preparing in the light - kennettchristianchurch.org · 105 w. washington street kennett, mo 63857...

32

Published for Advent 2013 by

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

105 W. Washington Street

Kennett, MO 63857 573-888-2703

www.kennettchristianchurch.org

The Rev. Dr. Douglas Cripe, Pastor

Crossroads Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

2415 North 89th Street Caseyville, IL 62232

618-398-1587

www.crossroadsdisciples.org The Rev. Michael Dixon, Interim Pastor

Compton Heights Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

2149 S. Grand Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63104

314-771-5071

www.comptonheights.com The Rev. Dr. Jacquelyn L. Foster, Pastor

Affton Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 9625 Tesson Ferry Road

St. Louis, MO 62123

314-631-5777 www.afftonchristianchurch.org

The Rev. David A. Woodard, Pastor

A special thanks to Staci Cripe for the photography and to

Junda Andriuškevičiūtė for the ink drawings.

Advent 2013

Preparing in the Light

Written by members of

First Christian Church, Kennett

Crossroads Christian Church Compton Heights Christian Church

Affton Christian Church

2

Welcome

This past spring I did lots of preparing to move from one

congregation to another, which also involved my family’s

preparation to move from one town to another. After 21 years

of living in the same area, I had forgotten how much work it

takes to move!

Changes often take lots of preparation, and during the Advent

season we prepare once again for an event that changed—and

continues to change—the world. Who could have imagined that

the birth of one child could make such an impact on the world!

Over the next four weeks the writers of this devotional will invite

you to think about Preparing in the Light for the changes that

we face, not only at Advent, but all year:

through the hills and valleys of life that bring us ups and

downs along the path of life

by discerning how to help those in need, some of whom we

may know, and others who may be strangers

as we thirst for meaning and reflect on our faith while sitting

near flowing streams or while listening to crashing ocean

waves

and as we celebrate the Light of Jesus that shines in our

lives not only at Christmas, but throughout the year.

May your preparations this Advent be filled with meaning as

you reflect on the gift of words that twenty-five writers from four

Disciples churches share with you this joyous season, along

with photos from my wife Staci and ink drawings by Junda, our

exchange student from Lithuania. You may also read these

reflections on a blog and leave your own comments at

www.kennettchristianchurch.org/advent.html. May you have a

joyous Advent!

Pastor Doug

31

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 Christmas Day

Please read Luke 2:14–20

When they saw this, they reported what they had been told about this child. Everyone who heard it was amazed at what the shepherds told them. (CEB)

MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Jesus Christ the Son of God is

born this day! What an amazing night those shepherds must have had.

There they were minding their own business, tending their sheep just like

every other night. They were, as always, on the lookout for danger and

threats to their flock. Soon their mundane night’s work became anything but

ordinary. The dark sky became bright, filled with Heavenly Angels who

directed them to go to Bethlehem to see their Savior who had just been

born that night. Despite having other responsibilities, they picked up and

headed immediately to find the Christ Child about whom they had been

told. They found him, and everything the angels had told them turned out to

be exactly right.

Having seen the child, they headed back to work, but to everyone they

saw, they reported all they had seen and heard about this special child.

People were amazed at what the shepherds had to say. It is hard to tell

whether the people were more amazed by what the shepherds had to say

or by the fact that these shepherds were the messengers. God could have

chosen great religious scholars, political leaders, or even great military

leaders to deliver the message that Jesus had been born. God’s choice,

however, was to use ordinary shepherds.

We, like the shepherds, may not seem important enough to share the story

of Jesus, Savior of us all. Few of us are evangelists who can command

thousands to hang on our every word. God’s choice to share the news of

Jesus’ birth weren’t great leaders; they were people just like us. We are

ordinary people with an extraordinary task: to share the good news of

Jesus’ birth and life. We have seen the Christ Child in our own lives; now it

is time to go back to work, sharing all we have heard about this special

child with all we encounter.

Dear God, thank you for your Son, whose birth we today celebrate. Remind us throughout the year that we need to be as excited to tell others about your Son, Jesus, as those shepherds were on that night of that special birth. May there be peace as we close this Advent

Season. Amen.

Phillip Britt First Christian Church, Kennett

30

Tuesday, December 24, 2013 Christmas Eve


And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger, because there

was no room for them in the inn. (NKJV)

The story of Jesus’ birth takes place while his parents are

going about their daily lives; they were going to pay their taxes.

The birth happened in the most humble way: in a stable with

the animals. Yet God is at work, summoning shepherds, kings,

and angelic hosts. It was the extraordinary happening amongst

the ordinary.

Extraordinary things are happening amid the ordinary right

now: a friend is giving someone a hug that desperately needs

it, volunteers are helping others in need, a firefighter is saving a

stranger, a piece of music is being composed, someone is

holding the door open for the person behind him…a new

mother is holding her newborn baby.

On this Christmas Eve, we remember that God sent Jesus to

be with us, to teach us how to love, to give us hope no matter

what circumstances we find

ourselves in, and to be the

Light of the World.

Dear God, thank you for this most holy night—the night when you sent your Son to show us how to live and love extraordinarily in an

ordinary world. Amen.

Deidra Woods Affton Christian Church

3

Preparing in the Light... walking through hills and valleys

4

Sunday, December 1, 2013 First Sunday of Advent

Please read Isaiah 2:1–5

Come, O house of Jacob, let us

walk in the light of the Lord (NIV)

Many years ago, I had the

opportunity to go on an elk hunt in

Colorado. We left the ranch early

in the morning on horseback. Up

the mountain we trekked for more

than three hours to the spot on the

canyon rim where we would pitch

our tent. At over 10,000 feet, the ranch below looked small

indeed. From this magnificent vantage point, it was easy to feel

a wonderful peace. Clouds and distant mountain peaks melted

together as the sun rose to proclaim God’s great creation.

Conflict and worry of everyday life seemed unable to reach this

place.

Surely this could be the vision of Isaiah as he sees God’s

kingdom rise above a world of conflict and strife to tower above

human sin—a time when people of all nations will focus on

God. Just imagine: no more war, greed, or desire to dominate

one over the other.

Isaiah’s vision is one of hope, echoed in the birth of Jesus.

Advent is a time of rejoicing in that hope, but it also serves as a

time to explore the valleys of our life. Put aside the dark secrets

hidden there and prepare to climb the mountain. Here we will

find God’s light shining strong and feel the warmth of Christ’s

love.

Father God, help us to travel out of our dark valleys to follow your light in our Lord Jesus Christ to the

mountaintop. Amen.

Rick Carver First Christian Church, Kennett

29

Monday, December 23, 2013


He has brought down rulers from their thrones, and has exalted

those who were humble. (NASB)

God chose Mary, a very young and humble girl, to bring into the

world Jesus, the Messiah, to the entire world forever. Mary could

hardly believe that God had chosen her, but she accepted this

calling without question. From that time on, all generations have

called her blessed.

The world has believers and unbelievers alike, though God gave

the Ten Commandments as the rules for all to live by. Our

country was founded on these principles and the U.S.

Constitution, for these words help us to learn to live together in

harmony. Throughout history, however, we see examples of

kings, rulers, and dictators who have risen and fallen because

they chose to instead rule by power, ego, and corruption. Being a

Christian, however, prompts us to live by other values: loving our

neighbors and accepting them as they are without prejudice.

Greeting one another with the

phrase Merry Christmas

reminds us of why we

celebrate this season,

encouraging us to keep our

eyes upon Jesus.

God, guide and direct our path to live in your light. We give you the praise and

glory. Amen

Mona McAllister Crossroads Christian Church

28

Sunday, December 22, 2013 Fourth Sunday of Advent


And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy.” (NRSV)

I was wondering about expectations. Mary did

not expect to be giving birth to the Savior of the world, the Light of the

world. Yet, she believed what had been spoken to her. She heard the

message of the angels and believed in the amazing gift that was to be

brought forth into the world through her care and labor. She believed.

When she visited Elizabeth, even the child—whom we know to be John

the Baptizer—leaps for joy in Elizabeth’s womb. She, too, believed in the

Good News that was about to be birthed in the world.

Belief is a powerful thing. What would happen if we simply believed? What

would we be gaining by trusting in the Word of God and in the gracious

presence of the Light of the World? Many of us probably spend more time

thinking about what we would be giving up rather than what we would

gain. But Elizabeth attests to Mary’s belief. Let us attest to our own.

Neither one of these women expected to be giving birth to those that

would be a part of shaping the hope and faith of God’s people. But both

believed. Sometimes our expectations need to be pushed aside so that

we can experience the joy that comes with belief in a God that is so

powerful that the course of the world can be changed by the birth of an

infant. When we are able to let go of that which we expect and believe in

that which has been promised by God, we too will be blessed.

During these last days of Advent, these last days of waiting, we can turn

our expectations into belief that our lives can and will be changed.

Change may not come as we expect, but it will come as God has

promised. We have heard what has been spoken by the Lord. We have

read the stories of faith, prayed the prayers of God’s people, sung the

songs of history, and experienced the presence of God. May we believe

that our lives can be changed and greet God’s fulfilled word with joy.

O God, while we wait, change our expectations to belief. Help us believe that your grace, your love, and your life that is fulfilled in the

power and presence of the infant Jesus is for us. Amen.

Charlsi Lewis Lee Compton Heights Christian Church

5


Please read Genesis 8:1–19

When the dove returned to him in the evening, there in its beak was a freshly plucked olive leaf! Then Noah knew that the water had receded from the earth. (NIV)

For over fifteen years, since my retirement from “my calling” of teaching, I had been a part-time adjunct professor in the Department of Education in a Midwestern university. But this fall I was offered a full-time position in the department. When the offer came I didn’t hesitate, but in the interim between my accepting the position and before classes started I began to question my decision. “At my age,” I asked, “am I ready to begin what amounts to a new phase of my teaching career, a new beginning?” In those intervening days I did a lot of praying that I had made the right decision. My period of consternation was shorter than forty days and nights, but to some extent I was floating in an ark of indecision. I should have used Noah’s experience when he was offered a job for God. He didn’t hesitate, and he said “yes” with apparently no equivocating. Whatever God told him to do, he did: And Noah did all that the Lord commanded him.

Often when we are faced with any of the myriad incidents occurring in life that will cause change, we can flounder in a sea of despair, or we can ask for God’s guidance, and like Noah, do all that is commanded of us. The story of Noah and the flood offers us an insight into God’s plan for the earth and its inhabitants. The dove’s returning to the ark with an olive branch in its beak signifies the first of God’s new beginnings, not just for Noah and his family, but for the old earth that was renewing itself.

During this Advent season, we turn to the Christ, the one whose coming signified the ultimate opportunity for a new beginning. His coming made all things new. When we accept the command to take upon ourselves the personality of Jesus, we become new and welcome the change that marks a new beginning.

In my new beginning I didn’t find a dove with an olive branch, but after the first week of full-time teaching I found there would be opportunities to expand my teaching that weren’t available when I was part-time. Don’t shrink from change: it can be a new beginning.

God of new beginnings, remember us when we are facing challenges that will bring about change and help us find the good in them.

Amen.

Ken Holmes Crossroads Christian Church

6

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Please read Genesis 9:1–17

When I bring clouds over the earth and the bow is seen in the clouds, I will remember my covenant that is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall never

again become a flood to destroy all flesh. (NRSV)

The theme for this week, “Walking through hills and valleys,” brings

to mind the changing and at times rough terrain of our lives. There

are always hills and valleys, floods and winds, rocky uneven paths

and storms. I often think of those towns and cities destroyed by

storms, homes and loved ones swept away by floods. I wonder how

those who have suffered such loss hear the words of Genesis 9:15:

“and waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh.” It

is clear that faith in God does not remove the power of water,

earthquake, wind, and fire. Rather, the promise is that God will see

the sign in the clouds and remember the everlasting covenant

between God, God’s people, and “every living creature of all flesh

that is on the earth.”

God says, “I will remember my covenant that is between me and

you.” How often we think the covenant is all up to us—all about our

faith or our failures. The amazing grace is that when God’s people

kept forgetting the covenant, God kept remembering it.

Our journey through Advent is the journey with God

who keeps coming to us. God came to us through

Moses who set God’s people free from slavery in

Egypt. God came to us through Noah with a sign of a

covenant that God would remember. God comes to

us in Jesus, Emmanuel, God-With-Us.

Wherever we are, whatever the storms or the terrain

of our lives, God remembers the covenant. We are

not alone. God comes to us!

Meet us, O God, in the covenant place. Remember the sign and remind us of it when we forget. We trust that when we look to the

clouds, we will see your bow and remember your promise. Amen.

Jacquelyn Foster Compton Heights Christian Church

27

Preparing in the Light... celebrating the Light of Jesus

26

Saturday, December 21, 2013

Please read 2 Samuel 7:23–29

O Lord God, you are God, and your words are true, and you

have promised this good thing to your servant. (NRSV)

Recently, while traveling across Missouri’s southern Ozarks to

visit relatives, my wife and I stopped at Big Spring near Van

Buren. We found a picnic table near the spring and enjoyed our

lunch while watching the cool water gush from the base of a

limestone bluff, forming a blue-green pool before flowing into

the Current River. We learned that 286 million gallons of water

roar out of this spring everyday. Such beauty, power, and

dependability remind me of God’s constant, never-failing love

and care for us.

David too must have had thoughts of God’s faithfulness as he

prayed the prayer in this scripture. David praised God for all the

“great and awesome” things God had done for Israel, and he

prayed not for personal wealth or power but asked that his

descendants remain in God’s favor. We too can pray for

strength and growth of our personal relationship with God.

The Advent season serves to remind us of all the wonderful

things God brings to our lives, especially the gift of Christ as

Lord and Savior. We can remember, as did David, that God’s

words are true. As Christians, we also celebrate that “this good

thing” God promised is reflected in the birth of Jesus.

Lord, thank you for all the reminders you give us of your constant love, from bubbling springs and flowing crystal clear streams to that still, small voice that urges us to seek

your presence. Amen.

John C. Fisher First Christian Church, Kennett

7

Wednesday, December 4, 2013


“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace

be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you. (NIV)

I have had times in my life when I thought things just couldn’t get

much worse. Several years ago I was in pretty bad straights. First I

lost my mother to cancer, then both my wife and I lost our jobs, and

our 401k and other investments were getting trashed. But after

working at a charity event, I realized that my issues and problems

were nothing compared to those with ailments, afflictions, or

diseases. I truly had nothing to complain about.

I had been looking for passages of scripture that were comforting

and uplifting, and I ran across Isaiah 54 as one of the many

proclaiming God’s support and steadfast love. In reading the tenth

verse and those to follow, I realized that God is always there. God

is more powerful and enduring than anything on this earth. No

matter how bad things get, you are always with God, who is always

with you even when you feel alone. Accepting this idea is

comforting and brings a feeling of control in an uncontrollable

world. The passage continues, “In righteousness you will be

established: Tyranny will be far from you; you will have nothing to

fear. Terror will be far removed; it will not come near you.”

We may not understand why certain things happen, but trusting

that God has a master plan for each of us gives me comfort. As to

when and why things happen as they do, we can only believe that

we can walk closely with God, who is always present with us—not

only during this season of Advent but all year long!

Lord, the Bible makes it very clear that we are eternally secure in your hands. I know you always keep your promises, and whoever receives your mercy through Christ will never lose it. You are greater than all of our circumstances, and you will

always love and care for those who trust in you. Amen.

Rick Tockstein


8

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Please read Psalm 23

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you

are with me. (NRSV)

You’ve heard it hundreds of times. It’s frequently recited at the memorial

service of a loved one, and it’s said for the comfort of those who are

experiencing the loss of someone special. The Twenty-third Psalm is an

expression of hope. What better way of anticipating the coming of the

Savior in the form of a baby than feeling the renewed hope evident in the

season! Television specials this season will focus on the miracle of

peace, joy, and hope growing out of dark valleys of hopelessness. The

psalmist knows the feeling. He doesn’t expect a smooth ride through life.

Instead, he acknowledges the roller coaster ride this life represents, and

he takes comfort in the Shepherd who is always with him.

If history is an indicator, the world will continue to have its dark valleys.

Despots in countries around the world will raise their heads periodically

as they have for centuries; natural disasters will take tremendous tolls in

human life and property; zealots will gain notoriety with their despicable

assaults. Yet we, like the psalmist, find hope. For God has joined us in

our walk through the valley. The baby in the manger continues to live in

us, and through us Jesus continues to bring hope wherever evil is

evident.

We wait for a baby born in primitive surroundings. We live in

anticipation—a state of anxiety perhaps—for we know this baby is

destined for great things. This baby will become the Savior of the world.

This baby will bring hope to humanity because this baby is God in the

flesh (God incarnate). There is no cause for fear. Though it may persist

for a time, evil and its darkness will not overcome this child.

Rejoice! Enjoy the wait! Be patient. The baby is coming. The Shepherd

walks with us through the darkest moments while also lighting our way

during the mountaintop times. We have reason to hope. We have reason

to celebrate.

Thank you, God, for lighting our way in the dark valleys, for walking with us where evil reigns. Thank you for the baby in the manger. In

Jesus, we know you are always with us. Amen.

John Moyer First Christian Church, Kennett

25

Friday, December 20, 2013


Therefore you are great, O Lord God; for there is no one like you, and there is no God besides you, according to all that we have

heard with our ears. (NRSV)

The Greatness of God can be easily seen in the wonders of

creation if we just pause from our mostly routine worldly pace.

For example, stop to notice a beautiful sunrise or sunset and the

landscape marvels that God has provided. These examples of

the Greatness of God are available to all who will take the time to

observe them, and ours is not to judge their impact or use by

others. The marvelous details of God’s Greatness are

“awesome.” I have even been blessed by the beauty of the

moonlight on the Gulf Coast waves while looking for a stray

flounder in Galveston Bay, regardless of our catch.

The Greatness of God also includes the wonders of Christian

love as exemplified by Jesus’ life here on earth. Each of us can

become an instrument to help convey God’s Greatness by

providing Christian service and examples to those we meet. Yes,

we can also verbalize God’s Greatness,

but we modern humans have many

hearing filters that can skew the

message. Let us strive to live day to day

in Christian ways during this Advent

season, and all other times, to convey

God’s Greatness to others.

Dear heavenly Father, give us the faith to accept your promises and blessings and convey them to others so they can be aware of thy Greatness by our example in addition

to hearing with their ears. Amen.

Jim Bear


24



Throughout my traveling around with the Israelites, did I ever

ask...Why haven’t you built me a cedar temple? (CEB)

I once dreamed of having a little log cabin near a clear, free-

flowing stream, surrounded by gardens, an orchard, and some

evergreen trees. It would be a retreat, where I could feel close to

God.

Perhaps King David, once he had built the house of his dreams,

the cedar palace run by servants that was a symbol of his

authority, wanted to feel closer to God, who up until now had

only a tent for a home. David announced to the prophet Nathan

his intent to build for God a grand cedar temple. Maybe David

felt guilty worshipping God in a tent, or maybe he felt it was

beneath him, or maybe he felt gratitude and wanted to repay

God for many favors.

But Nathan delivered the news: God said no. “Did I ask you to

build me a cedar temple?” To a modern reader’s ears, God

sounds a little peeved...God will decide when and where and

who will build it, not David.

Instead, God did something astounding by promising David a

different kind of house, a dynasty, made of people with whom

God would dwell and rule forever. This set of descendants, this

House of David, eventually included Jesus, the Christ, God’s

own Son.

Even though God said no to the cedar temple (and the little

cabin by the creek) God is still saying Yes to a more enduring

home—the community of all those today who follow Jesus.

Eternal God, forgive us when we try to build structures to contain you. Help us to remember that we are the temple

you have chosen. Amen.

Judi Linville Compton Heights Christian Church

9



When you turn to the right or when you turn to the left, your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way;

walk in it.” (NRSV)

December 21 in the northern hemisphere is the winter solstice

or the beginning of winter. It has the longest night, shortest

hours of daylight, cold weather, and gray days as nature goes

into slumber. We settle into routines of indoor activities and

long for the warming sun, budding trees, and growing flowers

and vegetables. Isaiah, recognized among the greatest of

Hebrew prophets, wrote about a time of renewal when people

will cry no more; although adversity and temptation are still with

us, Isaiah proclaimed that we would have a Savior. We will see

a time of plentiful bounty, wonderful nature, and the glory of

God that heals the people.

Isaiah clearly envisioned a time when

God would enter the world with

renewal. As winter seems drab and

dreary to many, Jesus represents for

Christians renewal and abundant life.

Life, at times, seems to be a series of

challenges. Isaiah speaks to the times

of “bread of adversity and the water of

affliction,” but the prophet also speaks

of the blessing of life and the ability to

turn away from such things. Paul

makes the same point in his letter to

the Ephesians by suggesting we put on the armor of God

against the powers of darkness. Let us rejoice during the

season of Advent, knowing that the struggle is won through our

Savior, Jesus Christ.

God, you have given us the greatest gift. Let us respond

by listening and living your word. Amen

Bob Green Crossroads Christian Church

10

Saturday, December 7, 2013


Prepare the way for the LORD; make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become

level, the rugged places a plain. (NIV)

Some days I feel like my life couldn’t be better. The bills are paid,

I’ve answered all my emails, I remembered a key birthday of a

loved one, and a stranger smiles. On other days nothing works. I

can’t find my socks, the cat has hidden my keys (again!), my

coffee is cold, the store doesn’t have any newspapers left, I don’t

care because the news is bad anyway, and I did not smile at

anyone. What accounts for these two ways of being in this

world?

Is God testing me? Maybe the devil is catching up with me!

Should I run faster? Hide? Maybe go shopping and on the way

home get a giant milkshake! The other day at a meeting a friend

said to our gathering, “Let’s pretend we’re all going on a trip.

First, we must pack up all our worries, put them in a suitcase…

and second, we have to sneak out of the house without the

baggage!” Preparing for a trip is letting go. Preparing a way for

the Lord is letting go and letting God.

God, help us today to prepare a pathway so that we may not only safely travel on our way when times are easy, but also help us help let go and locate the path when we are lost…to prepare the way for the Lord’s

coming. Amen.

Larry Kreuger

Compton Heights Christian Church

23


Please read Zechariah 8:1–8, 16–17

Once again old men and women…will be sitting in the city squares.

And the streets will again be full of boys and girls playing. (GNT)

The sounds of a baby’s laughter or children playing outside are

melodies that warm the heart, forcing a smile for even the cynical.

But during the time when Zechariah and his people were exiled

away from home, the thought of families returning to Jerusalem

seemed to fade with each passing day. Hope gave way to

pessimism.

Some see the church’s future in the same way, though a bit more

pessimistically, and offer the statistics to prove it. Fewer baptisms,

lower membership rates, and minimal finances have hit our

churches hard. We miss the days of hearing a mother trying to

hush her toddler during worship. We miss our hustled Sunday rush

to church, gathering our family, making certain everyone was fed

and dressed. We miss seeing friends. We have many troubles, and

some have lost hope.

As we gather for worship, an amazing phenomenon happens for

our day and age. Nowhere else do we see such a diverse group of

people coming together. In our churches we see babies, children,

traditional families, non-traditional families, retired-aged, and those

in their golden years. There is a great love shared in our church

community. The same promise God made in Zechariah’s text, God

makes for us today. God will save us, despite our troubles. We

have a God who cares, loves, and blesses us. During this season

of Advent, we anticipate and live in that hope.

God of Hope, may we be found faithful in love and justice, bringing peace. We know nothing is impossible with you. We are your people, and you are our God. We have a great hope

in you. Amen.

Jennifer Lewis

Crossroads Christian Church

22


Please read Ezekiel 47:1–12

Fruit trees will grow all along this river and produce fresh fruit every

month. (CEV)

The prophet Ezekiel lived in a house near an irrigation canal that

channeled the Euphrates River into surrounding arid areas. No

doubt, with his understanding of the value of water in the area

where he lived, it isn’t surprising that he symbolically uses water in

his teachings to offer hope for a better life.

As an avid flower gardener of forty-plus years, after waiting for

winter to fade away, I look forward to each spring when I head out

to the garden to prepare for the new growing season. Aware of the

benefits of water, I realize how important a ready supply of water

will be to my newly planted seeds and to my small bedding plants

as I anticipate the joy and beauty they will bring on their way to

maturity.

As temperatures rise in the summer, although I’m tempted to stay

inside where it’s cool, I remember how important a continual supply

of water is to my plants that struggle as July and August

temperatures soar. So, I head out to the garden, turn on the hose,

and give my flowers a much needed drink. It’s about this time that I

begin to think about fall that’s just around the corner with cooler

weather... the time to start putting my garden hoses away that will

no longer be needed while my garden sleeps through the winter

months.

As God’s year-round gardeners, we have a river of constant love

that flows through our lives to be shared with others. Through the

gift of Jesus and through his teachings, we have the tools we need

to grow an abundant life and to help others do the same.

God, help us to share your love with others so that they might flourish and blossom in their relationship with Jesus.

Amen.

Carol Fisher First Christian Church, Kennett

11

Preparing in the Light... helping those in need

12

Sunday, December 8, 2013 Second Sunday of Advent

Please read Matthew 3:1–12

A voice of one calling in the wilderness, “Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight

paths for him.” (NIV)

John the Baptizer was very unusual in his

rustic dress and diet of locusts and wild

honey. His mission was to prepare others for Jesus’ coming. He had

such passion for this mission—today we might call it charisma—that

others followed him into the wilderness to be baptized and to repent.

How many of us today would consider following or even listening to

someone who had this passion, but who dressed and acted in a

manner so different from ourselves? Sometimes we are so

comfortable in our traditions that when we find ourselves being

challenged with new and different ways of thinking, we immediately

dismiss such ideas.

I love to travel. Europe is my favorite destination. I find the old

buildings and unique cultures to be so interesting. In the same way

that I love witnessing a different way of living, I also enjoy hearing

different views of life and faith. My thinking has changed based on

my life experiences. The faith and Bible stories I learned as a child

have grown into a deeper interpretation that I now believe.

We have the privilege and the challenge to adapt our individual

ideas of faith through a lifetime of living. Without openness to new

beliefs, would any have followed John the Baptizer into the

wilderness? I am thankful that Disciples of Christ churches are open

in the interpretation of the Bible. Let’s live our faith with that idea in

mind—not becoming defensive when someone’s faith interpretation

is different than ours. During this Advent season, let’s celebrate that

our church allows us to hear God’s voice speaking to us personally.

Lord, help us to see that we live in a diverse world with many faiths and differences of opinion within our own faith. Let us

keep in mind that your ultimate message is that of love. Amen.

Sandy Suetterlin Affton Christian Church

21


Please read Psalm 42

Fix my eyes on God—soon I’ll be praising again. He puts a smile on

my face. He’s my God. (MSG)

Did you see the Whoopi Goldberg movie, Sister Act? It told the

story of inner city nuns who were faced with a declining

neighborhood and a seemingly irrelevant church. Then Whoopi

enters the picture, a fugitive sinner, posing as a nun for protection

from her enemies. She rallies the other nuns and creates energy

and purpose for the church and the neighborhood by starting and

leading a church choir, of all things. One of the more exuberant

songs the choir sings is a parody of a popular song, rebranded as

“My God.”

This Psalm reminded me of that song. The psalmist thirsts for God,

yet feels despair—wondering why he has been attacked and

persecuted, and even why he has been deserted by God. Yet he

follows up each lament with praise for God and a plea to find his

way back to God’s presence. The writer acknowledges that his part

in the future is to praise and worship his God, instead of focusing on

the negative. As the song states so plainly,

Nothing you could say can tear me away from My God. Nothing you could do, ‘cause I’m stuck like glue to My God. I’m sticking to my God like a stamp to a letter, Like birds of a feather, we stick together. I’m tellin’ you from the start I can’t be torn apart from My God.

(Excerpt from “My God,” Sister Act)

Sometimes it takes a Psalmist, and other times, just a catchy tune

from a funny movie to remind us, but in this Advent season, let’s

remember what we really need to focus on. It isn’t just about the

gifts or the parties or even the family gatherings. We are to fix our

eyes on God. “I’m tellin’ you from the start…”

Father God, may we sing praises to you this Advent season. Remind us again that all we need to do is to ask you into our

lives. Amen.

Deb Morse Affton Christian Church

20

Sunday, December 15, 2013 Third Sunday of Advent

Please read James 5:7–11

Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the

coming of the Lord. (NRSV)

When I read this passage in James, it

struck me that in general, we do not do

well with waiting. We become frustrated

and impatient when we have to wait in long lines to get checked

out at stores, at the drive through food places, in traffic jams on

the roads, and a multitude of other places we go to on a daily

basis. But we don’t seem to be bothered as much to wait in lines

for events of our choosing: waiting in line for hours or days to buy

the latest new phone on the market, movie previews, computer/

video game releases, and concerts or sports events. As children,

we have difficulty waiting in anticipation for the special gifts to

open on birthdays and Christmas. We beg and plead with parents

to let us open just one present early.

The scripture tells us to be patient, strengthen our hearts, and not

grumble against each other so that we may not be judged. We are

instructed to follow the example of suffering and patience of the

prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. The farmer in this

scripture and farmers today wait patiently for rain and crops to

spring up from the ground. Those of us who garden plant the

seeds, tend to these seeds, and wait patiently for that small sprig

of a plant to sprout from the dirt. We know there will be an end

result, so we continue to endure the routine of caring, watering,

watching, and waiting for this plant to appear.

Just as the farmer each year plants crops and waits for the crops

to grow, we too wait for the birth of the Messiah during Advent.

We continue to build an eternal house near flowing streams and

wait for what is yet to come.

God, help us to be patient, endure what is placed before us, and be patient, for we know you will show us your

compassion and mercy when the time is right. Amen

Marsha McGuire Compton Heights Christian Church

13


Please read Psalm 72:1–7

Give the gift of wise rule to the king, O God…Please stand up

for the poor. (MSG)

In my younger years, it seemed as though the four weeks

leading up to Christmas took forever. The anticipation grew

each day while waiting to discover what gifts would appear

under the tree. It seemed so simple then, but until I became a

parent, I had no idea of how long it took to shop for all those

gifts! For many, Advent has grown from a season of exciting

anticipation to one filled with endless trips to the stores, mixed

with maxed-out credit cards for things we don’t really need.

Living in a society that worships consumerism, we often feel

compelled to buy things even if we don’t need them.

Sometimes we struggle to discern the “perfect” gift for

someone, knowing he or she doesn’t need more stuff.

Although the psalmist wrote centuries before the season of

Advent, we could use the writer’s words for our Advent

shopping list. How about the gift of wisdom for leaders? Even

the mountains get into the spirit of the season as they “give

great exuberant witness.”

The writer then offered an idea that not only applied to those

reading his words thousands of years ago, but he offered a

suggestion for us today: “Please stand up for the poor, help the

children of the needy.” Rather than shopping for those who

don’t need anything, how about shopping for those who need

something, possibly even the basics of food or clothing. That’s

a gift that would keep on giving, or as the psalmist said, one

that would “outlast the sun, outlast the moon.”

Thank you, God, for the many gifts you provide us throughout the year. During this Advent season, may we celebrate your kindness by searching for gifts for those

who need them the most. Amen.

Douglas Cripe First Christian Church, Kennett

14


Please read Psalm 72:12–19

For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no

one to help. (NIV)

Being in need. We’ve all been there at one time or another. I

certainly have, but aside from financial uncertainties, I’m referring

to those times in your life when your particular situation seems

hopeless. You suffer through sleepless nights, anxiety, and

depression. There is doubt and cloudiness in your thoughts, and

you feel utterly alone. Furthermore, you’ve convinced yourself that

God hasn’t experienced what you’re going through, so what help

can God provide?

It’s at these times that the words of the psalmist affirm and comfort

us in our time of need. The passage describes the one who will

bring justice, equity, and help to all who are in need. God brings

peace and reconciliation to a chaotic world, and all nations will call

the One blessed. That promise was fulfilled in the person of Jesus,

whose birth we celebrate each Advent season.

But as we ponder the love and grace God has given us in Jesus

the Savior, let us also be mindful of the lessons of Jesus the

Teacher. For as surely as Jesus has brought us salvation, so he

also demonstrated the loving relationship between ourselves and

God and with each other. In this world we are the body of Christ;

we are the hands and arms that hug, the feet that run errands, the

ears that listen, and the voices that speak. This scripture

encourages us not to act as innocent bystanders in each other’s

plight, but to play an active role in providing help when it is

desperately needed. In this season of Advent, we have plenty of

room to welcome the Christ child and to demonstrate the presence

of God to those who cry out and seemingly have lost hope.

God, we welcome the one who brought your love to all people, your Son Jesus. May we laud his Lordship and live by his example as we express your love through our

caring for others. Amen.

Patrick McAllister Crossroads Christian Church

19

Preparing in the Light... thirsting beside flowing waters

18

Saturday, December 14, 2013 Please read Psalm 146:5–10

The Lord sets the prisoners free; the Lord opens the eyes of the

blind. (NRSV)

I’ll call her Tammy. She was a happy young bride, looking

forward to the promise of a future with her husband she loved

dearly. He loved her too, but when a child was on the way,

something in him snapped. He became more and more abusive.

At first it was verbal, with uncalled-for accusations. It ultimately

became brutally physical.

My young friend would sidestep my concern for her bruises with

claims of supposed clumsy accidents and every manner of

subterfuge she could make up. More than once she stayed

overnight on our couch. When the baby was born, he was so

attentive and loving that I naively thought that the baby had

brought change in him. Alas, he went right back to where he

started, and she called me. I could hear him in the background,

so I hurried right down to help her. When I got there, she was

cowering in a corner with the baby, pleading with him not to hurt

the child. I had enough. I called the police.

They took him away and suggested I take her to the local shelter

for women in her situation. I did that, and although it took time,

the gentle help she received, along with my Pastor’s help to

restore her faith, she learned to realize that she was not at fault

and that with God’s help, she would be restored to a full and

wholesome life.

Tammy has since remarried and has three more children. She’s

the happy person I’d always known. She and I are no longer

neighbors, but together we make quilts for our local shelters,

never forgetting what they have done for her. During this Advent

season, may you help someone in search of freedom.

Healing God, we are truly thankful for those who can be set free from the bondage of a violent life and can live to help

others in the same situation. Amen.

Jan Evans Crossroads Christian Church

15



They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters

cover the sea. (KJV)

It is mid-September as I write this reflection, and the United States

is trying to figure out what to do about Syria. Once again, a tyrant

has used chemical weapons against his own people. A great

number of those killed include innocent adults and children. In

other parts of the Middle East, tensions remain between

incumbent governments and rebel forces. A year ago, the young

dictator of North Korea was rattling his saber and threatening

action against other countries. There are ongoing conflicts in

many other places throughout the world over power, territory, or

sadly, differing religious beliefs.

Here at home, one can scarcely watch a media broadcast of any

kind without hearing of shooting, burglary, or domestic violence.

Unfortunately, this is nothing new for humanity. Violence has

existed since Cain slew his brother Abel, and it has continued

through the ages. Hatred, jealousy, and greed are as prevalent

today as they were in ancient times.

As Christians in the twenty-first century, we read the words of

Isaiah and wish that his vision were true. How wonderful it would

be to see the wolf dwelling with the lamb and the cow and the

bear feeding together. How we long for a time when hatred, and

its companion, violence, are no more. We look forward to the time

when human frailty and suffering will end, replaced by the “full

knowledge” and the ways of the Creator. The Word of God tells us

that there will be a day when “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all

my holy mountain.” We eagerly anticipate the coming of the

Prince of Peace and the promise of Peace on earth.

Lord, we pray for Peace, the peace that comes from you and

your promise. Amen.

Nancy Obermiller Compton Heights Christian Church

16


Please read Ruth 1:6–18

But Ruth said, “Don’t force me to leave you; don’t make me go

home. Where you go, I go; and where you live, I’ll live.” (MSG)

Naomi encouraged Ruth to go back home to her family after

her husband, Naomi’s son, died. It made no sense for Ruth to

stay. However, Ruth’s commitment to stay with Naomi was an

act of faith that goes beyond loyalty to her mother-in-law. It was

an act of humility and selfless love.

My mother cared for her mother-in-law for several years after

my grandfather passed away. My parents even built an addition

to their home so that my grandmother would not be alone and

would have a comfortable place to live. I watched my mom

prepare meals, shop, wash clothes, and take my grandmother

to countless doctor appointments week in and week out. On

most occasions, however, my grandma did not treat my mother

with the respect and gratitude she deserved. Grandma treated

her more like a paid helper than a family member. Mom never

complained. She knew that taking care of Grandma was the

right thing to do, and she cared for her the best that she could,

regardless of how she was treated in return.

God’s love is much the same way. It is unconditional. It is

always there for us even when we don’t deserve it. I think of

the commitment that God made to the world when sending

Jesus into a world filled with risk

and violence to offer a message

of hope. God’s radical love for us

forever changed the world!

Dear Lord, help us to have the faith of Ruth—to love with all of our heart—even when it

doesn’t make sense. Amen.

Deidra Woods


17


Please read Ruth 2:8–13; 4:13–17

May I continue to find favor in your eyes, my lord. (NIV)

Traveling to a foreign country has many challenges, including

language, customs, and traditions. Those obstacles, however, didn’t

seem to hamper the relationship between Ruth and Naomi and the

strong commitment they had for each other, despite their religious

differences. The women traveled many miles together and returned to

the older woman’s native land because the younger woman loved her

mother-in-law and wanted to care for her. Ruth was kind, courageous,

loyal, and faithful to Naomi, her mother-in-law.

In today’s society, how often do we hear about extended family

members returning from a distant state or country to care for a family

member? Does that mean people are less sensitive to feelings of their

elders? Can you imagine working in a field behind the workers and

picking up pieces of grain that were missed? Would you complain

about the menial task or simply refuse to do it? Ruth had been guided

to a specific field by Naomi, yet the Lord had a hand in providing a

place for her to work. Do you think she was afraid to be following the

field workers? Within my lifetime people have gone into the fields to

gather food left after the harvest. Some areas had entire fields left for

the poor to collect food for their own use.

Marriage was not the primary reason for Ruth’s work in the fields. She

wanted to care for her mother-in-law, yet God had another plan for her,

and she married the field owner. The angels must have danced, along

with Naomi, when Ruth and Boaz had a son. These parents did not

know their child would become a link in the ancestry of David.

Ruth found favor in God’s eyes. She did not give up but continued to

serve. As you continue the journey to Advent, may you, like Ruth, also

tread outside your comfort zone by following the light and helping

those in need.

Lord, help us open our eyes to the needs of others that we may serve and find favor in your vision. Let us never forget that all we

have comes from you. Amen

Anne Moyer First Christian Church, Kennett

preparing in the light - kennettchristianchurch.org · 105 w. washington street kennett, mo 63857...

Documents