Trinity Baptist Church of Madison

Sunday, November 27, 2005
Mark 13: 24-37

Waking: Is It Over Now?

Most folks would probably agree that when we know something is going to happen, it's nice to also know when it's going to happen. Even children feel this need to know. This past July our family was watching a fireworks show on the Fourth. On every burst of successive displays the youngest children would ask, "Is it over now?" Again and again they asked it, until finally the end really came, and they were dazzled by its brilliance. We knew they wondered then how they could have taken the earlier flashes for the grand finale, because with wide eyes they let out a breathy, "W-o-w!"

Musicians recognize the "grand finale" as a concept for the final movement of a symphony. The finale motif is usually sprinkled throughout the symphony, but the "grand finale" is undeniably grander, louder, more complex, and more impressive. The grand finale is meant to leave one awestruck, whether it's a symphony or a fireworks show.

I suppose if you were not there to see the whole fireworks display or hear the entire symphony, you could easily fail to recognize the "grand finale", and that is precisely how we can miss the spiritual mile markers in daily life. Lack of faithfulness, perseverance, watchfulness, and readiness dilute our covenant relationship with God. Personal holiness is a daily struggle for most. Mark 13: 24-37 is a clear warning to watch, listen, be alert . . . . a reminder that we not be lazy, complacent, or disobedient lest He come suddenly and find us sleeping. "What I say to you, I say to everyone: `Watch!'"

This Advent we again hear the reassuring voice of Jesus through all the pressing demands of daily life, the aftermath of natural disasters, the clashing of warring nations saying, "Behold, I come quickly." And just as clearly, the voice of God speaks: "Behold, I make all things new." Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly!!

Come to our hearts, Lord Jesus. Your holy presence is all we need. In it teach us to find peace, joy, freedom from fear . . . hope and rest. Amen.

Eddi Vinson

Monday, November 28, 2005
Isaiah 64: 1-9

God; the Ultimate Editor

As a writer (or writer wannabe), it is very difficult for me to take corrections. To quote author Robert Masello, "we know our work isn't perfect-but we don't believe it." I can't stand being told that something I wrote doesn't make sense or is (heaven forbid) not grammatically correct. But it happens. I do mess up and more than I'd like to admit.

So, albeit grudgingly, I review my editor's notes, and make corrections. And ninety-nine times out of one hundred, the piece has turned out better for the changes. It makes sense, in an annoying sort of way: my editors have a different perspective on the work than I do. God, in my opinion, is sort of like life's editor: He goes through what we do, wades his way through the fragments and broken thoughts that we've left on the page, and makes notes pointing us in the right direction.

Isaiah recognized this; he just worded it differently. "We are the clay, you are the potter." Perhaps Isaiah's way of saying it makes more sense, but it means the same thing. God gives us direction. This time of year is hectic; people are traveling, buying gifts and all kinds of craziness. There are parties to organize and concerts to attend. It becomes more difficult to focus on anything. Advent is all about God. So take a break. Step away from the computer, grab a cup of coffee (sorry--it's a writer thing), and let the potter do his thing. He can take care of it. God's one of those who is always on top of things.

God in heaven, help us to ease off the gas pedal and let you take the wheel. You know what all of your children need. Amen

Anna Smith

Tuesday, November 29, 2005
1 Corinthians 1: 3-9

Awake, to the Father's Love!

God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful. 1 Corinthians 1:9

My father is a visionary man, a dreamer, perpetually caught up in the realm of the Father. He is my superman, able to leap buildings in a single bound and my doubts with a simple word of encouragement. He is always easy to talk to and comforts my troubled heart. And as fathers sometimes do he sees me to sleep and is there when I awake.

The last time I fell asleep was on August 22, 1992. It was a Thursday; I was at my mom's house celebrating my 14th birthday. Things were good, but I was slightly distracted by the anticipation of Saturday and the upcoming party at my father's house. Then the day darkened with the phone call. The hard impersonal phone dictated with its monotone voice. My father had died. Oh how I cried. With the falling tears fell my hopes, my strength, and my dreams. They fell thick and warm as a blanket on a cold dark winter night. And there I slept, for the next six years.

But do you know what follows every sunset?

The sunrise that awakened me was something of legions. It was a hero's morning, one with angels fluttering about and seraphs singing. As the golden sunlight softly drifted through the window and the bed's warmth embraced me, I heard the Lord's call. He called as my father would call, gently, with love and compassion; a call of ages that spoke of his resolve to love, to provide, and to protect. And so I awoke that morning from half a decade of sleep to a Father's loving embrace, the first of many.

Song of Solomon 2:13b "Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away."

Dearest Lord and Father God of gifts, Lord of love, Allot me the confidence, to walk the path revealed. Forgive me for my doubts. Thank you for your presence, Your love and tenderness, every time I fall. Awake in me humility when we don't see eye to eye. Open my heart to you . . . Here I am send me Selah-. . .

Ben Hall

Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Psalm 80: 1-7; 17-19

A Six-year-old and a Psalm

When I think about "waking" I think about the enthusiasm with which my 6year-old nephew begins each new day. As a treat for getting a "happy note" at school, he asked his mom and dad if he could "spend the night at Aunt Julie's." We stayed up (way past his bedtime!) coloring and playing with his new Veggie Tales sticker book. It must have been 11:00 pm before we went to bed.

Before dawn broke the next morning, Blake woke me with a whispered, "Is it time to wake up yet?" I glanced at the clock (6:00am!) and convinced him to go back to sleep. Twenty minutes later, I heard the same, whispered, "Is it time to wake up yet?"

The Advent season brings an innate waking to our souls. As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, our hearts draw close to His. As we find ourselves nearer His presence, our shortcomings and sins are illuminated. In Psalm 80, God's people have fallen from His favor. The psalmist writes: "...how long will Your anger smolder" (v. 4), and, "...you have made them drink tears by the bowlful" (v. 6). We have all suffered the consequences of choices made when we ignored God's will. I recall many, particularly in relationships, where I sacrificed God's best in order to have what I thought was good. Lucky for me (and you!), there is more to be learned from this psalm.

One phrase leapt from my Bible as I read this passage: "Restore us." The psalmist makes this plea three times to God (v. 3, 7, 19). It should be our constant prayer. How many times have we tried to right our own wrongs instead of repenting and praying, "Lord, restore me"? My list is too long to track. But we serve a God who doesn't keep track, and I am humbled that His grace is always sufficient.

We should rejoice in that grace not just at Christmas, but year round. Listen this season as God speaks to us the words my nephew longs to hear, "It is time to wake up."

Heavenly Father, Your holiness shines this Advent season, and we are reminded that we serve an amazing God. We thank you for our blessings. So often we lose you in our everyday lives. We pray for mercy and grace, as we learn to seek You more passionately.

Julie Echols

Thursday, December 1, 2005
Zechariah 4: 1-6

The Waiting Room

Four months ago, my mother developed pneumonia after surgery for a broken wrist. We returned to the hospital for her treatment, and it was a very emotional and stressful time. During her stay, she was in ICU, a special care unit, then she was moved to a private room. As the medical teams did exams, tests, blood work, breathing treatments, and other required medical procedures, we waited. Sometimes we were in the ICU waiting room, or in a special waiting room near another treatment area. When she was moved to a private room, I stayed with her all the time except for short breaks to get out of the hospital. That room literally became our waiting room while she hovered between life and death. One day the news would be positive; the next day, the outlook was grim. After three weeks, mom passed from this life to her heavenly home. The waiting was over.

Since her death, I have been overwhelmed by many memories. Sometimes they sweep over me as waves of sadness, and my grief is deep. Remembering is painful, but there are joyous memories as well. Our family was strong, we enjoyed life together, and we looked forward to occasions for gathering and sharing time with each other. We waited for those gatherings with much anticipation and planning.

The passage from Zechariah focuses on the expectancy of the Jewish people for the rebuilding of the Temple. Some measure of effort had been made to rebuild, but it had not yet happened. The people of God waited and wondered if God had forgotten His promise they would once again have a Temple for worship. They anticipated a building with rooms to honor their God, but it seemed to be an impossibility. But God had not forgotten, and had in His plans two people who would see the Temple rebuilt. Those individuals were Joshua and Zechariah. The name Zechariah means, "The Lord (Yahweh) remembers..." The term "The Lord" indicates a personal, covenant name of God. The God of that day, who is the same God of our day, is faithful to his promises. Scripture teaches us "there is no shadow of turning" with Jehovah. He is the same in all seasons, and is faithful to all generations. In the account of the actual rebuilding of the Temple, we can see God waited for his timing and the right people to see the project completed.

As we remember God's promises and faithfulness during this season of Advent, may we take time to "be still and wait" to experience the wonder once again.

Gracious Father, as we celebrate the coming of Jesus, give us anticipation and wonder while we wait. Help us to share the gift with those who may not have received it. We wait joyfully for your blessings. In the Name of our Savior we pray. Amen.

Ann Melton

Friday, December 2, 2005
Matthew 1:22-25

Signs, Badges, and Prophecies

In my business, the news-gathering business, a press card is a key tool. When you tell a woman on the phone that you'll knock on her door this afternoon to talk about her son the war hero, you end the conversation saying, "I'll be wearing my press badge."

The badge is evidence that the person at the door is the one she is expecting. It is evidence that events are unfolding as promised. It isn't proof positive, of course. Badges can be faked, and phone calls from "reporters" can be scams. That's why Rule No. 1 for good journalists has always been the cynical but important advice, "If your mother says she loves you, check it out." And even if you've checked it out, it still takes faith to open the door.

In Bible days, there were badges and credentials, too, but the ones you could see were worn by priests and officials. For God's people, the true word was just as likely to come from prophets like Isaiah and John the Baptist, whose key credential was that what they prophesied came true.

In Matthew, there are two audiences for the amazing claims about Jesus' birth Joseph and us. Both need to see that this is God's plan, not some improvisation. It is unfolding, down to the smallest detail, just as prophesied. The story will test a lot of people's understanding, beginning with Joseph. And, like a good reporter, Matthew cites his sources to show Jesus' credentials. Take it from an angel and a prophet: This was God's plan for a long, long time.

And a baby was born, and Joseph did name him Jesus. And he did fulfill every prophecy while turning every expectation upside down. Who could do this but Immanuel, "God with us"?

Father, thank you for this baby named Jesus who kept prophecy while making every promise new. We think we know our Lord's whole story, Father, even as we read again the way it started. But help us see anew how great you are and how finely wrought was your plan to redeem your creation. In Jesus name. Amen.

Lee Roop

Saturday, December 3, 2005
Romans 13: 11-14

It's Morning!

I am a morning person. The minute my eyes open in the morning, I'm wide awake and ready for the day. As it always seems to happen, I am married to a night person, and our children are evenly split; one is a morning person and one is a night person. Whenever I spend the night with our daughter, who is not the morning one of my children, she always remarks, "Since I don't live with you anymore, I always forget how relentlessly cheerful you are in the morning!" I think our internal clocks are set early in our formation, and there's not a lot we can do about it, but I've always been glad I'm a morning person.

Imagine my delight then, to read these words in Romans about being wide awake and aware of the time. I especially like the way these words are translated by Eugene Peterson in The Message, my favorite study Bible. The night is about over, dawn is about to break. Be up and awake to what God is doing! God is putting the finishing touches on the salvation work he began when we first believed. "When we first believed" was the first step of our life-long spiritual journey. That journey is different for each of us, and we take that first step at all different ages. The Gullahs of the South Carolina Low Country had a tradition that prospective church members were asked to meditate three times a day for a week in a quiet place. They called this "traveling" because they realized they were traveling inside. "Traveling inside" -- that is the best definition I've found for our spiritual journey. We need to be awake to the still, small voice of God guiding us. We should learn from wiser and smarter Christians who are farther along in their journeys. We shouldn't be afraid to ask directions, and we should be eager to share our journey.

Paul said, "Get out of bed and get dressed! Don't loiter and linger, waiting till the very last minute." Advent is the dawn of the Christian day. Is your alarm set?

Father, sharpen our eyes, all our senses; make us alert and awake to your voice in our heart and in our lives.

Nan Denson

Sunday, December 4, 2005
Mark 1: 1-8

Wandering Around

I like to wander. I always have liked to wander. When I was a boy, I remember yelling back through the screen door, "Bye, Mom! I'm going wandering around, out in the woods." And off I'd go.

After I got old enough to drive, I still liked to go wandering around. I loved to see a dirt road or a trail I had never been down. I would get out and lock in my hubs on my 4X4 Bronco. And in my mind, I'd be thinking, "Bye, Mom! I'm going wandering around, out in the woods." And off I'd go. The woods can be unsafe, or even dangerous. But there is something about wandering that pulls some of us off the path.

The son of a Rabbi had this type of spirit. He would go wandering off into the woods. The rabbi became concerned and asked his son about it.

The son said, "I go there to find God."

The Rabbi said, "God is the same everywhere."

The boy said, "I know that God is the same everywhere. But, I am not." In Mark 1:1-8, Mark shares how John the Baptist was to "make straight the path" for Jesus. I like to wonder as much as I like to wander. I wonder why John had to "straighten" Jesus' path? I wonder if Jesus had a side to him where he also liked to wander. Maybe he wandered to places where he thought and dreamed about things like new wine and old wineskins, or about radical ideas like loving your enemies and forgiving people over and over and over again. I wonder what Jesus wondered about while he wandered around.

I still like to wander around. I especially like to do it at Christmas. I like to wander around through stores, malls, neighborhoods, and even small towns. Maybe I'm looking for God. Maybe I'm trying to find a glimpse of Jesus. Or, at least, think on some of the thoughts he thought as he wandered around.

Just wandering around...

Dear God, thank you for loving us on the paths we tread. And thank you, Jesus, for loving us as we wander. Amen.

Glenn Bowers

Monday, December 5, 2005
Isaiah 40:1-11

Finding Comfort in Our Travels

When the Smith family goes traveling, it is an adventure. One person in the family loves to explore (I will not reveal his name, but he does most of the driving). We have stopped at several college campuses (and football stadiums), battlefields, and other historical sites. We have also seen places that have brought tears, such as the Morrow building site and the Wall in Washington, and laughter such as theme parks and family reunions. All of these remain in our memories for the purpose of sharing.

As I look back on our lives I see another adventure. Marriage, raising children, church, jobs are all parts of the travels of our lives. We experience the same laughter and tears along our life travels. Just as we share our travel memories, we share our life memories. God has given us hope through his promises for our travels that creates our laughter and sustains us through our tears.

I recently asked the youth when they felt closest to God. For me, I suppose I feel closest through my tears. There were the tears of joy when my children accepted Christ as their Savior and tears of sorrow when my dad died. "The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever" (Isaiah 40:8).

We each travel down our own road of life with its joys and sorrows. As Ginny Owens says in one of her songs, I may not know your life's joys and sorrows but I know someone who does. That someone provides comfort through your travels.

Dear Father God we are grateful for the promises made to us. As we experience our life of travels, help us to know your will and your comfort. As we celebrate Christmas, help us to remember that it was the beginning of your life journey on earth that ended in your sacrifice for us. We are thankful for the Comforter who remains in our lives. Amen.

Jeanne Smith

Tuesday, December 6, 2005
Psalm 85: 1-2; 8-13

Sides and Spurs

I've always been intrigued by trains and rail travel. I'm sure many of you share the same. Trains are a way to reach destinations afar, but travel is limited to where the rails take us. The main line takes us to destinations. However along the way are sides and spurs. Sides are places where trains sit and wait. While sitting on a side, a train may not be far off course, but no progress is made toward the destination. Spurs take us away from the main line and lead to dead ends. Journeying down a spur only delays us in reaching our destination; it causes us to back-track, covering areas we've already covered.

The trip down a side or spur begins with a switch. If you examine a switch, it begins with an extremely thin rail. The rail increases in width until it reaches full width. The train doesn't even realize that it is deviating from its destination until it is already on a different track. Before you know it the train has wandered off course.

We may know our destination or God's vision for our lives. However, like trains, there are sides and spurs to our lives. Like a train crossing a switch, we may not realize that we are deviating until we are far off track. Switches in our lives may come in the form of sin or other distractions. Like the switch, our wandering starts with the smallest event that grows and grows until we are pulled away from the path that God has set for us.

Are you going full speed down the main line? Or are you wandering down a side or spur and lost your side of God's purpose? Even before His birth, Jesus was headed full speed toward the cross. He didn't get sidetracked as He made this journey for us. What a great time of the year for us to examine our lives and make sure that we haven't gotten sidetracked along the way on the journey to which He has called each of us.

I will hear what God the Lord will speak, for He will speak peace to His people and to His saints; but let them not turn back to folly.

Ralph Cobb

Wednesday, December 7, 2005
2 Peter 3:8-15

Active Waiting

Peter, in his word to us, tells God's time is not like ours. The Lord is neither too fast nor slow. We are busy people these days and, with today's technology, everything is virtually instantaneous. We don't like to wait on or for anything, much less the Lord.

I recently read a book entitled, You're Late Again Lord, by Karon Phillips Goodman. Karon related that she hated when God had her waiting. She chaffed, moaned, and groaned to the Lord during the entire time. She had places to go and things to do. Sound familiar? But then God revealed to her that she was to wait purposefully not wander through this period. God wanted her, and He wants us, to look and work on what He wants us to accomplish through this period. Peter relates the same thing: that as we wait on Christ to come again, we are to work on our Godly character and help others to come to find Christ.

Heavenly Father, I pray that we will not wander aimlessly during this Ad- vent season. Instead may we seek You to find your purpose and plan for us throughout this time of waiting.

Dee Burner

Thursday, December 8, 2005
Luke 3: 7-18

Wanderings

They had been wandering around for 400 years. No prophecy or, really, no fresh word from God. Suddenly John the Baptist appears with the words they had been looking for. Many were drawn to him. Quite a few believed he was the Messiah. But John the Baptist quickly pointed them in the right direction.

Are you wandering? What is your idol? What are you focusing on while not focusing on Jesus? My times of wandering seem to be when I'm extremely busy. Probably the best example is after one of my children was born. I'm usually in a sleep-deprived state while trying to do as much as I did before. No time to pray in the morning and too tired in the evening. Soon I'm lost and disconnected. But I'm always pointed back in the right direction. Whether it's a particular worship session or Bible study lesson, I realize that my focus is off, and I'm drawn back in.

Dear Heavenly Father, sometimes, it is very easy to wander away from you. It's also easy to focus on something else during that time. But you always find some way to bring us back. Thank you for everything that you send our way that leads us to you. Amen.

Carrie Anne Cooley

Friday, December 9, 2005
Zephaniah 3: 14-20

The Future of Jerusalem

Have you ever wondered why God, through some special people, decided to write about the future of Jerusalem? The future of Jerusalem not only applies to Israel but to all believers. Verses 14 and 15 of Zephaniah say, "Sing, O Daughter of Zion; shout aloud, O Israel! Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, O Daughter of Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away your punishment; he has turned back your enemy. The Lord, the King of Israel, is with you; never again will you fear any harm." God is promising in these verses that he will protect his own and will take away our punishment. We know now that He protects us from eternal death because His Son has died on the cross for us to ensure this wonderful promise.

"Sing O Daughter of Zion; shout aloud, O Israel!" Who is the Daughter of Zion, and are we part of this group? This is one of the questions I had when thinking about these verses. God says in earlier verses that He will issue justice and has issued us mercy by saving us if we repent our sin. Daughters of Zion are those who are pure in heart and symbolizes the faithful remnant of Israel that,"...will do no wrong; they will speak no lies, nor will deceit be found in their mouths." Just as the Daughter of Zion is part of the obedient side of Israel, we can also be on the obedient side.

God promises many wonderful promises that we need to remember through this holiday season. He will some day gather His daughters and bring us home to everlasting Zion.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you so much for taking our punishment so that we can spend eternity in the everlasting Zion. Thank you for the wonderful promise of security from the eternal death. Help us to remember that you are the reason for the season. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Yoonhee Ryder

Saturday, December 10, 2005
Philippians 4: 4-7

Wandering

"Rejoice in the Lord, always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentle- ness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

The amazing thing about this passage is that Paul was writing this from prison! Can you image what prisons must have been like in the first century? Yet, filled with the spirit, he says, "Rejoice!" In the hustle and bustle of my everyday life the words `do not be anxious about anything' is a to ugh order. How is that possible? How is it possible to be gentle, not anxious, always in thanksgiving? The only possible way is to know God and to have Christ at the very center and core of our hearts and thoughts. That can only come by seeking him with all our strength and yearning to be with Him in spirit and in mind.

I can not write these words without my mind filling with the tragedy of this weekend. A dear sister in Christ has gone to be with the Lord many, many years too early. The word "Rejoice" is far from my thoughts. "Not anxious" and full of "thanksgiving" are not what this weekend brings to my mind. Yet that is my narrow view and selfishness talking and not God. The angels ARE "Rejoicing" and they ARE full of "Thanksgiving" as a new and dear saint has come "home" to stay. Maybe deep in our heart and soul our grieving is simply our yearning for that wondrous and holy place, where we will be in the presence of our God and Savior, A place where we will "Wander" no more.

Dear Heavenly Father, your words teach us to rejoice in all things. My prayer is that we will truly seek your will each and every day so we can truly be without anxiousness and be full of gentleness. Only then can the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard our hearts and minds. Guard all our hearts at this very moment. And in our contentment or in our grief, let us Rejoice! In your precious and Holy name. Amen.

Chris Carroll

Sunday, December 11, 2005
John 1: 6-8; 19-28

Waiting

Some people are very patient with waiting in line, or in traffic, or when their child's ballgame goes into extra innings I'm not one of those people. But I have learned that preparing for those delays can make a big difference in my day. Keeping snacks in the car, a calendar, and my "to do" list on hand can help me from getting uncomfortable or too far behind on some things. A fully-charged cell phone and laptop can usually give me more than I can possibly get done during any delay I'm likely to encounter away from home or office.

Sometimes I get so busy "keeping myself busy" during these times that I even find that I wish for the delay to last a little longer. Even as I was writing this devotional at Brett's football practice, I found myself hoping that practice would go a little later tonight so I could finish up before heading home.

Many Jewish people of Jesus' day were waiting for a Messiah, someone who would "save" them. Probably for most of them, they hoped that salvation would mean a rescue from Roman occupation and a return of a united and strong Jewish kingdom. But many of them had learned to be patient and had adapted to life under the Romans. They continued to live, to work, to marry, to have families, and to worship as best they could.

But maybe some had adapted a little too well. The Pharisees and religious leaders had adapted and built up somewhat of their own little kingdom within the Roman empire where they were able to wield a certain amount of authority among their own people. They were curious about John the Baptist and asked if he was "the One," perhaps wondering if this was the Messiah they were looking for to take them into battle against the Romans and get back some "real" authority. When they found out he was not, they seemed to be saying, "Well, get back in line like everyone else then. There are rules to obey and things to do you know. We've got to keep things straight `till the Messiah gets here." Of course, that's what John was trying to get them ready for, but John and his methods weren't on their "to do" lists.

Doing things while I wait for Christmas can be a good thing a little extra baking for teachers and neighbors, spending time with family, doing some shopping, catching up with old friends. But I need to put some sanctuary time, both literal and figurative, on that list, too. Maybe then I won't be so caught up in my own little kingdom that I miss the Messiah or his messengers.

O God, may we focus on those things that further your Kingdom and make us more aware of your presence in the world, while we wait on your Son and the work that you continue to do in and through us.

Teresa Bowers

Monday, December 12, 2005
Isaiah 65: 17-25

Walking in Rain, Running in Beauty

Isaiah 65:17-25 talks about newer and better things to come -- new heaven, new earth, better and longer lives. Sort of a new beginning. I just recently learned what it means to have a "new beginning" and have things turn around when they're looking bad.

This summer, like normal, the youth went to Passport. Everything was going to be perfect, I decided. My best friend was with me, we had a dance for the variety show, and I was one of the older kids. Well our trip started at 5 o'clock on a cold bus. I was not happy. We got to Wingate some 9 hours or so later, and it was raining. Not happy. After waiting an hour we got our room keys and had to drag our luggage through the rain to the top floor. "Not happy" doesn't even begin to describe how I was feeling at this point.

After walking to opening celebration, in the rain, my ever-faithful companion, Anna Leigh and I walked in to see a room full of happy, joyful people. Hoping to make the best of the week, we eventually came around and started having fun, and completely freaked out when we realized we were in the same Bible study group.

The next morning, determined to start off on the right foot, we took a run around the campus. It was pure beauty in the rarest form. I realized that that week wasn't about the variety show or being an older, "cooler" kid. It was about seeing God work in people's lives, rejoicing in what He made, and having my life made new. And if I could relay that message to our worksites, then I would have accomplished what I had gone to do. Bringing that home was what I was meant to do. My "new life" came from simply trying and seeing God's works and rejoicing in them.

God, help me to always see the beauty around me and rejoice in you. Help me start a new life that will bring your joyfulness into others' lives. Amen.

Lindsey Pearson

Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Galatians 4: 4-7

In His Time

I have never liked waiting. I don't suppose that many people do. I like for things to come when I want them, when it fits into my time table, when I think it's best. One of the most difficult things I had to learn, and still continue to learn, is that God answers prayers with one of three answers: Yes, No, or Wait. Wait? Honestly, I would rather have a "No" sometimes than a "Wait," because I can't keep going with my planning and what I want to do if I am still waiting for an answer; it reminds of when I or other people my age ask our parents if we can do this or that, or go here or there, and the answer is, "We'll see," or "Let's talk about it later."

The uncertainty is what bothers me so much about waiting for anything. I don't know what is going to happen, so I don't know what to expect. I guess this is one of the ways that God helps us build our faith in Him: although we don't know what is going to happen, we wait for his plan to be revealed to us, and trust Him. With everything that the Jewish people had gone through, I'm sure many were tired of waiting for the Messiah. God had promised Christ long before he came, but waited, as the Scripture says, until "the time had fully come."

Although he came in a way that not many expected, and was not at all what many expected of the Savior, He came exactly as God had planned, and was exactly what we needed. Through the long-awaited life Christ, God gave us grace, mercy, and freedom from the slavery of sin to become his children. As we reflect on waiting this Advent season, remember the long-awaited arrival of Christ, how amazing and how unexpected it was, and imagine what God can do through you, if you can wait for his answer to follow his plan that so long awaited you.

Father, Abba, please help me to remember your perfect plan for me. You know me more intimately than anyone else. You have made me your child and an heir to your kingdom, and I thank you so much for that and everything else you give me. In Christ name. Amen.

Patrick Llewellyn

Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Isaiah 61: 1-4; 8-11

I'm Busy Waiting

While waiting for inspiration to arrive, I watched my family over the past few weeks, and below is a sample of who was waiting for what.

My son had to wait two weeks before he could drive again because he lost his Learner's Permit and had to get another one.
My daughter had to wait an extra week before spending the night at Grandma's (her most favorite activity) because we took a family vacation.
My husband had to wait several hours in the D.C. airport because his flight was canceled. (Actually, he liked this waiting because he could work uninterrupted.)
We all had to wait forty minutes for a world-famous, deep-dish pizza in Chicago because that's how long it takes for one to bake. We were very hungry.
I am waiting for my Walkman headphones, my favorite calculator, and several of my extra bounce tennis balls to show back up. I'm also waiting for my sister to apologize for a thoughtless remark she emailed me

Waiting is hard work. Most of us have realized that waiting is much easier if you stay busy. Thankfully, God's word gives us wonderful guidelines on how to stay busy while we wait, and, while we ultimately wait for Jesus' return. Over and over we are given directions to spread the Good News, share with others, comfort those who mourn, protect the weak, and love each other as Jesus loves us. God's word also assures us He blesses those who wait on His guidance. We need not look any further than Hannah's wait for a baby, Joseph's wait in captivity, Moses' wait for the Promise Land, or Paul's wait on the road to Damascus. God blesses those who wait on His guidance. Waiting can be a blessing. It's an opportunity to get busy and follow God's word. While I'm busy waiting each day, I know God blesses me and gives me guidance how to best serve His purposes. All I need to do is get busy and wait.

Heavenly Father, thank you for blessings we receive when we are busy waiting. Thank you for giving us Your Word to help us wait with purpose.

Amen. Cana Farr

Thursday, December 15, 2005
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-24

Finding joy in the Journey

During my childhood, the Christmas season was a countdown. Beginning at Thanksgiving and going slowly through the Advent calendar, the school parties and pageants, and the gathering of extended family, the days were an exercise in patience that I knew would be rewarded in the bounty of Christmas morning. Certainly there were enjoyable experiences along the way, but my version of the real reason for the season was in the pile of presents that caused almost unbearable anticipation.

Naturally, with the passing of years, my perspective on the season has changed. Now, each step through the season is in itself so rewarding and treasured that the gifts and Christmas Day become just a part of the whole experience, and not the climax of it all. Whether it's watching our daughter singing in a donkey costume about the stable animals sleeping with the newborn King, or seeing our son's eyes widen in wonder at a neighborhood of houses bathed in light, I've found that there are gifts to be found along the way, and even pleasure in the preparations.

In I Thessalonians 5, Paul hoped our brothers and sisters in the early church could find the same truth. Having already received the gift of salvation, they were intently focused on Jesus' return. Paul gave them some practical advice to make the waiting worthwhile...be joyful, pray, and give thanks always...don't put out the Holy Spirit's fire; hold to what's good, and avoid what's bad. No surprises, no magic formulas. Words easily read and understood, but strong enough for a lifetime of longing and struggle. And Paul knew the reward. He too yearned for a reunion with the Savior, but found contentment in all circumstances. Despite injustices, imprisonment, and thorns along the way, he ran the race and earned the prize. And in doing so, our God, as always, was faithful to His word to Paul and to us. The Gift continues to be offered and received, because God rewards the perseverance of those who wait.

Father, we confess that we don't like to wait. We would sometimes choose our own plans and schedule over yours. In those times, help us seek your Spirit and your will. Help us to return to prayer, turn away from bad, embrace what we know to be good, and find your joy in the journey. Help us to see the light grow in our own lives and spread to those around us when we follow your path. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Todd Youngblood

Friday, December 16, 2005
John 3: 23-30

Preparing the Way

In this scripture the people are telling John the Baptist that everybody is going to see the Messiah to be baptized instead of coming to John. He explains that it is his job to prepare the way for Jesus. Naturally the crowds will go to Him. Jesus must become greater, and John must become less.

Wow! That is our job too! We must prepare the way for Him. We need to talk, share, and witness enough so that people will naturally want to follow Jesus. He must become bigger and greater. We must become smaller and less. That means not being as selfish and doing more things to serve our Lord.

The theme of this week of the Advent season is "waiting." Yes, we wait a lot in our society. But this is a challenge that requires no waiting. What can we do now? Not just at Christmas, but all year long, we should be preparing the way. We can talk to those we meet: co-workers, neighbors, those in need, the sick and hurting. We can give, serve, and even hug to share God's love. I wonder how many people have learned about God from the service of Christians after our recent natural disasters. So what are you waiting for? Let's be like John and prepare people's hearts and minds for Jesus. Go spread the good news in your own way today, tomorrow, and everyday thereafter.

Dear Father, help us to learn from John's example. He prepared the way for Christ's initial coming. We should prepare people's hearts for his second coming. Thank you for loving us enough to send your son to guide our way. Lead us in the right direction each and every day. In Christ name we pray.

Amen. Dixie Paschal

Saturday, December 17, 2005
Matthew 11: 2-11

Waiting for the Perfect Father

When I was eleven years old, my father asked my mother for a divorce. Two weeks later my best friend's mom asked her husband for a divorce, and within five months my dad married my best friend's mom. The hardest part for me was that he was my best friend from church. I blamed God for allowing it to happen in his house. I prayed for years that God would change my dad and make him a better person. Dad never changed so I gave up on prayer. Prayer did not seem to work in my life for the things that mattered most to me. The deep pain my earthly father caused only seemed to drive me further from my Holy Father.

Approximately one year after graduating college, I recognized I needed to do some soul searching. That included a return to church and a focus on restoring my relationship with God so that I could find it within my heart to forgive. In my return to church, I became involved in the church singles' group where I met my wife to be, Jeanna. I truly believe God brought her into my life and blessed our union. My dad was not at our wedding on September 28th, 1996. It was not until three years later that I saw my dad. He was dying from cancer and it was inoperable. I felt God leading me to go see him. It was there talking with him in his living room that I finally found it within my heart to forgive him. I do not know if my father died a Christian. I know his battle with cancer lasted almost a year and that he had spiritual counsel throughout that time.

I spent 18 years waiting on my dad to become the perfect father. I am thankful my dad's death was not immediate as it gave us a chance to reconcile our relationship. In my waiting and reconciliation, God taught me not to put my faith in man. Man is not perfect. In my vow not to repeat the sins of my father, I have learned that I can not do so alone. I am human and, thus, too weak. I have long since turned that over to God. He is my strength to guide me through any temptations in life. Only our Lord can be the perfect Father.

If I have learned one thing from life's experiences, it is that we are all sinners and have fallen short of the glory of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is in that vein that I pray the scripture the minister read at my father's funeral:

Psalm 25:18 -- "Look upon mine affliction and my pain, and forgive all my sins."

Leigh Boothe

Sunday, December 18, 2005
Luke 1: 26-38

Wonder-full

For nothing is impossible with God. Indeed, not even the miracle of Mary's pregnancy! How strange and odd it must have been for the young Mary; to experience the intimacy of being with child, to savor and wonder at the visit from Gabriel who revealed such impossible details to her. Impossible!

I wonder what was going through her mind. I wonder if she thought she might be going crazy. I don't know. I can only speculate.

I do know that Mary was greatly troubled at Gabriel's words. She even wondered at them (vs. 29). His words were powerful, revealing. Perhaps they were overwhelming. She reacted the same way many of us would... she was afraid, frightened, and caught off guard. And yet Gabriel, sensing her fear, comforted Mary; "...you have found favor with God" (vs. 30).

Ever notice how God is the pursuer here? Gabriel comes to Mary. He finds her. Mary, a virgin, is pursued to be the bearer of God's Son, the Christ, who will come for the redemption of humanity and all Creation. This one young girl is to play such a special key role in a cosmic plan. It fills me with wonder.

Even more, I wonder at God's continuing relationship with His Creation. There is a grand plan, a movement towards ultimate hope found in the risen Christ. Yet each of us plays a key role in God's plan... what's not to wonder at? You might think it to be impossible, but never forget; nothing is impossible with God.

God of all Creation, of all things seen and unseen, I pray that I might be given the eyes to see and the ears to hear of the wonder that surrounds me in Creation and in my relationship to You.

Rachel Luck

Monday, December 19, 2005
2 Samuel 7: 1-11; 16

Can You Believe this Guy??

I mean seriously. Has he lost his mind? You may think I'm talking about King David here, but no, I'm referring to God. Yes, God the Almighty. Once again He's making a crazy promise. A throne established forever? Even the Romans could only last for a few hundred years. But an eternal kingdom, this is a HUGE promise. But why does it even matter to us?

Well most of you probably know that God was not referring to David directly. He was talking about one of David's descendants, Jesus, the "reason for the season." Well now it all makes sense, you say. Great promise, great story, on to the next devotional. Not quite yet. Here's the real question: Do you really always believe it? Really think about it. To me believing is the reason for the season, and the three other seasons for that matter. When we can believe, we can be free to help establish this everlasting kingdom. Not through our power, but through his. That was another promise, that he would never leave us alone. And he sent his Son to assure that.

God is FULL of promises. Many were fulfilled that Christmas morning. But we have to believe. Outrageous as these guarantees may be, it is the almighty God of Creation who makes them. It must have sounded crazy to King David, just like it does to us. But God never promised to make it easy, or make sense. He promised to be with us, temporarily on Earth, and in his kingdom forever.

Dear God, I pray that you would give us the strength to believe. Let us remember that you will be with us this season and also in your kingdom forever. Help us to be your tireless servants and to help establish your kingdom. Amen.

Chris Ryan

Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Luke 1: 47-55

To Trust In His Calling

I will never forget the morning I found out I was pregnant with my first child. It was 4:30 in the morning, and I was so overwhelmed with excitement that I could not help but run to wake Keith and share our precious news. We then spent the rest of that Sunday sharing our news with friends and family. It was easy for us to be excited. We had been married for 2 - years and hoping to expand our family soon. I had been waiting all my life for the moment I would become a mother and dreamed about it since I was a child. I could completely relate to Mary's words "my soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior." I praised God so often for the gift of my first son.

Yet, it amazes me that Mary was so full of praise. Her situation was so different. She knew that her news would be shunned by her friends and family. She knew that she would be treated as an outcast, Joseph might leave her, and she would have a very difficult journey ahead. Yet instead of dwelling on overwhelming fear, she praised God. She trusted Him. She had enough faith in Him to let go of fears and experience His glory. Oh that I can learn to trust God as Mary did, to go wherever He calls me with joy rather than fear.

Father, teach us to respond to your callings with joy. Teach us to trust you enough to let go of our fears and experience your glory through whatever you call us to do. In Christ name. Amen.

Beth Woodard

Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Psalm 89:1-6

Wonder

As a third-grade teacher, I hear my kids wonder all the time:

"Miss Boyce, I wonder how big the sequoia trees in California really are."

"Miss Boyce, I wonder why the squirting cucumber squirts its seeds so far."

And, sometimes, I have to wonder with them:

"Dear God, I wonder why you've blessed my life in so many wonderful ways."

"Dear God, I wonder why you make the sun shine just for me on difficult days." The Scriptures tell us that, "the heavens praise your wonders, O Lord..." (v. 5). The wonderful things that the Lord created are the cause for our wonder and awe especially during this season of the year, when we wonder at the magnificence of the gift of His Son.

Thank you, Lord, for the wonderful things you give us to marvel at. Thank you for the child-like faith to stand in awe of You and Your blessings. Amen.

Carolyn Boyce

Thursday, December 22, 2005
Romans 16: 25-27

Mysterious Wonders

Looking back over the course of my life I am often amazed at the wonders that God has worked in my life. I have faith and trust that God is in complete control, but sometimes I still want to grab the wheel and try to drive my life. It is looking back at these times that I sense the hand of God moving most strongly in my life.

In the winter of 2000 Delaina and I wanted to move on to something new. We did not consult God, but just made our own decisions. In April of 2000 we moved to West Virginia. I got the first job I applied for, and life looked to be going well. Well two months later things were back to being not so good. Neither Delaina nor I was very happy. I ended up moving here to Huntsville. Upon moving to Huntsville, we looked at the West Virginia trip as a big failure in our lives. But looking back, I see that God was really in control, even when I thought I was. You see, while in West Virginia, I got to know a wonderful family, Mark and Terri Wensyel.

Shortly after we left, Mark lost his job. Because of our friendship, Mark called me and I was able to get him a great job here in Huntsville. Had we not taken that two month detour to West Virginia, Mark would probably not have found his place here in Huntsville. The wonderful mysteries of God are not always visible at the first, but as you look back at your life you will discover that God was always in control. The mysterious wonder of God is that even when we feel in control of our lives, God is using our lives for his glory.

Dear Father, thank you for always being in control of our lives. Thank you for the wonders you provide in our lives, even when we don't acknowledge your control. Open our eyes to your wonderful plan and allow your wonders and miracles to work through our lives. Amen.

Mike Foust

Friday, December 23, 2005
Hebrews 10: 1, 19-24

Only a Shadow

I love nativity scenes, and I own several. I enjoy setting out the little figures and imagining myself moving among the real characters as the story of Jesus' birth unfolded.

One of my nativity scenes is made up of a mismatched assortment of figures from several other sets. The stable is suggested by a wobbly little arch that frequently topples over.

One day the stable arch fell back behind the hutch where I had set up the scene. I had to get down on my hands and knees to find it. From that kneeling position I reached up to put the arch back into position, leaning it against the nearest thing that could support it, which turned out to be a Vacation Bible School cross stuck in a clay dish.

In that moment I was struck by the wonder of the cross behind the arch. In a figurative sense the stable where Jesus was born, like the Old Testament Law, was a shadow of something real, dimly hinting at something wonderful yet to come a relationship with God "through a new and living way." That "way" was Jesus' body, which he willingly gave up for us on the cross.

Even more profound was the realization that the cross behind the stable became evident to me while I was on my knees. On my knees I "draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith" and find Him, beyond the stable and the cross, gloriously alive!

Dearest Lord, based on your faithful promise, "let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess" and "let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." Amen.

Karan Boyce

Saturday, December 24, 2005
John 1: 14

And the Word Became Flesh...

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 NKJV

Have you ever sat and watched the parents of a newborn? Ever since Rebekah and I found out we were expecting, I've started to watch new parents more closely. It always warms my heart to see the joy in their eyes, to see the love they rain down on this new person in whose life God has allowed them to take part.

Also you watch as they fulfill all of the baby's needs. We all know that babies can do nothing for themselves and solely rely on their parents for their every need. It is exciting to watch the new parents giving all they have to be sure their child is protected, safe, and that their needs are fulfilled.

The same goes for every Christian. When we are saved we become that love and joy in God's eyes. He rains down love on us, and he is there to fulfill our every need. He is our rock to lean on when the times get tough. He is the listening ear when we are at our highest peak and our lowest depth. He is our all. Without him we can do nothing.

And this God, who loves us so much, cared enough to come into this world as a baby and take every step of life that we humans face. And this God who loves us so much laid down his life, so that we could always find ourselves safe in his arms.

The word became flesh and showed his glory among us so that we would never have to face the world alone.

Lord, help us to always remember that you walked these same dusty roads that we do, and though the road may be tough, the victory is already won. God, during this holy time, we celebrate you and the victory you have given us. Amen.

Josh Hill

Sunday, December 25, 2005
Luke 2: 1-14

Christ Born Into the World

The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God." Luke: 1:35

I like what Oswald Chambers says in his Daily Thoughts for Disciples:

"Christ was born into this world, not from it. His birth was an advent...coming into history from outside history, coming not from the human race, but from above the human race. He is a being that cannot be accounted for by the human race at all...He is God incarnate, not man becoming God...God coming into human flesh from the outside."

On this Christmas morning I need to understand the birth of Christ as a great mysterious gift. To praise and adore Him means to know that He comes to us from the outside, from a place not within us, a Holy place; and that he chooses to dwell within and among us. Even more amazingly he dwells alongside us.

Oswald says: "Have we allowed ourselves to become a "Bethlehem" for the Son of God? The conception of the new birth in the New Testament is of something that enters into us, not of something that springs out of us."

O Come, O Come Emmanuel. From your holy place far beyond all of us, enter the Bethlehem of our world, our life, our heart. O Come, O Come... Amen.

Ronnie Brewer