December 2012 - Ashland Scoop Newsletter

The Scoop Newsletter THIS NEWSLETTER IS A WORK OF LOVE BY A COMMITTEE OF FOLKS IN ASHLAND. THE NEXT ONE WILL BE PUBLISHED SHORTLY AFTER THE FIRST OF EACH MONTH. IDEAS OR ITEMS FOR THE NEWSLETTER? DROP OFF OR CALL NANCY HEATHER AT PRINTERS INK AT 217-476-3764, OR GIVE THEM TO NANCE BRYANT, LINDA DEVLIN, CYNTHIA GUTMANN, BOB HEATHER, OR LIZ WALLBAUM. ITEMS CAN ALSO BE EMAILED TO MATT HOBROCK, ASLAND.SCOOP@SBCGLOBAL.NET. DEADLINE WILL BE THE 25TH OF EACH MONTH FOR THE FOLLOWING MONTH’S NEWSLETTER. YOUR FINANCIAL SUPPORT IS APPRECIATED. OUR WEBSITE: http://ashlandscoop.tripod.com

A/C CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT CHRISTMAS PROGRAMS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DECEMBER 6TH (ASHLAND GYM) SOUP SUPPER

December 2012 - Volume 6 - Issue 12 PORK CHOP DINNER

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30th 5:00-7:00 pm A-C Central Cafeteria-Ashland Prior to Porta/A-C vs. Havana HS Boys Basketball Game

JR. HIGH DECEMBER 11TH (ASHLAND GYM)

Menu Pork Chop Sandwich - $3.50 Jumbo Hot Dog - $2.00 Chips - $ .50

HIGH SCHOOL DECEMBER 12TH (ASHLAND GYM)

*Candy and Drinks will be available at Concessions from the High School Student Council.*

CHRISTMAS FOOD BASKETS

TOYS FOR TOTS

Community food baskets for the Christmas holiday will be offered again this year. If you would like to donate to the program, please contact any member of the Ashland Volunteer Fire Department or call (217) 473-9147.

Thank you!

Our community Toys for Tots program is in full swing. Drop off a new toy at the boxes located all around town.

For other donations, contact any member of the Ashland Volunteer Fire Department or call (217) 473-9147.

Thank you!

We also need donations of money to help buy gifts or gift certificates for Jr. High & High School Age Kids.

All proceeds to benefit A-C Central Post Prom 2013

Merry Christmas!

Thank you for all of the support in 2012!

$89,500 - 617 E Franklin St. ASHLAND IL

*WELL MAINTAINED* 3BR 1BA ranch with 2.5 car detached garage & a spacious living room with lots of natural light. Large family room offering a gas log fireplace with a very cozy feel. Kitchen has an open floor plan with island, pantry & separate dining room area. Also an attached sunroom gives extra space to enjoy the outdoors without being exposed to the elements.`12 complete tear off of garage roof, replaced some boards & all new shingles, `06 H20 heater, `12 exterior paint&some paint inside!

Dawn Stremsterfer Realtor®, Broker Associate Office: 217-787-7215 Direct: 217-741-1865

PROFESSIONALS 2475 West Monroe Springfield, IL 62704 (cell) 217-741-1865 soldbydawns@gmail.com

CHURCH DIRECTORY BEREA CHRISTIAN CHURCH Minister Edward J.Moretto bereacc@casscomm.com www.bereachristianchurch.com Sunday Christian Education Hour - 9:30 pm Sunday Worship - 10:30 am Wednesday Eve. Prayer Mtg. - 7:00 pm We’re Open On Sunday!!

CHURCH OF CHRIST Minister Howard Chartier Sunday School - 9:00 am Sunday Worship - 10:00 am FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH Pastor Rev. David L. McHenry 476.3678 Sunday School - 9:30 am Sunday Worship - 10:30 am

PRAIRIE SKIES PUBLIC LIBRARY LAP SIT PROGRAMS Mondays at 10:00am Ashland Location Mondays at 1:00pm Pleasant Plains Location NOVEMBER THEME MONKEYS Curious George Bananas for Treats

Happy Holidays Amity Nail Spa 116 N. Yates Ashland, IL Lana J. Pfaffe, Nail Technician

ST. AUGUSTINE CHURCH Father Chris Brey 476.8856 Ashland Sunday Mass - 9:00 am Beardstown Sunday Mass - 11:00 am Sunday (Spanish) - 12:30 pm Virginia Saturday - 5:00 pm UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Rev. Pam Hoffman 476.8858 www.ashlandunitedmethodist.com Sunday Worship - 8:45 am Sunday School - 10:00 am Wednesday- Choir Practice - 7:00 NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH, s.b.c.

Pastor Terry Beauchamp www.newbeginningschristianfellowship.net Sunday School for all ages@ 9:10-10:00 am 2nd Service - 10:15 am YOUTH4TRUTH @ 6:30-7:30 pm Tuesday Corporate Prayer @ 7:00 pm Saturday’s Men’s Prayer Breakfast @ 8:00 am

ASHLAND SENIOR DINNER WELL ATTENDED Fifty five were guests of the Ashland United Methodist Women Thursday November 15. Another twenty four enjoyed a home delivered meal.

Angela Cosner from Cass County Health Dept. checked blood pressure and gave several flu shots.

The U.M. Women would like to thank the Health Dept. for providing this service.

Pastor Pam Hoffman asked the Blessing.

The U.M. Women started this tradition in 1978. It was our gift to the seniors.The meal was served in the Methodist Church basement. In 1982 we asked Catholic friends if we could use their fellowship hall as it is handicap accessible. We are truly thankful for their generosity.

Thanks for attending and a big thank you to all who help make this dinner possible.

And the Good Lord sent a beautiful day for it to be held.

We are Blessed to live in such a caring community.

Now available at Tease Tanning

HandMade Greet ing Cards by Angel a Larrak er

The most frequently asked questions regarding hospice care that Cass-Schuyler Area Hospice wants YOU to know.

From staff and volunteers of Cass-Schuyler Area Hospice

Norm Bryant Enterprises

Prentice Farmers Elevator 2303 Elevator Avenue Ashland, IL 62612

Distributor of Fine Quality Vacuums

Furniture

Carpet Cleaning Car Interior

217.476.3516 or 1.800.255.8659 prenticeev@casscomm.com prenticeelevator.com James R. Blakeman, Manager 4 locations to serve you:

Cell (217) 741-3758 Phone: (217) 476-3508

608 W. Franklin Ashland, IL 62612

Prentice, Philadelphia, Strawns Crossing, and Tallula.

Dealers in Grain, Seed and Kent Feeds.

MATT GREER

Darrin Smith Owner

16693 Newmansville Avenue Petersburg, Illinois 62675

Monday - Saturday 7:00 am to 8:00 pm

Ph: (217) 971-4571

President

Located at West Central Bank 400 East Buchanan, PO Box 467 Main: 217-476-3653 - Fax: 217-476-3342 Email: matt.greer@ingfp.com

Junctions 123 & 125 - Ashland, Illinois 62612

We want to wish all our customers best wishes for a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

The Allen Family

Sundays and Holidays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

There will be a Christmas decorating/lighting contest again this year. First prize will be $50 with $25 prizes for honorable mentions. The judging will be held on Saturday, December 22, 2012 from 7pm to 9pm.

The Firefighters will be holding their annual Toys for Tots drive. Look for donation boxes around the community.

Congratulations to Dan Cuba on his appointment as a Trustee for the Ashland Board.

Election packets are now available at the Municipal Building for those wishing to run for local office during the April 9, 2013 election. The first day to file completed packets is December 17, 2012. Those up for election are 3 Trustee positions and the Village President/Mayor.

If you are in possession of a stray dog, please call the county sheriff’s office (217/452-7718) and ask them to contact Jim Birdsell.

If you see a street light out, call the Village office (217/476-3317) and we will contact Ameren CIPS for repair.

First 1,000 gallons Per 1,000 gallons after first 1,000 EPA Testing Fee Minimum monthly charge

Water $27.50 $14.75 $ 1.05 $39.00

Sewer $10.45 $ 4.40

E-mail: Ashland@casscomm.com Facebook: Village of Ashland

Village of Ashland Board Members & Staff:

Dave Handy, Mayor Jim Birdsell, Chief of Police Ron Cave, Public Works Director Alicia Hager, Village Treasurer Vanessa Doellman, Village Clerk Kitty Mau, Deputy Clerk

Kelly Sutphin-Gutmann, Trustee Fadra Birdsell, Trustee Stan Fulton, Trustee Terry Blakeman, Trustee Frank Wallace, Trustee Dan Cuba, Trustee

FOUND...

One pair of ladies sunglasses. May be prescription. Found at the corner of Athens and Forest. Call 217-494-2290 to describe and claim.

ASHLAND WOMAN’S CLUB… The Ashland Woman’s Club will meet at 1:30 pm Tuesday December 4, 2012 at the Baptist Fellowship Hall. Karen Davenport will present the program on soybeans. All ladies are welcome! Hope to see you there!

December Anniversaries 12 - Forrest & Carol Duncan 29 - Don & Kaye Parsons

December Birthdays 02 - Shawn Eskew 05 - Julie Jokisch 06 - Travis Wallbaum 09 - Jim Heather 10 - Alex Gardner 16 - David Bryant 15 - Dena Mae Davin 18 - Harry Blakeman 18 - Ramona Douglass 25 - Baby Jesus 28 - Jim Handy 30 - Charlee Ratliff 31 - Kelsey Gardner

ASHLAND VFW POST 3546…

Meets monthly at 7:00 p.m. on the 3rd Monday at the Firehouse.

AMERICAN LEGION POST 498...

Meets monthly at 7:30 p.m. on the 3rd Monday at the Firehouse.

SENIOR SAINTS… Senior Saints will have a Ham Dinner at the Baptist Fellowship Hall on December 14th at 6 pm. Bring a salad or a dessert

We would like to thank all of our advertisers and all of the community support.

Without you, we wouldn’t have the Scoop.

- Ashland Scoop / Printers Ink

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from our family, to yours!

Happy Holidays

RPA Farmers Co-op

NEAL’S BARBER SHOP Ashland, IL 62612 217.741.3874

Email us: RPAFARMERS@CASSCOMM.COM Richland

3090 Richland Elev. Rd. Pleasant Plains, IL 62677

217.626.1551

Thomas J. Kofoed, 91, of Ashland, IL died Monday morning, November 19, 2012 at Heritage Health in Springfield, IL. He was born April 17, 1921 in rural Thornton, Iowa, the son of Thomas and Jennie Clausen Kofoed. He married Rita Jean Nall on February 17, 1968 at the Faith Lutheran Church in Springfield and she survives.

He is also survived by a daughter, Janice Arlene Hangman (husband, Norman) of Waianae, Hawaii; four grandchildren, Donna Westbrook (husband, Scott) of Divernon, Steven Moffitt (wife, Janelle) of Chatham, Christopher Palmer of Divernon, and Cecile Palmer of Gray Summit, MO; six great grandchildren, Robby, Abby and Adam Gathard, Owen and Drew Moffitt, and Rylee Palmer; and a sister, Evelyn Esther Kofoed of Springfield.

Mr. Kofoed was a graduate of Clear Lake, Iowa High School and served as a Fireman 1st Class with the US Coast Guard aboard the USS H.D. Crow during WW II. Following his military service, he worked as an installer with GTE, a mechanical draftsman for Pillsbury and other firms, and retired after several years with the State of Illinois Dept. of Corrections and Dept. of Public Health. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Pleasant Plains and a life member of Ashland VFW Post #3546.

Funeral services were held at Zion Lutheran Church in Pleasant Plains with burial at Berea Cemetery, south of Prentice. The family met friends at the church from 12:30 pm Friday until the time of services. Memorial gifts are suggested to Zion Lutheran Church or Berea Cemetery. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home of Ashland wass in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.buchanancody.com.

Frances B. Stephenson, 88, of Jacksonville and formerly of Prentice left her earthly home on Sunday, November 4, 2012, to be with her beloved husband, Wendell, and together dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

She was born January 31, 1924 northeast of Jacksonville on the Hopper farm, the daughter of Earl and Lillie McNeal Farmer. She married Wendell B. Stephenson Sr. on July 15, 1941 in New London, MO and he preceded her in death on July 13, 2005.

She is survived by four children, Wendell Stephenson Jr. of Alexander, Wanda Tedder (companion, Tom Speaker) of Louisville, KY, Wilton “Scooper” Stephenson (companion, Cheri Adams) of rural Jacksonville, and Brenda Matthews (husband, Dick) of Jacksonville. Dick and Brenda were blessed to have Frances live the last five years of her life with them in their home. She was also blessed to be survived by 11 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; two sisters, Mary L. Farmer and Kay Preston (Husband, Glenn), all of Jacksonville; a brother, John Farmer (wife, Bettie) of Jacksonville; numerous nieces and nephews; sisters- and brothersin-law; family friend, Betty Stephenson; and her “Angels of Mercy”caregivers, Sandra Stegal, Willie Turner, Connie Wilson, Yolanda Sites, Mary Flowers, Ladybug Holmes, and the Cass-Schuyler Hospice staff. She was preceded in death by her parents; five sisters, Oneta Covey, Mildred Griffeth Wood, Ruby Stewart, Faye Woods, and a sister in infancy; four brothers, Robert Farmer, Raymond Farmer, Earl Eugene Farmer, and a brother in infancy; two daughters-in-law, Sally Stephenson and Mary Stephenson; and several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Stephenson, along with her husband, owned and operated Stephenson Cleaners in Ashland for over 47 years. She was known by all for her love of family and friends. A member of Berea Christian Church, she served as a Sunday School teacher for the Nursery Class for over 50 years. During the last five years, she enjoyed attending sporting events of her great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at Berea Christian Church, south of Prentice, with burial in Berea Cemetery. The family met friends Wednesday at the Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Ashland. Memorial gifts are suggested to Berea Christian Church, Berea Cemetery, or Cass-Schuyler Area Hospice. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.buchanancody.com.

Pleasant Plains

Ashland

300 N. Washington Pleasant Plains, IL 62677

220 North Niagara Ashland, IL 62612

217.626.1331

217.476.3318

Enjoy delicious, refreshing soups and salads on the third Thursday of the month at the Ashland First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall 221 W. Washington St., Ashland IL A delicious soup and salad bar will be offered to individuals 60 years of age or older from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Reservations are highly encouraged but not necessary (217) 479-4619.

A suggested donation of $4.00 is asked to cover the cost of the meal. No person will be denied a meal due to a monetary contribution less than the suggested donation. More of a donation is also welcome!

Sponsored by: Prairie Council on Aging’s Bread of Love Program (217) 479-4619

Ladies Prayer Breafkast Schedule 2012 - 2013 2012

HOG RAFFLE

CHILI/SOUP SUPPER

Winner will receive one half hog processed Four winners will be drawn $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00 Drawing to be held February 12, 2013 At the conclusion of the JH Volleyball Game Need not be present to win

Proceeds to benefit A-C Central Post Prom 2013

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6th PRIOR TO THE ELEMENTARY CHRISTMAS PROGRAM Ashland Cafeteria 5:00 pm – 6:15 pm MENU Large Meal Deal - $6.00 (Soup or Chili, Hot Dog, Dessert, Drink) Small Meal Deal - $4.00 (Soup or Chili, Dessert, Drink) Soup/Chili - $3.00 Hot Dog - $2.00 Chili Dog - $2.50 Dessert - $1.00 Drink - $ .50 All Proceeds to Benefit A-C Central Post Prom 2013

A SUBSIDIARY OF THE WEST CENTRAL BANK E-mail: wcins@casscomm.com

Illini

Propane LLC 220 N. Yates - Ashland Office: 1-866-225-8126 Garrett Savage - Bob Savage Ron Ahlers - Salesman cell: (217)691-9631

**GIVE US A CALL**

108 W. Editor Street Ashland, IL 62612 217.476.3354 Jeffrey A. Donnan - Kay Handy Ora Lee Campbell

Other Locations: 117 S. Front Street Virginia, IL 62691 217.452.7717 Kristen Arthalony 815 W. Clinton Rushville, IL 62681 217.322.6230 Kala Peacock

116 State Street Beardstown, IL 62618 217.323.3018 Debbie Jones 979 Clocktower Drive Springfield, IL 62704 217-726-9885 Stacey M. Hester

Carmen Savage named Student of the Month at A-C Central Congratulations to Carmen Savage for being selected Student – of – the – Month for October at A-C Central High School. Miss Savage is the daughter of Julie and Garrett Savage of Ashland.

Carmen is a leader both in and out of the classroom as evidenced by her involvement in various school activities. She is a member of the Honor Roll, Student Council (President), STAR (President), Marching/ Concert/Pep Band (President), FFA (President), Spanish Club, National Honor Society, and Natural Helpers.

ADVENTURE CLUB Christmastime in Peoria December 11, 2012

400 E. Buchanan St. P.O. Box 467 Ashland, IL 62612-0467 PH. 217.476.3325 FX. 217.476.3342

Away from school Carmen has volunteered at the Cass County Food Pantry and at the local veterinary clinic. She is active in her church youth group and is the President of her 4-H club.

Miss Savage plans on attending the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana majoring in Animal Science and then continuing her studies in Veterinary School.

Congratulations to Carmen Savage on this significant honor!

A Full Service Bank Valerie Escudero Named A-C Central DAR Winner

WALLBAUM DEVELOPMENT INC. ASHLAND, IL 115 W. Freemont St. PO Box 136 Ashland, IL 62612

Congratulations to Valerie Escudero for being named the Daughters of the American Revolution local award winner. A -C Central High School teachers voted for students that exhibit the qualities of dependability, service, leadership and patriotism in their homes, school and community.

Plumbing - Heating - Air Conditioning Backhoe - Trenching

We Do It All In Just 1 Call!

Jim - Todd - Travis

Phone: (217)476-3595

Miss Escudero is now eligible to compete for state and national level awards based on an essay that she will compose. She will be invited to attend a luncheon at the Springfield Chapter ceremony in February.

The Yackers & Yarners

Cass County Sheriff Bob Fair and his wife Dee paid a visit to the Prairie Skies Public Library District’s Yackers & Yarners, a group of knitters and crocheters, have been working very hard to supply winter hats Bob & Dee Fair, Suzi Mesojednik and scarves for those in need in Cass County. Sheriff Bob and Dee were both quite surprised at all the hard work this group of gals had accomplished. Through one of our members, Paula Chatfield, we were able to get a donation of more hats from the rehab department at Memorial Hospital, where she works. We had nearly 75 hats and lots of scarves to mix and match.

Last year the Yackers and Yarners knit and crocheted dolls and hats for orphan children with AIDS in Africa. Our group is becoming well known for its generosity.

Thank you Yackers & Yarners for putting in so much hard work to make the holidays better for everyone.

Veterans Day Program @ A/C Central

Contact Mrs. Rogers at (217) 458-2224 or Rhonda Roy at (217) 476-3312

“ My Christmas Shopping List”

Simply “Alneta”

I made a Christmas shopping list And my presents were all bought I wrapped them up so carefully I’m finished now, I thought.

I placed them underneath the tree With tender, loving care Now I’ll set back, mail some cards Cause I’ve got time to spare.

The family will be coming soon We’ll hang some mistletoe We’ll sit around the fireplace While the turkey’s cooking slow.

We’ll drink a glass of eggnog Ta make the Season real Last minute preparations Will complete the Christmas meal.

Co. Gardner Construction 2878 Panther G rove Road Ashland, IL 6261 2

Cell: 217-341-3415 Leave Message 217-476-8135

Remodel Kitchen & Baths Replace Roof & Room Additions

Pushing thru this crowded store There’s shoppers everywhere Searching for last minute gifts On shelves so stripped and bare.

Excuse me, Madam, I thought I had My Christmas shopping done I’m looking for one more gift I need to buy someone.

He came into my life so quick And now it’s Christmas Eve I think this bottle of cologne Would be nice to receive.

I’ll rush home and wrap this present For that man I can’t resist I’m glad his name was added to “My Christmas Shopping List” © 1992

Alneta Knowles

Smith Chiropractic Clinic Dr. Kathie G. Smith 111 North Hardin Ashland, IL 62612 (217)476-3547 Office Hours by Appointment Monday and Thursday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

New Construction Remodeling Gutters

PUMPKINS, TREES, and SNOWFLAKES Amazing yard art welded by the Agriculture students at A-C CentralHigh School

Prices from$10 - $25 Send your orders to: A-C Central FFA 601 W. Buchanan Ashland, IL 62612

OR Call 1(217)476-3312 *All orders must be placed before December 18th

LOCAL FFA MEMBERS EARN NATIONAL HONOR A-C Central FFA members Haley Pfaffe, Brandon Smith and Teagan Smith (shown with former Advisor Jennifer Waters), were presented with their American FFA Degree certificate and golden key at the 85th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana on October 27th.

American FFA Degree celebrates academic and professional excellence and is bestowed upon members who show the utmost dedication to the organization through their desire to develop their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. To be eligible, FFA members must have earned and productively invested $7,500 through a supervised agricultural experience program in which they start, own or hold a professional position in an existing agriculture enterprise. Recipients must also complete 50 community service hours, as well as demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities and community involvement.

Other former A-C Central FFA members to earn this level of membership include Matt Mahoney, Christopher Devlin, Jordan Bartels, Casey Blakeley, Jeff Evers, Lindi Stremsterfer, Kevin Donnan, Chris Clemons, Jeff Donnan, Todd Jokisch, Randy Buckman, and Tom Johnson.

"SINGLE ISSUE" BY EDWARD J. MORETTO, MINISTER, BEREA CHRISTIAN CHURCH At the time of this writing we are exactly one week past the national elections of 2012. By the time this article appears in The SCOOP we will be somewhere in the neighborhood of three to four weeks past that event. Whether the results of the election were good or bad, depends on one's political perspective. In the next four years things will change for better or worse depending, again, on one's perspective and as a matter of fact. In a recent coffee shop conversation, as we discussed the recent events, all opined and second guessed as they saw fit. In that conversation a comment was made that one cannot/should not make a decision in the electoral process on the basis of a "single issue." When one hears that kind of statement, again depending on one's personal perspective, one either agrees with it or disagrees. I disagree. Here's why.

We often vote on "single issues." In our local ballot the citizens of Ashland were given the choice of voting to allow the village council to make inquiries concerning electricity rates for the community, or not. This appears to call for a vote on a "single issue."

Of course, when we choose a candidate for any given political office, we should make an intelligent decision based on the issues as we see them. But, at some point each voter makes a decision to choose one candidate over another and it is just as logical to make that decision on the basis of a "single issue" as it is two, three, or a dozen. Those who say that one cannot/should not make a decision on the basis of a "single issue" attempt to deny a personal right and offer what is sometimes called "false choice."

Let's change the setting, but not the subject.

Christmas is coming. Watch a little child and you'll learn that this is a "single issue" day. It's the day when kids get Christmas presents, unwrap them, set the gifts aside, and play with the wrapping paper and the boxes. (At least that's how it used to be before 3G, 4G, and the new 5G techno-gadgets.) For some of the adult populace it's often a day (or a time) for office or jobrelated parties. For some of that populace, in post-party stages of intoxication, life often ends tragically. That tragedy happens because of a "single issue" decision to drive under the influence of intoxicating beverages. On a better note, Christmas is really about the beginning of life. It's about the birth of the Christ Who brings the offer of eternal life and Who was prophesied in the Old Testament. And that birth now brings the most important "single issue" one will ever face.

The Apostle Paul, in Romans 3:23, tells us that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (NIV). At the same time, John 3:16 tells us that "God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (NIV). And, when the time comes to make one's decision to accept salvation by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, or not, one makes the decision based on a "single issue."

If you've never made that decision, give yourself the greatest Christmas gift ever. Accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.

If you need some help in the process, or have any questions, ask any one of the more-than-a-handful of Christian ministers in town. It's your vote; it's based on a "single issue."

December 2012 My Favorite Devotion Friends As you enjoy all the merriment of our Savior’s birthday, Christmas, please enjoy this devotion. It came from the book I’ve read most of my last favorite devotions from, “Every Day with Jesus”.

The title is “The Most Profound Mystery.” It was written by Wayne Grudem.

“A newborn evokes deep awe and great delight from adults. We exclaim, “Just look at the little fingers and toes. Listen to those cute baby sounds. What an adorable button nose.”

Imagine the wonder Mary and Joseph must have experienced as they saw their firstborn baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. As they exclaimed in delight over his little fingers and toes, endearing baby noises, and his tiny nose, they no doubt recalled Gabriel’s words to them—this baby was conceived by the Holy Spirit.

Did they grasp the fullness of that miracle? Their newborn son, who seemed so finite and powerless, was the One who created the stars on that night, the donkey that carried Mary to Bethlehem, and the angles from the heavens who heralded to shepherds their baby’s birth. Mary and Joseph must have looked in awe upon the most profound mystery—their tiny, helpless infant was the Son of God, the maker of heaven and earth!”

Have a great Christmas! See you in January.

Only love Luke 2:1-20