O Come, All Ye Faithful (stanza 2)
Yea, Lord, we greet Thee,
Born this happy morning,
Jesus, to Thee be all glory given;
Word of the Father,
Now in flesh appearing!
O come, let us adore Him,
Christ, the Lord!
Christmas morning is such a happy time. Children usually up long before sunrise to see what has been left for them under the tree. Parents and adults still in bed but remembering Christmas mornings past when they too were running through the house exclaiming what they had found under the tree for them at a Christmas long ago.
It is a time of discovery and hope and even sometimes disappointment. Yes, disappointment when that special something just didn’t make it under the tree or that special something is not quite as fantastic as you had it pictured. One year our daughter wanted “Big Bird” from the Muppet shows that she had seen on public broadcasting. When she opened the big box all she could see was the “long nose” of the bird looking at her, she started backing up and wouldn’t go near the box for the rest of the day. It was a disappointing moment for all of us.
The hymn, O Come, All Ye Faithful, has the wonderful words in stanza two, “Yes, Lord, we greet Thee, Born this happy morning,” words that guarantee that there will be no disappointing Christmas morning. What a marvel it is to greet this Christmas morning as a “happy morning” when all of us can rejoice in what God has done in our lives.
Sometime this morning take a moment and thank God for the greatest gift God has given us, the gift of God’s only son. Have the happiest morning ever this Christmas Day.
Loving God, we thank you for all the gifts you have given us. On this happy day we thank you for the gift of your son, Jesus, to whom we sing all praise and glory. Amen.
Dr. Glenn Doak
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Friday, December 24, 2010
Advent Devotion 26, Friday, December 24
O Holy Night (first stanza)
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, the night when Christ was born;
O night, O holy night, O night divine!
O night, O holy night, O night divine!
If I had to choose one song to hear at Christmas, it would without question be O Holy Night. I only came to this realization in recent years. For me, the lyrics cut through all the extraneous noise and clutter of the season and perfectly summarizes its true meaning. The song, when performed well, gives me goosebumps. I feel the Holy Spirit.
I enjoy many aspects of Advent and Christmas with family and friends. But my favorite time is on Christmas Eve when I can spend just a little bit of contemplative time without other people—just God and me. I think about blessings and hope. I think about that feeling that O Holy Night gives me about what God has done, and will do, for us.
O Holy Night is best suited for singers with powerful voices and dramatic range—a group which comprises a select few. I listened to several versions in thinking about this devotional, and I highly recommend performances by Placido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti, Nat King Cole, Johnny Mathis, Kate Smith, Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion and Charlotte Church. Find some quiet time, close your eyes, and listen to God.
We are a weary world that needs the thrill of hope. Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
God, our Shepherd, We give you thanks and praise for the incredible gift of the “night divine.” Help us to hear you through the sounds of Christmas. Amen.
David MacMillan
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, the night when Christ was born;
O night, O holy night, O night divine!
O night, O holy night, O night divine!
If I had to choose one song to hear at Christmas, it would without question be O Holy Night. I only came to this realization in recent years. For me, the lyrics cut through all the extraneous noise and clutter of the season and perfectly summarizes its true meaning. The song, when performed well, gives me goosebumps. I feel the Holy Spirit.
I enjoy many aspects of Advent and Christmas with family and friends. But my favorite time is on Christmas Eve when I can spend just a little bit of contemplative time without other people—just God and me. I think about blessings and hope. I think about that feeling that O Holy Night gives me about what God has done, and will do, for us.
O Holy Night is best suited for singers with powerful voices and dramatic range—a group which comprises a select few. I listened to several versions in thinking about this devotional, and I highly recommend performances by Placido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti, Nat King Cole, Johnny Mathis, Kate Smith, Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion and Charlotte Church. Find some quiet time, close your eyes, and listen to God.
We are a weary world that needs the thrill of hope. Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
God, our Shepherd, We give you thanks and praise for the incredible gift of the “night divine.” Help us to hear you through the sounds of Christmas. Amen.
David MacMillan
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Advent Devotion 25, Thursday, December 23
Silent Night (stanza 2)
Silent night, holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight
Glories stream from heaven afar, Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!
Christ, the Savior is born, Christ, the Savior is born
One of my favorite songs at Christmas is Silent Night. I remember singing this while walking out of the sanctuary with my burning candle. It is my favorite part of the whole Christmas Eve service. Singing such a great, meaningful song while walking out of the church on Christmas Eve is amazing.
The older I’ve grown, the more I understand the song. It is wonderful to think that the exact night a long time before, Jesus was born. When it says “Glories stream from heaven afar” it means that the night of Jesus’s birth was a happy night everywhere. It still is a very happy night all around.
I love hearing the many Bible versus explaining the excitement throughout Bethlehem on that night. The most memorable to me is a verse in Luke that says “I bring you the most joyful news ever announced, and it is for everyone! The Savior has been born tonight in Bethlehem!” The night Jesus was born truly was one of the most elated times in the gospels.
Dear Lord, we thank you for giving us your always forgiving and loving Son. We thank you for giving us this special time where we can be with our families and a time for us to remember that 2000 years ago you came to us through Jesus Christ. Help us to be better people and lead the lives that you want us to live. Amen.
Richard Sims Ferguson
Silent night, holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight
Glories stream from heaven afar, Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!
Christ, the Savior is born, Christ, the Savior is born
One of my favorite songs at Christmas is Silent Night. I remember singing this while walking out of the sanctuary with my burning candle. It is my favorite part of the whole Christmas Eve service. Singing such a great, meaningful song while walking out of the church on Christmas Eve is amazing.
The older I’ve grown, the more I understand the song. It is wonderful to think that the exact night a long time before, Jesus was born. When it says “Glories stream from heaven afar” it means that the night of Jesus’s birth was a happy night everywhere. It still is a very happy night all around.
I love hearing the many Bible versus explaining the excitement throughout Bethlehem on that night. The most memorable to me is a verse in Luke that says “I bring you the most joyful news ever announced, and it is for everyone! The Savior has been born tonight in Bethlehem!” The night Jesus was born truly was one of the most elated times in the gospels.
Dear Lord, we thank you for giving us your always forgiving and loving Son. We thank you for giving us this special time where we can be with our families and a time for us to remember that 2000 years ago you came to us through Jesus Christ. Help us to be better people and lead the lives that you want us to live. Amen.
Richard Sims Ferguson
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Advent Devotion 24, Wednesday, December 22
Away in a Manger (stanza 1)
Away in a manger, no crib for His bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.
The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.
Every Christmas Eve and during every Christmas pageant, for as long as I can remember, children and the congregation join in singing this beloved hymn. And, every year I become teary-eyed as I am reminded of the miracle of His birth, the gift of His life, and the wonder and beauty of the celebration of Christmas as interpreted by the young, sweet, pure voices of children.
I love to remember all of the Christmas pageants in which my children participated. Their first pageant parts were always walking timidly down the church aisle as cows, sheep and donkeys – aspiring, of course, to be angels - and then scrambling to find the best seats on the straw, nearest their friends. Becoming tall enough to light the candles, marked their debut as acolytes, tentatively balancing the candle lighter, and me being certain they were going to light someone’s hair on fire. Waiting for the familiar “squeak” from my daughter’s clarinet during the school Christmas concert still brings a tear to my eye. I recall the school gymnasium with the foil stars stapled to the stage curtain, the band seated on the basketball court and the choir assembled in the bleachers – everyone dressed in their best church clothes. The entire scene represents a Norman Rockwell painting.
Now, my grandchildren are dressed as cows, sheep – even a chick! – in their church Christmas pageants. And, I do not miss a school holiday concert. They are still held in the gymnasium, and now include songs representing a diversity of ethnic groups. The variety of music reminds us that Jesus’ love does indeed encompass the whole world.
The ever-enduring songs and music of children remind us of that event that occurred over two thousand years ago. The birth of beautiful baby Jesus, in a stable, with animals as his companions, and straw for his bed represent the reason for foil stars, a sheep costume, a beginning band’s musical rendition of a favorite hymn – what better way to demonstrate gratitude and love?
Be near us Lord Jesus; We ask Thee to stay close by us forever and love us we pray. Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, and fit us for heaven to live with Thee there. Amen.
Judy Burch
Away in a manger, no crib for His bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.
The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.
Every Christmas Eve and during every Christmas pageant, for as long as I can remember, children and the congregation join in singing this beloved hymn. And, every year I become teary-eyed as I am reminded of the miracle of His birth, the gift of His life, and the wonder and beauty of the celebration of Christmas as interpreted by the young, sweet, pure voices of children.
I love to remember all of the Christmas pageants in which my children participated. Their first pageant parts were always walking timidly down the church aisle as cows, sheep and donkeys – aspiring, of course, to be angels - and then scrambling to find the best seats on the straw, nearest their friends. Becoming tall enough to light the candles, marked their debut as acolytes, tentatively balancing the candle lighter, and me being certain they were going to light someone’s hair on fire. Waiting for the familiar “squeak” from my daughter’s clarinet during the school Christmas concert still brings a tear to my eye. I recall the school gymnasium with the foil stars stapled to the stage curtain, the band seated on the basketball court and the choir assembled in the bleachers – everyone dressed in their best church clothes. The entire scene represents a Norman Rockwell painting.
Now, my grandchildren are dressed as cows, sheep – even a chick! – in their church Christmas pageants. And, I do not miss a school holiday concert. They are still held in the gymnasium, and now include songs representing a diversity of ethnic groups. The variety of music reminds us that Jesus’ love does indeed encompass the whole world.
The ever-enduring songs and music of children remind us of that event that occurred over two thousand years ago. The birth of beautiful baby Jesus, in a stable, with animals as his companions, and straw for his bed represent the reason for foil stars, a sheep costume, a beginning band’s musical rendition of a favorite hymn – what better way to demonstrate gratitude and love?
Be near us Lord Jesus; We ask Thee to stay close by us forever and love us we pray. Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, and fit us for heaven to live with Thee there. Amen.
Judy Burch
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Advent Devotion 23, Tuesday, December 21
Tuesday, December 21
Star Carol
Angels bright, come from heaven’s highest glory,
Bear the news with its message of good cheer;
“Sing, rejoice, for a King is come to save us,
Hurry to Bethlehem and see the son of Mary!
Follow me joyfully;
“See his star shining bright,
In the sky this Christmas Night!
Follow me joyfully;
Hurry to Bethlehem and see the son of Mary!"
I first remember hearing John Rutter’s Star Carol on a local Christian radio station during several Christmas seasons. At that time, I thought that it was a very beautiful song but was never able to find out the name of it, as they typically did not announced names and artists on the radio station. Later on, after joining our church choir, we sang the Star Carol. I was thrilled to be singing “that beautiful song that I heard on the radio.”
When I think about Christmas, one of the most important things to me is the music that is heard that time of the year. In fact the translation of Merry Christmas into the Hawaiian language is “mele Kalikimaka.” If you translate mele kalikimaka back to English it comes back meaning something like “sing about Christmas.” It could be argued that “making merry” means to sing about something! At Christmastide, we can make merry by singing.
The second stanza above emphasizes how that Jesus came to this earth to save us. It also reminds us of the shining star that lead the shepherds to find Jesus where he lay. Mary, his mother, was a virgin. This virgin birth of the Messiah was prophesied in the Old Testament as was that of the birth taking place in Bethlehem. Even the scribes and the Pharisees told the Magi where to look for the Christ Child. Jesus came and lived a perfect life. Then he was crucified for our sins. And if we only accept his sacrifice as payment for our sins, then we are forgiven of all of them—all sins, past, present, and future. Thus when God looks at us, we are perfectly sinless and filled with the righteousness of Christ. That way, we can have eternal life through Jesus Christ. Eternal life sounds like a good Christmas gift. Indeed, Jesus is the “reason for the season.”
John Rutter is a contemporary composer/arranger of music and has written no small amount of music. Besides the Star Carol, he has also written the Candlelight Carol and the Donkey Carol which our choir has done. (See The John Rutter Christmas Album, with the Cambridge Singers and London Sinfonia, www.collegium.co.uk). He has also arranged traditional Christmas music and written much more as well. Our choir has also done the Rutter Requiem on more than one occasion as another example. He also wrote a cute piece called Brother Heinrich’s Christmas (from the CD entitled Three Musical Fables).
The most important part of Christmas, for me, is that of the music that is heard during that season. I do enjoy very much hearing John Rutter’s music and choir music in general.
Lord God, we thank you for Jesus Christ, our Savior, Redeemer, and Messiah, who made it possible for us to come to You into your Presence and have eternal life. Amen.
Tom Berry
Star Carol
Angels bright, come from heaven’s highest glory,
Bear the news with its message of good cheer;
“Sing, rejoice, for a King is come to save us,
Hurry to Bethlehem and see the son of Mary!
Follow me joyfully;
“See his star shining bright,
In the sky this Christmas Night!
Follow me joyfully;
Hurry to Bethlehem and see the son of Mary!"
I first remember hearing John Rutter’s Star Carol on a local Christian radio station during several Christmas seasons. At that time, I thought that it was a very beautiful song but was never able to find out the name of it, as they typically did not announced names and artists on the radio station. Later on, after joining our church choir, we sang the Star Carol. I was thrilled to be singing “that beautiful song that I heard on the radio.”
When I think about Christmas, one of the most important things to me is the music that is heard that time of the year. In fact the translation of Merry Christmas into the Hawaiian language is “mele Kalikimaka.” If you translate mele kalikimaka back to English it comes back meaning something like “sing about Christmas.” It could be argued that “making merry” means to sing about something! At Christmastide, we can make merry by singing.
The second stanza above emphasizes how that Jesus came to this earth to save us. It also reminds us of the shining star that lead the shepherds to find Jesus where he lay. Mary, his mother, was a virgin. This virgin birth of the Messiah was prophesied in the Old Testament as was that of the birth taking place in Bethlehem. Even the scribes and the Pharisees told the Magi where to look for the Christ Child. Jesus came and lived a perfect life. Then he was crucified for our sins. And if we only accept his sacrifice as payment for our sins, then we are forgiven of all of them—all sins, past, present, and future. Thus when God looks at us, we are perfectly sinless and filled with the righteousness of Christ. That way, we can have eternal life through Jesus Christ. Eternal life sounds like a good Christmas gift. Indeed, Jesus is the “reason for the season.”
John Rutter is a contemporary composer/arranger of music and has written no small amount of music. Besides the Star Carol, he has also written the Candlelight Carol and the Donkey Carol which our choir has done. (See The John Rutter Christmas Album, with the Cambridge Singers and London Sinfonia, www.collegium.co.uk). He has also arranged traditional Christmas music and written much more as well. Our choir has also done the Rutter Requiem on more than one occasion as another example. He also wrote a cute piece called Brother Heinrich’s Christmas (from the CD entitled Three Musical Fables).
The most important part of Christmas, for me, is that of the music that is heard during that season. I do enjoy very much hearing John Rutter’s music and choir music in general.
Lord God, we thank you for Jesus Christ, our Savior, Redeemer, and Messiah, who made it possible for us to come to You into your Presence and have eternal life. Amen.
Tom Berry
Monday, December 20, 2010
Advent Devotion 22, Monday, December 20
O Little Town of Bethlehem (stanza 2)
For Christ is born of Mary; and gathered all above,
While mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wondering love.
O morning stars, together proclaim the holy birth!
And praises sing to God the King, and peace to all on earth.
Many of the images I have for Christmas come from Christmas cards as a child. It seems we always received at least a couple of cards with a picture of the Bethlehem skyline with a huge star marking the stable of Christ’s birth. As I read and sing this second stanza of O Little Town of Bethlehem, some new images come to mind to augment that of my childhood.
Phillips Brooks, an Episcopal rector in Boston who wrote this text for his church’s Sunday school in 1868 after visiting Bethlehem in 1865, begins with a narrative of sorts: While we mortals sleep (literally or figuratively?), angels (with wings, halos and white robes or in some other form?) are keeping watch. In the third line (“O morning stars, together proclaim the holy birth!”) it’s as if Brooks is commanding the stars and the entire world, “Proclaim the holy birth!”
If the stars so far away can proclaim Christ’s coming, what can I do this year to proclaim his birth here in Athens and throughout the world? What can we do together?
Loving God, who watches over us all our lives, we give thanks that you sent your Son, wondering love personified, that we may know you better and lead better lives. Help us to love those around us and those far away. We pray through Jesus Christ in the Spirit. Amen.
Tom Granum
For Christ is born of Mary; and gathered all above,
While mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wondering love.
O morning stars, together proclaim the holy birth!
And praises sing to God the King, and peace to all on earth.
Many of the images I have for Christmas come from Christmas cards as a child. It seems we always received at least a couple of cards with a picture of the Bethlehem skyline with a huge star marking the stable of Christ’s birth. As I read and sing this second stanza of O Little Town of Bethlehem, some new images come to mind to augment that of my childhood.
Phillips Brooks, an Episcopal rector in Boston who wrote this text for his church’s Sunday school in 1868 after visiting Bethlehem in 1865, begins with a narrative of sorts: While we mortals sleep (literally or figuratively?), angels (with wings, halos and white robes or in some other form?) are keeping watch. In the third line (“O morning stars, together proclaim the holy birth!”) it’s as if Brooks is commanding the stars and the entire world, “Proclaim the holy birth!”
If the stars so far away can proclaim Christ’s coming, what can I do this year to proclaim his birth here in Athens and throughout the world? What can we do together?
Loving God, who watches over us all our lives, we give thanks that you sent your Son, wondering love personified, that we may know you better and lead better lives. Help us to love those around us and those far away. We pray through Jesus Christ in the Spirit. Amen.
Tom Granum
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Advent Devotion 21, Sunday, December 19
O Beautiful Star of Bethlehem (stanza 2)
O beautiful star, the hope of life
Guiding the pilgrims through the night
Over the mountains ‘til the break of dawn
Into the land of perfect day
It will give out a lovely ray
O beautiful star of Bethlehem
Shine on!
This is an old Appalachian hymn that I had never heard until 2001 when The Century Men (a choir of 100 Baptist ministers) released their arrangement and the local stations devoted to playing Christmas music throughout Advent were flooded with requests. I was in the car and got tickled about how annoyed the announcer was with the number of requests for this. But when it started, I was so moved by the beauty and power of it that I almost had to stop the car. I later ordered the CD, and I play it repeatedly (throughout the year). I love the message of guidance and direction.
Sometimes, life is really, really hard. Getting lost in the pain and fear can happen without our realizing, because we are just trying to function and survive. But one day, something crosses our path to remind us that there is guidance and direction to help navigate through the pain and fear if we just focus on the right thing. For me, it was this hymn that startled me back to really focusing on what can guide me day to day so that I’m not lost or fearful. When I walk in the early morning before sunrise, I look to the stars and remember there is one beautiful and perfect Star sent to guide me through any crisis or trauma if I just stay focused on it – the Beautiful Star of Bethlehem that is Christ Jesus.
Loving God, who created everything including stars too infinite to count, we give thanks that you sent the one perfect Star to guide us to a closer relationship with you. Help us to stay focused on Your Son for guidance and direction each day. In Jesus Christ we ask this. Amen.
Jennifer Nickles
O beautiful star, the hope of life
Guiding the pilgrims through the night
Over the mountains ‘til the break of dawn
Into the land of perfect day
It will give out a lovely ray
O beautiful star of Bethlehem
Shine on!
This is an old Appalachian hymn that I had never heard until 2001 when The Century Men (a choir of 100 Baptist ministers) released their arrangement and the local stations devoted to playing Christmas music throughout Advent were flooded with requests. I was in the car and got tickled about how annoyed the announcer was with the number of requests for this. But when it started, I was so moved by the beauty and power of it that I almost had to stop the car. I later ordered the CD, and I play it repeatedly (throughout the year). I love the message of guidance and direction.
Sometimes, life is really, really hard. Getting lost in the pain and fear can happen without our realizing, because we are just trying to function and survive. But one day, something crosses our path to remind us that there is guidance and direction to help navigate through the pain and fear if we just focus on the right thing. For me, it was this hymn that startled me back to really focusing on what can guide me day to day so that I’m not lost or fearful. When I walk in the early morning before sunrise, I look to the stars and remember there is one beautiful and perfect Star sent to guide me through any crisis or trauma if I just stay focused on it – the Beautiful Star of Bethlehem that is Christ Jesus.
Loving God, who created everything including stars too infinite to count, we give thanks that you sent the one perfect Star to guide us to a closer relationship with you. Help us to stay focused on Your Son for guidance and direction each day. In Jesus Christ we ask this. Amen.
Jennifer Nickles
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Advent Devotion 20, Saturday, December 18
Oh Holy Night (stanza 1)
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of Our dear Saviour’s birth.
Long lay the world In sin and error pining,
‘Til He appear’d And the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope The weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks A new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! O, hear the angels’ voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.
I must say, I have a hard time explaining holiness. Defining holiness, in a real and tangible way, is difficult for me. Things that are holy, that are truly of God, are often hard to describe. I prefer instead, an “I’ll know it when I see it” take on the subject.
And this carol reminds me of what is holiest of all. Our God broke into this world in a new way, in the best way, that night so long ago. When Christ was born, something deeply holy and beautiful took place and this carol speaks to that so beautifully. When we sing of the stars brightly shining, of the stillness of that night, I can feel God’s presence over the earth. To know that our God loves us so much, that he has come to us in the flesh, I can think of no better response than to “fall on my knees, hear the angel voices.”
This carol, O Holy Night, defines for me what holiness is and what our response to it should be. Holiness is when God breaks into our world; it is when we know that God is near. Falling on our knees in awe is the only logical response to that! Let us remember that this Advent season is holy, it is filled with God’s presence. Let our hearts be worshipful and glad.
All glory to you, Great God, you wonderfully created, and yet more wonderfully restored, the dignity of human nature. Amen.
Tara Bulger
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of Our dear Saviour’s birth.
Long lay the world In sin and error pining,
‘Til He appear’d And the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope The weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks A new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! O, hear the angels’ voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.
I must say, I have a hard time explaining holiness. Defining holiness, in a real and tangible way, is difficult for me. Things that are holy, that are truly of God, are often hard to describe. I prefer instead, an “I’ll know it when I see it” take on the subject.
And this carol reminds me of what is holiest of all. Our God broke into this world in a new way, in the best way, that night so long ago. When Christ was born, something deeply holy and beautiful took place and this carol speaks to that so beautifully. When we sing of the stars brightly shining, of the stillness of that night, I can feel God’s presence over the earth. To know that our God loves us so much, that he has come to us in the flesh, I can think of no better response than to “fall on my knees, hear the angel voices.”
This carol, O Holy Night, defines for me what holiness is and what our response to it should be. Holiness is when God breaks into our world; it is when we know that God is near. Falling on our knees in awe is the only logical response to that! Let us remember that this Advent season is holy, it is filled with God’s presence. Let our hearts be worshipful and glad.
All glory to you, Great God, you wonderfully created, and yet more wonderfully restored, the dignity of human nature. Amen.
Tara Bulger
Friday, December 17, 2010
Advent Devotion 19, Friday, December 17
Infant Holy, Infant Lowly (stanza 1)
Infant holy, Infant lowly,
For His bed a cattle stall;
Oxen lowing, Little knowing
Christ the Babe is Lord of all.
Glenn Doak led a most interesting class this fall on Hebrews. The eloquent Greek masterpiece, composed between the years 60 and 95, is probably not from Paul, as once thought, but more likely from a later Church leader who sensed the weariness of the “second generation.” Those who had known Jesus in the flesh were troubled by his birth and horrified by the scandal of his death on a cross. Some had been persecuted. Most were disappointed that God’s promised kingdom had not yet come. There was talk of abandoning the faith all together.
“What was God thinking?” Glenn Doak asked. “What was God thinking while waving good-bye to Jesus Christ as He left on a journey to earth?”
The author of Hebrews writes with authority and reassurance. Jesus Christ is The One through whom God has spoken. Jesus Christ is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being. It is through Christ that we have a relationship to God. It is because of Christ that we have a direct access to God. We are to remain faithful and confident, patient and hopeful.
Lord, We thank You for Jesus Christ, our hope and savior, who came to earth and was, for a little while, made lower than the angels, but who is now crowned with glory and honor for all eternity. Amen.
Laura Bennewitz
Infant holy, Infant lowly,
For His bed a cattle stall;
Oxen lowing, Little knowing
Christ the Babe is Lord of all.
Glenn Doak led a most interesting class this fall on Hebrews. The eloquent Greek masterpiece, composed between the years 60 and 95, is probably not from Paul, as once thought, but more likely from a later Church leader who sensed the weariness of the “second generation.” Those who had known Jesus in the flesh were troubled by his birth and horrified by the scandal of his death on a cross. Some had been persecuted. Most were disappointed that God’s promised kingdom had not yet come. There was talk of abandoning the faith all together.
“What was God thinking?” Glenn Doak asked. “What was God thinking while waving good-bye to Jesus Christ as He left on a journey to earth?”
The author of Hebrews writes with authority and reassurance. Jesus Christ is The One through whom God has spoken. Jesus Christ is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being. It is through Christ that we have a relationship to God. It is because of Christ that we have a direct access to God. We are to remain faithful and confident, patient and hopeful.
Lord, We thank You for Jesus Christ, our hope and savior, who came to earth and was, for a little while, made lower than the angels, but who is now crowned with glory and honor for all eternity. Amen.
Laura Bennewitz
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Advent Devotion 18, Thursday, December 16
While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks (stanzas 1-2)
While shepherds watched
Their flocks by night
All seated on the ground
The angel of the Lord came down
And glory shone around
And glory shone around
“Fear not,” he said,
For mighty dread
Had seized their troubled minds
“Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind,
To you and all mankind.
During my sophomore and junior year of college my parents lived in Amman, Jordan. Despite the fact that they lived in the capital, shepherds still brought their flocks around our house. From the front gate, you could see rather humble looking men, sitting with their flocks. These men were Bedouins, the Arab people that lived in tents, and stayed with their flocks all year round. They were dirty, uneducated and lived on the edges of society. That’s my image of shepherds, which is similar to shepherds in the Jesus time. However, the angels proclaimed Jesus birth to the shepherds. The shepherds were going about their business and the angels came to them and told them about Jesus.
Advent is a time that we prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. We remember our LORD, our King, and our God’s birth. And in all the preparation and talk or a child who comes to us, I sometimes forget the majesty of it all. The shepherds saw the majesty of the angels and “mighty dread, Had seized their troubled minds.” It must have been almost impossible to imagine why God choose to make his son’s birth known to them, their fear is understandable. Yet the magic of advent is that all, kings, shepherds and everybody in between are invited to prepare for the Joy of our Christ’s birth. And while he came as a baby, he is not a child that deserves anything less than our awe, fear and worship.
I wonder what it would look like if we took this Advent season to remember the miracle it is that Jesus made himself known to us. If we, like the shepherds, see God’s majesty and remember that God came to us, not because of who we are, but who he is, then maybe we will be able to understand how the shepherds felt that night.
Lord, our magnificent savior, who came to us as a baby and made yourself nothing, so that we could have ever lasting life. Help us to prepare a way for you. Teach us to be humble and bow before your majesty. We pray in your holy and precious name. Amen.
Paula Frances Gay
While shepherds watched
Their flocks by night
All seated on the ground
The angel of the Lord came down
And glory shone around
And glory shone around
“Fear not,” he said,
For mighty dread
Had seized their troubled minds
“Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind,
To you and all mankind.
During my sophomore and junior year of college my parents lived in Amman, Jordan. Despite the fact that they lived in the capital, shepherds still brought their flocks around our house. From the front gate, you could see rather humble looking men, sitting with their flocks. These men were Bedouins, the Arab people that lived in tents, and stayed with their flocks all year round. They were dirty, uneducated and lived on the edges of society. That’s my image of shepherds, which is similar to shepherds in the Jesus time. However, the angels proclaimed Jesus birth to the shepherds. The shepherds were going about their business and the angels came to them and told them about Jesus.
Advent is a time that we prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. We remember our LORD, our King, and our God’s birth. And in all the preparation and talk or a child who comes to us, I sometimes forget the majesty of it all. The shepherds saw the majesty of the angels and “mighty dread, Had seized their troubled minds.” It must have been almost impossible to imagine why God choose to make his son’s birth known to them, their fear is understandable. Yet the magic of advent is that all, kings, shepherds and everybody in between are invited to prepare for the Joy of our Christ’s birth. And while he came as a baby, he is not a child that deserves anything less than our awe, fear and worship.
I wonder what it would look like if we took this Advent season to remember the miracle it is that Jesus made himself known to us. If we, like the shepherds, see God’s majesty and remember that God came to us, not because of who we are, but who he is, then maybe we will be able to understand how the shepherds felt that night.
Lord, our magnificent savior, who came to us as a baby and made yourself nothing, so that we could have ever lasting life. Help us to prepare a way for you. Teach us to be humble and bow before your majesty. We pray in your holy and precious name. Amen.
Paula Frances Gay
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Advent Devotion 17, Wednesday, December 15
Away in a Manger (stanza 1)
Away in a manger, no crib for His bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.
The stars in the sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.
To comfort my boys, I sing. I start with a favorite hymn (Amazing Grace for Micah and Though I May Speak for Eli) and sing all the stanzas. Then I sing a medley of Christmas carols . . . well, the first verses anyway. The First Noel, Away in a Manager, O Little Town of Bethlehem, What Child Is This, Silent Night. Sometimes I add a few others, like Joy to the World. Year round, I sing these songs. The melodies are like that of lullabies, soothing and calm, yet bright and lilting. As I sing and rock, we calm down and rest.
It is not just the melodies that bring me back to these carols throughout the year (and the fact that I can remember all the words), but the message they convey is timeless. The hope and joy of the Incarnation expressed in these carols is not just for Christmastime. This message should be celebrated all year long. God became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14). Emmanuel . . . God with us!
For me, the crux of Christianity is the Incarnation. God loves us so much that God became one of us in Jesus, born of Mary . . . in a stable . . . far from home. Jesus experienced joy and pain, love and sorrow. He knew plenty and want. He grew, played, learned. He knew what if felt like to be adored and exalted, hated and reviled. And it all started away in a manager in the little town of Bethlehem on a silent night that brought joy to the world.
And so, I sing these carols . . . not as frequently as a did when my boys were infants . . . but they are in my repertoire of soothing, hope, and joy filled songs that I sing throughout the year.
Sara Martin
Away in a manger, no crib for His bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.
The stars in the sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.
To comfort my boys, I sing. I start with a favorite hymn (Amazing Grace for Micah and Though I May Speak for Eli) and sing all the stanzas. Then I sing a medley of Christmas carols . . . well, the first verses anyway. The First Noel, Away in a Manager, O Little Town of Bethlehem, What Child Is This, Silent Night. Sometimes I add a few others, like Joy to the World. Year round, I sing these songs. The melodies are like that of lullabies, soothing and calm, yet bright and lilting. As I sing and rock, we calm down and rest.
It is not just the melodies that bring me back to these carols throughout the year (and the fact that I can remember all the words), but the message they convey is timeless. The hope and joy of the Incarnation expressed in these carols is not just for Christmastime. This message should be celebrated all year long. God became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14). Emmanuel . . . God with us!
For me, the crux of Christianity is the Incarnation. God loves us so much that God became one of us in Jesus, born of Mary . . . in a stable . . . far from home. Jesus experienced joy and pain, love and sorrow. He knew plenty and want. He grew, played, learned. He knew what if felt like to be adored and exalted, hated and reviled. And it all started away in a manager in the little town of Bethlehem on a silent night that brought joy to the world.
And so, I sing these carols . . . not as frequently as a did when my boys were infants . . . but they are in my repertoire of soothing, hope, and joy filled songs that I sing throughout the year.
Sara Martin
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Advent Devotion 16, Tuesday, December 14
O Holy Night (stanza 1)
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of Our dear Saviour’s birth.
Long lay the world In sin and error pining,
‘Til He appear’d And the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope The weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks A new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! O, hear the angels’ voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.
Nothing helps me get into the spirit of Christmas more than singing my favorite carols, many of which are hymns that carry prescious memories with them. Many a Sunday have I stood in the pew hearing my parents’ and grandparents’ voices next to me while singing these treasures. When our boys were young, and still now on long trips, singing was a great family pastime for car rides. Often these trips carried us home to see our family in South Carolina. Thanksgiving and Christmas would find us traveling, and someone would just begin singing. Though it might begin with a lighter version of Rudolph, the classic old hymns that I learned in the pews of our home church always made it in. Sometimes they would be sung with great reverence, others with great flourish! O Holy Night brought out deep mature voices from eight-year-old boys in the dark of the evening. There is a certain forgiveness in the dark, in the car, with just your family. No judgment, no audience, just those you love and our Lord to hear the splendor. It is a blessing with teens and college-age children to have traditions that they will still participate in as if everyone else in the world does this annually as we do. At times now, with teenage drivers and more independence abounding, more than one car goes to South Carolina. The voices and love, however, still ring clear. John Sullivan Dwight’s version of O Holy Night, as seen above, is one of my favorite Christmas carols.
The words bring into focus the magnitude of the gift God has given when sending the babe Jesus to us. In this world we live in today, with the language watered down, slang, and so casual, I enjoy the celebratory, rich words used to describe this fabulous event in history: our history as Christians. As He lay in the manger, He represented hope for the world, hope and forgiveness for us as sinners! What a love God has for us to send His Son to show us His love. May we each feel such joy at the “glorious morn” of the birth, that we are willing to “fall on our knees” in praise and gratitude. What a truly DIVINE and HOLY Night it was and IS!
O Holy God, let us feel this joy during the season and share it with the world. In your holy name we pray. Amen.
Elaine H. Johnson
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of Our dear Saviour’s birth.
Long lay the world In sin and error pining,
‘Til He appear’d And the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope The weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks A new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! O, hear the angels’ voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.
Nothing helps me get into the spirit of Christmas more than singing my favorite carols, many of which are hymns that carry prescious memories with them. Many a Sunday have I stood in the pew hearing my parents’ and grandparents’ voices next to me while singing these treasures. When our boys were young, and still now on long trips, singing was a great family pastime for car rides. Often these trips carried us home to see our family in South Carolina. Thanksgiving and Christmas would find us traveling, and someone would just begin singing. Though it might begin with a lighter version of Rudolph, the classic old hymns that I learned in the pews of our home church always made it in. Sometimes they would be sung with great reverence, others with great flourish! O Holy Night brought out deep mature voices from eight-year-old boys in the dark of the evening. There is a certain forgiveness in the dark, in the car, with just your family. No judgment, no audience, just those you love and our Lord to hear the splendor. It is a blessing with teens and college-age children to have traditions that they will still participate in as if everyone else in the world does this annually as we do. At times now, with teenage drivers and more independence abounding, more than one car goes to South Carolina. The voices and love, however, still ring clear. John Sullivan Dwight’s version of O Holy Night, as seen above, is one of my favorite Christmas carols.
The words bring into focus the magnitude of the gift God has given when sending the babe Jesus to us. In this world we live in today, with the language watered down, slang, and so casual, I enjoy the celebratory, rich words used to describe this fabulous event in history: our history as Christians. As He lay in the manger, He represented hope for the world, hope and forgiveness for us as sinners! What a love God has for us to send His Son to show us His love. May we each feel such joy at the “glorious morn” of the birth, that we are willing to “fall on our knees” in praise and gratitude. What a truly DIVINE and HOLY Night it was and IS!
O Holy God, let us feel this joy during the season and share it with the world. In your holy name we pray. Amen.
Elaine H. Johnson
Monday, December 13, 2010
Advent Devotion 15, Monday, December 13
Silent Night, Holy Night (stanza 1)
Silent Night, Holy Night
All is Calm, All is Bright
Roun yon Virgin Mother and Child
Holy Infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace
I am sure that silent nights are as rare for your family as they are for ours. We tend to fill our lives with idle noise, while not taking time out to be quiet and listen for God to speak to us. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the rush of our daily routines and miss His voice, the most important voice of all. On that very first Silent and Holy night, God spoke to us all. Just as the bright star in the sky led the wisemen and shepherds to find Jesus’ manger, today we can also look to our right star, Jesus, and find our Savior once again.
As we picture baby Jesus lying in the manger, we can imagine him sleeping so peacefully. He was surrounded by his loving mother and father, without a care in the world. We, too, can look to our Loving Father for that kind of security. God promises us heavenly peace. He gives us the freedom from all turmoil as long as we submit it all to him. He says, “Be still, and know that I am God,” and to “Give ear and hear my voice; listen and hear my words.” This Advent season, let us slow down, spend some quiet time with God, reflect, and thank God for the most precious gift of all.
Loving God, thank you for sending your Son. Help us to slow down and remember what that means for us as Christians. We thank you for the heavenly peace that you have given us. Be with us as we go out into your world and share that love, peace, and hope with others. Amen.
Amy Stone
Silent Night, Holy Night
All is Calm, All is Bright
Roun yon Virgin Mother and Child
Holy Infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace
I am sure that silent nights are as rare for your family as they are for ours. We tend to fill our lives with idle noise, while not taking time out to be quiet and listen for God to speak to us. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the rush of our daily routines and miss His voice, the most important voice of all. On that very first Silent and Holy night, God spoke to us all. Just as the bright star in the sky led the wisemen and shepherds to find Jesus’ manger, today we can also look to our right star, Jesus, and find our Savior once again.
As we picture baby Jesus lying in the manger, we can imagine him sleeping so peacefully. He was surrounded by his loving mother and father, without a care in the world. We, too, can look to our Loving Father for that kind of security. God promises us heavenly peace. He gives us the freedom from all turmoil as long as we submit it all to him. He says, “Be still, and know that I am God,” and to “Give ear and hear my voice; listen and hear my words.” This Advent season, let us slow down, spend some quiet time with God, reflect, and thank God for the most precious gift of all.
Loving God, thank you for sending your Son. Help us to slow down and remember what that means for us as Christians. We thank you for the heavenly peace that you have given us. Be with us as we go out into your world and share that love, peace, and hope with others. Amen.
Amy Stone
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Christmas Pageant photos
Some pictures of the Christmas Pageant this afternoon. Click on these thumbnails to see larger images. These are smallish images, suitable for web browers. See the note at the bottom of this post regarding larger images.
It was a great pageant, and I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I enjoyed taking them.
If you would like a full-size copy of any of these images, such as for printing, I'll be happy to e-mail it to you. Just save the image from this blog entry and e-mail it to me so I'll know which one(s) you want, or just tell me the image's position in the blog entry.
Rick Simpson / rsimpson@alumni.rice.edu
It was a great pageant, and I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I enjoyed taking them.
If you would like a full-size copy of any of these images, such as for printing, I'll be happy to e-mail it to you. Just save the image from this blog entry and e-mail it to me so I'll know which one(s) you want, or just tell me the image's position in the blog entry.
Rick Simpson / rsimpson@alumni.rice.edu
Advent Devotion 14, Sunday, December 12
I thought I would share with you a New Zealand folk Christmas carol that has a history of its own. The hymn is provided along with the history behind it. I ponder what it must have been like for the missionary and the Maori people upon hearing about the birth of Jesus Christ.
Te Harinui
Verse 1: Not on a snowy night/By star or candlelight/Nor by an angel band/There came to our dear land
Verse 2: But on a summer day/Within a quiet bay/The Maori people heard/The great and glorious word
Chorus: Te Harinui/Te Harinui/Te Harinui/Glad tiding of great joy
Verse 3: The people gathered round/Upon the grassy ground/And heard the preacher say/I bring to you this day
Verse 4: Now in this blessed land/United heart and hand/We praise the glorious birth/And sing to all the earth
The Reverend Samuel Marsden was the first person in New Zealand to preach the Christian Gospel, [on the North Island] at the Bay of Islands on Christmas Day 1814. His sermon was based on Luke’s text, “Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.”
But he had not brought great joy in Australia where he is still remembered as “the Flogging Parson” for the extreme cruelty and violence of the punishments he inflicted on Irish convicts there. Nevertheless, he had a very high regard for New Zealand Maori, who he wrote of as being “A very superior people in point of mental capacity . . . ” And although he had fallen under a shadow in Australia while trying to expand his property holdings in shady circumstances, he spent huge sums of his own money in New Zealand to ensure that the Gospel was promulgated among the Maori people according to his church’s ideals. Marsden settled in Australia in 1794, and twenty years later he capitalized on a long friendship in Australia with Ruatara, son of Te Pahi, the paramount Chief of Nga Puhi - the predominant tribe in the northern North Island - and came to New Zealand. He was welcomed by Ruatara’s whanau [‘wh’ is pronounced like our ‘ph’ giving the ‘f’ sound and is phonetically pronounced as ‘fahnow’ and means family or community of people . . . our church family would be considered a whanau] in the Bay of Islands in December 19, 1814, and on Christmas Day he preached the first sermon there. He became much revered by Maori, and was noted for his protection of them against the incursion of settlers, and for his encouragement of missionaries to continue this policy. Marsden’s life remains a contradiction to this day.
Information taken from http://folksong.org.nz/nzchristmas/te_harinui.html
Loving God, thank you for sending your son, Jesus Christ, to this earth. Celebrating the
birth of that tiny baby, under such humble circumstances, reminds us of the love you have forus all. We praise your name . . . and sing to all the earth! Amen.
Betsy Arrington-Tsao
Te Harinui
Verse 1: Not on a snowy night/By star or candlelight/Nor by an angel band/There came to our dear land
Verse 2: But on a summer day/Within a quiet bay/The Maori people heard/The great and glorious word
Chorus: Te Harinui/Te Harinui/Te Harinui/Glad tiding of great joy
Verse 3: The people gathered round/Upon the grassy ground/And heard the preacher say/I bring to you this day
Verse 4: Now in this blessed land/United heart and hand/We praise the glorious birth/And sing to all the earth
The Reverend Samuel Marsden was the first person in New Zealand to preach the Christian Gospel, [on the North Island] at the Bay of Islands on Christmas Day 1814. His sermon was based on Luke’s text, “Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.”
But he had not brought great joy in Australia where he is still remembered as “the Flogging Parson” for the extreme cruelty and violence of the punishments he inflicted on Irish convicts there. Nevertheless, he had a very high regard for New Zealand Maori, who he wrote of as being “A very superior people in point of mental capacity . . . ” And although he had fallen under a shadow in Australia while trying to expand his property holdings in shady circumstances, he spent huge sums of his own money in New Zealand to ensure that the Gospel was promulgated among the Maori people according to his church’s ideals. Marsden settled in Australia in 1794, and twenty years later he capitalized on a long friendship in Australia with Ruatara, son of Te Pahi, the paramount Chief of Nga Puhi - the predominant tribe in the northern North Island - and came to New Zealand. He was welcomed by Ruatara’s whanau [‘wh’ is pronounced like our ‘ph’ giving the ‘f’ sound and is phonetically pronounced as ‘fahnow’ and means family or community of people . . . our church family would be considered a whanau] in the Bay of Islands in December 19, 1814, and on Christmas Day he preached the first sermon there. He became much revered by Maori, and was noted for his protection of them against the incursion of settlers, and for his encouragement of missionaries to continue this policy. Marsden’s life remains a contradiction to this day.
Information taken from http://folksong.org.nz/nzchristmas/te_harinui.html
Loving God, thank you for sending your son, Jesus Christ, to this earth. Celebrating the
birth of that tiny baby, under such humble circumstances, reminds us of the love you have forus all. We praise your name . . . and sing to all the earth! Amen.
Betsy Arrington-Tsao
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Advent Devotion 13, Saturday, December 11
God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen (stanza 4)
Now to the Lord sing praises, All you within this place,
And with true love and brotherhood Each other now embrace;
This holy tide of Christmas All others doth deface.
O tidings of comfort and joy.
For years when I heard this eighteenth-century carol, I envisioned scenes from “Merry ol’ England” reminiscent of an eighteenth or nineteenth-century Masterpiece Theatre series. I’ve always enjoyed singing this carol because it emphasizes the possibility of peace on earth resulting from Christ’s birth: the friendship and brotherhood/sisterhood that could be ours if we follow our Savior’s example.
Because of a personal concern, this carol has a special meaning for me now. It reminds me of the unofficial truce between some German and British soldiers on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in 1914 and between some German and French troops during that time in 1915. In the midst of all the horrors of trench warfare in World War I, these men joined in celebrating the holy tidings of Christmas. They exchanged gifts and souvenirs, played soccer, and sang carols. They experienced comfort and joy—but just for this one night and day. The holy tide of Christmas, this brief time of love and brotherhood/sisterhood, did not “deface” the horrors to come for many nights and days.
I have a son-in-law who will be serving his second Christmas in Iraq. He also spent Christmas in Bosnia in 1996. Although he’s never been involved in actual fighting and has only occasionally encountered any danger, he is and has been in places barren of love and brotherhood/sisterhood. The angelic tidings of peace heard long ago have not prevented feelings and acts of hatred in these places. Nor have the revered tidings of other faiths deterred their adherents from going astray and causing dismay.
Yet we Christians experience the comfort and joy from the tidings resounding during this holy tide of Christmas. Certainly our loved ones who, for whatever reason are in harm’s way, experience restful moments of renewed hope for the world and themselves. May theses glimpses of what Jesus came to earth to show us fill us with love for others. May they also, because of our belief in Him and our actions for Him, give us the comfort and joy that Christ would have us enjoy.
Gracious God, we know that You came into the world as one of us to bring peace on earth. We ask forgiveness for our failure to live lives filled with comfort and joy. Collectively, we ask for Your guidance in leading us to base our decisions and actions on promoting brotherhood and sisterhood among your children. As individuals, we ask You to help us make the choices and commitments that free us from the anxieties of the Christmas season and give us the joy that following Christ brings every day. Amen.
Jerry Rogers
Now to the Lord sing praises, All you within this place,
And with true love and brotherhood Each other now embrace;
This holy tide of Christmas All others doth deface.
O tidings of comfort and joy.
For years when I heard this eighteenth-century carol, I envisioned scenes from “Merry ol’ England” reminiscent of an eighteenth or nineteenth-century Masterpiece Theatre series. I’ve always enjoyed singing this carol because it emphasizes the possibility of peace on earth resulting from Christ’s birth: the friendship and brotherhood/sisterhood that could be ours if we follow our Savior’s example.
Because of a personal concern, this carol has a special meaning for me now. It reminds me of the unofficial truce between some German and British soldiers on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in 1914 and between some German and French troops during that time in 1915. In the midst of all the horrors of trench warfare in World War I, these men joined in celebrating the holy tidings of Christmas. They exchanged gifts and souvenirs, played soccer, and sang carols. They experienced comfort and joy—but just for this one night and day. The holy tide of Christmas, this brief time of love and brotherhood/sisterhood, did not “deface” the horrors to come for many nights and days.
I have a son-in-law who will be serving his second Christmas in Iraq. He also spent Christmas in Bosnia in 1996. Although he’s never been involved in actual fighting and has only occasionally encountered any danger, he is and has been in places barren of love and brotherhood/sisterhood. The angelic tidings of peace heard long ago have not prevented feelings and acts of hatred in these places. Nor have the revered tidings of other faiths deterred their adherents from going astray and causing dismay.
Yet we Christians experience the comfort and joy from the tidings resounding during this holy tide of Christmas. Certainly our loved ones who, for whatever reason are in harm’s way, experience restful moments of renewed hope for the world and themselves. May theses glimpses of what Jesus came to earth to show us fill us with love for others. May they also, because of our belief in Him and our actions for Him, give us the comfort and joy that Christ would have us enjoy.
Gracious God, we know that You came into the world as one of us to bring peace on earth. We ask forgiveness for our failure to live lives filled with comfort and joy. Collectively, we ask for Your guidance in leading us to base our decisions and actions on promoting brotherhood and sisterhood among your children. As individuals, we ask You to help us make the choices and commitments that free us from the anxieties of the Christmas season and give us the joy that following Christ brings every day. Amen.
Jerry Rogers
Friday, December 10, 2010
Advent Devotion 12, Friday, December 10
Angels We Have Heard on High (stanza 1)
Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly singing o’er the plains,
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strain.
Gloria, in excelsis Deo
Whenever I sing Angels We Have Heard on High, it takes me back to caroling with the East St. Olaf Lutheran Church choir in Minnesota. The star-filled sky and moon reflecting off the snow made the evening glow as bright as day. The coldness of the night was warmed by the smiles of those who heard our joyous song. We felt as if we were singing with the angels.
Angels We Have Heard on High was a traditional 18th century French carol, translated into English in 1860 by Bishop James Chadwick. It is based on Luke 2:13-14 which tells of multitudes of angels coming from heaven singing and proclaiming Christ’s birth to the shepherds.
Just think of what it must have been like to see and hear multitudes of angels singing. It must have sounded like the sound was coming from everywhere, and even the mountains were singing. The shepherds realized that an extraordinary and powerful event had occurred, and they hurried to Bethlehem to worship and adore the newborn King.
We know that this little child for whom the angels came down from heaven and sang was Jesus Christ, our Savior. Let us celebrate the birth of our Savior: Let’s sing with the angels – Gloria, in excelsis Deo.
Almighty and loving God, we can only imagine the wonder and awe the shepherds felt when they heard the angels singing. Let us join the heavenly choir and proclaim with joy to the world the glory and majesty of the birth of Christ. Glory to God in the Highest. We pray through Jesus Christ in the Spirit. Amen.
Jeanne Nadenicek
Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly singing o’er the plains,
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strain.
Gloria, in excelsis Deo
Whenever I sing Angels We Have Heard on High, it takes me back to caroling with the East St. Olaf Lutheran Church choir in Minnesota. The star-filled sky and moon reflecting off the snow made the evening glow as bright as day. The coldness of the night was warmed by the smiles of those who heard our joyous song. We felt as if we were singing with the angels.
Angels We Have Heard on High was a traditional 18th century French carol, translated into English in 1860 by Bishop James Chadwick. It is based on Luke 2:13-14 which tells of multitudes of angels coming from heaven singing and proclaiming Christ’s birth to the shepherds.
Just think of what it must have been like to see and hear multitudes of angels singing. It must have sounded like the sound was coming from everywhere, and even the mountains were singing. The shepherds realized that an extraordinary and powerful event had occurred, and they hurried to Bethlehem to worship and adore the newborn King.
We know that this little child for whom the angels came down from heaven and sang was Jesus Christ, our Savior. Let us celebrate the birth of our Savior: Let’s sing with the angels – Gloria, in excelsis Deo.
Almighty and loving God, we can only imagine the wonder and awe the shepherds felt when they heard the angels singing. Let us join the heavenly choir and proclaim with joy to the world the glory and majesty of the birth of Christ. Glory to God in the Highest. We pray through Jesus Christ in the Spirit. Amen.
Jeanne Nadenicek
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Advent Devotion 11, Thursday, December 9
O Holy Night (stanza 3)
Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains He shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
In 1847 the parish priest in a small French town asked the commissionaire of wines to write a celebratory poem for Christmas mass. Placide Cappeau de Roquemaure turned to the gospel of Luke to create his remarkable images of Christ’s birth. Inspired to set his Cantique de Noel to music, Cappeau approached his friend and recognized classical musician, Adolphe-Charles Adam. Of the Jewish faith, Adam’s challenge was to craft a score for a poem celebrating Christmas and Christ – both counter to his belief structure. Cantique de Noel was widely accepted by the church in France until Cappeau left the church to join the Socialist movement and Adam’s Jewish ancestry was uncovered. The French Catholic church denounced the song for two decades, but the French people still sang this thrilling song in their homes.
American writer and zealous abolitionist, John Sullivan Dwight, translated Cantique de Noel in the 1850s. He interpreted the song’s message beyond Christ’s birth, linking the last stanza to his view of the sinful nature of slavery. Dwight published his translation in his own magazine and O Holy Night became broadly cherished in our nation. Christmas Eve some fifty years later, the hymn received the distinction of being broadcast on the first AM radio program by Reginald Fessenden. Canadian inventor and former chief chemist for Thomas Edison, Fessenden opened the program by reading from the gospel of Luke, then playing O Holy Night with his violin and singing the last verse.
Little did I know of the history of O Holy Night when I began my Google search. The words and music inspire great joy in the miracle of Christ’s coming. But we are reminded of our solemn mission to lift – in His name – the enslaved and the oppressed. Can each of us take a step toward achieving that mission in this Advent Season?
O Holy comforter, help us each take a step forward this season to lift the enslaved and oppressed in your Name. Amen.
Sandi Huszagh
Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains He shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
In 1847 the parish priest in a small French town asked the commissionaire of wines to write a celebratory poem for Christmas mass. Placide Cappeau de Roquemaure turned to the gospel of Luke to create his remarkable images of Christ’s birth. Inspired to set his Cantique de Noel to music, Cappeau approached his friend and recognized classical musician, Adolphe-Charles Adam. Of the Jewish faith, Adam’s challenge was to craft a score for a poem celebrating Christmas and Christ – both counter to his belief structure. Cantique de Noel was widely accepted by the church in France until Cappeau left the church to join the Socialist movement and Adam’s Jewish ancestry was uncovered. The French Catholic church denounced the song for two decades, but the French people still sang this thrilling song in their homes.
American writer and zealous abolitionist, John Sullivan Dwight, translated Cantique de Noel in the 1850s. He interpreted the song’s message beyond Christ’s birth, linking the last stanza to his view of the sinful nature of slavery. Dwight published his translation in his own magazine and O Holy Night became broadly cherished in our nation. Christmas Eve some fifty years later, the hymn received the distinction of being broadcast on the first AM radio program by Reginald Fessenden. Canadian inventor and former chief chemist for Thomas Edison, Fessenden opened the program by reading from the gospel of Luke, then playing O Holy Night with his violin and singing the last verse.
Little did I know of the history of O Holy Night when I began my Google search. The words and music inspire great joy in the miracle of Christ’s coming. But we are reminded of our solemn mission to lift – in His name – the enslaved and the oppressed. Can each of us take a step toward achieving that mission in this Advent Season?
O Holy comforter, help us each take a step forward this season to lift the enslaved and oppressed in your Name. Amen.
Sandi Huszagh
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Advent Devotion 10, Wednesday, December 8
My favorite song at Christmas, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, captures the majesty of Jesus’ birth and how my heart feels during Christmas. Joyous.
There is one particular passage that I love:
Mild He lays His glory by,
Born that we no more may die
Born to raise us from the earth
Born to give us second birth
Hark! The herald angels sing
“Glory to the newborn King!”
In a season where so many people are distracted by the hoopla of Christmas (I include myself in this group), this hymn helps me remember the ultimate present. All else pales in comparison to the all encompassing, awe inspiring gift that God gave us. It humbles me to think of the multitudes that Jesus helps and that he only asks that we follow him.
I know that many view New Year’s Eve as an opportunity for a fresh start. I view Christmas as my spiritual new year. “Born to give them second birth” speaks to how I feel. It is the beginning. It is an opportunity to take my belief in God and turn it into a series of actions. To think of new ways to love God.
When Jesus was born, there was not a symphony behind the manger playing brass instruments. But if there had been, I picture them playing Hark! The Herald Angels Sing to celebrate Jesus’ birth. My favorite way to hear it? With brass instruments playing so joyously that I expect the doors of the church to be blown open by the music and the Holy Spirit!
O God of beginnings, as we begin our spiritual New Year, help us respond to your call to follow. Amen.
Holly MacMillan
There is one particular passage that I love:
Mild He lays His glory by,
Born that we no more may die
Born to raise us from the earth
Born to give us second birth
Hark! The herald angels sing
“Glory to the newborn King!”
In a season where so many people are distracted by the hoopla of Christmas (I include myself in this group), this hymn helps me remember the ultimate present. All else pales in comparison to the all encompassing, awe inspiring gift that God gave us. It humbles me to think of the multitudes that Jesus helps and that he only asks that we follow him.
I know that many view New Year’s Eve as an opportunity for a fresh start. I view Christmas as my spiritual new year. “Born to give them second birth” speaks to how I feel. It is the beginning. It is an opportunity to take my belief in God and turn it into a series of actions. To think of new ways to love God.
When Jesus was born, there was not a symphony behind the manger playing brass instruments. But if there had been, I picture them playing Hark! The Herald Angels Sing to celebrate Jesus’ birth. My favorite way to hear it? With brass instruments playing so joyously that I expect the doors of the church to be blown open by the music and the Holy Spirit!
O God of beginnings, as we begin our spiritual New Year, help us respond to your call to follow. Amen.
Holly MacMillan
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Advent Devotion 9 - Tuesday, December 7
Haul Out the Holly
Haul out the holly;
Put up the tree before my spirit falls again.
Fill up the stocking,
I may be rushing things but deck the halls again now.
For we need a little Christmas right this very minute.
Candles in the window, carols at the spinet.
Yes, we need a little Christmas right this very minute.
We need a little Christmas now!
Lyrics by Jerry Herman
I sing this song year round. It gives me cheer, comfort and companionship -- especially when I am in a difficult circumstance or just feeling blue.
The word “Christmas” originated as a compound, meaning “Christ’s Mass” or the “Mass of Christ.” Thus, it is concerned with Jesus’ death rather than His birth. Please, however, don’t suddenly be worried bout wishing people “Merry Death of Christ” because, of course, we don’t mean it in this sense. Rather, I think of the word “Christmas” to be the fullness of Christ, the spirit, the love. I don’t know about y’all, but I need this year round. I need it every day!
Dear Lord, please keep us mindful of your presence in our lives. You are with us always to offer cheer, comfort, companionship and more as many times as we ask. Thank you for providing yourself in this very personal way for we do need you, every day.
Pamela Prokasy
Haul out the holly;
Put up the tree before my spirit falls again.
Fill up the stocking,
I may be rushing things but deck the halls again now.
For we need a little Christmas right this very minute.
Candles in the window, carols at the spinet.
Yes, we need a little Christmas right this very minute.
We need a little Christmas now!
Lyrics by Jerry Herman
I sing this song year round. It gives me cheer, comfort and companionship -- especially when I am in a difficult circumstance or just feeling blue.
The word “Christmas” originated as a compound, meaning “Christ’s Mass” or the “Mass of Christ.” Thus, it is concerned with Jesus’ death rather than His birth. Please, however, don’t suddenly be worried bout wishing people “Merry Death of Christ” because, of course, we don’t mean it in this sense. Rather, I think of the word “Christmas” to be the fullness of Christ, the spirit, the love. I don’t know about y’all, but I need this year round. I need it every day!
Dear Lord, please keep us mindful of your presence in our lives. You are with us always to offer cheer, comfort, companionship and more as many times as we ask. Thank you for providing yourself in this very personal way for we do need you, every day.
Pamela Prokasy
Monday, December 6, 2010
Advent Devotion 8 - Monday, December 6
There’s a Song in the Air!
(also known as The Christmas Song)
There’s a song in the air!
There’s a star in the sky!
There’s a mother’s deep prayer
And a baby’s low cry!
And the star rains its fire while the beautiful sing,
For a manager in Bethlehem cradles a King!
As a brand-new, first-time grandfather—Leslie’s son, Charles Chapel Mize, was born September 9—I am naturally enamored of babies and the miracle of birth just now, so the very human aspects of the nativity (as echoed in “a mother’s deep prayer and a baby’s low cry”) certainly resonate with me. When the mystery of the incarnation is added to the already mystical event of childbirth, what happened in Bethlehem two thousand years ago becomes so astonishing, so awe inspiring, that it truly takes my breath away. All I can think to say is “Wow!” but that is clearly not enough. No wonder Josiah G. Holland, the poet whose words became the Christmas hymn There’s a Song in the Air! uses an almost overwhelming number of exclamation points—four in the first verse alone—in his celebratory song about the birth of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.
There can also be no surprise that Holland imagines a majestic song filling the air “while the beautiful [the angels] sing.” I do realize that nowhere in the Bible do we read that angels sing. The angel that appeared to the shepherds said (not sang), “Behold, I bring you good news of great joy”; and he was joined by a multitude of the heavenly host saying (not singing), “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom he is pleased!” Nevertheless, I feel certain—not only as this hymn proclaims but also as our own experience of the Christmas miracle all but requires—that there was, indeed, a song in the air. How else could the most miraculous event in all of human history be celebrated except in the singing of angels? Let’s face it: “Wow” and multiple exclamation points simply do not suffice for the announcement of the birth of the Son of God. The angels must sing!
Lord, fill us with awe, dazzle us with light, charm us with the songs of angels throughout Advent and on Christmas as we contemplate and celebrate your good news of great joy: the birth, life, death, and resurrection of your son, our savior, Christ the Lord. Amen!
Richard Lane
(also known as The Christmas Song)
There’s a song in the air!
There’s a star in the sky!
There’s a mother’s deep prayer
And a baby’s low cry!
And the star rains its fire while the beautiful sing,
For a manager in Bethlehem cradles a King!
As a brand-new, first-time grandfather—Leslie’s son, Charles Chapel Mize, was born September 9—I am naturally enamored of babies and the miracle of birth just now, so the very human aspects of the nativity (as echoed in “a mother’s deep prayer and a baby’s low cry”) certainly resonate with me. When the mystery of the incarnation is added to the already mystical event of childbirth, what happened in Bethlehem two thousand years ago becomes so astonishing, so awe inspiring, that it truly takes my breath away. All I can think to say is “Wow!” but that is clearly not enough. No wonder Josiah G. Holland, the poet whose words became the Christmas hymn There’s a Song in the Air! uses an almost overwhelming number of exclamation points—four in the first verse alone—in his celebratory song about the birth of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.
There can also be no surprise that Holland imagines a majestic song filling the air “while the beautiful [the angels] sing.” I do realize that nowhere in the Bible do we read that angels sing. The angel that appeared to the shepherds said (not sang), “Behold, I bring you good news of great joy”; and he was joined by a multitude of the heavenly host saying (not singing), “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom he is pleased!” Nevertheless, I feel certain—not only as this hymn proclaims but also as our own experience of the Christmas miracle all but requires—that there was, indeed, a song in the air. How else could the most miraculous event in all of human history be celebrated except in the singing of angels? Let’s face it: “Wow” and multiple exclamation points simply do not suffice for the announcement of the birth of the Son of God. The angels must sing!
Lord, fill us with awe, dazzle us with light, charm us with the songs of angels throughout Advent and on Christmas as we contemplate and celebrate your good news of great joy: the birth, life, death, and resurrection of your son, our savior, Christ the Lord. Amen!
Richard Lane
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Advent Devotion 8 - Sunday, December 5
O Holy Night (stanza 1)
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of Our dear Saviour’s birth.
Long lay the world In sin and error pining,
‘Til He appear’d And the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope The weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks A new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! O, hear the angels’ voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.
Almost 11 years ago those words, sang clearly and expressly by a co-worker at our Christmas party caught me off guard. My children were much younger then and as I sat inactive for a few minutes at the work luncheon, I was distracted by thoughts of what I should be doing rather truly being engaged in what was going on around me. It seemed everyday I had something scheduled, somewhere to be with my children festively dressed or somewhere to be with food in hand. My thinking was along the lines of “I’m going to get through Christmas, I just need to focus and get organized…”
I took notice when the room became silent in anticipation of her solo, then the words, Oh Holy Night were articulated so perfectly and with such conviction. There was no music or other noise was in the room. The stars are brightly shining. It is the night of our dear savior’s birth!...The thrill of hope the weary world rejoices, For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn!.
There was something about the way I could hear the traffic and noise in outside, but in the room where we were it was completely quiet except for the song. All at once I got it (again I have to say) and I was both relieved and embarrassed. Relieved to know all the craziness I was caught up in really didn’t matter and embarrassed I had to be reminded of the profound love God chose to extend to me through the birth of Jesus.
Fall on Your Knees. (Indeed!) I felt compelled to mentally bend to my knee and get right with my God; to acknowledge this was no small event even though it comes around once a year. This song will forever cause me to stop during the month of December and take pause to remember only I can cause it to be something other than a celebration of the birth of Jesus. Oh, Hear the Angel Voices. Oh Night Divine.
Holy God and Comforter, we pray that during this season we will hear the angel voices through all the noise as we prepare for the Divine Night. Amen.
Susan Boatwright
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of Our dear Saviour’s birth.
Long lay the world In sin and error pining,
‘Til He appear’d And the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope The weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks A new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! O, hear the angels’ voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.
Almost 11 years ago those words, sang clearly and expressly by a co-worker at our Christmas party caught me off guard. My children were much younger then and as I sat inactive for a few minutes at the work luncheon, I was distracted by thoughts of what I should be doing rather truly being engaged in what was going on around me. It seemed everyday I had something scheduled, somewhere to be with my children festively dressed or somewhere to be with food in hand. My thinking was along the lines of “I’m going to get through Christmas, I just need to focus and get organized…”
I took notice when the room became silent in anticipation of her solo, then the words, Oh Holy Night were articulated so perfectly and with such conviction. There was no music or other noise was in the room. The stars are brightly shining. It is the night of our dear savior’s birth!...The thrill of hope the weary world rejoices, For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn!.
There was something about the way I could hear the traffic and noise in outside, but in the room where we were it was completely quiet except for the song. All at once I got it (again I have to say) and I was both relieved and embarrassed. Relieved to know all the craziness I was caught up in really didn’t matter and embarrassed I had to be reminded of the profound love God chose to extend to me through the birth of Jesus.
Fall on Your Knees. (Indeed!) I felt compelled to mentally bend to my knee and get right with my God; to acknowledge this was no small event even though it comes around once a year. This song will forever cause me to stop during the month of December and take pause to remember only I can cause it to be something other than a celebration of the birth of Jesus. Oh, Hear the Angel Voices. Oh Night Divine.
Holy God and Comforter, we pray that during this season we will hear the angel voices through all the noise as we prepare for the Divine Night. Amen.
Susan Boatwright
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Advent Devotion 7 - Saturday, December 4
Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus (stanzas 1-2)
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.
Israel’s strength and consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art;
Dear desire of every nation,
Joy of every longing heart.
Charles Wesley, 1744
As modern-day Christians we have the gift of hind-sight, knowing that Jesus was indeed the Messiah for whom generations of Jews waited. Their patience was timeless, a trait practically unheard of in these days. We don’t like to wait for anything, even programming the television recorder to skip commercial advertisements so that we can get on with the show! And yet, wait they did for generations, never ceasing to be vigilant for the coming Savior. And they waited with excitement!
The closest feeling I can imagine to that deepest desire and longing heart (verse one) is one from my childhood on Christmas Eve. Preparation time in the early 1960’s was not nearly the extended months we experience now, though at the time it felt like waiting went on forever. There were those families in our town who decorated their tree immediately after Thanksgiving, but our family waited to pick and cut the cedar the week before Christmas. It was probably because my parents would wait for one of the older boys to return from college to help, but it was also to keep from driving my mother crazy with the youngest ones of us asking to open a present early. Finally Christmas Eve day would arrive. To help make the time pass, we were allowed to open one present. Great thought and deliberation went into that decision. The hours of that day seemed to last extraordinarily long. Watching the clock was a frequent duty. As the excitement rose and we began to get ready for the evening service, so did the excitement shivers. There were so many things about which to feel excited: the smell of turkey dinner and applesauce cakes, the chill of December, all the family home from faraway places, the house beautifully decorated (or, at least, cleaned all over at the same time!) and the thrill of holding a lit candle while singing carols in our quaint little Victorian sanctuary. The special music, the ritual of spreading the light of Christ, the joy of the extended church family all under one roof and the thrill of knowing that the wait for Christmas Day was almost over was enough to make me shiver from head to toe. There was no problem getting me to bed on this night, even though I knew my bed would be freezing for hours to come. Those excitement shivers can be recalled even 45 plus years later. Now that was a deep-felt longing … not for the toys and gifts, but for the overall joy of everything perfect all at the same time.
O Holy God, while we remember Israel’s waiting and hoping and we give thanks for Christ’s birth, we also anticipate his second coming at the end of time. Help us be the brothers and sisters in Christ you want us to be as we lead more disciplined lives and repent in the confident expectation and hope of Christ’s coming again. Amen.
Doris Granum
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.
Israel’s strength and consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art;
Dear desire of every nation,
Joy of every longing heart.
Charles Wesley, 1744
As modern-day Christians we have the gift of hind-sight, knowing that Jesus was indeed the Messiah for whom generations of Jews waited. Their patience was timeless, a trait practically unheard of in these days. We don’t like to wait for anything, even programming the television recorder to skip commercial advertisements so that we can get on with the show! And yet, wait they did for generations, never ceasing to be vigilant for the coming Savior. And they waited with excitement!
The closest feeling I can imagine to that deepest desire and longing heart (verse one) is one from my childhood on Christmas Eve. Preparation time in the early 1960’s was not nearly the extended months we experience now, though at the time it felt like waiting went on forever. There were those families in our town who decorated their tree immediately after Thanksgiving, but our family waited to pick and cut the cedar the week before Christmas. It was probably because my parents would wait for one of the older boys to return from college to help, but it was also to keep from driving my mother crazy with the youngest ones of us asking to open a present early. Finally Christmas Eve day would arrive. To help make the time pass, we were allowed to open one present. Great thought and deliberation went into that decision. The hours of that day seemed to last extraordinarily long. Watching the clock was a frequent duty. As the excitement rose and we began to get ready for the evening service, so did the excitement shivers. There were so many things about which to feel excited: the smell of turkey dinner and applesauce cakes, the chill of December, all the family home from faraway places, the house beautifully decorated (or, at least, cleaned all over at the same time!) and the thrill of holding a lit candle while singing carols in our quaint little Victorian sanctuary. The special music, the ritual of spreading the light of Christ, the joy of the extended church family all under one roof and the thrill of knowing that the wait for Christmas Day was almost over was enough to make me shiver from head to toe. There was no problem getting me to bed on this night, even though I knew my bed would be freezing for hours to come. Those excitement shivers can be recalled even 45 plus years later. Now that was a deep-felt longing … not for the toys and gifts, but for the overall joy of everything perfect all at the same time.
O Holy God, while we remember Israel’s waiting and hoping and we give thanks for Christ’s birth, we also anticipate his second coming at the end of time. Help us be the brothers and sisters in Christ you want us to be as we lead more disciplined lives and repent in the confident expectation and hope of Christ’s coming again. Amen.
Doris Granum
Friday, December 3, 2010
Advent Devotion 6 - Friday, December 3
The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came
The angel Gabriel from heaven came,
His wings as drifted snow, his eyes as flame;
“All hail,” said he, “O lowly maiden Mary,”
“For know a blessed mother you shall be,
all generations praise continually,
Your Son shall be Emmanuel, by seers foretold.
“Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head,
“To me be as it pleases God,” she said,
“My soul shall laud and magnify God’s holy name.”
Inside, on a pillar, in the Regensburg Cathedral in Germany is a statue of Gabriel. This magnificent cathedral is regarded as one of the finest Gothic buildings in Bavaria. When you enter, your eyes are drawn to the majesty of this beautiful structure. First, most visitors notice the massive and majestic stained glass windows. The sun behind them casts warmth and new life to the grey stone interior. A visit to this cathedral creates memories filled with awe and appreciation.
As massive and impressive as it is, it’s what’s on that pillar that so many visitors remember – the statue of Gabriel. It is called the “Smiling Angel.” Gabriel’s joy is directed across the nave to another statue – one of Mary. Mary is portrayed as a diminutive, young woman – maybe as young as 12 or 13—with downcast eyes and with a look of wonder on her face. If you look closely you see Mary is beginning to return Gabriel’s smile. You can’t help but imagine the wonder she must have felt when she received his message. At that point, you are compelled to look again at Gabriel and realize the joy they both reflect, has spread to you. I can only imagine what Gabriel or Mary must have felt. When he, for the first time shared the Good News of our Savior’s birth and for Mary to know of the Christ child she would bear – there must have been such joy for both.
During this season of New Birth and promise may we all reflect and share their wonder and joy. Luke 1:26-38
O God of wonder and joy, during this season of New Birth, let us live lives where our souls loved and magnify you. Amen.
Carol Brown
The angel Gabriel from heaven came,
His wings as drifted snow, his eyes as flame;
“All hail,” said he, “O lowly maiden Mary,”
“For know a blessed mother you shall be,
all generations praise continually,
Your Son shall be Emmanuel, by seers foretold.
“Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head,
“To me be as it pleases God,” she said,
“My soul shall laud and magnify God’s holy name.”
Inside, on a pillar, in the Regensburg Cathedral in Germany is a statue of Gabriel. This magnificent cathedral is regarded as one of the finest Gothic buildings in Bavaria. When you enter, your eyes are drawn to the majesty of this beautiful structure. First, most visitors notice the massive and majestic stained glass windows. The sun behind them casts warmth and new life to the grey stone interior. A visit to this cathedral creates memories filled with awe and appreciation.
As massive and impressive as it is, it’s what’s on that pillar that so many visitors remember – the statue of Gabriel. It is called the “Smiling Angel.” Gabriel’s joy is directed across the nave to another statue – one of Mary. Mary is portrayed as a diminutive, young woman – maybe as young as 12 or 13—with downcast eyes and with a look of wonder on her face. If you look closely you see Mary is beginning to return Gabriel’s smile. You can’t help but imagine the wonder she must have felt when she received his message. At that point, you are compelled to look again at Gabriel and realize the joy they both reflect, has spread to you. I can only imagine what Gabriel or Mary must have felt. When he, for the first time shared the Good News of our Savior’s birth and for Mary to know of the Christ child she would bear – there must have been such joy for both.
During this season of New Birth and promise may we all reflect and share their wonder and joy. Luke 1:26-38
O God of wonder and joy, during this season of New Birth, let us live lives where our souls loved and magnify you. Amen.
Carol Brown
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Advent Devotion 5 - Thursday, December 2
My Soul Proclaims Your Greatness
My soul proclaims your greatness, Lord; I sing my Savior’s praise!
You looked upon my lowliness, and I am full of grace.
Now ev’ry land and ev’ry age this blessing shall proclaim –
Great wonders you have done for me, and holy is your name.
“My soul magnifies the Lord! My spirit rejoices in my Savior! He has seen the humble state of my heart. And now all will call me Blessed!” The Magnificat
The beginning of Mary’s Song: what thankfulness, joy, excitement, and hope she expresses as she sings these words. In these few words, we begin to see some of the truths of Christmas. What joy Mary feels to find out that she is going to be blessed with a child, which is quite a joy in itself. But she has just received the news that her son will be the Son of God and the Savior of the World! By her expression we understand her thankfulness and her excitement for this most precious gift. Not only to her, but to the whole world. Her words also give the feeling of hope for the future. The people in those days had been praying and waiting for a Savior, and now he was coming! Imagine how that would make you feel!
Each Christmas Season I find myself experiencing these same feelings Mary felt a long time ago. When I was little I was often consumed with the excitement, hopefulness, joy and, thankfulness that surrounds all of the parties, family get-togethers, and of course all of the presents I would receive Christmas morning. At this point I did not really understand what the greatest gift we receive each Christmas was. As I have gotten older; although I still get really excited about all the parties, family get-togethers, decorating etc., I have begun to understand the reason for all of Mary’s feelings she so eloquently expresses. Each Christmas we receive the greatest gift of all: the Birth of our Savior, who came to give us life everlasting! And each Christmas season we are able to experience that anticipation that hope that joy, the birth of the Savior brings. And as Mary had a thankful hopeful heart, we too can look back on the year and be thankful for the blessings we have been given, and be hopeful for the blessings and memories to come. Each year as I sit in the Christmas Eve candlelight service, I find myself overwhelmed by the excitement, joy, and hope Christ brings, and each year during that service I say a little prayer thanking God for the many blessings I have been given, and for the miraculous gift of His Son, Emanuel!
Dear Lord: Thank you so much for allowing us to experience the anticipation, joy, excitement, and hope that surrounds the birth of your Son. May we never lose sight of the glory of this most precious gift. Help us not get too caught up in the hustle and bustle of the Season, but enjoy each moment we get to share with friends, family, and loved ones. In your Most Holy Name we pray. Amen.
Katie Pinson McNeil
My soul proclaims your greatness, Lord; I sing my Savior’s praise!
You looked upon my lowliness, and I am full of grace.
Now ev’ry land and ev’ry age this blessing shall proclaim –
Great wonders you have done for me, and holy is your name.
“My soul magnifies the Lord! My spirit rejoices in my Savior! He has seen the humble state of my heart. And now all will call me Blessed!” The Magnificat
The beginning of Mary’s Song: what thankfulness, joy, excitement, and hope she expresses as she sings these words. In these few words, we begin to see some of the truths of Christmas. What joy Mary feels to find out that she is going to be blessed with a child, which is quite a joy in itself. But she has just received the news that her son will be the Son of God and the Savior of the World! By her expression we understand her thankfulness and her excitement for this most precious gift. Not only to her, but to the whole world. Her words also give the feeling of hope for the future. The people in those days had been praying and waiting for a Savior, and now he was coming! Imagine how that would make you feel!
Each Christmas Season I find myself experiencing these same feelings Mary felt a long time ago. When I was little I was often consumed with the excitement, hopefulness, joy and, thankfulness that surrounds all of the parties, family get-togethers, and of course all of the presents I would receive Christmas morning. At this point I did not really understand what the greatest gift we receive each Christmas was. As I have gotten older; although I still get really excited about all the parties, family get-togethers, decorating etc., I have begun to understand the reason for all of Mary’s feelings she so eloquently expresses. Each Christmas we receive the greatest gift of all: the Birth of our Savior, who came to give us life everlasting! And each Christmas season we are able to experience that anticipation that hope that joy, the birth of the Savior brings. And as Mary had a thankful hopeful heart, we too can look back on the year and be thankful for the blessings we have been given, and be hopeful for the blessings and memories to come. Each year as I sit in the Christmas Eve candlelight service, I find myself overwhelmed by the excitement, joy, and hope Christ brings, and each year during that service I say a little prayer thanking God for the many blessings I have been given, and for the miraculous gift of His Son, Emanuel!
Dear Lord: Thank you so much for allowing us to experience the anticipation, joy, excitement, and hope that surrounds the birth of your Son. May we never lose sight of the glory of this most precious gift. Help us not get too caught up in the hustle and bustle of the Season, but enjoy each moment we get to share with friends, family, and loved ones. In your Most Holy Name we pray. Amen.
Katie Pinson McNeil
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
IHN Wednesday 12/1/2010
IHN of Athens has informed us that we will have no guest families this week, so none of our usual IHN jobs need to be done. We still need to do take down (we partially set up two guest rooms on Sunday), which will happen on Saturday 12/4 at 1:00pm. If you can help with this, please contact Rick Simpson.
First Christian Church, our neighbor just a few blocks down Dougherty street, needs help staffing an IHN host week January 2 through January 9, 2011. If you can provide a meal, act as an Evening Host or Overnight Host, or drive the IHN van during that week, please contact Rick Simpson, who will coordinate our volunteers with First Christian's IHN schedule.
First Presbyterian's next IHN host week will be February 27 through March 6, 2011. See you then.
First Christian Church, our neighbor just a few blocks down Dougherty street, needs help staffing an IHN host week January 2 through January 9, 2011. If you can provide a meal, act as an Evening Host or Overnight Host, or drive the IHN van during that week, please contact Rick Simpson, who will coordinate our volunteers with First Christian's IHN schedule.
First Presbyterian's next IHN host week will be February 27 through March 6, 2011. See you then.
Advent Devotion 4 - Wednesday, December 1
Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus
The first hymn in our hymnal is Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus by Charles Wesley. Charles was the youngest of 18 children and in 1735 came to colonial Georgia for a brief period as a secretary to General Oglethorpe. Although he was ordained by the Church of England it wasn’t until a conversion experience on Whitsunday, 1738, during a Moravian service that he found “rest in his soul” and the gift of hymn writing was released in him. He became a prolific hymn writer, over 6,000 penned, eleven of which are in our hymnal today. (Four of those being found in the Advent and Christmas sections, including the favorite Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.)
The season of Advent is about preparing for the birth of Jesus, getting our hearts and minds ready to receive the love of God in human form. But in reality Advent is not just a season - it is a 24-7, 365-days-of-the-year way of life for all Christians. Since Jesus’ ascension, Christians throughout the ages have been preparing for his return. In the first stanza of Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus Charles Wesley puts to music the prayers of the generations for the return of Jesus: “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.” It is so strange a thought that contemplating living an eternal life without being fearful or sinful is almost beyond human comprehension. In his second and third stanza Wesley gives us hope that we will have the strength, through God’s gift of Jesus, to see this life through to that very moment. “Israel’s strength and consolation, Hope of all the earth Thou art; Dear desire of every nation, Joy of every longing heart. Born Thy people to deliver, Born a child and yet a King, Born to reign in us forever, Now thy gracious kingdom bring.” The final stanza of this hymn asks for the baby who was born to be a King to rule in our hearts and give us grace sufficient to make it to our eternal home; “By Thine own eternal Spirit Rule in all our hearts alone: By Thine all sufficient merit Raise us to thy glorious throne.”
The prayer for today uses part of the text from Charles Wesley’s beloved Christmas hymn Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. (Note: Despite what we assume would be the correct word Wesley uses “sun” instead of “son.”)
Jesus, we have long expected you and celebrate that you came to earth in human form to deliver us from our fears and sins. “Hail [to you] the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail [to you] the sun of righteousness! Light and life to all [you bring], Risen with healing in [your] wings. Mild [you] lay [your] glory by, Born that we no more may die, Born to raise us from the earth, Born to give us second birth.” Help us to remember every day to give “Glory to the new-born King!” Amen.
Misse Mallino
The first hymn in our hymnal is Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus by Charles Wesley. Charles was the youngest of 18 children and in 1735 came to colonial Georgia for a brief period as a secretary to General Oglethorpe. Although he was ordained by the Church of England it wasn’t until a conversion experience on Whitsunday, 1738, during a Moravian service that he found “rest in his soul” and the gift of hymn writing was released in him. He became a prolific hymn writer, over 6,000 penned, eleven of which are in our hymnal today. (Four of those being found in the Advent and Christmas sections, including the favorite Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.)
The season of Advent is about preparing for the birth of Jesus, getting our hearts and minds ready to receive the love of God in human form. But in reality Advent is not just a season - it is a 24-7, 365-days-of-the-year way of life for all Christians. Since Jesus’ ascension, Christians throughout the ages have been preparing for his return. In the first stanza of Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus Charles Wesley puts to music the prayers of the generations for the return of Jesus: “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.” It is so strange a thought that contemplating living an eternal life without being fearful or sinful is almost beyond human comprehension. In his second and third stanza Wesley gives us hope that we will have the strength, through God’s gift of Jesus, to see this life through to that very moment. “Israel’s strength and consolation, Hope of all the earth Thou art; Dear desire of every nation, Joy of every longing heart. Born Thy people to deliver, Born a child and yet a King, Born to reign in us forever, Now thy gracious kingdom bring.” The final stanza of this hymn asks for the baby who was born to be a King to rule in our hearts and give us grace sufficient to make it to our eternal home; “By Thine own eternal Spirit Rule in all our hearts alone: By Thine all sufficient merit Raise us to thy glorious throne.”
The prayer for today uses part of the text from Charles Wesley’s beloved Christmas hymn Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. (Note: Despite what we assume would be the correct word Wesley uses “sun” instead of “son.”)
Jesus, we have long expected you and celebrate that you came to earth in human form to deliver us from our fears and sins. “Hail [to you] the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail [to you] the sun of righteousness! Light and life to all [you bring], Risen with healing in [your] wings. Mild [you] lay [your] glory by, Born that we no more may die, Born to raise us from the earth, Born to give us second birth.” Help us to remember every day to give “Glory to the new-born King!” Amen.
Misse Mallino
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)