    Offer your talents to the Christ Child. 
b)    Sing your own praise to Him. 
c)    Appendix 3: Pray and update.

5)    Ask God for knowledge of his will for you this Christmas and the power to carry it out. 

6)    Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Bible Study (10-15 Minutes)

There is music throughout the Bible.  David sings as he watches sheep on a hill.  Angels sing as they announce the birth of Jesus.  The disciples sang in prison.  God sings over us. 

Background Scripture

Read Psalms 149.4.  How does the Lord feel about you?  (Write your answer in your journal.) 

Read Zephaniah 3:17.  The Lord is always with his children.  He is mighty and saves us.  He takes great delight in us.  Picture the Lord rejoicing over you.  What does the scripture say he does as he rejoices?  (Write your answer in your journal.) 

Read John 4:23-24.  Our father is seeking worshipers.  How are we supposed to worship him?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Read 1 Timothy 3:15.  Many people seek the music of churches during the Christmas season.  They may not realize it but they desperately need what our churches offer.  What does the scripture say about the church?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Read Matthew 28:19-20.  We call this scripture “The Great Commission.”  At Christmas, how do we use music to make disciples?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Read Psalms 100.  We shout for joy and worship the Lord with gladness.  How are we supposed to come before him?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Come Into His Presence With Singing
The 25th Anniversary was finally here.  The choir was excited.  For twenty-five years, Southside Baptist Church has been offering a Singing Christmas Tree to their community.  This year, the choir members picked the music.  Their director, Rev. Eddie Lockamy gave the choir a list of everything they had ever sung.  The choir voted.

The choir is not the only ones that look forward to this event.  The community and the church members are committed to making this event a part of their Christmas worship.  Over the years, the number of nights that Southside Baptist Church performs has grown to five nights.  The sanctuary is full for the entire five nights.  Local restaurants and stores distribute tickets.  The free tickets are gone in the first two weeks of distribution.    Each night begins at 7:00 PM and lasts for about 1.5 hours.  At the end, the audience seems reluctant to leave. 

The first night of the performance is always for the homeless and prison community.  The other nights are for the community at large.  Church members are asked to come on the last night.  While the choir is comprised of mostly church members, others from the community also join the choir.  The tree has around seventy singers, dressed as ornaments.  This year, Julie was the angel at the top of the tree. 

Rehearsals begin with a “Christmas in August” party.  Choir members are introduced to the music.  They wait with anticipation all year to see the unveiling of “this year’s” Singing Christmas Tree selections. 

The selections always have several things in common: 

1. There is a blend of the familiar and the new. 
2. There is a blend of religious and secular. 
3. Many selections contain beautiful solos. 
4. They lend themselves to the use of multimedia, special effects, and multiple entertainment mediums. 
5. They tell the entire Christmas story, “From the Cradle to the Empty Tomb.” 

The performances themselves have several things in common: 

1. There is a blend of serious and light.
2. The use of lights and special effects is beautiful.
3. They use a variety of mediums that include voice, instruments, multimedia, dance, and drama.
4. They are entertaining.
5. They are a worship service.
6. They portray the entire life of Christ.

In many churches, the music department is the war department of the church.  Musicians can be temperamental and often fight for key positions and solos.  Not so in the Southside Baptist Church Choir.  The director, Eddie, has a different vision for his choir.  “Our choir members are worship leaders and servants.  Each choir rehearsal is preparation for our church’s worship service.  I also want our choir rehearsals themselves to be a worship service.” 

His choir rehearsals include prayer and devotions.  He prepares the choir spiritually to be worship leaders.  He lets the choir know what to be in prayer for.  He told me, “I pray over the selections and the soloists.  God often leads me to use unexpected selections and people.”  The choir supports his leadership.  Every year, the choir believes that “this year’s selections are the best ever.” 

Because Eddie is such a talented musician and director, the choir has attracted quality musicians.  Because Eddie is such a spiritual leader, the choir has attracted and developed spiritual leaders.  Choir members grieve when they have to miss a rehearsal. 

In thinking about why the Singing Christmas Tree is so important to the community, I realized that it fulfills God’s greatest commandment, to love him with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbors as our selves. 

Loving God With Our Soul

God planned us for his pleasure.  He rejoices over us with singing.  We sing to him.  He is constantly seeking worshipers that love him with their entire soul.  The Singing Christmas Tree is a Worship Service.  The choir members worship while preparing it.  The audiences worship while hearing it.  There is a time for everyone to sing Christmas Carols during the service.  Because the worship experience is centered on the Christmas Story, the Singing Christmas Tree congregation “worships in spirit and in truth.”

Loving God With Our Hearts

We are fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household.  (Ephesians 2:19-22.)  A church is our place to belong in a world where we do not belong.  It is a place where our hearts join and grow stronger.  It is a place where our hearts learn about love.  It is a place where we go to fellowship together.

The entire church pulls together to help the Singing Christmas Tree.  It takes a large team to set up the tree, made of scaffolding from floor to ceiling, in what serves as the choir loft the rest of the year.  People have to handle publicity, parking, and hospitality.  Many work together to feed the homeless a meal and give them a gift.  There are sound, lights, and equipment.  These committees fellowship together as they prepare.  They learn to work and play together.  They learn to love God with their hearts.

Loving God With Our Strength

We are God’s workmen, created for doing good works prepared by God.  (Ephesians 2:10.)  We love God with our strength by ministering to the people around us.  The Singing Christmas ministers to the Jacksonville community by sharing the Spirit of Christmas.   People leaving on the last night said:

“This is part of my Christmas every year.  We look forward to it.” 

“It would not be Christmas for us without the Singing Christmas Tree.” 

“I went last night.  It was so good that I came back tonight with my entire family.” 

“It gets better every year.  It is always different.  They should take it to New York.” 

On woman, cried all the way through the carol, “Mary, Did You Know?”  She sobbed as she watched the video of the crucifixion scene.  “This is wonderful.  I have worshipped,” she said. 

The church ministers to prisoners and the homeless by feeding them, leading them in worship, and sending them home with gifts.  A church member told me, “This year, my calling is to the homeless.  I sat and ate with them and talked about Jesus.  A man said he had ruined his life through drinking.  I shared how Jesus had turned my life around.” 

Many people have their individual ministries for the tree.  Sandy is in charge of hair and makeup.  She is famous for making “big hair.”  Before the tree, there is a room full of hot rollers and makeup called “The Big Hair Room.”  One would not dare light a match for fear the hair spray would ignite. 

Dee and Sadie helped with the “standing chart” for the tree.  It is a complicated task.  Some want to hide on the back of the tree and others want to be “center stage.”  Height and voices are considered. 

Cindy and Barbara help prepare “No Room at the Inn,” a display of nativity scenes on loan from various members of the church.  There are sets of all types and sizes.  The room hosts family heirlooms, sets made and played with by children, and some acquired during distant travels. 

Bill prepares the soloists.  Betty and Gwen are the accompanists.  There are so many others involved in the Singing Christmas Tree.  All of these faithful ministers carefully “complete the work God gave them to do.”  (John 17:4) 

Loving God With Our Mind

We love God with our mind when we study the life of Christ and become disciples.  The Singing Christmas Tree tells the entire story of the birth, life, death and resurrection of Christ.  People learn about the intricacies of this beautiful story as they study and sing the words of the selections.  The audiences listen to the words and learn. 

God calls everyone to specific tasks on earth.  It takes education to perform those tasks to God’s Glory.  The Bible tells us to “study and show ourselves approved.”  (2 Timothy 2:15)  In addition to learning about the life of Christ, the preparation for the tree provides “singing lessons” for many of the choir members.  Professional musicians coach the choir on the individual parts and the solos.  The choir learns how to stand, breath, and sing properly.  The choir members “study and show themselves approved” with their music. 

Loving Our Neighbor As Ourselves

There is no greater love for our neighbor than telling our neighbor about Jesus Christ.  The Singing Christmas Tree tells the world about Christ.  The number of people that attend humbles the church.  This event was so large that the church considered moving it to the Florida Theater, a vintage downtown movie theatre repurposed into a performance hall.  They realized attending this event was the only time that many ever go inside a church.  Southside believes it is part of their mission to host this in the church building.  The performers gladly give their time on multiple nights so that all can hear. 

Many people come to know Christ through the tree.  Counselors are ready to assist with questions and decisions.  Many members in the church say their first exposure to the church was through the Singing Christmas Tree.  Karen is the Chairperson for the evangelism committee.  She sets up a hospitality area where people are encouraged to come for cookies, for coffee, and to ask questions.  She carefully coordinates each night.  “My calling is not necessarily to put out cookies but it is for a higher purpose,” she said.

The Singing Christmas Tree is dedicated to God and offered to the community.  The Wise Men bowed down to worship the Christ Child.  Then they opened their treasures to present their gifts to him.  (Matthew 2:11)  Because the Singing Christmas is a gift to the community, it is a gift to the Christ Child.  First, the choir “falls down and worships him.”  Next, they “open their treasures” and present their gifts. 

The individuals that sing on the tree are a treasure.  Millie has sung on the tree every one of the twenty-five years.  “I would not miss it.”

Tina tells me, “I love singing in the tree.  The weekend before the tree, other church members and I help with a migrant worker children’s camp.  Then I get to be on the tree.  I consider those two weekends my entire Christmas Season.  My favorite night is the night the choir sings to the homeless.” 

Claude remarked, “The tree has two purposes for me.  The first is my personal Christmas worship.  Preparing for the tree helps me during the season.  The second is that I get to help others worship.” 

As she grinned, JoAnn remarked, “I love music.  I feel blessed to be part of a musical production.  I have been a Christian for only five years and am “on fire” to share Jesus’ love.  The Singing Christmas Tree shares the love of Jesus.” 

Faye loves singing on homeless night because they are so appreciative.  “They clap, whistle, and cheer.  I also enjoy practicing and fellowshipping with the choir members.” 

Kathy is fun to watch.  She sings with all of her heart.  She knows every word.  “I love to praise God with music.  Music is something that reaches everyone.”

Cindy said, “I love music and Christmas.  The Singing Christmas Tree combines my two favorite things so it is a natural for me.  I love being a part of something that shares the love of Christ with the community.” 

Phil is the Master of Ceremonies, soloist, and choir member.  “I love doing this.  I offered for us to do this for two weeks but no one agreed with me.”  Phil’s main concern is reaching people for Christ.  On the last, he walked over to the hospitality desk.  “Did anyone find Christ tonight?  I can always hope.” 

Application (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Making It Personal
a)    Is music a part of your Christmas Season?  Do you take advantage of the many beautiful Christmas productions available to you? 
b)    If you are a musician, are you using your abilities to tell the Christmas story? 
c)    This season, are you part of something that helps the world love God with their entire heart, soul, mind, and strength and love their neighbors as themselves? 
d)    Are you telling the Christmas Story to the world? 
e)    Write the Great Commission in your journal.
Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
f)    Write a letter to God, accepting your commission. 
i)    Promise to tell the world about Jesus and to help make disciples. 
ii)    Commit to teaching others to obey His commandments. 
iii)    Thank him for being with you as you do this. 
iv)    If you have difficulties in any area, confess and ask for His help. 

2)    Praying Continuously  (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
a)    Ask God to send you at least one person with whom you can share some part of the Christmas Story: 
i)    Trust that God will answer your prayer. 
ii)    Be alert. 
iii)    Watch for the opportunity God will give. 
iv)    Be courageous. 
v)    Grab the opportunity. 
vi)    Share your love. 
b)    Listen:
i)    For music around you. 
ii)    Praise God for it.

3)    Ending The Day
a)    Did you come before God with singing today?
b)    If not, do it now.
c)    Be still and enjoy him singing over you.

Advent Day 14: Christmas Ministers

Day14: Christmas Ministers




Meditation (3-5 Minutes)
Begin by being still before God.  Read Romans 15:17 and meditate on the words.

Rom 15:17 (NIV)
Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God.

1)    Be still and know he is God. 

2)    Think about God’s glory.

3)    Glory in the love of Jesus Christ.

4)    Offer a willing spirit of service to our Glorious God.

5)    Listen as he tells you where to serve this Christmas.

Prayer (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Ask God to speak to you during this devotional time.

2)    Requests of the Christ Child (Appendix 1):
a)    Think about your own personal ministry. 
b)    Ask God for the time to serve him this Christmas.
c)    Pray for the wisdom to know where you should be serving this Christmas. 
d)    Ask God how you can utilize your spiritual gifts this Christmas.
e)    You have needs this Christmas.  Write them in Appendix 1.
f)    Ask God for people to minister to your needs.
g)    Appendix 1: Pray and update.

3)    Gifts from the Christ Child (Appendix 2):
a)    Who ministers to you? 
i)    At home?
ii)    In church?
iii)    In the world?
iv)    Thank God for them.
v)    List any that are not already listed in Appendix 2.
b)    Personal ministry:
i)    Think of meaningful ways you were able to use your spiritual gifts on a previous Christmas. 
ii)    Thank God for this privilege.
iii)    List them in Appendix 2.

4)    Gifts to the Christ Child (Appendix 3):
a)    Offer yourself to God as his minister. 
b)     Ask God to show you how to better utilize your spiritual gifts as you give gifts this Christmas.
c)    Appendix 3: Pray and update.

5)    Ask God for knowledge of his will for you this Christmas and the power to carry it out. 

6)    Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Bible Study (10-15 Minutes)

We love God with our strength when we minister to others.  Our spiritual gifts enable our ministries.  One of our purposes is to serve God through these ministries.   Throughout the Bible, we see people using spiritual gifts.  Jesus demonstrates all of the spiritual gifts.  The Christmas Story is an inspiring example of people ministering to others by using their Spiritual Gifts.  Each of the ministers in our blessed story gives a different example of how we can minister to others. 

Background Scripture

Read Romans 12:6-8.  There are 7 spiritual gifts listed here: 
1.  The gift of prophesy.
2.  The gift of service.
3.  The gift of teaching.
4.  The gift of encouragement.
5.  The gift of giving to meet financial needs. 
6.  The gift of leadership.
7.  The gift of demonstrating mercy.

Zechariah

Read Luke 1:8-9.  Zechariah actually had the title “Minister.”  When the famous Angel Gabriel spoke to him, Zechariah was “serving as a priest before God.”  He was in the temple burning incense and praying for the people.  Zechariah is an example of someone called to full time Christian service.  What gift or gifts do you think Zechariah demonstrated as he ministered to others?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Elizabeth

Read Luke 1:42-45.  When Mary found out she was expecting, she headed straight to her cousin Elizabeth.  They immediately worshipped together.  Elizabeth’s words ministered to Mary’s soul.  What gift or gifts do you think Elizabeth demonstrated as she ministered to Mary?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Friends

Read Luke 1:57-57.  Elizabeth and Zachariah had good friends.  Poor Zachariah left the temple mute.  His friends could have judged him.  Instead, they shared the joy of Elizabeth’s pregnancy.  A joy shared is a joy multiplied.  What gift or gifts do you think their friends demonstrated as they ministered to Elizabeth and Zechariah?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Mary

Read Luke 2:7.  Our King was born into our world as a helpless baby.  His mother had to feed him, diaper him, and sing him to sleep.  She did everything for him.  What gift or gifts do you think Mary demonstrated as she took care of Jesus?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Anna

Read Luke 2:36-38.  Praying for people is another form of ministry.  The prophetess, Anna spent her life in prayer and worship.  She heard the voice of God and recognized Christ.  What gift or gifts do you think Anna demonstrated as she told others about Christ?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Wise Men

Read Matthew 2:11.  The Wise Men opened their treasures and gave the Holy Family valuable gifts.  While we do not know for sure, it seems likely the Holy Family sold those gifts to finance the difficult days that lay ahead. 

Read Matthew 2:12.  God also used the Wise Men to protect Jesus.  He warned them in a dream.  They listened to His words.  The Wise Men ministered to this young family by avoiding Herod and thus protecting them.  They were willing to disobey Herod and risk their lives to protect Jesus.  What gift or gifts do you think the Wise Men demonstrated in their part of the Christmas Story?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Joseph

Read Matthew 2:13-15.  A confused Joseph listened to and obeyed the angel and married Mary.  We see him taking care of his family the night Jesus was born.  Joseph protected his family again when Herod was killing male children.  God calls people to protect.  Paul Revere warned us that “The British Are Coming.”  People ministered in Germany by hiding Jews.  People ministered in this country by hiding slaves.  Many risked their lives to protect Jesus’ Disciples.  What gift or gifts do you think it takes to protect others?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Application (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Making It Personal
a)    What ministries are you involved in this Christmas?  (Write your answer in your journal.)
b)    How are you exercising your spiritual gifts this Christmas?  (Write your answer in your journal.)
c)    Jesus demonstrated each of the spiritual gifts.  God calls us to be like him.  Think of one way you can demonstrate each of the spiritual gifts during the Christmas season.  (Write your answers in your journal.)
i)    Mercy: Are there people around you that need your love, understanding, and/or forgiveness.  Can you offer comfort and ease fear and doubt? 
ii)    Encouragement: Are there words of encouragement that you can offer to the world around you? 
iii)    Service: Can you take the time to help meet the personal needs of the people around you? 
iv)    Giving: Can you be generous with your money?  Can you give to help meet the material needs of those less fortunate than yourself? 
v)    Prophesy: Can you point people to God?
vi)    Leadership: Could you ease the Christmas pressure by providing leadership as people coordinate Christmas events?
vii)    Teaching: Can you tell someone the Christmas Story?

2)    Praying Continuously  (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
a)    Spiritual Gifts
i)    Ask God how you can demonstrate at least one of the spiritual gifts today.
ii)    Obediently follow his direction. 
b)    Praise God each time someone ministers to you…
i)    At work.
ii)    At home.
iii)    In the world.
iv)    At church.

3)    Ending The Day
a)    Were you a minister today?
b)    Did you utilize your spiritual gifts today? 
c)    If yes, praise God for the opportunity to be his minister.
d)    If no, confess and ask for forgiveness.
e)    Ask God to help you fully utilize your spiritual gifts. 

Advent Day 13: Romance At Christmas

Day 13: Romance At Christmas

Meditation (3-5 Minutes)
Begin by being still before God.  Read Mark 12:30-31 and meditate on the words.

Mark 12:30-31 NIV
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”  The second is this: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”  There is no commandment greater than these.

1)    Be still and know he is God. 

2)    Let your mind love God.
a)    Surrender your doubts and questions.
b)    Seek his knowledge for your purpose this Christmas.

3)    Let your heart love God.
a)    Feel your emotions.
b)    Give God any past hurt. 
c)    Feel his healing power.
d)    Think about the romances in your life.
e)    Let the joy of the Lord enter your heart.
f)    Seek understanding for the meaning of Christmas.

4)    Let your soul love God.
a)    Worship him in his mightiness.
b)    Surrender other gods before him.
c)    Ponder the wonder of spending an eternity worshipping him.
d)    Seek his wisdom for your actions this Christmas.

5)    Let your strength love God.
a)    Surrender your exhaustion.
b)    Ponder the wonder of your body being his temple.
c)    Seek a way to use your spiritual gifts for Christ this Christmas.

6)    Love your neighbors.
a)    Surrender fears about fulfilling his commission to tell the world about Christ.
b)    Surrender selfishness and self-seeking.
c)    Let yourself disappear, as Christ takes over your spirit.
d)    Seek a way to love your neighbors this Christmas.

Prayer (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Ask God to speak to you during this devotional time.

2)    Requests of the Christ Child (Appendix 1):
a)    Pray for an eager mind this Christmas.
b)    Pray for a healthy heart.
c)    Pray for a pure soul.
d)    Pray for a willing body.
e)    Pray for your neighbors to experience Christ at Christmas.  List any needs in Appendix 1
f)    Appendix 1: Pray and update.

3)    Gifts from the Christ Child (Appendix 2):
a)    Thank God for loving us.
b)    Thank God for the privilege of loving him.
c)    Thank God for the Christmas romances in your life…
i)    With him.
ii)    With your spouse or significant other.
d)    List your Christmas romances in Appendix 2.

4)    Gifts to the Christ Child (Appendix 3):
a)    Offer him the love of your mind, heart, soul, and strength.
b)    Offer him your love for his children.
c)    Surrender your romances to him.
d)    Appendix 3: Pray and update.

5)    Ask God for knowledge of his will for you this Christmas and the power to carry it out. 

6)    Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Bible Study (10-15 Minutes)

When we think of a romance, we automatically think of the search for the person God planned as our spouse.  Our society romanticizes dating.  Let us be realistic.  Dating is difficult at best.  Yes, there is the thrill of the chase but, unfortunately, it does not stop there.  There is insecurity as you wonder what someone thinks about you.  The fear and hurt of rejection reigns in the dating game.  How about the uncertainty of deciding how much to reveal as dating couples get to know each other?  As a female, I have to insert the pressure of what to wear.  And never underestimate the stress of intimate temptations. 

I always told my children that the purpose of dating was mate elimination.  I suggested they date someone until they are certain this individual is not God’s choice for their life.  Once the person is “off the list,” move on immediately.  I wanted them to leave more time for God’s choice for their life.  I reminded them that it is more blessed for God to call them to be single.

I also am not in favor of long engagements for Christians.  There is too much physical temptation that could have a lasting impact their life and marriage.  My other advice to my children was, “Once someone has been “on the list” for an acceptable amount of time and you are sure they are the right one, do not wait for the “perfect time.”  Marry them immediately once you are sure that the union is God’s will.  The circumstances will work themselves out.

Background Scripture

Romance is not just for dating.  Song of Solomon is a book about romance.  Solomon is demonstrating how married couples should respond to one another.  The deeper meaning of the book describes the nature of our romance with God.  Whether you are single or married, this devotion is for you.

Read Song of Solomon 1:4:  Describe a time when you have felt like that way about someone else.  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Describe a time when you have felt that way about God.  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Read Song Solomon 4:10.  How does God plan for us to feel about our spouse?  (Write your answer in your journal.) 

“But wait,” you cry.  “You don’t understand the people in my life.  You should hear what he or she has done.”  Read Matthew 6:14-15.  What is the secret to living with the imperfections of another?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Are you perfect in the romances in your life?  Read Numbers 5:6-7.  Who are we unfaithful to when we hurt other people?  What are we supposed to do when we hurt others?  (Write your answers in your journal.)

Read John the Baptist’s words in John 3:28-30.  Who is our bridegroom?  How do we feel when we hear his voice?  (Write your answers in your journal.) 

Many reading this are single.  Read 1 Corinthians 7:23-24.  Some readers know God has called them to remain single for their entire lives.  What is the blessing of this calling?  (Write your answer in your journal.) 

Some singles reading this long to be married.  Read Proverbs 4:11-12.  What does God promise?  Apply this scripture to your longings.  (Write your answer in your journal.)

In our Christmas romances, we see several different romantic relationships.  We see a picture of a long time marriage in the story of Zachariah and Elizabeth.  We also see their personal romance with God.  We see Mary and Joseph’s courtship and their eventual marriage.  They loved each other but put their love for God above all else.  As far as we know, God called John the Baptist to be single.  He had a specific purpose and did not need distractions.  He also understood romance.  He is who called Jesus the bridegroom. 

Read Luke 2:36-38.  What was Anna’s romantic status?  She was a widow.  Do you think she was without romance?  (Write your answer in your journal.) 

Christmas Romance In The Touchton Family

The Christmas Season is a special time for romance in the Touchton family.  In fact, December 13th is our special romantic day.  Bob and I met at the Jacksonville Fair the last week in October of 1967.  We were in the 10th grade.  We became “enemies at first sight.” 

I was at the fair with my parents and girlfriend, Sandra.  Bob and his friend Barry had worked at the fair to earn free ride tickets.  Barry and Sandra recognized each other and were thrilled that our paths had crossed.  Their hormones sparking, they hurriedly introduced us.  “Bobby, meet Cheryle.  Cheryle, meet Bobby.” Without a backwards glance, they ran off together. 

Bobby and I stared at each other.  His first words did not bode well for our evening.  “You will not be using any of my free tickets.” 

 “I wouldn’t accept them if you offered to pay me,” I retorted.   We walked in stony silence.  I thought about leaving him.  My parents had strict rules about females walking around fair grounds alone.  I was stuck with Bobby for the evening.  Sandra was going to pay.  We spent the next two hours riding together.  It was a dangerous and acrobatic act to ride a Ferris Wheel without touching. 

10:00 P.M was the meeting time with my parents.  Thankfully, Barry and Sandra showed up on time.  Daddy was carrying a gold fish.  “I won it by swallowing a live gold fish,” he told everyone. 

Bobby was not amused.  “No you didn’t.  No one would let you do that,” he communicated in typical fifteen-year-old fashion.  My father just looked at him and stuck to his story.

Driving home, Daddy remarked, “That young man was rude.”  I completely agreed.  To this day, we do not know how Daddy won the gold fish.  He is sticking to his story. 

Bobby and I went to the same high school.  To our disgust, we realized that we had Band and English together.  That meant we had to see each other every day.  It did not go well.  Soon, the entire band knew of our animosity.  We spent the year “sniping.”

Early the next December, Sandra had her sixteenth birthday party.  Having just broken up with someone, I went alone.  Being a typical geek, Bobby had no date.  We were the only two “singles” at this event.  We took some teasing about “being together” and it hit home.  Our animosity continued throughout the night.  Things came to a head when Bobby said, “Did you plan this just to get a date with me?” 

When I have had enough, most people remember my reaction.  This night was no exception.  I roughly grabbed his arm and drug him into the hall.  I could hardly breathe.  Furiously, the speech lasted for the next several minutes.  “You have been rude to me for an entire year.  I have done nothing to deserve this treatment.  No one else treats me that way and you are going to stop right now.  You suggested that I set this evening up.  Think about it.  Do you really think I would go out of my way to set up a date with you?  If you have ever had a girlfriend, I don’t know about it.  I have had boyfriends since I was twelve.”  I proceeded to give him a list of everyone I had “gone steady” with over the years.  I finished my grand speech with, “You only wish that you could be so blessed as to have a date with me.”  OK, I admit to laying it on thick but I was angry.  The truth of my dating experience was that “going steady” meant hanging out at school and occasionally boys visiting my chaperoned home.  I had only been formally dating since I had turned sixteen the August before.  I was however, comfortable with the opposite sex and meant what I said about my lack of interest in dating him. 

Bobby was stunned.  We stood there staring silently at each other.  He then looked directly in my eyes said, “You’re right.  I have been a jerk.  I’m sorry.” 

It was my turn to be stunned.  Everything changed between us at that moment.  I saw strength of character.  I saw the ability to take responsibility for actions.  I began falling in love with him standing in that hall.  “Apology accepted.  I could probably have acted a little better myself.  Can we be friends?”  People were staring as we walked out of that hall. 

Later in the evening, I found out Bobby and Barry did not believe in Christ.  I grew concerned.  Bobby and Barry were, and still are, electronic geniuses.  They even had their own radio show.  “How about coming to our church tomorrow night?  We are doing a Christmas musical and have no one to record it for us.”  Technically, this statement was true.  There was no one to record it.  The problem was that our Minister of Music did not intend to record the program. 

They agreed to come.  Frantically, I called our Minister of Music and confessed.  “They are not Christians.  This was the only way I could think of to get them into church,” I babbled.  He laughed and cooperated with the scheme.  When they arrived, he welcomed them.  He even thanked them for their willingness to help.  God bless this man. 

After church, Bobby and Barry joined our youth group at my house.  There Bobby and I discovered that we both enjoyed playing the piano and singing.  I invited them to the hayride that was the next weekend.  On December the 13, 1968, Bobby asked me to “go steady.” He gave me his ID bracelet.  Our romance became “the news item” for our school.  Not long after, Bobby accepted Christ.  That Christmas, he began the two great romances of his life. 

In 1970, December 13th became special again.  In my living room, Bobby got down on one knee and proposed.  He had already asked Daddy for my hand in marriage.  By this time, my family loved him as much as I did.  Daddy and I both said yes.

Bob and I are not the only Touchtons with a romantic Christmas story.  Our son Chris and his wife Whitney have their own Christmas romance story.  They also became engaged on December 13th.  Ruby and Ress Touchton were my husband’s grandparents.  They were actually married on Christmas Eve.  Their romance lasted on earth over 60 years and I believe it continues today in heaven. 

A Christmas Proposal

Jack and Millie are part of our church family.  They are very much in love and have been married for fifty-two years.  Jack says, “My breath still catches when I see Millie walk in the room.”  One can certainly see why.  Millie is beautiful.  Jack and Millie are both teachers.  Millie teaches private piano lessons and Jack teaches physics at a university.  Their romance has included serving the Lord together for their entire marriage.  Jack and Millie teach a very large Sunday School Class in our church.  They also sing in the choir together. 

My favorite story about Jack involves a disruption in the worship service.  One Sunday, an inebriated man entered late to the service.  He was filthy.  His odor followed him up the aisle, as he talked loudly to everyone.  He sat in the front and continued talking.  The deacon telling the story said, “I wondered what to do.  A couple of us got together to whisper alternatives.  While we were discussing it, Jack got out of his seat and sat with the man.  He put his arm around him and pulled him close.  The man laid his head on Jack’s shoulder and went to sleep.  He slept through the rest of the service.  Jack’s love was a witness to me.  I will never forget the lesson I learned as he took action while the rest of us were still talking.” 

I asked Millie about her favorite Christmas gift.  “That is an easy question,” she said as she held up her hand.  “The best gift I ever received was my engagement ring.  Jack and I started dating in high school.  He had gone off to college.  We had been separated for a semester.  I missed him so much.  On Christmas Eve, he came to my house and asked me to marry him.  I quickly said yes.  We were married a couple of years later.”  Jack and Millie still treasure each other.  They look at each other with love in their eyes.  They are tender.  Millie told me, “Everyday with Jack is like Christmas.” 

Application (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Making It Personal
a)    Who was the last person you said, “I love you” to? 
b)    Are you taking care of the romances in your life?  How can you do better? 
i)    With God.
ii)    With others.
c)    In your journal, write a love letter to God, based on Song of Solomon 1. 
d)    If you are single…
i)    Thank God for the lack of “distractions” in your life.
ii)    How can you focus on him more? (Write your answer in your journal.)
iii)    If you are seeking a partner, ask God to make your path straight.
iv)    If you are dating, ask God if this is the life partner for you. 
v)    Ask for wisdom for your future.
e)    If you are married…
i)    Thank God for your spouse.
ii)    What are his or her best qualities?  (Write your answer in your journal.)
iii)    How can you be a better partner?  (Write your answer in your journal.)
iv)    How can you focus on God more?  (Write your answer in your journal.)
v)    Ask for wisdom for your future.

2)    Praying Continuously  (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
a)    Say the words, “I love you” aloud at least three times today:
i)    To God.
ii)    To a friend.
iii)    To a family member.
b)    When you see people you know:
i)    Think about what you enjoy about these people. 
ii)    Thank God for them.

3)    Ending The Day
a)    How was your romance with God?
i)    Praise God for loving you.
ii)    If necessary, confess and ask forgiveness.
b)    How were the other romances in your life?
i)    Could you have been a better spouse, family member, or friend?
ii)    If necessary, confess and ask forgiveness.
iii)    If necessary, make amends the next day. 

This devotion is dedicated to the sweetest, smartest, and sexiest geek I know.  Happy December 13th Bob.  I love you.  

Advent Day 12: The Family of God

Day 12: The Family of God




Meditation (3-5 Minutes)

Begin by being still before God.  Read Ephesians 3:14-19 and meditate on the words.

Eph 3:14-19 (NIV)
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name.  I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.  And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

1)    Be still and know he is God. 
2)    Kneel before the Father.
3)    Think of your whole family in heaven and earth. 
a)    God is your father. 
b)    His children are your brothers and sisters.
4)    Let his glorious riches strengthen your inner being.
5)    Let Christ dwell in your heart.
6)    Meditate on how wide, long, high, and deep Christ’s love is for you. 
7)    Let the fullness of God fill you. 
8)    Enjoy being in God’s family. 

Prayer (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Ask God to speak to you during this devotional time.

2)    Requests of the Christ Child (Appendix 1):
a)    Ask him to help you to be a good “family member” this Christmas. 
i)    In the home.
ii)    In the church.
iii)    In the world.
b)    If your home is troubled, write a prayer in Appendix 1.
c)    If you are dreading any family celebrations this Christmas, write a prayer in Appendix 1.
d)    Appendix 1: Pray and update.

3)    Gifts from the Christ Child (Appendix 2):
a)    Thank God for the family fellowship offered during the Christmas Season. 
b)    Turn to Appendix 2 and list your opportunities for family fellowship during the Christmas Season.
i)    At home.
ii)    In church.
iii)    In the world.

4)    Gifts to the Christ Child (Appendix 3):
a)    Offer God your love this Christmas.
b)    Offer him yourself this Christmas.
c)    Ask him what other gifts you are to give your family this Christmas. 
d)    Appendix 3: Pray and update.

5)    Ask God for knowledge of his will for you this Christmas and the power to carry it out. 

6)    Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Bible Study (10-15 Minutes)

I will start with an easy question.  Who is your family?  The word family is in the Bible 175 times.  We see families working, worshipping, and living together.  Throughout the Bible, we see stories of family love and betrayal.  God created Eve so Adam would not be alone.  We know where that led.  We see Moses’ mother gently floating him down a river and his big sister tenderly watching him.  We see Noah’s faithfulness saving his entire family.  Jacob and Esau may be brothers but they spent most of their life fighting.  We see sexual abuse between two of David’s children.  Regardless of your family circumstances, rest assured you are not alone.  If you look hard enough, you can find the story of your family somewhere in the Bible. 

As Christians, God calls us his family. To help us understand his definition of family, he sent his son to be part of an earthly family.  The Christmas story models God’s family plan for us.  We see a mother and father tenderly loving a child and doing anything to protect him.  We see cousins supporting one another through difficult but thrilling circumstances.  We see an elderly couple celebrating the birth of their first child.  We see an extended family that included shepherds, a priest, and Wise Men.  Christmas is a time for fellowship with family.  Our family includes God, our church and those we live with.  It also includes anyone with which we have a bond.  Children of Christ all have an eternal bond.

Background Scripture

Read Ephesians 3:14-15.  I wondered what the word family meant.  The Greek word here is patria.  It means a group of families or a whole race (nation).  What do you think this verse means?  (Write your answer in your journal.) 

The more common words for family used in the Bible means circle of relatives, house, or abode.  Our dictionary gives a broad definition of family.  Yes, it does mean a one or two parent house, with children.  It also means a circle of relatives, anyone who lives together in one household and people that are committed to each other or bonded together in some way.  In other words, the definition of family is broad.  No one need be without family. 

I always told my children that family is whom they are with at the time.  I do not ever want them to feel like they have no family.  I have a friend who lost the last three members of her biological family in one year.  Brokenly, she said, “I have no family left.”  As she spoke, I noticed that she was surrounded by a circle of friends intent on taking care of her.  They call her, take her out, take her to the doctor, and help her with her business affairs.  She is not without family. 

Read Luke 12:52-53.  Unfortunately, families are not always like Jesus’ earthly family.  The fact that there are so many dysfunctional families should come as no surprise.  What does Jesus warn us could happen with earthly families?  (Write your answer in your journal.) 

Read Psalms 33:16.  No matter how strong we are, it is not enough.  God gave us families because he knew we would need support.  Knowing our earthly families would fail us, he invited us to be part of his perfect family. 

Read Psalms 33:18-10.  As a parent, I watched my children.  I fed them and protected them.  They are adults, yet I continue to have unfailing love for them. Our father is always watching us.  Describe the promise in this verse.  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Read Jeremiah 20:11.  When my children were nervous, I would see them look over and find my eyes.  With that one look, they had the courage to proceed.  It is the same with our father.  Describe why we can feel so incredibly safe as a member of his family.  (Write your answer in the journal.)

Fellowship With Family

Bob loves God, his church, family, and the Gators.  Yes, I realize I could be describing my husband Bob.  The Bob I am talking about also loves golf and is active at eighty-seven.  I first became friends with Bob when I was coordinating a summer children’s program for our church.  I needed chaperones every Tuesday and Thursday for the entire summer.  You can probably guess that most people in the church were avoiding me.  I saw Bob and asked, “Will you help chaperone this summer?” 

He said one word.  “Yes.” 

I was stunned.  I was expecting to have to beg.  “How many days can you help?” I asked. 

“How many do you need?” 

“Well, I actually need chaperones for all of the days.” 

“OK,” he said.  Was I hearing correctly?  I resisted the urge to ask if he was joking.  Bob attended every event.  The children loved him and fought over being included in his group.

I loved to watch Bob with his wife Virginia.  Their romance was obvious to anyone that watched.  They loved to be together and shared a beautiful fellowship.  When Virginia got sick, Bob carefully and lovingly took care of her.  When she went home to be with the Lord, he celebrated her eternal life.  He constantly tells everyone, “I was so blessed to have been married to Virginia.”  He was married to Virginia for fifty-five years.

I worried about Bob after Virginia died.  His children were grown and I thought he was alone.  I asked him how he was.  “God has called me to continue living on earth.  I am grateful to still be here.” I should not have worried about Bob.  He knows he is part of the family of God and he sees everyone as family or potential family. 

Bob carries a business card with him.  He gives it to people as he tells them about the love of God.  “The card helps me witness and gives people a way to get in touch with me.  Virginia loved roses.  See the picture of the rose.  I use it to tell people how beautiful a Christian marriage can be.” 

Bob tries to talk to everyone he meets.  “God says I’m supposed to tell people about Jesus, so I do.”  His business card also has a picture of a cross and praying hands.  “I use the cross to tell people about Jesus.  I use the praying hands to tell them about the prayer ministry at church.  Then, I invite them to church.” 

Bob had lived in his home with Virginia for forty years.  Her roses were in the front yard.  Eventually, the time came for Bob to move to a place that was easier for him to manage.  So many people hang on to their past.  They feel sorry for themselves when they have to let go and make a change.  Not Bob.  Bob knows how to “let go and let God.”  He faced this change with the same courage he has faced everything else. 

First, he asked for prayer.  Then, he made sure Virginia’s roses would continue to live by giving them away.  He took inventory of his belongings and kept only what he needed.  He even found a way to get a recliner chair that he had always wanted.  Bob proudly moved into his new home. 

“I love where I live.  I enjoy having my meals prepared for me again.  I like to be around people.”  One of the definitions of family is people that live under one roof.  Bob has found a new family. 

Bob loves his church family.  His current ministry is helping coordinate our church’s prayer ministry.  For several years, I had the privilege of being in a monthly prayer group with him.  He responded to my needs like a faithful family member.  He has prayed for my family, health, business, career, and ministries.  I have prayed for his family, health, ministries, and even his golf game. 

Bob enjoys the fellowship of his church family.  He attends and ministers during all of the Christmas celebrations.  I noticed him at the dress rehearsal for our church’s Singing Christmas Tree.  He was just there to help.  On opening night of the Singing Christmas Tree, he helped to feed our guests, the city’s homeless.

Bob knows who his father is and understands his body is his father’s temple.  Bob takes care of his body the same way he would take care of any family member’s home.  “God wants me to take care of my body.”  Because he has taken care of God’s temple, he is still able to serve God faithfully.  I have watched him face the aging process with the courage of a warrior fighting in battle.  For example, Bob’s knee started giving him some difficulties.  First, he asked for prayer.  Without hesitation, he had a knee replacement.  He went through the painful physical therapy without complaining.  He was back on the golf course in just a few weeks. 

Bob loves Christmas.  “Christmas is a time for fellowship with families.”  Bob is an expert at fellowship.  He fellowships at church, where he lives, in the community, and on the golf course.  “I love the Christmas Season because it allows me to reconnect with family members that I haven’t seen during the year.  Christmas strengthens our family bonds.  I spend Christmas with my children and grandchildren.”

“What was your favorite Christmas Gift?”  I asked. 

He had no trouble answering.  He became emotional as he shared.  “My favorite gift was a gratitude letter from a friend I helped.  This letter contains my favorite scripture.  This gift hangs in my new home.”

In case you are wondering, Bob’s favorite scripture is also on the card he gives out as he tells people about Jesus.  Proverbs 3:6 describes the life of Bob. 

Proverbs 3:6 (NIV)
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

Application (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Making It Personal
a)    Do you know your favorite scripture?  Write it in your journal.
b)    How can or do you share your favorite scripture with the world?  (Write your answer in your journal.)
c)    Do you enjoy the fellowship of Christmas? 
d)    How can you use Christmas to strengthen the family bonds (Write your answer in your journal)…
i)    In the home?
ii)    In church?
iii)    In the world?
e)    How well do you take care of the Holy Spirit’s home, your body?  How can you do better today?  (Write your answers in your journal.) 

2)    Praying Continuously  (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
a)    Take some time today just for the purpose of fellowship with family. 
i)    Suggestions:  Play a game.  Go out to dinner.  Make a phone call.  Read to someone.  Go to a party. 
ii)    Praise God for your family as you do it. 
b)    Every time you see a family member, whisper a quick prayer of thanks. 
c)    Anytime there is a family problem, stop and pray. 

3)    Ending The Day
a)    Do you take care of the home of the Holy Spirit today?  If not, confess and ask forgiveness. 
b)    Were you a good family member today?  If not, confess and ask forgiveness.
c)    Praise God for your family.
d)    Tell him your concerns about your family.
e)    Praise God for letting you be a part of his family. 

Advent Day 11: Christmas Lights

Day 11: Christmas Lights




Meditation (3-5 Minutes)
Begin by being still before God.  Read Psalms 43:3-4 and meditate on the words.

Psalms 43:3-4 (NIV)
Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell.  Then will I go to the altar of God,
to God, my joy and my delight.  I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God.

1)    Be still and know he is God. 
2)    Let him send forth his “Light and Truth.”
3)    Let his light and truth guide you.
4)    Let him bring you to his “Holy Mountain,” where he dwells.
5)    Go to “The Altar” of your “Joy” and “Delight.”
6)    Sing praises to God. 

Prayer (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Ask God to speak to you during this devotional time.

2)    Requests of the Christ Child (Appendix 1):
a)    Ask Jesus to light your way this Christmas. 
b)    If your eyes are dark, kneel before God and ask to see the world with His eyes. 
c)    Ask him to help you light the way for his children. 
d)    Appendix 1: Pray and update.

3)    Gifts from the Christ Child (Appendix 2):
a)    Thank God for the Christmas lights you see everywhere. 
b)    Thank God for sending us Jesus, the Light of the World.
c)    List the people who are lights in your life in Appendix 2.

4)    Gifts to the Christ Child (Appendix 3):
a)    Offer yourself as a Christmas light for Jesus. 
b)    Ask God to make you a light as you give gifts this Christmas.
c)    Appendix 3: Pray and update.

5)    Ask God for knowledge of his will for you this Christmas and the power to carry it out. 

6)    Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Bible Study (10-15 Minutes)

Think of a time when the lights of your house went out.  How did you get around?  Did you bump into furniture as you frantically looked for a flashlight or candle?  Were you feeling your way across what would have been easily crossable only moments before?  When you finally lit the room with that flashlight or candle, was there a sense of relief as a tiny beam pierced your darkness? 

Now remember the lights finally coming back on.  As light flooded the entire room, did you feel elation, as your limitations were removed?  Were you thrilled that you could walk from room to room without carrying something or setting something on fire? 

Some people live in complete spiritual darkness.  They stumble from situation to situation, feeling their way along the wall.  They live with bruises, pain, and broken bones.  Some remember a time when they had light but now have lost their way.  For others, darkness has consumed their entire life. 

Some spend their life carrying a tiny candle or flashlight.  Since they can see, they think it is enough.  They see those in total darkness and feel fortunate in comparison.  They go through life only half living.  They do not know what it could be like in a room flooded with light.  They may know Jesus as savior but they have never met him as a close friend and counselor.  Their small beam of light is gradually burning down. 

In a world of darkness, pain, and evil, God sent Jesus Christ to light the way.  If we choose, we can see the world with His eyes.  When we see with His eyes, the room is flooded with light.  Fear is gone.  We see our blessings in all circumstances.  When difficulties come, Jesus’ light gives us peace and understanding. 

Christmas lights symbolize the light of Jesus.  They remind us of his love.  We see them in shopping malls, on houses, and in church.  As Christians, we are to let the light of Jesus show through us.  This Christmas, light the darkness for those around you. 

Background Scripture

Read Genesis 1:3-4.  God invented light.  As he looked around, what was his opinion of light?  Do you agree with his assessment?  (Write your answers in your journal.) 

Read Psalms 27:1.  Who is the Lord?  Write this entire scripture in your journal.  Say it aloud.  Believe it. 

Read Matthew 4:16.  Without the light of Jesus, what land do people live in?  Do you know anyone who lives in this land?  (Write your answers in your journal.) 

Read Proverbs 13:9.  Is your lamp burning?  What happens to the lamp of the wicked?  (Write your answers in your journal.)

Read Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:14-16.  What are we supposed to do with our lamps?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Read Acts 20:35.  At Christmas, we have an opportunity to be the light of the world.  We can give blessings to others.  What does the scripture say about giving?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Read Matthew 6:22.  The eye is the lamp of our body.  What happens if our eyes are good?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Keep reading to Matthew 6:23.  What happens if our eyes are bad?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

The Night People

Read the scripture below.  Listen carefully to Jesus’ warning. 

John 3:19-21 NIV
This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.  Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.  But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."  

My adopted son David was one of a group of people I call “The Night People.”  “Night People” are those who stay up all night and sleep all day.  I am not talking about people who work night shifts.  I am talking about people who do things that most of us cannot imagine.  I am talking about people who waste their days by playing during the night.  “Night People’s” desires are easier accomplished in the darkness.  My David was born to a family of “Night People.”  I first met him when he was six years old.  His abusive and dysfunctional biological family had recently abandoned him.  He moved in with us and we later adopted him. 

David fought his darkness but it always called him.  We gave him his first real Christmas.  Poor David was baffled when he saw a room full of toys.  Never before had Santa Clause come to see him.  We told him about Jesus and he accepted him right away.  He would sit in church, cuddled up close, and listen to every word. 

He teetered between two worlds.  He would confess and try hard for long periods.  Then, he would do something that would shock everyone around him.  He asked me one time, “Mama, am I just plan bad?  Why do I do these things?”  I tried to explain grace to David but David kept making the same mistakes repeatedly. 

When David became a teenager, he abandoned the light completely.  With us frantically searching for him, he began staying out until the middle of the night.  His activities were dangerous, illegal, and immoral.  We tried everything but the strength of the darkness was too much.  When he was 19, he slept entirely through Christmas day.  We waited as long as we could and finally opened gifts without him.  The night had taken away his day. 

David finally found The Light.  A year before he died of AIDS, he called home.  “Mama, I have found God again.  I feel so clean.”  We had a glorious year.  We celebrated one of everything.  I treasure the gifts he gave that year.  He knew he was dying and made each one special.  He died respected by his employer and surrounded by friends. 

One night as I was panicking over his high fever, he told me, “Mama, I am going to die.  You have to accept that.  Please don’t worry about me.  God has shown me where I am going.”  On June 8, 1995 my baby went home to the Light. 

The Day People

Day people are those who work hard, love God, and do the best they can.  They are not perfect nor are their lives.  They have is an eternal view of life and wear the world as a loose garment.  They rely on God, their church, and their families to help meet their needs.  They struggle but look to God for answers.  Read Jesus’ words in John 8:12.  Whoever follows him will never walk in darkness. 

John 8:12 (NIV)
“I am the light of the world.  Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." 

As Cindy told me her favorite Christmas story, I knew I was listening to a story about a family and church of “Day People.”  Ten-year-old Cindy and her younger sisters were concerned about Christmas.  The girls expected it to be the worst Christmas ever.  Their daddy had been sick and unemployed for over a year.  “Our parents warned us that they didn’t have any money.  We didn’t expect gifts that year.  The worst part was that we couldn’t give gifts to our grandma, and cousins.  I could not imagine Christmas without being able to give gifts.”

“We couldn’t afford a Christmas tree.  Daddy took us to the woods and we chopped down a small and unimpressive pine tree.  It was so much fun.  We were bursting with excitement as we brought it home and decorated it.  Suddenly, our living room looked like Christmas.  To this day, I believe this was the most beautiful tree our family has ever had.” 

Cindy continued her story.  “Our church found out we didn’t have any money.  Individual church members adopted each girl and the gifts started pouring in.  We had more gifts than ever before.  Then, God worked an even bigger miracle.  He sent us gifts for the rest of the family.  We were worried that we had nothing to give our cousins, who were all boys.  Amazingly, some of the gifts we received worked for little boys.  We wrapped them up and gave them away.” 

“We all worried about Grandma,” Cindy continued.  “We had gifts for everyone but her.  I felt terrible.  Then, Daddy heard a noise in the barn and went to investigate.  Hiding in the barn was a possum.  Grandma loved to eat possum.  Daddy trapped that possum and gave it live to Grandma the next morning.  She was thrilled.  She said it was the best Christmas gift she ever received.”  After Christmas, the entire family enjoyed a possum dinner.  Like the ram God provided to Abraham so many years ago, God provided a possum for Grandma. 

Those In The Middle
Many cannot make up their mind as to which category they are in.  They want to be in the light but they refuse to heed the warnings of the darkness.  They believe they can live in both worlds.  Read Jesus’ words in Luke 16:13.

Luke 16:13 (NIV)
No servant can serve two masters.  Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other.

No one wakes up one day and decides to be become a “Night Person.”  It happens gradually, one compromise at a time.  It may start with a Saturday night party and too much to drink.  On Sunday, the head hurts and going to church seems impossible.  It may start with being too busy and working into the night.  Exhaustion becomes an excuse for skipping devotions and worship services. 

John grew up in church.  He became a Christian at an early age.  His values and ethics were strong.  He was leader in his church and school.  Then, John went off to college.  The first thing that happened was that he stopped going to church.  He did not know anyone and it was easier to sleep on Sunday.  He rationalized that he would go to church when he was at home. 

John’s friends were artists and musicians who had creative philosophies about life.  They offered these philosophies, listening to music, until way into the night.  They began influencing John’s thoughts.  Doubts crept in.  John fought his doubts but did not discuss them with anyone who would tell him the truth. 

Gradually, John began to make moral compromises.  He rationalized that everyone occasionally overindulged in food or alcohol.  The people around him took light drugs and he occasionally experimented.  He abandoned his vow of celibacy before marriage.  Needing to rationalize his new behavior, he began considering himself “enlightened.”  John no longer believes in Christianity.  He thinks it is too limiting.  He has lost his faith. 

Gradually, the night is taking away John’s days.  He parties until late into the night.  He claims to have lost interest in material things.  That translates into his having trouble earning money and his family feeling obligated to help.  John is living in that space between the night and the day.  Rapidly, he is moving towards the night. 

No one can stay still.  We are either walking into brighter light or headed towards the darkness.  Jesus is the truth and light.  He tells Christians to radiate his light.  Jesus tells us to go to his church because he knows we need to surround ourselves with people of the Light.  Walk toward the light this Christmas. 

Application (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Making It Personal
a)    How are your “eyes” during this Christmas season?  Are they full of light?  Do you see God’s blessings everywhere?  Write a praise letter to God in your journal.
b)    Are they full of darkness?  Are you only seeing what is wrong with the world and your life?  In your journal, write a letter of confession to God and ask for his help. 
c)    Are you:
i)    A day person?
ii)    A night person?
iii)    Somewhere in between?
d)    Are you lighting the world for others this Christmas?  How?  How can your lamp burn brighter?  (Write your answers in your journal.)

2)    Praying Continuously  (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
a)    Notice the Christmas lights. 
b)    Each time you see a Christmas light, praise God for being your Light.
c)    Ask to be able to see the world through his eyes.

3)    Ending The Day
a)    Did you walk towards the light today?  Praise God for his light.
b)    Did you walk towards the darkness today?  Confess and ask for forgiveness.

Advent Day 10: The Shepherd of our Souls

Day 10: The Shepherd of our Souls




Meditation (3-5 Minutes)

Begin by being still before God.  Read Psalms 23:1-3 and meditate on the words.

Psalms 23:1-3 (NIV)
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.  He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.  He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

1)    Be still and know he is God. 
2)    Picture yourself in a field, with the Lord as your shepherd.
a)    He tells you where to go.
b)    He protects you.
c)    He meets all your needs.
d)    He watches you as you sleep.
3)    Enjoy the green pastures.
4)    Kneel beside quiet water.
5)    Let him restore your soul.
6)    Listen as he guides you in paths of righteousness, for his name’s sake.

Prayer (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Ask God to speak to you during this devotional time.

2)    Requests of the Christ Child (Appendix 1):
a)    Ask God to be your shepherd.
b)    Ask him to send people to shepherd and guide you. 
c)    Ask God to make you worthy to be a shepherd for his flock. 
d)    Turn to appendix 2.
i)    List anyone you are “shepherding.” 
ii)    Pray and update.

3)    Gifts from the Christ Child (Appendix 2):
a)    Thank Jesus Christ for being the shepherd of your soul.
b)    Think about the people that have “shepherded you’ (your spiritual mentors).
i)     Praise God for them. 
ii)    Turn to Appendix 2.and write their names.

4)    Gifts to the Christ Child (Appendix 3):
a)    Offer your services to God, this Christmas, tending his flock. 
b)    Turn to Appendix 3: Pray and update.

5)    Ask God for knowledge of his will for you this Christmas and the power to carry it out. 

6)    Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Bible Study (10-15 Minutes)

Shepherds are an important part of God’s message for us.  The words shepherd and shepherds are in the Bible 100 times.  The words flock and flocks are in the Bible 200 times.  Adam and Eve’s son, Abel was a shepherd.  At one time in his life, Moses “tended flocks.”  King David began his career as a shepherd.  Later, God called him to “shepherd” his people.  David wrote the words, “The Lord is my Shepherd.”  Shepherds were part of the first Christmas.  They spread the word that our savior was born. 

When you think about it, calling us “sheep” is not very flattering.  While sheep might look cute, they have “issues.”  They always need a shepherd.  Even with a shepherd, they wander off and get lost.  Alone, they starve.  They have no defense against wolves.  They are mean and bite. 

But alas, look around.  Everywhere, we see lost and confused people.  Homeless people wander the streets.  We bite each other through our petty squabbles and our wars.  The newspaper tells of a woman trampled while shopping a Christmas sale.  We read of a fight breaking out over a Christmas present.  Yes, we do need a shepherd, this Christmas.  Jesus is our Shepherd and we, his flock.  Jesus instructs us to become shepherds ourselves and lead people to Jesus.  This Christmas, tend his flock. 

Background Scripture

Read Psalms 32:1.  Who is your shepherd?  Write this verse in your journal. 

Think about David tending sheep.  He is sitting on the hill, playing his harp and singing praises to God.  He has just sung the words, “The Lord is my shepherd.”  Suddenly a wolf appears and goes after the sheep.  What do you think David does?  How much risk would he take to save his sheep?  (Write your answers in your journal.)

Read John 10:11.  Jesus calls himself the Good Shepherd.  What does a good shepherd do for his sheep?  (Write your answer in your journal.) 

How was Jesus a “Good Shepherd” for us?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Read the prayer in Hebrews 13:20-21.  A Good Shepherd also guides his sheep and meets their needs.  Write the promises in these verses.  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Read 1 Peter 5:2.  Many have difficulty recognizing the hand of God.  It is easer to see God working through people.  Knowing this, God sends us people to shepherd us.  He asks us to “Shepherd” his sheep.  What should our attitude be as we tend God’s flock?  (Write your answer in the journal.) 

Read Romans 12: 6-8.  God prepares us to tend his flock by giving us gifts.  What are the seven gifts listed in these verses?  (Write your answer in your journal.) 

Note the attitude we are supposed to display while exercising our gifts.  How should we show mercy?  How should we lead?  How should the gift of prophesy be used?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Read 1 Peter 2:25.  God is the “Shepherd of our Soul.”  Why do we need shepherds?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Servants that Shepherd

Jim and Linda have been my Sunday School teachers for years.  Jim accepted Christ at age 11 and Linda at age 22.  While they exercise many spiritual gifts, their primary gift is service.  They “shepherd” our class with that gift. 

Jim is a deacon in our church.  Jim and Linda also head up our church’s “Willing Hands Ministry.”  “Willing Hands” provides assistance wherever people need help.  Many of the people they minister to are elderly.  “Willing Hands” may drive someone to the doctor, pick up medication, or make necessary home repairs.  When someone has a need, he or she calls the church office or Jim and Linda. 

“Our job is to match the need with an available resource.  We find someone in the church that has both the necessary skill set and the willingness to help.” Jim said.  Having watched them, I know that many times, Jim and Linda meet the need themselves.  They run errands and act as advocate for people that cannot otherwise help themselves.  

Their faith is a role model for the entire class.  I remember one particularly difficult year for them.  This was the year Jim’s mother died.  “She was ready to go home to be with her Lord but we were not ready to let her go.  We tried to be joyful but we missed her.”  I watched as they continued serving through their grief and the business of closing her affairs. 

Not soon after losing Jim’s mother, Jim and Linda had to face another trial.  Just before Jim’s mother passed away, Jim’s daughter got pregnant.  “We had almost given up on being grandparents,” Jim told the class.  Not long after Jim’s mother died, their daughter miscarried.  Knowing what wonderful grandparents they would make, we all grieved the loss of that child.  Jim and Linda took comfort that their grandchild is “happier than the living” and will never “see evil.”  (Ecclesiastes 4:1-3)

Amazingly, Jim and Linda continued their ministry through their grief.  My husband had surgery a couple of days after they lost their grandchild.  I was amazed when they came to the hospital and sat with me.  “What are you doing here?”  I asked.  “You are supposed to be taking care of yourself.” 

I will always remember Linda’s words.  “The way we care for ourselves is to care for others.”  What a lesson that was for me.  The circumstances of their lives did not cause them to lose focus.  They offer their willingness to God and continue to “shepherd.” By shepherding others, they allowed God to minister to their grieving souls. 

As I write this, Jim and Linda are ministering to a family whose child is gravely ill.  They have been faithful throughout the discouraging past few years of this child’s physical decline.  They have regularly visited the hospital, even when the child was hospitalized in other cities.  They take turns sitting with the child to give the mother much-needed breaks.  Through their leadership, church members have remembered to pray, helped build a wheel chair ramp, visited the hospital and home, and met other needs.  Jim and Linda have taught our church how to remain faithful when God’s will is confusing and our hearts are breaking.  Through it all, Jim and Linda have managed to make sure Jesus and his church get the credit for their “shepherding.” 

I asked Jim to tell me about a meaningful Christmas he experienced.  Before teaching adults, Jim taught youth.  “One Christmas, my Senior High class decided to gather gifts for a needy family.  Their purpose was to demonstrate love and concern.  The youth got excited and did a wonderful job.  They collected many, many gifts.  Our next goal was to locate a family and provide their children with gifts.  Surprisingly, we could not find a needy family.  Our gifts had no recipient.  The youth were disappointed and began to feel they had wasted their time.  They even questioned God and actually lost some of their purpose and reason for giving.  Just two days before Christmas, a desperate church member called.  She needed gifts for the foster children she was keeping.  She was an elderly woman with a lot of love and not much money.  She was broken hearted that she could not afford to give Christmas gifts to these children.  The church immediately called us.  I called my youth.  On Christmas Eve, we took the gifts over to the home.  There, we experienced the real meaning of Christmas.” 

Through the Holy Spirit and the guidance of these gentle shepherds, these youth learned many lessons.  They learned the lesson of giving through faith.  By giving, they met a faithful woman who had little economically, but gave all she had.  Like the Wise Men, she “opened her treasures” and gave to these foster children.  (Matthew 2:11)  This foster mother may not have had the economic “treasures” of the Wise Men but her gifts were just as valuable.  One of her “treasures” was her church family.  She trusted God and God provided for her needs through her church. 

The youth learned about “waiting on God.”  The Holy Spirit led them to collect the gifts.  He waited before providing a recipient for those gifts.  His waiting taught the youth to trust God’s plan and timing.  God is never late but he is seldom early. 

They learned the blessing of making a difference.  It was a Christmas the youth would never forget.  Jim’s gift of service to this family was the gifts they received.  His gift of service to the youth was to “shepherd” them into trusting and following “The Shepherd of our Soul.”

Application (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Making It Personal
a)    In your journal, write a letter to Jesus thanking Him for being the “Shepherd of our Soul.”  Thank him for sending us shepherds to guide us.  Praise him for the privilege of caring for his flock this Christmas. 
b)    Read Romans 12: 6-8 and list your spiritual gifts in your journal.
c)    Are you shepherding others this Christmas?  How are you using your spiritual gifts?  Is God leading you to do something specific?  Make a commitment.  (Write your answer in your journal.)
d)    Think about the shepherds in your life.  How are you allowing them to shepherd you?  (Write your answer in your journal.)
e)    Think about the needs in your life.  Do you need to lie down in the “green pastures?”  How are you letting the “Great Shepherd” minister to you?  (Write your answers in your journal.)

2)    Praying Continuously  (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
a)    As you go through your days, notice the people that “shepherd” you.  Praise God for them, even if you find yourself unreceptive to their “help.” 
i)    Is your manager asking you to make some kind of change? 
ii)    Are co-workers pushing you to do more? 
iii)    Is your spouse offering “helpful” suggestions? 
iv)    Is someone at your church holding you accountable? 
b)    Today, find something to do for someone else. 
i)    Make sure no one knows of your good deed. 
ii)    It can be something small or large. 
iii)    Allow Jesus to Shepherd your soul. 
iv)    Pray about what you are to do. 
v)    Follow through on what he tells you. 

3)    Ending The Day
a)    Thank our Heavenly Shepherd for sending us shepherds like Jim and Linda.  Pray for their family during this Christmas season.  Ask God to bless them with the delights of their heart. 
b)    Thank God for the shepherds in your life.
i)    Are you humble enough to allow them to shepherd you? 
ii)    If not, confess and ask for help.
c)    Examine your own life. 
i)    If you are not being a “shepherd,” confess to “The Great Shepherd.” 
ii)    Pray for the people you are shepherding.

Advent Day 9: The Christmas Stars

Day 9: The Christmas Stars




Meditation (3-5 Minutes)
Begin by being still before God.  Read Psalms 139:23-24 and meditate on the words.

Ps 139:23-24 (NIV)
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.  See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

1)    Be still and know he is God. 
2)    Sit quietly and let God search you and know your heart.
3)    Give God your anxious thoughts.
4)    Offer God any offensive way in you.
5)    Listen as God leads you in the way everlasting.

Prayer (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Ask God to speak to you during this devotional time.

2)    Requests of the Christ Child (Appendix 1):
a)    Ask God to show you the role he has planned for you this Christmas. 
b)    Ask God to remove anything that is blocking you from fulfilling that role.
c)    Think about the roles you play at Christmas for your family, church, and employer.  Turn to Appendix 1 and ask God to help you with each.
d)    Appendix 1:  Pray and update. 

3)    Gifts from the Christ Child (Appendix 2):
a)    Thank God for Christmas. 
i)    For the first Christmas.
ii)    For this Christmas. 
iii)    For all the Christmas’ in the middle.
b)    Think about the things other people do for you at Christmas. 
i)    Thank God for the people that play a role in your Christmas.
ii)    Turn to Appendix 2 and list them 

4)    Gifts to the Christ Child (Appendix 3):
a)    Offer yourself to Christ this Christmas. 
i)    Offer to be his servant at home.
ii)    Offer to be his servant at church.
iii)    Offer to be his servant in your place of employment.
iv)    Offer to be his servant in the world.
b)    Appendix 3: Pray and update.

5)    Ask God for knowledge of his will for you this Christmas and the power to carry it out. 

6)    Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Bible Study (10-15 Minutes)

God was the director of “The Very First Christmas.”  He promoted the event for centuries.  In fact, people had heard about it for so long that many forgot to look for it.  God himself played three staring roles.  As Father, he planned his family.  He picked a mother for his son.  He sent a messenger to tell her the good news.  As Holy Spirit, he came upon this special young woman and the “Power of the Most High” overshadowed her so the “Holy One” could be born.  As Jesus, he came as a baby to save the world. 
 
God selected the rest of his cast carefully.  He used ordinary people in the process of living their lives.  He used priests, world leaders, and astronomers.  Some played the role of “Good Guy” and some “Bad Guy.”  God even allowed angels to star in his production. 

Background Scripture

Open to the books of Luke and Matthew.  There were many roles played in “The First Christmas” production.  Below, we will examine the personality and character traits of the stars from the very first Christmas.  As you read briefly about each star, write what you think he or she was like.  For example, Mary was bright, inquisitive, humble, fearful, and obedient.  Zachariah was righteous and faithful.  He had a servant’s heart but a stubborn head.  As you write about each person, think about your own personality and character traits.  Who are you like?  Could have used you in his production? 

Angel Gabriel

Read Luke 1:13 and Luke 1:30.  Describe the nature of God’s chosen angel. (Write your answer in your journal.)

Read Luke 1:19-20.  Gabriel was kind but no wimp.  Zachariah confronted Gabriel and demanded evidence of his words.  Describe how Gabriel responded.  On whose authority did he act?  What “proof” did he give Zachariah? (Write your answer in your journal.)

Elizabeth and Zachariah

Read Luke 1:6.  Describe Elizabeth and Zachariah’s character.  Who were they?  What kind of people did God choose to give birth to the forerunner of his son?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Where Elizabeth and Zachariah perfect?  What mistakes did they make?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Mary the Mother

Read Luke 1:26-30 and 46-55.  To her friends and family, Mary may have seemed ordinary.  We know Mary was extraordinary.  What kind of woman did God chose to mother his son?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Joseph

Read Matthew 1:19, 24.  Poor Joseph.  Imagine his agony when he found the love of his life, Mary, was expecting.  Describe him and his response to this difficult news.  (Write your answer in your journal.)

The Shepherds

Read Luke 2:8-20.  What kind of men where the shepherds?  How do you think they dressed?  What economic level do you think they were?  How did they respond to God’s instructions?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Simeon

Read Luke 2:25-36.  Another simple priest played a humble and prophetic role in God’s production.  What was Simeon like?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

Prophetess Anna

Read Luke 2:36-38.  What role did Anna play?  What do you think she was like?  Why do you think we read about Anna in the Bible?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

King Herod

Read Matthew 2:3-5, 7-8, 16.  Every good story has to have “Bad Guy.” Describe the “Bad Guy” of “The Very First Christmas.”  (Write your answer in your journal.)

>u>The Wise Men


Read Matthew 2:1, 9-12.  Here, we see God using people that are very different from the other stars.  Their race, religion, and culture were probably different from Mary and Joseph.  What were the Wise Men like?  (Write your answer in your journal.)

God’s Christmas productions did not end with “The Very First Christmas.”  There has been over 2,000 sequels of “This Christmas.”  Christians have celebrated the birth of Jesus for over 2,000 years.  Year after year, people from each generation play a role in “This Christmas.”  Our good guys have names like St. Nicholas, Mother Teresa, and Lottie Moon.  Modern day bad guys may resemble “The Grinch” or leaders of terrorist countries. 

We celebrate Christmas because we have been given a savior called Christ the Lord.  We are blessed by the presence of the Holy Spirit.  In our Father’s eyes, we are perfect.  God gives us so much.  To whom much is given, much is required.  (Luke 12:48.)  What is your role “This Christmas? 

Application (5-10 Minutes)

1)    Making It Personal
a)    Which of the stars from “The Very First Christmas” are you most like?  Are you a good guy or a bad guy?  Are you a combination of several or are you like none of them?  (Write your answer in your journal.)
b)    Think about your Christmases.  Who are the “Good Guys and Bad Guys” from them?  (Write your answer in your journal.)
i)    Praise God for the “Good Guys.”
ii)    Ask God to help you forgive the “Bad Guys.”
c)    Are you worthy to play a role in God’s production of “This Christmas?”  What would make you more worthy?  (Write your answer in your journal.)
d)    Are you willing play a role in God’s production of “This Christmas?”  What role is he casting you for?  Remember that each year, the roles change.  Listen to God and think outside the box.  God seldom asks the expected.  (Write your answer in your journal.)

2)    Praying Continuously  (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
a)    Every time you see the color red, thank God for his production of “The Very First Christmas.” 
b)    Every time you see the color green, ask God to reveal your role in “This Christmas.”

3)    Ending The Day
a)    On this day, did you play a role in “This Christmas?” 
b)    Were you a “Good Guy” or “Bad Guy?” 
c)    If necessary, confess and ask forgiveness.
d)    Ask God if you owe anyone an apology. 
e)    Think about the things other people did for you today. 
f)    Praise God for them.