Advent Devotional Day 24: Show Us How It's Done

December 24:

B.C. verse: John 1:14

A.D. verse: Ephesians 2:8-10; 5:8-10

Christmas hymn: “O Holy Night”

Hymn for today: “Holy, Holy, Holy” and “Praise Him” by David Crowder

Fun fact: Approximately 65% of the population are visual learners. I definitely fall into that category. I enjoy challenging myself by learning new things, and one of my goals this year was to improve in the sewing department.

Since practice makes perfect, I took on a couple of fairly simple sewing projects. For the first one, I read the instructions from a book. Since my sewing vocabulary was/is very limited, it took me a long time (and a few phone calls to my mom) to figure out what I was supposed to do. A few ripped seams later, I was successful.

For the second project, I streamlined the process by flipping open my laptop and heading to youtube. After I watched the video a couple of times, I confidently completed the task.

The bottom line is that if I want to learn something completely and correctly, I need to see it.

Here’s another fun fact: Approximately 100% of the population hates being told what to do. I definitely fall into that category too. If you ask me politely, I will almost always comply because I like to be helpful. I am a problem-solver by nature and have often dropped what I am doing to accommodate someone else. However, if you tell me what to do, it’s a different story. I am not proud to say that my character flaws, stubbornness and belligerence, may rear their ugly heads in such a circumstance.

I am pretty sure that I am not alone in that regard.

Fortunately, God is aware of these fun facts about humans too, and He took this into consideration when He planned Operation: Save Mankind.  Today’s verse from John seems to confirm this idea: “The Word became flesh and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory of the Father’s one and only Son” (14).  

When the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, the purpose was to give mankind a flesh and bone, practical example of how to live. Since He knew (knows) we are visual learners, God knew this was the best way to show mankind what He expected. Unfailing love and faithfulness are the cornerstones of His example and Christ-like living.

As Holy God and King of the Universe, He could have merely and only TOLD us what He expected. It would have been within His rights and power as an omniscient, omnipresent, omnipotent ruler to do so. However, in considering how well we humans love directives, He saw a better, more effective means to the end He desired.

Starting with His birth, the 33 years he spent on earth were living, breathing Scripture in motion. As a human, He knew and understood our challenges and limitations; as God in human form, He was perfection within those human parameters. He gave us the blueprint of how to live and interact with others in spite of those limitations. What grace, what love. . .far more than we deserved. “God saved you by His grace when you believed, and you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Because of His generosity and compassion, we also have the freedom (as in, choice) to follow His example for the rest of our earthly lives. Our salvation is not dependent on whether or not we do, but in considering the depth and purity of His love for us, how can we not respond?

“For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true” (Ephesians 5:9). . .”so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago”(Ephesians 2:10).

 The words to my favorite Christmas hymn are a fitting way to end this devotional and the Advent season as well as celebrate Christ’s birth and awaited return.

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 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 angel voices
O night divine
O night when Christ was born
O night divine
O night divine

Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming
Here come the wise men from Orient land
The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger
In all our trials born to be our friend

Truly He taught us to love one another
His law is love and His gospel is peace
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother
And in His name all oppression shall cease
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name

Daily Challenge: Go to church tonight. When there, be there. Discipline your mind to celebrate Christ’s birth. Don’t worry about dinner, gifts or relatives. Before you leave, hug someone, and don’t let go until s/he does.

Advent Devotional Day 23: Gifts R Us

December 23:

B.C. verse: Matthew 2: 9-12

A.D. verse: Romans 12: 4-8

Christmas hymn: “Christmas Shoes”

Hymn for today: “Live Like That” by Sidewalk Prophets

Like the majority of adults, I prefer to give gifts as opposed to get them. Typically, I make a thoughtful effort to either make or purchase a gift that reflects my knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the recipient. For example, I have a friend who is a big fan of pecan pie, so I have, on occasion, baked one for her as a gift. Over time, however, gift-giving has become a source of anxiety and dread for me.

Case in point: Last year, I purchased a wall item for a newly-married couple. I scoured the internet until I found just the right one, and the gift was opened last Christmas. Recently, I visited their home and discovered that my gift had been hung. . .behind a door. . .in the master bathroom.  Ouch.

Then, there was the time that we were having a garage sale at our house. Various relatives brought over items for the sale, and as I was going through the books on the table, I discovered a devotional that I had given one of them. . .with my thoughtfully-composed, handwritten note still on the front page. The binding hadn’t even been broken. I won’t lie; my feelings were hurt. I couldn’t bear to look at it, so I just threw it in the garbage can.

Nothing, however, compares to the persnickety gift critic known as my daughter. After several disappointments in the gift department, she has opted for specificity. She now takes screen shots and sends pictures of the items she wants so that the brand, color, and store are specific and error-proof. While I appreciate her research, Christmas shopping feels more like grocery shopping.

Whatever happened to “It’s the thought that counts”? While the levels of extravagance and expense have increased, the simplistic notions of thoughtfulness and meaning of gift-giving have decreased.

Likewise, the focus these days seems to be on the recipient versus the giver, which, if you think about it, is backwards. A gift is something willingly given without expectation of payment. In order words, without the giver’s initiative, the subject is a moot point.

The Magi in today’s verses show us the original intention of the gift-giving concept. “They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. They opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh” (Matthew 2:11).

First, they opened their treasure chests. They chose to give the best they had. . . no re-gifting, no grumbling about cost, no clearance items. Secondly, the items they gave were specifically and thoughtfully chosen for the Christ-child.

Gold was (and still is) a valuable precious metal, which was associated with royalty. This gift was a tangible acknowledgement of Christ’s kingship. Frankincense was often used in conjunction with burnt offerings. This gift was a tangible acknowledgement of the sacrifice, or offering, that this child would grow up to be. Myrrh was a spice used for embalming. The gift was a tangible acknowledgment of the fact that this baby would grow up to die for the sins of mankind.

Tangible objects and time are just one type of gift; the word has another applicable meaning for believers in the world today. A gift is also defined as “a natural ability or talent.”  It is also freely given with the expectation that it be used fully, cheerfully, and wisely. According to Scripture, throwing this gift in corner, unused, or worse, whining about it and being ungrateful is a sin.

“Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well” (Romans 12:4-6).

Christ’s birth was a gift of hope for mankind. The Magi’s gifts were given in humility and holiness to recognize and worship Christ the king. Christ’s death and resurrection was a gift of grace to mankind. And, we, too, who have been sanctified through Christ are also gifts who have been equipped with gifts to do His work on earth until He returns.  There is no shopping, there are no returns, and wrapping is not required. This gift merely requires us to be the people God asks us to be by maintaining a close relationship with him and using the talents that have been specifically designated to us.

“So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly” (Romans 12: 7-8).

Whether it’s Christmas or the other 364 days in the year, it’s important to remember that it’s not about what we get; it’s about what we give. Give generously, joyfully, and ceaselessly.

Daily Challenge:  Volunteer. No more talking about doing it. Pick an organization or task today and commit to it. Tell someone else whom you know will help you to be accountable.

Advent Devotional Day 22: Hero or Zero?

December 22:

B.C. verse: Matthew 2:7-8

A.D. verse: I Peter 1: 3-7

Christmas hymn: “Do You Hear What I Hear??

Hymn for today: “Overcomer” by Mandisa

King Herod is still in the spotlight for today’s verses. I’m not gonna lie; it kind of bothers me that he is. After all, the Advent season is all about Jesus. Why does Herod get to make a guest appearance twice in the reading schedule?

What’s worse is his behavior in today’s passage. “Herod then arranged a secret meeting with the scholars from the East. Pretending to be as devout as they were, he got them to tell him exactly when the birth-announcement star appeared” (Matthew 2: 7). Basically, the king abuses his power in such a way that he manipulates those around him. The guy who is supposed to be trustworthy and respected turns out to be the biggest snake in the viper pit.

And what’s worse x 2? Who is going to question him? Who is going to stop him? As far as anyone knew, he really WAS interested in meeting and worshiping the new king. No one could have called that he was plotting to kill the new king. Furthermore, who could have stopped him?

This gets to me thinking about leaders, in general, especially spiritual leaders. Since these people are considered men and women of God, it is easy for the average Joe to swallow whole anything and everything that comes from their mouths. I’m not saying that we need to be cynical regarding our spiritual leaders, but we do need to be mindful of the fact that they are human, just like everyone. To be human is to be sinful and selfish, and God forbid that someone like Herod, who claims to be devout, should cause others to go astray.

So, how can you tell the difference between a Godly leader and a Herod?

Honestly, only God knows the true heart of a leader, and we would be wise to leave the judgment calls up to Him. God is a big God who has His finger on the pulse of EVERYTHING. He doesn’t need us to micro-manage for Him, and to do so is sin. His Will is perfect, so if there is a stinker in the room, He will take care of the problem in His own time and in His own way.

And even if a poor leader is in place for a time, you can bet your bottom dollar that God allowed him/her to be there for that duration for a specific, perfect reason.  Our job is to keep our eyes fixed exclusively on Him, waiting for Him to tell us what He wants us to do, not worry (as in judge) about someone else’s journey and issues. “And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive the salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see” (I Peter 1:5).

Even so, our spiritual leaders assist us in our spiritual education and edification. The Bible and the character of Christ provide the only guidelines we have with regard to spiritual leadership. Therefore, here are a few flags to watch for when it comes to the integrity of spiritual leaders:

1)      Are their directives/teachings in opposition to the Bible’s teachings in any way?

In other words, if what they teach or promote or how they conduct themselves is sinful in any way, that’s a huge flag. Rumors, gossip, secretiveness, lying, manipulation, etc, etc, etc do not correlate with the Bible’s teachings; therefore, a leader should not promote or tolerate any of them.

2)      Do their leadership decisions and directives glorify God and promote spiritual growth?

A tyrannical atmosphere of fear, intolerance, unchecked power, and spiritual stagnation does not promote growth. Likewise, if division is the result versus unification, it is indicative of problems with spiritual leadership. Even if the fault is a wayward congregation versus anything that a leader has said or done, the leader’s efficacy and spiritual guidance should be questioned (at least, in my opinion).

3)      Does the leader practices what s/he preaches?

Is s/he actively in the Word – reading, studying, and meditating? Does s/he have an obvious personal relationship with the Savior, which extends beyond prayer and reading the Bible? I know what you’re thinking – how can anyone answer these questions? They are personal; only God and s/he would know the answers to these questions.

I agree. However, I would argue that a person’s behavior – how s/he acts when s/he doesn’t know s/he is being watched – is the answer to those questions.

In other words, does the leader’s character resemble that of the Good Shepherd?  Love, humility, meekness, kindness, gentleness, self-control, an other’s-first, lost-sheep mentality. . .all of these describe the Good Shepherd that we have read about day-after-day in our Advent reading. While it is impossible for any human to achieve Christ’s standard, a spiritual leader should be conscientious of the example s/he presents to flock under his/her care.

No matter what, the Herods of this life last only for a season. They may deceive us, they may make our lives miserable for a while, and they will disappoint us at some time. Any success they achieve is only classified by worldly standards. Ultimately, however, God’s Will and Purpose prevail, and that is what we look forward to as we await His return.

 “So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold – though your faith is far more precious than gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world” (I Peter 1: 6-7).

Daily Challenge: Pay it forward today. You and God decide together what it is.

Advent Devotional Day 21: To Lead is to Follow

December 21:

B.C. verse: Matthew 2: 3-6

A.D. verse: Hebrews 13:20; I Peter 5:4; John 10: 11-16

Christmas hymn: “O Worship the King”

Hymn for today: “Father Blessed Father” by Newsboys

Leadership can be a double-edged sword. Ask anyone who has ever been in a leadership position. Initially, when a person is chosen or emerges to be a leader, s/he is honored and maybe even a little humbled by the vote of confidence from others around him/her. However, for many human leaders (not all), that moment is as good as it ever gets.

The annals of history and literature are full of examples of people who started out as good, charismatic, popular leaders, only to turn into corrupt, evil, or immoral tyrants later on. Oedipus, Macbeth, and even Hitler fall into this category.  King Herod, in today’s reading, qualifies for this classification as well.

Why and how does this happen? Obviously, these guys became leaders because they possessed character traits and performance records that were admirable and impressive. So how do these guys move from heroes to zeroes?

While there may be many answers to that question, they all possess the same basic flaw: Pride. And when all the layers of pride are stripped away, the root of the problem is clearly and undeniably exposed, and not surprisingly, the culprit is self. When man chooses to focus on and rely on self, nothing good ever happens.

For example, when he learned of the birth of a new king, “King Herod was deeply disturbed” (Matthew 2:3). The news put him on edge because it suggested competition; he might be out of a job. When he pressed for more details, Herod’s wise guys told him what the prophet had written: “. . .for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel” (vs. 6).

 Check out the qualities of the new king. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him, and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks and scatters the flock. The hired hand runs away because he is only working for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep. I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me. . . . So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. I have other sheep, too, that are not in my sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one Shepherd” (John 10:11-16).

Rather than celebrate concerning the new king, Herod panics. His first and only concern is himself – making sure that he stays on the throne and in power. The measures he resorts to in order to maintain his position are absolutely distasteful; Herod sacrifices all the little boys under the age of two in order to eliminate the threat.

In the passage, the underlined descriptions of the hired hand are indicative of Herod’s character as a leader. He “runs” (panics) and “abandons” his people because they are not his first concern. He is only concerned about himself. Herod’s character and choices are diametrically opposed to the new king.

Ironically, the new king is classified as a shepherd, which, as we learned before, was considered to be one of the least respected and desirable jobs in the ancient world. This suggests the new king’s humility; he is willing to take the job no one wants. This is in direct opposition to the proud and selfish King Herod. Likewise, where Herod willfully and cold-heartedly sacrificed the lives of his people in order to maintain his position on the throne, the new king sacrifices HIS own life for his people (flock). Lastly, where Herod’s actions created chaos and division among his people, the new king is concerned about gathering and uniting his “flock.”

The efforts of Herod (and other rulers like him) were self-motivated so as to achieve and maintain power and renown. Ironically, the new king achieves all that and more when he puts others before himself. Humility leads to honor. Compassion creates community. From meekness comes a master.

As Christ’s example shows, the secret to being a good leader is to never think of ourselves as one. Following the Good Shepherd’s example of nurturing a servant’s heart (in which the sheep -or others- come first) seems to be the key. Leadership naturally emerges when others see that type of behavior in action. They want to exemplify that it too, so they watch and try to mimic the person they admire.

Likewise, if good leaders desire to stay that way, they must discipline themselves to do the same – watch and mimic the Shepherd they admire, never allowing self to block the vision.  If they do, “when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor” (I Peter 5:4). There is no great honor than that.  

Daily Challenge: Give someone elderly a gift today. . .a visit, play music for him/her, read to him/her.

Advent Devotional Day 20: A Light for the Journey

December 20:

B.C. verse: Matthew 2: 1-2

A.D. verse: Psalm 43:3; Romans 13:12

Christmas hymn: “We Three Kings”

Hymn for today: “The Light in Me” by Brandon Heath

“Midway upon the journey of our life
I found myself within a forest dark,
For the straightforward pathway had been lost.

Ah me! how hard a thing it is to say
What was this forest savage, rough, and stern,
Which in the very thought renews the fear.

I cannot well repeat how there I entered,¹⁰
So full was I of slumber at the moment
In which I had abandoned the true way.”

In my College-Prep Communications class, we sample portions of Dante’s Inferno, and the above excerpt is from Canto I as Dante begins his journey to hell. The basic paraphrase is that somewhere around the midpoint of his life, Dante finds himself lost in a dark, cold, miserable wood, often referred to as the Dark Wood of Worldliness or Error. It must have been a miserable experience because he tells us that the very thought of the place “renews the fear.” In the final stanza, he confesses that he does not know how he ended up in the wood; the slumber to which he refers is a confession that moral laxity or inattention caused him to lose way and get lost.

The good news is that he can see a light in the distance at the top of a mountain, and he wants to get there. The bad news is that it’s one heck of a climb to get there, he is having trouble along the way, and as we find out as we continue to read the poem, there are obstacles to prevent him from reaching his goal.

Since Dante is lost in a dark wood, my students and I dissect the archetypes, darkness and light. Darkness, they concluded yesterday, represents evil, confusion, despair, and hopelessness. By the end of the discussion, the students conclude what scholars already know to be true: Dante’s dark wood is depression.  

In short, Dante is having a midlife crisis and is depressed. Even though it was written in the 14^th century, Dante’s depressive symptoms of hopelessness, misery, and defeat are all too familiar to the reader of the 21^st century.

Like Dante, the Israelites had been wandering in a dark wood (or world) of error for 400 years. Moral laxity had been their downfall as well. The light, or hope, was the promised Savior, so they were seeking a path out of the dark wood in the form of the signs that had been prophesied. The Magi, a group of Biblical scholars, were among them, and once they saw the star that had been foretold, they were on the move.

 “About that time, some wise men from the eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking ‘Where is the newborn King of the Jews? We saw his star in the east, and we have come to worship him’” (Matthew 2:1-2). According to what I read, it is possible that a posse (not just three) of Magi traveled something like 800-900 miles in order to see Christ. Likewise, the fact that they were following a star from the east has its own symbolic significance. In literature, the east – where the sun rises – often is associated with birth and new life. In this case, both apply with regard to Christ’s birth.

No matter if you are the Israelites, the Magi, Dante, someone who is middle-aged and/or depressed, or the person reading this screen, light = hope and life. Modern-day Magi (wise men and women) still seek and follow the light. “Send out your light and your truth; let them guide me. Let them lead me to your holy mountain, to the place where you live” (Psalm 43:3). Like the Magi’s journey, our journey toward the light may be lengthy and will require an all-in mentality, but even in its most arduous moments, it’s better than the alternative every day of the week.

In order to be prepared for the big moment, the Magi read and re-read Scripture and watched for the signs. It sounds like good as advice for us, too, for a couple of reasons. First, reading Scripture and keeping our eyes on the light are ways to avoid getting sucked into darkness. Our eyes can only focus on one thing at a time: light or darkness. Which one will it be? Secondly, reading Scripture helps us to prepare and watch for signs as we await the return trip, rather than the birth, of the Savior. “The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living” (Romans 13:12).

“You are the hope that leads me out of the dark
You let Your love shine down
So that the world could see
You put the light in me”

-from “The Light in Me” by Brandon Heath

Daily Challenge: Pick up trash today; put recyclable items into the proper containers.

Advent Devotional Day 19: Epic Fail

December 19:

B.C.verse: Micah 5: 2-5

A.D. verse: John 21: 15-19

Christmas hymn: “Little Drummer Boy”

Hymn for today: “Savior, Like a Shepherd”

Epic fail. This is a phrase that the average teenager whips around these days. It’s a phenomenon that has gone viral with regard to videos on youtube and has even inspired its own app.  Basically, an epic fail occurs when something that should have been easy to accomplish goes horribly wrong, resulting in complete and total failure.

Epic fail pretty much describes the Israelites in today’s passage. After Solomon, the nation of Israel fell apart – literally. They refused to obey God or His laws, which naturally resulted in all sorts of negative consequences. Add in a little drama in the house of Solomon, and all of a sudden, Israel was a nation divided in two. The result was something like 400 years in which God was silent, and Israel (and Judah – the other half) were attacked by their enemies.  As was promised, there was no human king during the interim.

In the prophecy from Micah, God offers His sin-oppressed, depressed people a light at the end of the tunnel with the promise of a king, a savior.

“The people of Israel will be abandoned to their enemies until the woman in labor gives birth” (Micah 5:2). Literally and figuratively, a birth would end the Israelites exile. Just as a woman’s labor pains end with the birth, so Israel’s pain would end with the birth.

“He will stand to lead his flock with the Lord’ Strength, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God” (Micah 5:4). This new king would not rely on the strength of armies or human wisdom. Like his predecessor, David, this king would trust and obey God and His laws. “Then, his people will live there undisturbed, for he will be highly honored around the world. And he will be the source of peace” (Micah 5:4). The end result of putting God first will be all the blessings He intended for his people in the first place.

Even though Israel had experienced an epic fail, the good news was that it was not too late. God was offering a way out of the mess. The solution, however, was not without a price, but God was willing to foot the bill for a mess He hadn’t even made. . .without an expectation of ever being repaid.

Israel wasn’t the only one to get a second chance. In the A.D. verses for today, we read about Peter’s epic fail.

Prior to this moment, Peter had denied Christ, so when they met again, I would imagine that Peter felt somewhat awkward around him. Then, to make matters worse, Jesus engages Peter in a weird conversation in which Jesus asked him three times, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” (John 21:15). The first two times, Jesus was basically asking, “How much do you love me? Would you sacrifice yourself in some way for me?”  

If I put myself into Peter’s shoes, I have no doubt that the questions made Peter squirm. When the opportunity had presented itself earlier, Peter had experienced an epic fail; rather than sacrifice himself for Christ, Peter had actually denied him. It must have felt like a knife being ground into Peter’s side. So, when he said, “Yes, Lord, you know I love you” (v 16), Peter was saying (because it was the only thing he could honestly say at this point), “Of course, I care about you; you are a good friend of mine.”

The third time Jesus asked him, Jesus used Peter’s definition (above) in framing the question, and “Peter was grieved that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, ‘Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you’” (v 17). Peter was hurt and distressed because he KNEW that Jesus had lowered his standard and (in Peter’s mind) opinion of Peter. Peter felt as though there was a spotlight on his epic fail.

Christ, in His perfect timing, sensed that Peter was now in the frame of mind that Christ needed Peter to be.  Jesus continued by letting Peter know what was in his future, and it didn’t involve a happy ending with regard to his human life. However, “Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he [Peter] would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, ‘Follow me’” (19).

Rather than be traumatized further, Peter was relieved to hear that his epic fail would not haunt him for the rest of his life. In the end, Peter would truly show Christ that he loved him by sacrificing his life for him.

Thus, it would seem as though epic fails are not terminal failures. Our biggest failures are necessary in order to humble us and lead us to repentance. It is only then that our hearts and attitudes are finally centered on God versus ourselves.

“And when you begin to see [a] person in the middle of a difficult and painful struggle, don’t try to prevent it, but pray that his difficulty will grow even ten times stronger, until no power on earth or in hell could hold him away from Jesus Christ. . .You may often have to watch Christ wreck a life before He saves it” Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest.

Daily Challenge:  Replace what you use today (Ex. Toilet paper roll, soda, water or copy paper).

Advent Devotional 18: Treasures from the Chest

December 18:

B.C. verse: Luke 2: 19-20

A.D. verse: Philippians 1:9-11

Christmas hymn: “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”

Hymn for today: “All This Time” by Britt Nicole

The night stand by my bed is the warehouse of all my “special” stuff. These are items (mostly paper) that mean something only to me. For example, every journal that I have written in since 1993 is in this night stand. I have old pictures, my grandma’s Bible, a broken bracelet from my great-grandma, and a prayer book that was given to me by my other grandma. I also have every handwritten note/letter that my kids have given to me as well as their baby teeth and even the positive pregnancy strips that announced imminent motherhood.

Even though that last one is admittedly weird, these are my treasures. The fact that I have tucked them away in a “special” hidden place indicates that they are valued and special only for and to me. Likewise, my treasures define me; what I keep is an indication of what is most important to me.

In today’s verses we read that “Mary treasured all these things in her heart and thought about them often” (Luke 2: 19). Even though the verse does not discuss physical items that Mary treasured, it does indicate what she valued – where her heart was. In order to keep all that had happened – God’s blessings and providence – fresh in her mind, she “pondered” them often.

What we choose to “ponder” is a reflection of our hearts – the place where our true treasures abide. “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:21). In my case, the contents of my night stand indicate my heart’s treasure, which is family, especially my children. “Warm fuzzies,” however, are not the only “treasures” that are stored away. Bitterness, resentment, hatred and the like are also reflections of the heart.

Good or bad, whatever we ponder will either nurture or poison us. Those thoughts affect our actions, which ultimately become our character. Therefore, it is important that we carefully choose what to ponder and treasure.

Today’s A.D. verses are my “life verses;” it is a reminder that what we think is what we become:

 “I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation – the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ – for this will bring much glory and praise to God” (Philippians 1:9-11).

Daily Challenge: Do something for a neighbor today.

Advent Devotional Day 17: Seeing is Believing, or Believing is Seeing?

December 17:

B.C. verse: Luke 2: 15-18

A.D. verse: Psalm 9:1b-2; Psalm 40:5

Christmas hymn: “O Little Town of Bethlehem”

Hymn for today: “Amazed” by Kutless

On Saturday, we celebrated ThanksChristmas with my side of the family. Just as soon as we arrived and brought gifts into the house, Wy, our 3 year old nephew, was chomping at the bit to open presents. He quickly ate his lunch and patiently waited while all the dishes were taken care of. After the obligatory pictures had been taken, and the annual poem had been read, it was finally time to get down to business.

Suddenly, there was a “Ho, ho, ho” in the stairway. Wy’s eyes were as big as saucers as Santa made his way to the basement with his ginormous bag. Even though he wasn’t so sure at first, it didn’t take Wy long to assist Santa in emptying his bag. 

As I watched him, Wy reminded me of Erika not so long ago. While Erika had never officially seen Santa, she believed in his existence until she was something like a fourth or fifth grader. She was always amazed to wake up and find bites out of the cookies and half-glasses of milk. Any question marks she had about the whole concept were wiped clean when she found her stack of gifts under the tree. Santa HAD to have brought them because the wrapping paper he used was nowhere to be found in the house.

Say what you will about the whole Santa controversy; it’s just one example in which adults try to maintain child-like innocence for as long as possible. As we know all too well, disappointment is a bitter pill to swallow, and we would rather not like to rush that “first” when it comes to our kids. The simple joy they get in believing is just as much for us as it is for them.

Somewhere along the way in becoming adults, we lose our child-like acceptance (whether it’s Santa or something else). Believing is no longer enough; we get demanding and have to “see it in order to believe it.”

Apparently, the shepherds suffered from this same sort of skepticism. “When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing had has happened, which the Lord has told us about’” (Luke 2: 15). It seems as though the angel’s message was not enough; they wanted to see it for themselves.

Then, “After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child” (Luke 2:17). There it is again; after tangible proof, the shepherds were on the move to tell anyone they could find.

If believing is such a simple joy (and I believe it is), then why do we make it so complicated? The simple explanation is that the world around us embraces logic, reason, and common sense. While these are all important, I believe that they were not originally intended to be the most important ingredients in decision-making and living. A simple, child-like faith was supposed to be the priority, but as has been historically shown , we humans have managed to turn everything upside down from the way God intended.

 So as adults, are we doomed to never again experience the wonder and joy of simple belief? I guess that question can only be answered by each individual. For example, if one puts a seed into the ground, s/he can believe that when a plant pushes through the soil, it is the result of a complete scientific process only, or s/he can believe that there is a Master Creator who designed and ensured the perfection of the scientific process. I know which belief brings me joy; how about you?

The response to this joy is to do what the shepherds did – to do what I am doing right now – and that is to share that joy with anybody who will listen. “I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. I will be filled with joy because of you, O Most High” (Psalm 9:1b-2).

“O Lord my God, you have performed many wonders for us. Your plans for us are too numerous to list. You have no equal.”

Daily Challenge: Spend some time at an animal shelter or make a donation ($ or goods) to one.

Advent Devotional Day 16: Glory to God in the Highest (Rain or Shine)

December 16:

B.C. verse:  Luke 2:13-14

A.D. verse: Philippians 2:9-11

Christmas hymn: “Angels We Have Heard on High”

Hymn for today: “To God Be the Glory” and “He Reigns” by Newsboys

Friday night was gift-wrapping night. I do this to myself every year. As I/we purchase Christmas gifts, they are deposited on the bed in the spare room until there is an ominous mound waiting to be wrapped. Then, I take one night and blitz-wrap the whole pile. As a reward for my efforts, I make sure there is a Christmas movie playing in the background. On Friday night, Elf was the entertainment.

At the very end of the film, Santa’s sleigh is grounded in Central Park in New York City. Buddy the Elf is working feverishly to get it operational, but what it really needs to get it off the ground is a large dose of Christmas spirit. Unfortunately, as Santa sadly confesses, Christmas spirit levels have been woefully low in recent years, which is why Santa’s sleigh now needed the mechanized power.

Jovie, Buddy’s new love interest, senses that she needs to act.  Even though she considers singing in public to be the ultimate anathema, she remembers something Buddy had told her: “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loudly for all to hear.” Timidly, she begins singing “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” As others begin to join her, she gains confidence and volume. Eventually, everybody is singing at the top of his/her lungs, and miracle of all miracles, it is just the right dose of Christmas spirit to get Santa’s sleigh off the ground, so he can finish his Christmas Eve tour. Miracles happen when enthusiastic spirits and voices unite.

Hey, wait a minute; that reminds of something. “Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others – the armies of heaven – praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased!’” (Luke 2:13-14). The fireworks at Lake Beauty Bible Camp are hands-down amazing and light up the sky like nothing I’ve ever seen, but I’ll bet a sky full of singing angel warriors would totally kick its butt in magnificence.

And look at what they are doing – singing glory to God - songs of praise, adoration, and thanksgiving. Likewise, they are requesting peace on earth – freedom from all disturbance, rest, tranquility – for those who are favored by God. It’s a scene of perfect happiness. Who can’t relate to that? When any of gets a wonderful piece of news, we react! We laugh, we scream, we cry, we shout, and yes, we sing. In our moments of perfect happiness, we want the world to know too.

Here’s the true test of an unshakeable faith – singing in moments of absolute distress. It’s easy, appropriate, and even contagious to sing in moments of pleasure, but what about those moments when it feels as though the walls of your world are falling down around you?

In August 2011, we received a call on a Sunday morning that Mike’s uncle in Grand Forks was not doing well. He had been struggling with cancer for quite a while and was now preparing to exit this world. Mike’s sister, Rhonda, and her husband, Rick, Mike, Erika, and I immediately hopped in the car for the four-hour drive to the hospital.

When we arrived, it became clear rather quickly that today was going to be the day. The hospital room was entirely filled with Arlin’s family – his kids and their spouses, his wife and her kids, his ex-wife, his sister and brother-in-law (Mike’s mom and dad), his mom, and us. When we arrived, he was still lucid, so we all had the blessed opportunity to be able to take turns in saying goodbye. Then, it became a waiting game.

At some point, Arlin’s ex-wife, Linda, began to sing hymns. Sometimes, she sang alone, and other times, we sang with her. Of the injustices in life, one of the worst is when a parent outlives a child, and even though her “baby” was 60+ years old, Granny, Arlin’s mom, was having a tough time in saying goodbye. One of many poignant memories of that day was watching Granny sing a hymn while tears rolled down her cheeks.  

I have no doubt that the aerial praise and worship concert on the night that Christ was born was the most awesome musical extravaganza in history, and God was smiling like none other.  I bet He has just as wide a smile when someone in the pits of despair weakly whispers a song of praise. Praising God when everything is going well is easy; praising God when things are crappy is true faith.  

And I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

“Praise You In This Storm” by Casting Crowns

Daily Challenge: Write a specific, positive comment today on someone’s Facebook wall, Twitter comment (tweet), or blog. 

Advent Devotional Day 15: Saving the Best for Last

December 15:

B.C. verse: Luke 2: 8-12

A.D. verse: John 16:33

Christmas hymn: “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks”

Hymn for today: “What a Savior” by Laura Story

When I was 18 years old, I was in desperate need of money so that I could go to college. At the suggestion of my mother, I acquired a job as a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) at what was then known as Christian Nursing Center.  It was a nursing home, and I spent the next four years of my summers and weekends there.

It is one of the most difficult jobs I have ever had in my life, and I often joke that my college graduation present to myself was turning in my resignation– but not for the reason you might think.

To explain, the physical work was difficult. Lifting and transferring residents, offering personal care, and walking many miles a shift were taxing; however, the job was mentally draining as well. Rarely are people in the last years of their lives at their best, and having to cope with death on a regular basis took some getting used to.  

The worst, however, was working short. For any of you who have ever worked in a nursing care facility, you know exactly what I’m talking about. The nursing home at which I worked had two wings, which was staffed (on paper) with about four to five CNAs to each wing. Typically, a CNA’s list (of people in one’s care) was something like ten. If one or more people called in sick, the list would easily and quickly blossom to twenty. In such conditions, it was impossible for us CNAs to provide the care necessary; that’s what I disliked about the job, and that’s why I was relieved to turn in my resignation.

In my opinion, CNAs are among the least respected in the world of work. First, the actual work they do is undesirable and distasteful to most people. It takes a special person with a compassionate heart to do this job the right way. Fortunately, most of the people with whom I worked could easily fill that description. Secondly, a nursing assistant is the lowest on the totem pole when it comes to nursing care. Technically, they are not nurses, but they are responsible for direct patient care.

In essence, the CNAs of the modern world remind me of the shepherds in the ancient world. Like CNAs, the shepherds got stuck doing the work no one else wanted to do. It was an undesirable, distasteful job, and shepherds were not respected or acknowledged. The Bible makes it pretty clear that the shepherds were a sort of social pariah. “That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep”(Luke 2:8).

Even so (and this makes me smile because I have a soft spot for the underdog), God chooses to make the big announcement about the birth of His Son to the shepherds! “Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them. . .Don’t be afraid! I bring you good news that bring great joy to all the people. The Savior-yes, the Messiah, the Lord – has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!” (Luke 2: 10-11).

Not only does God choose the most insignificant city in which to be born. . .not only does he choose the worst, most disgusting location and conditions in which to be born; he also chooses to relay the big news to the most insignificant members of society. He is definitely threading humility into every aspect of His birth.

It’s been twenty years since I last walked the floor as a CNA. However, working at the nursing home planted the seeds of a servant heart within me; empathy and compassion are necessary in my position today, and I wouldn’t be the teacher I am today if I had not had my job at the nursing home. Humility isn’t a genetic condition; it is a choice one makes over and over again. God certainly underscored that point as He carefully arranged the conditions of His birth.

The fatal flaw in humans is our preoccupation with, preservation of, and protection of self. Putting self before God is what caused sin and death to enter the world in the first place.  As God enters the human world to extend grace and salvation, it is clear that self has to take a back seat. . .all the way to the back of the bus. Humility allows God the ability to drive the bus, and that’s the only way to salvation and joy.

Daily Challenge: Do something anonymously for someone who works in a service profession today.

Advent Devotional Day 14: The No-Frills Baby

December 14:

B.C. verse: Luke 2: 6-7

A.D. verse: I Peter 1: 13-16

Christmas hymn: “Silent Night”

Hymn for today: “He is With Us” by Love and the Outcome

My nephew and his wife are just days away from becoming new parents. Mandi is due on December 22, but if looks are an indicator, that baby should arrive any time (and Mandi hopes it is sooner rather than later).

Their baby will be the first grandchild and great-grandchild on our side of the family, so to this child’s birth has been anticipated would be an understatement.

Just as soon as the pregnancy was confirmed, plans for the arrival began in earnest. The young couple purchased a fixer-upper farm place in June of 2012 and has spent the last year in completing various home improvement projects, one of which was the baby’s nursery.

For many months, the crib has been ready and waiting to be filled. The walls are pink as it has been confirmed that “Baby K” is a girl. The décor has established that Baby K will like owls as the critters have been thematically included in every facet of her room. Not surprisingly, Baby K’s closet is already filled to bursting with frocks and frills meant for little girls. Strollers, pack-and-plays, and other equipment stand at attention, awaiting the special cargo that will fill them.

The planning and preparation is complete. Hurry up, Baby K; there are a lot of people waiting for you.

Long ago, there was another baby who was long-anticipated and eagerly-awaited. However, the preparation and supplies for this baby were not as elaborate and overwhelming as Baby K’s.  “[Mary] gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them “(Luke 2:7).

The birth of “Baby K” signals the start of a new generation, the birth of a new era. The birth of “Baby J” signaled much the same thing in terms of a spiritual family. “Look forward to the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world” (I Peter 1:14).

Rather than be born in a royal palace, the King of the World, the Joy of our Salvation, the Mighty God entered simply and humbly. There were no grand preparations or celebrations; it occurred exactly as He ordained – in a stable with a trough for a bed and rags for clothes.  His birth is his first lesson to us as He begins his interim as a human, for, like him, his birth was holy, which means “specified or set apart for a religious purpose.”  Thus, our thoughts and actions should be likewise. “But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy” (I Peter 1:15).

Just as Christ’s birth was humble and simple, so should our faith be. We don’t need frilly theology, elaborate devotionals, or well-prepared prayers; we just need a humble heart, a willing spirit, and undiluted faith.

  

Daily Challenge: Mail a handwritten note or card to the first person you thought of when you read this.

Advent Devotional Day 13: Lemon Drops, Tea, and Pickles

December 13:

B.C. verse: Luke 2:1-5

A.D. verse: 2 Corinthians 5:6-7; Isaiah 41:10

Christmas hymn: “O Little Town of Bethlehem”

Hymn for today: “It is Well With my Soul”

When I was a kid, my next door neighbor’s name was Grandma Nellie. She technically wasn’t my grandma, but she was very old, and she always had a lemon drop for me. Across the street lived George and Gracie. Even though Gracie has since passed away from cancer, I still see George now and then, and he is still the kindest, most gentle man ever. He is still sharp as a tack and always makes a point to ask about my husband, kids and career.

Down the street was another very old Dutch lady named Nell. Since I had a paper route, I visited her once per week (Fridays) where I would always be treated to a cup of tea and pickles as snack while her crazy cat gave me the death glare from atop the refrigerator.

I could keep going, if you like.

As you can probably surmise, I grew up in a very small community – less than 600 people total; additionally, this was a community with a strong, mostly-Dutch, Christian Reformed heritage. There was a private school in this town that was largely supported by the area Christian Reformed churches, and I attended this school, K-12.

Welcome to my hometown.

There was a period and time when I couldn’t wait to leave this town. As a senior in high school, I was experiencing growing pains and couldn’t wait to see the “real world.” Well, I have seen the “real world,” and I will admit I miss the safe, connected “bubble” in which I grew up.  Like almost every small town on the planet, a fact of small towns, which can be both an advantage and disadvantage, is that everybody knows everybody, and everybody knows ABOUT everybody. While some people do not like it at all, I have come to appreciate this intricate social tapestry as well as the social “guidelines” of my hometown and the purpose it served.

The bottom line is that for good or for ill, your hometown, to a certain extent, defines you.

And so it was with Joseph. When the census was required, Joseph had to return to his hometown  (or “own town”).  For the purpose of discussion, his “hometown” was tied to his lineage, and since he was of the house of David, he had to return to Bethlehem.   “Descendant of David” not only defined Joseph; it influenced how others regarded him.

That certainly explains the practical reason as to why Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but that was a man-made reason. “In those days, Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census would be taken of the entire Roman world. . .And everyone went to their own town to register” (Luke 2: 1 and 3). Of all the places God could have chosen for Him, a King, to be born, why did he choose Bethlehem?

The Sunday School answer is that the prophets had foretold that the Savior would be born in Bethlehem. Sorry if I am being disrespectful, but that is circular logic. That’s like saying, “I need a new car. Therefore, I am going to buy a new car because I need a new car.”

Why did God specifically choose the dinky, little town of Bethlehem to be the place of His birth?

“So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem, the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David” (Luke 2:4). Obviously, Bethlehem was David’s town, so here’s a thought: God specifically chose a small, insignificant, almost-forgotten town in which to be born because the town reflects David himself.

Think back to when Samuel showed up on Jesse’s farm to anoint a new king. He and God played a game of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. . “Is this the one, God?” When Samuel had gone through the whole works without a winner, he asked Jesse if there were any other kids. I imagine Jesse scratching his head and then an imaginary light-bulb flashes over his head. As a matter of fact, “There is still the youngest but he is tending the sheep (the least respected task that was reserved for the youngest/most powerless)” (I Samuel 16:11). The kid on the bottom of the totem pole ended up being king. The most insignificant had the most important task.

It kinda sounds like Bethlehem, doesn’t it? The least important city was awarded the privilege and historical claim-to-fame of being the place of the Savior’s birth. Likewise, while Bethlehem did not define Christ, it certainly was defined by Christ’s birth.  It wasn’t the size or looks of the city (or king) that impressed God; it was the character. We would be wise to chew on that idea for a while. “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all” (Mark 9:35).  

Daily Challenge:  Complain less today. Every time you feel a “whine” coming on, smile.

Advent Devotional Day 12: A Song Without a Melody

December 12:

B.C. verse: Luke 1:46-56

A.D. verse: Psalm 139; Revelations 4:8b

Christmas hymn: “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”

Hymn for today: “Revelation Song” by Phillips, Craig, and Dean

In the space of a few months, Mary goes from engaged teenager to a pregnant woman who has been specifically chosen to carry the Savior of the world. She has spent most of those months “chillin’” with Elizabeth, a very old, pregnant woman. They seem as unlikely a pair as possible. It’s not like Elizabeth could give Mary much advice on pregnancy and childbirth since this was Elizabeth’s first time around too.

Even so, hanging out with Elizabeth probably served two very useful purposes. First, staying with Elizabeth and Zechariah allowed Mary to prepare for the changes in her own life. To explain, Elizabeth had lived many years and was reported to be a righteous woman; it just follows that she was wise as well. Elizabeth was just the right person to come along side and fortify Mary’s faith and spiritual resolve. Secondly, on a practical level, Elizabeth and Zechariah’s home was just the right “hideout” to get Mary out of the limelight until she had developed thick enough skin to deal with the gossip and public scrutiny, which would ultimately accompany her condition.

In the verses for today, Mary finally gets a moment to herself, and we get a privileged glimpse into her thoughts. Her life is about to get as complicated and stressful as it’s ever been, and what does she do? She sings. . .a song of praise. She thanks God for choosing her, “a lowly servant girl” (Luke 1: 48).  She says, “Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!” (46-47).   She continues to talk about all the things that God has done for her and His people.

Likewise, in Psalm 139, David does the very same thing:

O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me (1).

Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand (6).

You saw before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment

                Was laid out before a single day had passed (16).

How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! (17)

I think that they are on to something. Using Mary’s song as a template, I am going to create my own song:

                Oh, how I believe, respect, and trust you even when the world tries to me not to.

                Hearing Your Voice speak to me through Your Word and in the wee hours of the morning brings me contentment and peace that I find difficult to describe.

                For you to bother with me, an opinionated, prickly mess whom others find irritating, I am humbled and grateful - that you care about my character, that you challenge me to my limits to improve my character, that you truly, genuinely know my heart.

                For the Mighty One is holy, And He has done great things for me.

                He shows me that pride is a stumbling block that needs to be removed So that I can move when He tells me to.

                His mighty arm has done tremendous things!

                He has given me two strong-willed children to teach me humility.

                He has brought me to a career that seemed so unlikely for me – Every experience and encounter has been a divinely-ordained stepping stone in my faith walk.

                He has filled my mind and heart with persistent dreams, of which only He and I are aware. He does not laugh at me, ignore me, insult me, hurt me or tell me no; He understands with a compassionate, encouraging heart.

                He has helped me to find the answers in the most unlikely places; His time, Will, and purpose is perfect. He erases my doubts, one by one.

                For He has shown me that He is the only path to fulfillment and joy.

The end of David’s song (Psalm 139: 23-4) 

is the perfect end for mine:

                Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.

                Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life 

Daily Challenge: Adopt a soldier overseas today and send him/her something – a note, package, etc.