Advent tapestry by Easley Presbyterian Church

Easley Presbyterian Church

2015

Advent 2015 I

t is truly a humbling experience to read back through the Old Testament and see how frail and imperfect all the “heroes” actually are. Abraham, the coward who cannot believe the promise. Jacob, the cheat who struggles with everybody. Joseph, the immature and arrogant teen. Moses, the impatient murderer who cannot wait for God. Gideon, the cowardly Baalworshipper. Samson, the womanizing drunk. David, the power abusing adulterer. Solomon, the unwise wise man. Hezekiah, the reforming king who cannot go quite far enough. And finally, a young Jewish girl from a small village in a remote corner of a great empire. It never ceases to amaze me why God could not have chosen “better” people to do His work in the world. Yet if God can use them in such marvelous ways, it means that He might be able to use me, inadequate, and unwise, and too often lacking in faith that I am. And means that I need to be careful that I do not in my own self-righteousness put limits on what God can do with the most unlikely of people in the most unlikely of circumstances. I think that is part of the wonder of the Advent Season. — Dennis Bratcher, The Christian Resource

The First Sunday of Advent

November 29, 2015

Devotion on Advent Art

“The Annunciation” Jan Van Eyck

he picture (painted 1434-1436) depicts the Annunciation by the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that she will bear the Son of God (Luke 1:26-38). There is an inscription— words beside Gabriel’s mouth stating, “Ave Graplena” - “Hail, full of grace…” And again beside Mary is inscribed her response: “Behold the handmaiden of the Lord…” Her words are painted upside down for God above to see. The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit descend to her on seven rays of light from the upper window to the left, with the dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit following the same path. "This is the moment God's plan for salvation is set in motion. Through Christ's human incarnation the old era of the Law is transformed into a new era of Grace". The setting develops this theme. Mary was believed in the Middle Ages to have been a very studious girl who was engaged by the Temple of Jerusalem with other selected maidens to spin new curtains for the Holy of Holies. She sits, studying the scriptures (possibly the book of Isaiah). The temple is decorated with subjects from the Old Testament that prefigure the coming of the Messiah. In the floor tiles David's slaying of Goliath (center front), foretells Christ's triumph over sin. Behind this, Samson pulls down the Temple of the Philistines, prefiguring both the Crucifixion and the Last Judgment. The rear wall has a single stained glass window, where Jehovah stands, surrounded by seraphim. Behind Mary, there are three windows, representing the Trinity. On either side of the single stained glass window are dim wallpaintings of the finding of Moses by Pharaoh's daughter (left, pre-figuring the Annunciation itself), and Moses receiving the Ten Commandments (right, paralleling the New Covenant Christ would bring). The lilies (in the foreground) are a traditional attribute of Mary, standing for purity. The empty stool may be an "empty throne", a symbol for Christ going back to early Byzantine art.

Heaven’s Light, We Wait in Darkness”

“

Heaven’s Light, we wait in shadow; Jacob’s Star, we sit in shade. Grant Your Light, O Name we hallow, Shine on us, O Name we praise. Light of Light, True God of True God, Shadow Searer show our sin. Shatter hearts of stone with Your rod, Light our darkness deep within. Lord, our Light and our Salvation, Faithful Flame and Sacred Star, You breathe life into creation — Planted Word Your cultivar. Prophet’s Promise, “God is with us,” Blessed name, Emmanuel, Word of God enfleshed to save us, Breath of God with us to dwell. Lord of Light, Your church illumine; Bread of Life, Your glory show; Share Your truth with humble humans, Manna, given to earth below. Morning comes, and Christ’s Light shines on, Daybreak of this darkened night. May we radiate the True Dawn; May our lives reflect Your Light!

—J. Robert Norris

“Angel of Creation: First Day” Sir Edward Burne-Jones, c. 1875

“Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus” (click on titles to hear recordings)

nticipation is a necessary and important part of every believer’s life. In Old Testament times the people anxiously awaited a Messianic Kingdom. Today we should be waiting with the same urgent expectancy as did the Israelites of old. Come, thou long-expected Jesus, But our Born to set thy people free; anticipation is the From our fears and sins release us, Lord’s second Let us find our rest in thee. advent - when Israel’s strength and consolation, victory over sin and Hope of all the earth thou art; desire of every nation, death will be Dear Joy of every longing heart. complete and final. The Old Born thy people to deliver, a child and yet a King, Testament prophecies were very specific concerning our Lord’s first Born Born to reign in us forever, advent. The prophets gave the exact location of his birth (Micah 5:2) Now thy gracious kingdom bring. as well as the sign that He would be virgin born (Isaiah 7:14). By thine own eternal Spirit Likewise the New Testament gives clear instructions regarding the Rule in all our hearts alone; second advent: “There will be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and By thine all sufficient merit, in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations ... and when these Raise us to thy glorious throne. — Charles Wesley, 1744 things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth near” (Luke 21:25-28). “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus” is another of the more than 6,500 hymns written by Charles Wesley. It was first published in 1744 in a small collection of 18 poems tittled Hymns for the Nativity of Our Lord. The vibrant HYFRYDOL tune was composed by a 20-year-old Welshman, Rowland H. Prichard, in about 1830. The tune means “good cheer.” It has been used with many of our popular In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan, hymn texts. Earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone; Just as Christ’s birth 2,000 years ago dramatically Snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow, changed the course of human history, so will the return In the bleak midwinter, long ago. of our Lord as the King of kings. With the saints of the Our God, heaven cannot hold him, nor earth sustain; ages we pray, “Come, Thou long-expected Jesus!” Heav’n and earth shall flee away Rejoice in the truth that God’s eternal promises are when He comes to reign. unchangeable: Christ was born and He will return. In the bleak midwinter a stable place sufficed The Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ.

Angels and archangels may have gathered there, Cherubim and seraphim thronged the air; But His mother only, in her maiden bliss, Worshiped the Beloved with a kiss. What can I give Him, poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; If I were a Wise Man, I would do my part; Yet what I can I give Him: give my heart. — Christina G. Rossetti, 1872

— Kenneth W. Osbeck, “Amazing Grace”

“In the Bleak Midwinter”

n the Bleak Midwinter is a Christmas carol based on a poem by the English poet Christina Rossetti written before 1872 for a literary magazine. It was published posthumously in Rossetti's Poetic Works in 1904 and became a Christmas carol after it appeared in The English Hymnal in

8 1906 with a setting by the famous composer Gustav Holst. In 2008 it was named the best Christmas carol in a poll of some of the world's leading choirmasters and choral experts. In verse one, Rossetti describes the physical circumstances of the Incarnation in Bethlehem. In verse two, Rossetti contrasts Christ's first and second coming. The third verse dwells on Christ's birth and describes the simple surroundings, in a humble stable and watched by beasts of burden. Rossetti achieves another contrast in the fourth verse, this time between the incorporeal angels attendant at Christ's birth with Mary's ability to render Jesus physical affection. The final verse shifts the description to a more introspective thought process, and asks the question, “What gift do I have to offer this Christ Child?”

Both of these paintings are by Dante Gabriel Rossetti. “The Girlhood of Mary Virgin” and “The Annunciation.” Rossetti used his sister Christina as the model for Mary in both paintings. And their mother was the model for St. Anne (Mary’s mother) in the first painting. The first painting depicts Mary as a young girl learning to embroider a lily. Her mother sits instructing and her father is seen working outside. This same piece of embroidery is seen in the second painting. In this painting white dominates, emphasizing the quality of the Virgin's purity. The Angel Gabriel

offers Mary a lily - a flower which always denotes purity - as he tells Mary she is to bear the Christ Child. This is reinforced by the lily embroidery – the same one the Virgin is shown working on in Rossetti’s painting of The Girlhood of Mary Virgin. The Spirit of God, in the form of a dove is also seen in both paintings. This painting is unusual in that Mary is shown in a state of fear - she cowers against the wall and casts her eyes down. This contrasts with many artistic depictions of the annunciation where Mary is shown in a state of humble acceptance. Dante strove for realism of expression in his art.

“Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming” (click on titles to hear recordings)

ymbols are a curious thing. Some have universal meaning. Others are more colloquial, having significance only in a smaller community. Some have both. The rose has been a symbol of many things. Some consider it to be the mightiest and most beautiful of all flowers. It is a symbol of beauty and love. “I am the rose of Sharon, a lily of the valley.” (Song of Solomon 2:1). It has been the symbol of mighty families. It is also a symbol Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The scriptures make a number of From tender stem hath sprung! references to flowers. Most of them allude to the flower Of Jesse’s lineage coming, fading and dying away. Unique to Christ, though, is the As those of old have sung. knowledge that this rose blooms eternally. From the frail, It came, a floweret bright, tender stem of man blooms the beautiful, mighty, eternal Amid the cold of winter, Rose. When half spent was the night. That said, this wonderful, beloved hymn was not originally about a “rose” at all. The original line was “Behold a Isaiah ‘twas foretold it, twig ever sprouting.” The German word for twig is Reis. The Rose I have in mind; This word became confused in translation and became Ros With Mary we behold it, which means “rose”. The Virgin Mother kind. But why might the Germans have thought Rose instead To show God’s love aright, of Reis (twig)? A likely explanation is in the common symShe bore to us a Savior, bolism of the wintertime feast. Europeans used plants that When half spent was the night. thrive in the winter as a symbol of hope and life in the spring to come. Today we use the poinsettia and the fir tree O Flower, whose fragrance tender as a similar symbol. For the Europeans, the Christmas Rose With sweetness fills the air, has long been used this way. (The Christmas Rose is a winDispel in glorious splendor ter blooming plant that is not really a rose at all.) God can The darkness everywhere. take even a human mistake or misunderstanding and transTrue man yet very God, form it into a powerful symbol. From sin and death now save us, Closely connected with the rose/flower image, this song And share our every load. speaks of the Promised One sprouting “amid the cold of — 15th century German winter when half-spent was the night.” This is certainly not the first hymn to use winter imagery describing the birth of Christ. Doubtless, this is based on the December observance of Christ’s birth. In truth, we do not know the time of year for the birth of Christ. Many even believe it was the Spring — the time when shepherds would have been in the fields with the sheep. Yet, though technically we cannot assert that Christ was born in the wintertime, the use of the imagery of winter to depict the plight of the sinful world needing a Savior to bring new life is fitting. The same may be said of fixing the time of the Savior’s birth as the middle of the night. The darkness sets the appropriate stage for the coming of the glorious “Light of the world.”

Matthew 1:1-17

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, 3 and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram, 4 and Ram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, 5 and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, 6 and Jesse the father of David the king. And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, 7 and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asaph, 8 and Asaph the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, 9 and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, 10 and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amos, [c] and Amos the father of Josiah, 11 and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon. 12 And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, 13 and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, 14 and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud,15 and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, 16 and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ. 17 So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ fourteen generations. 2

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Annunciationâ&#x20AC;? Sir. Edward Burne-Jones, 1879

“The Promise”

ven His name is a promise: “The Lord saves.” Christmas is the celebration of the keeping of a promise. The promise that God would someday erase the sin of the world in a single day. (Zech. 3:9). The promise that He would someday walk with us, that we might be His people and He our God. (Lev. 26:12). The promise that the fall would be undone by the One who would crush the head of the serpent (Gen. 3:15). A saving promise. Faith, in the Old Testament, is defined by a person’s willingness to wait for the promises of God to come. Faith, in the New Testament, means following the Promised One. In that Promised One, God gave to us all He could give because a part of “self” is given in the making of any real promise. Overwhelmed by His own desire to give, God sent the most treasured Gift to keep the promise He himself made. God chose to suffer the punishment “Madonna with Sleeping Child” Andrea Mantegna, 1470 which should have been inflicted on those who are guilty of breaking a promise. So for those who see Christianity merely as a relationship in which we can ask God for things, Christmas reminds us that He has already given His all, His own Son. Christianity is founded on a promise. Faith involves waiting on a promise. Our hope is based on a promise. God promised He would be “with us”, not as an unseen ethereal force, but in the form of a person with a name: Jesus. He promised us salvation in the name “Jesus”, by the name “Jesus”, through the name “Jesus”. Prayer: O Lord, how many are your promises? Are they not all “yes” in the name of the One who is the Promise? Father, let me spend my life pursuing that Promise. Teach me to hope in you, who always keep your Promise. Give my life to your Promise, so that I may shine like a single star in the darkness of this world with the light of your Promised One. Amen. — Michael Card, “The Promise.”

Characters of Nativity: Shepherds

group of shepherds tending their flock would have been a very common sight in the first century around Bethlehem. There was nothing glamorous about this occupation. It was dirty and common, but it was honest, hard work, and respectable — after all, King David started out as a shepherd. Throughout the Scriptures, God has been identified with these caregivers. Psalm 23 is one of the best known Biblical texts. Christ became known as the Good Shepherd who cares for His flock. He also becomes the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. It was therefore very appropriate that these humble, hardworking men and women were greeted by a host of angels announcing the birth of the King of kings, the Lamb of God, the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.

Chrismon Symbols

hrismon is a combination of two words: Christ and Monogram. A Chrismon is a symbol of Christ. Christian symbols date back to the early church. Early Christians used them to identify themselves to one another. These symbols served to transmit the faith and beliefs of the followers of Christ. Chrismons were first used in 1957 to decorate a Christmas tree in the Lutheran Church of the Ascension in Danville, Virginia. They were composed of white and gold materials, WHITE is symbolic of our Lord’s purity and perfection, GOLD, of His majesty, glory, and triumph. The little white lights on the tree point to Christ as the Light of the World.

The Chi Rho Cross

“He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:15-16 Chi and Rho are the first two letters of the Greek word “Christos”, that is Christ. This is one of the most ancient Christian Symbols.

Second Sunday of Advent

December 6, 2015

Devotional on Advent Art

ativity is painted by an American artist named Brian Kershisnk (b. 1962). I came across a picture of this painting last Christmas and I was completely captivated by it. There is so much to see in the details of this painting (the original painting is 10 feet tall and 25 feet wide). Baby Jesus has just been born. He is still ruddy from birth and the midwives are cleaning up. Mary’s face is flushed and her eyes are red from weeping and childbirth. Poor Joseph is completely overwhelmed by the experience. He places a hand on Mary’s shoulder, trying to comfort her (as she places her hand on his, trying to comfort him.) Even a kindly “unseen” angel places a hand on Joseph’s head trying to comfort him. The scene of the new family is not radiant or beautiful, but it is nevertheless a holy moment that is real and tender and magnificent. Almost the entire painting is filled with the heavenly host as they enter from the left and flow over the family like a wave crashing on the sea. The family seems unaware of their presence, but the little dog and her pups in the right corner seem curious about the angelic host in their humble stable. I simply love the expressions of the angels — and how those expressions change as they

progress from left to right. As they enter, they are pointing. One turns back to the others as he glimpses the child as if saying: “He’s really here, the Christ Child is born!” Others have arms stretched out, longing to touch the Holy Baby. There is a feeling of excitement as they crowd into the stable. As they get closer to the family, the sense is much more reverent and awestruck and filled with quiet wonder. As they depart, the angels respond with singing praises — singing all the way out to the fields where they will announce the news to the shepherds gathered there. There is one angel who is being swept away with the crowd who is struggling to get a last glimpse of the Baby. In the angel throng there are infants, children, adults and elderly — all coming to see and worship Christ. Take a look at the angels. Take a close look. Can you find yourself in that crowd? Are you the one reaching longing to touch, or excited to tell those behind you that Christ is here? Are you reverently huddled around him in quiet worship, are you raising your voice in song? Are you offering comfort to the frightened Joseph? Are you lifting your hands in praise? I think we all can find ourselves somewhere in the painting.

A Service of Lessons Carols “The Winter Rose”

Text: Joseph Martin; Tune: Irish Folk Song

In the silence of the winter While stars shown high above, God sent from heaven’s garden A rose to show His love. It opened in the dark of night While the world was fast asleep. So perfect was its beauty, It made the heavens weep. The angels paused to wonder Upon that winsome sight. And kings and shepherds gathered To worship in its light. They all breathed in its beauty, A precious sweet perfume. And in the bleak midwinter The Rose began to bloom.

O let us now remember When God put on the thorn. And Love restored the garden And the Winter Rose was born. Oh, Love restored the garden And the Winter Rose was born.

“Creation Will Be at Peace” Text by: J. Paul Williams Arranged by: Anna Laura Page

“I Ponder” Words by Pamela Martin Music by Craig Courtney

The heavens are silent, the wise men have gone, The flurries of angels have finished their song. The shepherds have long since returned to their sheep, The stable is empty, the star fast asleep. I ponder the wonders I carry inside: A star bright as diamonds, and ebony sky, The shepherd who carries a little white lamb, The wise me who offers the gold in his hand. That Bethlehem evening is far, far away From the world where I live, the world of today. I pause and I ponder, a miracle starts, The Savior is born once again in my heart. I ponder the wonders I carry inside: The thunder of wings from the angels on high, The sight of the manger, the scent of the hay, The Child smiling up at the creatures He made.

In the holy mountain of the Lord all war and strife will cease; In the holy mountain of the Lord Creation will be at peace. The wolf will lie down with the lamb, The ox and bear will feed, Their young will play together; A little child will lead. In the holy mountain of the Lord all war and strife will cease; In the holy mountain of the Lord Creation will be at peace. The leopard and goat will graze, The lion will feed on straw. They will war no more; A child will lead them all. In the holy mountain of the Lord all war and strife will cease; In the holy mountain of the Lord Creation will be at peace.

Matthew 1:18-25 Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. 20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). 24 When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, 25 but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus.

“Silent Is the Night”

Words and music by Jay Althouse

Hush, hush, Silent is the night. But Christ will come to Mary before the morning light. Hush, hush. Peace to all the earth, For tonight will come a Savior, and tonight a holy birth. Be still, be still. Silent is the night. Be still, be still; Silent is the world tonight. Hush, hush. Look up in the sky. There’s a star above a manger. hear a newborn baby cry. Hush, hush. See the holy one. Sing a lullaby, so He may sleep, for He is God’s own Son.

“Love Has Come” BRING A TORCH

Love has come: a light in the darkness! Love shines forth in the Bethlehem skies. See, all heaven has come to proclaim it; Hear how their song of joy arises: Love! Love! Born unto you a Savior! Love! Love! Glory to God on high. Love is born! Come, share in the wonder. Love is God now asleep in the hay. See the glow in the eyes of his mother; What is the name her heart is saying? Love! Love! Love is the name she whispers. Love! Love! Jesus, Emmanuel. Love has come and never will leave us! Love is life everlasting and free. Love is Jesus within and among us. Love is the peace our hearts are seeking. Love! Love! Love is the gift pf Christmas. Love! Love! Praise to you, God on high! —Ken Bible, 1996

“The Work of Christmas” Text: by Howard Thurman Music by Dan Forrest

When the song of the angels is stilled, When the star in the sky is gone, When kings and princes are home, When the shepherds are back with their flock, The work of Christmas begins: To find the lost, To heal the broken, To feed the hungry, To release the prisoner, To rebuild the nations; To bring peace among brothers, To make music from the heart. When the song of the angels is stilled, When the star in the sky is gone, When kings and princes are home, When the shepherds are back with their flock, The work of Christmas begins.

Advent Candles

any Old Testament prophecies told of the coming of Jesus, the Savior. Our use of the Advent Candles help us focus on three comings or “advents” of Christ. 1. Jesus came to earth, in human form, at Bethlehem, to save us from our sin. 2. Jesus comes into our hearts to cleanse us and conform us to His image. 3. Jesus instructed believers to watch for His second coming. The Advent Wreath forms a circle that represents Jesus’ divinity, without beginning or ending, and His unending love and care for His followers.

Detail from “Virgin of the Rocks” da Vinci, 1508

Purple, the Color of Advent

t has long been understood that colors have the power to evoke different emotional responses. Purple is a deep color and is intended to evoke deep emotions of remembering and waiting—-remembering God’s promises, and waiting for the Promised One. Purple is a rich color often reserved for royalty. Let your hearts and minds dwell on the rich blessings provided by the King of kings. During this season when we are bombarded by red and green, by glitter and tinsel, let us enter the House of the Lord and be filled with the patient and pondering Purple. “Wait on the Lord, and renew your strength.”

Characters of the Nativity: Joseph

e don’t really know very much about Joseph. We do know that he was a carpenter — a skilled laborer from Nazareth. That tells us he was most likely strong and hardworking. We know that he was willing to treat Mary with kindness even when he found out she was pregnant and thought she had betrayed him. That tells us he was compassionate, kind, and wise. What kind of man would God choose to raise His very own Son? Strong, wise, and compassionate —that’s Joseph. Joseph stands proudly beside Mary, keeping loving watch over the Son who is not his own. In his hand, he holds a hammer, the symbol of the carpenter. The hammer and nails were used by his loving father to build a cradle, a bench, a home, for his family. The hammer and nails were used by his Father to save the world.

The Baptismal Shell The risen Christ instructed His disciples: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you, and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20. Just as Jesus was baptized at the beginning of His ministry, so the risen Christ instructed His disciples to go and baptize others. The shell with three drops of water falling from it symbolizes baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Third Sunday of Advent

December 13, 2015

Advent Art: “The Star of Bethlehem” Sir Edward Burne-Jones

he Star of Bethlehem is a painting in watercolor by Sir Edward Burne-Jones depicting the Adoration of the Magi with an angel holding the star of Bethlehem. At 101 1/8 x 152 inches, The Star of Bethlehem was the largest watercolor of the 19th century. It was completed in 1890. Jones adds a melodramatic element to the traditional scene, emphasizing emotions and creating a mysterious atmosphere. This impression of mystery is reinforced by his choice of color. Though blue is generally the color of the Virgin’s cloak, here it is a prevalent tint. All the characters are clad in dark-blue clothes, which confers unity to the scene. The scene is imbued with gothic gloominess and medieval mystery. One of the three wise men is a knight in his armor. The helmet on his head is a most unusual detail. Edward Burne-Jones revisits the Nativity and transposes the scene into the Middle-Ages. His style owes much to tapestry: the prevalent colors are green,

blue and red; flowers and vegetal ornaments decorate the scene; all sense of depth and perspective has been abolished. The scene is bathed in a mysterious, preternatural light, which gives an eerie atmosphere to the scene. This dream-like effect springs from the use of color and the abundance of details. Edward Burne-Jones minutely painted all the details of the Magi’s garment: the gems and precious stones ornamenting the crown, the decorated seam of the African wise man, the embroidery on the edging of the gown, the shoes designed after the medieval fashion, and the elaborate pattern decorating the stole and fabrics. The accumulation of detail shows the wealth of the Magi and plunge the onlooker into a dream. The extraordinary wealth of the Magi’s outfit is in stark contrast with the poverty of the Holy Family. Joseph, the Virgin, and Christ are sheltered under a small hut made out of wooden poles and straw. In The Star of Bethlehem, Joseph is about

23 to light a fire with the straw he has just collected. The hut is painted in such a detailed manner that the viewer can see how it was built. Each tiny twig, each blade of grass, or wisp of straw is clearly visible. The strangeness of the whole scene is due to the juxtaposition of the Magi’s riches O come, thou Wisdom from on high, and the Holy Family’s plain life, and to the dizzy collection And order all things far and nigh; of details. To us the path of knowledge show, The Star of Bethlehem testifies to Edward Burne-Jones’ And cause us in her ways to go. style. His taste for medieval tales and chivalry combines O come, Thou Root of Jesse’s tree with his interest in religious subject-matters. The colors are An ensign of thy people be; borrowed from medieval tapestry, as well as the flat comBefore thee rulers silent fall; position and the elongated figures. The moodiness of the All peoples on thy mercy call. scene is also very typical of the atmosphere in Jones’ canO come, Thou Day-spring, come and cheer vases. His characters are often both calm, or unflinching, and slightly melancholy. In this respect, Jones is also a roOur spirits by Thine advent here; mantic painter fleeing the mundane vulgarity of his epoch, Disperse the gloomy clouds of night, and seeking an otherworldliness in his medieval-style reliAnd death’s dark shadows put to flight. gious art. O come, Thou Key of David, come, better captured the story of a Savior born in a manger than And open wide our heavenly home; “Silent Night.” The captives from their prison free, O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear.

—Ace Collins in “Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas”

And conquer death’s deep misery. O come, O come, great Lord of might, Who to Thy tribes on Sinai’s height In ancient times once gave the law In cloud and majesty and awe.

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”

he Messiah’s coming was prophesied 600 years before His birth. At the time the Jewish people were living in captivity in Babylon. For centuries thereafter faithful Jews earnestly anticipated the Deliverer-Messiah with great longing and expectation, echoing the prayer that would “ransom captive Israel.” And finally the long awaited heavenly announcement came— ”Unto us is born this — 9th Century Latin day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord!” (Luke 2:11). “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” was originally used in the medieval church liturgy as a series of antiphons—short musical statements that were sung for the week of vesper services just before Christmas Eve. Each of these anitphons greets the anticipated Messiah with one of the titles ascribed to Him throughout the Old Testament: Wisdom, Emmanuel, The Lord of Might, The Rod of Jesse, Day Spring, and the Key of David. The haunting modal melody for the verses is also of ancient origin. It is based on one of the earliest forms of sacred music known—the Chant or Plain Song. Christ came not only to be Emmanuel—”God with us” — but even in a more personal way, God in us. Carry this truth throughout the Advent season. O come, Desire of nations, bind All peoples in one heart and mind. Bid Thou our sad divisions cease, And be Thyself our King of Peace. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

— Kenneth W. Osbeck, “Amazing Grace”

“Away in a Manger”

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head. “And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and The stars in the sky looked down where He lay, wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.

manger, because there was no room for them in the The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, inn.” Luke 2:7

But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes; I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky his is commonly known as “Luther’s Cradle And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.

Hymn.” But did the great German Reformer, Martin Luther, really write the words? Did he sing Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay them by the cradle of his little son, Hans? This is a Close by me forever, and love me I pray; great mystery in hymnology. Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, In 1887, “Away in a Manger” appeared in a little And fit us for heaven o live with Thee there. — Anonymous book of songs entitled Dainty Songs for Little Lads and Lasses, published in Cincinnati by John Church Company. The songbook was compiled by James R. Murray. A notation beneath “Away in a Manger” said: Luther’s Cradle Hymn (Composed by Martin Luther for his children and still sung by German mothers to their little ones.) Only stanzas one and two were given. “Away in a Manger” quickly became America’s favorite children’s carol, the words being sung to forty-one different tunes! Everyone assumed the poem had been written by Martin Luther. Then in 1945, Richard Hill published a fascinating article entitled “Not So Far Away in a Manger” in which he announced he had discovered the first two stanzas of “Away in a Manger” in an 1885 songbook entitled Little Children’s Book, published by German Lutherans in Pennsylvania. No authorship was given. Nor could Hill find any appearance of this carol in German church history or in Luther’s works. After extensive research, Hill concluded: “It seems essential to lay aside once and for all the legend that Luther wrote a carol for his children, which no one else knew anything about, until it suddenly turned up in English dress 400 years later in Philadelphia. Luther can well afford to spare the honor.” But he adds, “Although Luther himself had nothing to do with the carol, the colonies of German Lutherans in Pennsylvania almost certainly did.” So the mystery endures. Who wrote “Away in a Manger”? There were apparently two unknown writers: A German Lutheran in Pennsylvania who wrote the first two stanzas, with another unknown author adding a third verse which first appeared in an 1892 songbook.

25 Well, who cares? Certainly not the generations of children around the world who have come to love and know the little Jesus through this sweet carol, and who have gone to sleep praying: I love thee, Lord Jesus; look down from the sky and stay by my cradle till morning is nigh. —Robert J. Morgan “Then Sings My Soul 2”

Matthew 2:1-12

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: 6 “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” 7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” 9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.

“Infant Holy, Infant Lowly”

he beloved manger scene which adorns Christian homes and churches each Christmas season traces its beginnings back to Francis of Assisi, who wanted to humanize the teachings of the scriptures and to remind Christians of the humble beginnings of Jesus Christ their Savior. In 1224, Francis conceived his plan for a living manger scene while watching shepherds in the field outside the village of Greccio, Italy. He went to the Pope himself to seek permission to perform his Nativity scene and then sought help from a wealthy nobleman named Giovanni of Greccio, who Francis knew, “valued nobility of blood less than nobility of soul.” Giovanni gave Francis the space in a

26 hillside cave outside the village for his manger scene. Before Christmas came, news spread through the country- Infant holy, infant lowly, side that Francis was planning a unique and special Christmas For his bed a cattle stall; Eve, the villagers lit torches and walked up through the trees Oxen lowing, little knowing, toward the manger, bringing the hillside alive with their bright Christ the babe is Lord of all. light. Francis read the words of the gospel which described Swift are winging, angels singing, the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem and the crowd was awestruck, Noels ringing, tidings bringing: moved to silence by the beauty and simplicity of the moment. Christ the babe is Lord of all. The gathered Christians left the manger singing hymns and Flocks were sleeping, shepherd keeping carried their torches back into the village. The beauty of the Vigil till the morning new night was not soon forgotten by those who had witnessed it. Saw the glory, heard the story, Many understood the true meaning of the birth in the stable in Tidings of a gospel true. Bethlehem fully for the first time that night. Thereafter, a liv- Thus rejoicing, free from sorrow, ing manger scene or a set of carved figures became increas- Praises voicing, greet the morrow: ingly part of the Christmas tradition in Italy, and eventually Christ the babe was born for you. — Polish Carol spread to many other Christian lands. “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly” is a 14th century Polish carol depicting the manger scene on that very first Christmas night. It recalls the humble beginning of a baby who was King and Savior of all mankind.

—from The Traditions of Christmas by Nancy J. Skarmeas

Christmas Greenery

ong before the Christian era, evergreens held special place in folklore and legend as symbols of life and renewal. In the darkest, coldest days of winter, the vibrant greenery served as a reminder of the springtime that would surely come. The many varieties of evergreens, thus, were a perfect fit with the Christmas celebrations. Christmas, after all, is a celebration of new life and of the promise of eternal life. Two of the evergreens with ancient legends attached to them are the holly and the ivy. Their symbolism is twofold, for not only do they retain their greenery throughout the winter, but they also bear fruit during this dark, cold season. The holly in particular came to symbolize the crown of thorns and the red berries recall the drops of blood. It is a promise of Salvation from a tiny baby in Bethlehem. The most significant of all Christmas evergreens is the fir tree, and many legends exist about its origins as a symbol for Christmas. In medieval times, in the day leading up to Christmas, Christians performed dramas reenacting humanities fall from grace in the garden of Eden. The Garden was symbolized by a single fir tree hung with bright red apples. Eventually, the dramas fell out of style. But the trees remained. The apples, originally a symbol of our fall, were joined by wafers, a traditional symbol of our salvation. Eventually, these evolved into ornaments and decorated cookies that we see on Christmas trees today. Fir trees, holly, and ivy, have proven themselves to be

27 eternal symbols of the Season, and will forever brighten our homes, and turn our thoughts toward the celebration of Life and Hope and renewal. The holly and the ivy, When they are both full grown, Of all the trees that are in the wood The holly bears the crown.

The holly bears a prickle As sharp as any thorn, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ On Christmas day in the morn.

O the rising of the sun, And the running of the deer, The playing of the merry organ, Sweet singing in the choir.

The holly bears a bark As bitter as any gall, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ, For to redeem us all.

The holly bears a blossom, As white as lily flowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;r, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ, To be our sweet Savior.

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Traditional English Carol

The holly bears a berry As red as any blood And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ To do poor sinners good.

The Legend of the Poinsettia

charming story is told of Pepita, a poor Mexican girl who had no gift to present the Christ Child at Christmas Eve Services. As Pepita walked slowly to the chapel with her cousin Pedro, her heart was filled with sadness rather than joy. "I am sure, Pepita, that even the most humble gift, if given in love, will be acceptable in His eyes," said Pedro consolingly. Not knowing what else to do, Pepita knelt by the roadside and gathered a handful of common weeds, fashioning them into a small bouquet. Looking at the scraggly bunch of weeds, she felt more saddened and embarrassed than ever by the humbleness of her offering. She fought back a tear as she entered the small village chapel. As she approached the alter, she remembered Pedro's kind words: "Even the most humble gift, if given in love, will be acceptable in His eyes." She felt her spirit lift as she knelt to lay the bouquet at the foot of the nativity scene. Suddenly, the bouquet of weeds burst into blooms of brilliant red, and all who saw them were certain that they had witnessed a Christmas miracle right before their eyes. From that day on, the bright red flowers were known as the Flores de Noche Buena, or Flowers of the Holy Night, for they bloomed each year during the Christmas season. Dr. Joel Roberts Poinsett, American ambassador to Mexico in the late 1800s, and amateur botanist, loved the brilliant red plant he saw while in Mexico. Poinsett brought the flower to his home in South Carolina and gave it his name.

Characters of the Nativity: Mary

ary was a young Jewish girl who was chosen to bear the long-awaited Messiah. She possessed the remarkable courage to say “Yes, Lord” to such a daunting task. She faced the real possibility of losing the man she would soon marry. She certainly faced humiliation, ridicule, and even death for being an ‘unwed” mother. She most certainly passed along this same courage and strength of character to her son, Jesus, as he faced ridicule, scorn, and even death. From the beginning of the 12th century, artists have depicted Mary wearing a blue cloak. Symbolism and color were important aspects of art. Blue symbolizes truth, clarity, and peace. Another significant symbol for Mary is the lily. This white flower and the fleur-de-lis represent purity and are closely associated with Mary.

Victorious Lamb of God All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is dumb, so he opened not his mouth. Isaiah 53:4-7 The Next day, John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29 Agnus Dei is Latin for “Lamb of God” which harkens to the Isaiah passage. This Chrismon also contains the banner of victory with the Lamb of God. This is called the V icit A gnus, or the “Victorious Lamb”, symbolizing Christ’s victory over sin and death.

The Star “Where is the child who was born king of the Jews? For we have observed His star at its rising, and we have come to pay him homage.” Matthew 2:2. The Star of Bethlehem, also called the Christmas Star, revealed the birth of Jesus to the magi, or "wise men", and later led them toBethlehem. The star appears in the nativity story of the Gospel of Matthew, where magi "from the east" are inspired by the star to travel to Jerusalem. There they meet King Herod of Judea, and ask where the king of the Jews had been born. Herod, following a verse from the Book of Micah interpreted as a prophecy, directs them to Bethlehem, a nearby village. The star leads them to Jesus' house in Bethlehem, where they pay him homage, worship him, and give him gifts. The wise men then return to their "own country."

The Crown Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet and there were loud voices in heaven saying, “The kingdom of this world has become the Kingdom of our Lord, and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.” Revelation 11:15 The Crown symbolizes sovereignty and shows that Christ is the Ruler over all creation.

Fourth Sunday of Advent

December 20, 2015

Advent Art: “Nativity” Dante Gabriel Rossetti

ante Gabriel Rossetti (12 May 1828 – 9 April 1882) was an English poet, illustrator, painter and translator. He founded the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood in 1848 with William Holman Hunt and John Everett Millais, and was later to be the main inspiration for a second generation of artists and writers influenced by the movement, most notably William Morris and Edward BurneJones. Rossetti's art was characterized by its romanticism and its medieval revivalism. He is the brother of the well known English poet, Christina Rossetti (“In the Bleak Mid-Winter”). The Pre-Raphaelite’s intention was to reform English art by rejecting what they considered to be the mechanistic approach . Their approach was to return to the abundant detail, intense colors, and complex com positions of Italian and Flemish art. He created his own method of painting in watercolors, using thick pigments mixed with gum to give rich effects similar to medieval illuminations. Rossetti’s “Nativity”(1864) was the central panel of a triptych (a 3 part painting). The other sides were paintings of King David. The first was David as a shepherd boy, the other was David as the king on the throne. The theme of the Nativity panel was that Jesus, David’s descendant, was worshiped by both shepherds and kings. The painting reveals the wise man laying down his crown at the feet of the Christ Child, angels attend in adoration, and one of them clings to Mary. The Spirit of God hovers over in the form of a dove, and Christ reaches a hand toward the shepherd kneeling before Him.

“Angels We Have Heard on High” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward all people.” —Luke 2:13-14

Angels we have heard on high Sweetly singing o'er the plains, And the mountains in reply Echoing their joyous strains. Gloria, in excelsis Deo! Shepherds, shy this jubilee?

es Anges dans nos Campagnes was a French Why your joyous strains prolong? carol dating from the 1700s, which appeared in What the gladsome tidings be several different versions. It was published in English Which inspire your heavenly song? Gloria, in excelsis Deo! in 1862. Hymns are usually authored by human beings like Come to Bethlehem and see us, but in this case obscure verse by unknown French Christ whose birth the angels sing, poets were coupled with a refrain that was literally Come, adore on bended knee, comChrist the Lord, the newborn King. posed by Gloria, in excelsis Deo! angels in heaven: See him in a manger laid, “Gloria Whom the choirs of angels praise, in excel- Mary, Joseph, lend your aid, While our hearts in love we raise. sis Gloria, in excelsis Deo! Deo.” —French Carol That’s the Latin wording for the angelic anthem, “Glory to God in the highest!” It comes from Luke 2:14 in the Vulgate, the Latin version of the Bible. This was the song proclaimed by the angels over Shepherd’s Field the night Christ was born. The musical score stretches out and emphasizes the words in a way that is uniquely fun to sing and deeply stirring, as we lift our voices to proclaim: Jesus has come! Hope has arrived on earth! A Savior is born! Glory to God on High! Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

“Annunciation Angel” Masolino da Panicale, 1430

“Angels From the Realms of Glory”

ngels, From the Realms of Glory is considered by many students of hymnody to be one of our finest Christmas hymns. In a unique style it addresses first the angelic chorus in the first stanza, then the shepherds in the second stanza, the wise men in the third, and finally today’s believers — calling all to worship Christ our King. Worship is the very essence of the entire Christmas story. James Montgomery was known as a deeply devoted, noble person who made an important contribution to English hymnody through his many inspiring texts. At the age of 23 he was appointed editor of the weekly Sheffield Register in Angels from the realms of glory, London, maintaining this Wing your flight o’er all the earth; position for the next 31 years. Ye who sang creation’s story As editor of this paper, Now proclaim Messiah’s birth. Montgomery championed Come and worship, come and worship, many different causes such as Worship Christ, the newborn King. the abolition of slavery. “Angels, From the Realms of Shepherds, in the field abiding, Glory” first appeared as a Watching o’er your flocks by night, God with us is now residing; poem in Montgomery’s Yonder shines the infant light: newspaper on December 24, Come and worship, come and worship, 1816. Later it was published in Worship Christ, the newborn King. a hymnal titled Montgomery’s Original Hymns and was Sages, leave your contemplations, known as “Good Tidings of Brighter visions beam afar; Great Joy to All People.” Seek the great Desire of nations; Just as the angels, Ye have seen His natal star. Come and worship, come and worship, shepherds, and wise men all bowed their knee in the Worship Christ, the newborn King. worship of Christ, may we Saints, before the altar bending, pause in our busy lives to do Watching long in hope and fear; the same. Suddenly the Lord, descending, — Keneth W. Osbeck “Amazing In His temple shall appear. Grace Come and worship, come and worship, Worship Christ, the newborn King. — James Montgomery, 1816

“Angel with Viol” Sir Edward Burne-Jones

“Go, Tell It On the Mountain”

Go, tell it on the mountain, Over the hills and everywhere Go, tell it on the mountain, o Tell It on the Mountain is a spiritual that tells the story That Jesus Christ is born.

G of Jesus’ birth from the perspective of the shepherds. Just

as the shepherd made a decision to go to Bethlehem right away While shepherds kept their watching silent flocks by night, after hearing the message of the angels, this spiritual invites all o’er Behold, throughout the heavens gathered to immediate action. There shone a holy light The chorus of this spiritual traditionally involves congregational-style singing, with different voice types, handclapping, The shepherds feared and trembled, lo! above the earth, foot stomping, and swaying of bodies. The format for the spir- When Rang out the angels chorus itual is verse and refrain. It is a hymn with stanzas that move That hailed our Savior's birth. the storyline, and a refrain after each stanza to reorient the focal Down in a lowly manger point of the song’s message. humble Christ was born The story of the shepherds is told in the stanzas, traditionally The And God sent us salvation sung by a soloist. One of the traditional characteristics is the That blessed Christmas morn. way the last note and last word of each stanza are held before re -entering in the chorus. It is as if those who set this tradition Go, tell it on the mountain, wanted to make sure everyone was ready to come in on the cho- Over the hills and everywhere tell it on the mountain, rus. So important is this message, so important is this act of Go, That Jesus Christ is born. solidarity, the song will wait, inviting all to come join us! —Traditional Spiritual The spiritual calls attention to an important event that signifies the “year of the Lord’s favor.” Jesus Christ is born! He has been anointed to “release the captives and to let the oppressed go free! (Luke 4:18-20). By singing this song we are reminded that people still need release everywhere. We must tell about God’s justice whether facing oppression, racism, sexism, classism, poverty, fear, jealousy, or greed. This hymn repeats the message of the Liberator that those in bondage need release. When we tell the story, in a spirit of gratitude, and refuse to let life’s circumstances dictate our own expectations about justice, love of self, God, and neighbor, we can be possessed of the hope that Jesus’ birth means that all things can be made anew. We are messengers of hope. By the power of the Holy Spirit, we can be obedient to the mandate given all disciples of Jesus Christ: to bring good news to the poor, help the blind to see, advocate for the oppressed, and relieve the suffering of those in need. Jesus is born! Now is the time. God has favored us with this year and every year to be God’s workers living and telling the message. Go tell it on the mountain, the city street, the store front, the prison, the sand box, and “ev’rywhere” that Jesus Christ is Born! — from “Mary Had a Baby” Cheryl Kirk-Duggan

“Beloved” 1 John 4:7-14 n Christ, we are given a new name — Beloved, loved of God. Christ called us to love one another, but he also came to show us how to love one another. I have come to understand that: “Hurt people hurt other people; but loved people love other people.” When we are hurt it is very easy and natural to respond with hurt — to lash out at others and hurt them as well (even when they are not the ones who have caused us hurt) — the feeling fills us up and flows out of us. Unfortunately, this truth is found not only in the workplace and schools and communities, but in our churches as well. We will not name names, although we all probably could. We all know that person who is always negative about everything — who always seems angry about something or at someone. They are hurt and filled with hurt and overflow with hurt. Sometimes we are even that person so consumed with hurt. They/we have forgotten who we are! In Christ we are “Beloved”. In Christ we are a deeply and dearly loved person. And loved people love other people. That is what Christ did. He loved us so that we could love each other. It’s easy to forget who we are. That is why scripture reminds us over and over again — and we should remind each other over and over again: Beloved (deeply loved child of God) because you have been loved and know love, we have been freed to show love and give love. “Beloved, deeply loved child of God, let us love one another.” Prayer: Holy Father, you sent your Beloved Child to teach us to love. You have also called us your beloved child. But I have known hurt and felt the deep burn of pain. Because of you, I have also been loved and know love. Forgive me when I hurt others. Help me to forgive when I am hurt by others. Remind us of who we are and teach us to love in your name. Amen. —Robert Norris

Matthew 2:13-23 Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” 14 And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt 15 and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt I called my son.” Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: “A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted, because they are no more.” But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 20 saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who

36 sought the child's life are dead.” 21 And he rose and took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. 23 And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth, so that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, that he would be called a Nazarene.

Characters of Nativity: Angels

oth Isaiah and John were given glimpses of heaven and wrote about their visions. Both bore witness to a vast number of heavenly beings gathered around the throne of God, voices raised in continual praise: “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come.” On the night Christ was born, this heavenly vision was shared with a group of lowly shepherds when the night sky was filled with these angels proclaiming: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth, peace.”

“An Angel” Sir Edward Burne-Jones

The word “angel” means messenger. Over and over again, God used one of these heavenly beings to come to earth and give a special message. God has also sent us to bring a special message to his people. We all have “good news of great joy” to share. For this Christmas season, and throughout the year, will you be an “angel” of the Lord and be God’s messenger?

“An Angel” Sir Edward Burne-Jones

Christmas Sunday

December 27, 2015

Advent Art: “Silent Night” and “She Shall Bring Forth a Son”

iz Lemon Swindle began her painting career in first grade. Her first exhibitions were on the refrigerator, encouraged by her father. In the early 1980’s she tutored under renowned wildlife artist, Nancy Glazier. In 1992, Liz began painting a subject matter she had long desired to approach: her faith. Her paintings are now held in corporate and private collections around the world and have been published in countless magazines and books. Liz and her husband Jon have five children and thirteen grandchildren. For the past year I have painted events from the last week of the Savior’s life. Paintings of the crucifixion, the scourging, and the betrayal took a toll on me and my soul longed for peace. For this reason, I decided to paint the Nativity – for what moment better depicts hope, promise, and peace? We´re all familiar with the traditional paintings of Mary holding the baby while Joseph looks on. I saw Joseph in a more substantial role, perhaps because my children were raised by a stepfather. I thought of Joseph, a child himself, awkwardly holding this new-born infant. Maybe he sat taking in the grandeur of it all, or perhaps he simply felt love. This young couple would go on to raise the most important and perfect man that has ever lived. Because of their love as parents, our lives have hope and promise. After I finished the painting and stepped back I realized that I had found what I was looking for. I had found peace. I could probably paint a hundred paintings of Mary and her baby. The relationship of a mother and a child is not easily explained in hundreds of words, but it comes immediately to our understanding with a picture. This experience is universal and one of the greatest gifts God has given. How great is God’s plan that allows mere mortals to bring His children into the world, care for them, and help them make their way back to Him. How amazing that He trusts us when so much is at stake. How much more amazing and harder to comprehend is the experience of Mary, the mother of Jesus. We worry about our own responsibilities as parents. How much more was at stake to be a parent to the Son of God. — Liz Lemon Swindle

“Joy to the World”

Joy to the World, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King; “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break Let every heart prepare Him room, And Heaven and nature sing, forth into joyous song and sing praises.” Ps 98:4 And Heaven and nature sing, s one of the most joyous of all Christmas And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.

hymns, this carol omits references to shep- Joy to the World, the Savior reigns! herds, angelic choruses, and wise men. It emphasizes Let all their songs employ; instead the reverent but ecstatic joy that Christ’s While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains birth brought to mankind. For centuries, hearts had Repeat the sounding joy, yearned for God to reveal himself personally. At last Repeat the sounding joy, it happened as “the Word became flesh and dwelt Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy. among us.” The entire Advent and Christmas Seasons should be filled with solemn rejoicing as we No more let sins and sorrows grow, contemplate anew God’s great gift, providing the Nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make His blessings flow means whereby sinful man might live eternally. “Joy to the World” is a paraphrase of the last part Far as the curse is found, Far as the curse is found, of Psalm 98 — “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, Far as, far as, the curse is found. all the earth; make a loud noise and rejoice and sing praise. Let the floods clap their hands; let the hills be He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove joyful The glories of His righteousness, together before the And wonders of His love, Lord; for And wonders of His love, He comes And wonders, wonders, of His love. — Isaac Watts, 1719 to judge the earth; with righteousness shall He judge the world, and the people with equity.” Although it was originally a song of rejoicing for Jehovah’s protection of his chosen people and the anticipation of the time when He would be God of the whole earth, Isaac Watts, the author of this hymn, intended it to be a New Testament expression of praise. It exalts the salvation that began when God became incarnate as the Babe of Bethlehem who was destined to remove the curse of Adam’s fall. The text was originally titles “The Messiah’s Coming and Kingdom” when it first appeared in Watt’s hymnal of 1719. The music for this popular carol is thought to have been adapted by Lowell Mason, an American church musician, from some of the phrases used in parts of George Fridrick Handel’s beloved oratorio, “Messiah,” first performed in 1742. Through the combined talents of an English literary “Kissing the Face of God” Morgan Weistling genius of the 18th century, a German-born musical giant from the same period, and a 19th century American choir director and educator, another great hymn was born.

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”

hristmas carols as we know them now were abolished by the English Puritan parliament in 1627 because they were a part of a “worldly festival,” which they considered the celebration of Christmas to be. As a result, there was a scarcity of Christmas hymns and carols in the 17th and early 18th centuries. Charles Wesley’s “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” was one of the few written during this period. Wesley’s fine text and the melody by the master composer Felix Mendelssohn have given this hymn its great popularity among Christmas songs. Like many of Charles Wesley’s more than 6, 500 hymns, this text clearly presents Biblical doctrine in poetic language. The first stanza describes the song of the angels outside Bethlehem with an invitation to join them in praise of Christ. The Hark the herald angels sing following stanzas present the truths of the virgin birth, "Glory to the newborn King! Christ’s deity, the immortality of the soul, the new birth, Peace on earth and mercy mild and a prayer for the transforming power of Christ in our God and sinners reconciled" lives. Joyful, all ye nations rise For more than 200 years, believers have been enlightJoin the triumph of the skies With the angelic host proclaim: ened and blessed by the picturesque manner in which "Christ is born in Bethlehem" Charles Wesley has retold the truths of our Savior’s birth. Hark! The herald angels sing "Glory to the newborn King!"

Christ by highest heav'n adored Christ the everlasting Lord! Late in time behold Him come Offspring of a Virgin's womb Veiled in flesh the Godhead see Hail the incarnate Deity Pleased as man with man to dwell Jesus, our Emmanuel Hark! The herald angels sing "Glory to the newborn King!" Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Son of Righteousness! Light and life to all He brings Ris'n with healing in His wings Mild He lays His glory by Born that man no more may die Born to raise the sons of earth Born to give them second birth Hark! The herald angels sing "Glory to the newborn King!"

— Charles Wesley, 1734

“Angel with Lute” Melozzo Da Forli, c. 1480

“O Come, All Ye Faithful”

his hymn is one of our universal favorite hymns. It was sung in Latin in Catholic churches for many years before it became known to Protestants. Today it is sung by church groups around the world in more than 100 languages. The vivid imagery of the carol seems to have meaning and appeal for all ages in every culture. The original Latin text consisted of four stanzas. The first calls us to visualize anew the infant Jesus in Bethlehem’s stable. The second stanza reminds us O come, all ye faithful, that the Christ Child is God himself — “True God of True Joyful and triumphant, God, Light from Light eternal.” (This phrase is found in the O come ye, O come ye, to Bethlehem. Nicene Creed.) The next stanza pictures for us the exalted Come and behold Him, song of the angelic choir heard by the lowly shepherds. Born the King of angels; For many years, this hymn was known as an anonymous O come, let us adore Him, Latin hymn. Recent research, however, has revealed manuO come, let us adore Him, scripts that indicate that the text and tune were written by O come, let us adore Him, an English layman named John Wade. The tune name, Christ the Lord. ADESTE FIDELES is taken from the first line of the origiTrue God of true God, nal Latin text, meaning “Be present, ye faithful!.” Light from Light Eternal, Lo, He shuns not the Virgin’s womb; Son of the Father, Begotten, not created; O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.

Sing, choirs of angels, Sing in exultation; O sing, all ye citizens of heaven above! Glory to God, All glory in the highest; O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, Born this happy morning; Jesus, to Thee be glory given; Word of the Father, Now in flesh appearing. O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. — John Wade

“Angels Singing and Playing Music” Jan van Eyck, 1432

”Walk as a Child of the Light”

his is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk I want to walk as a child of the light; in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowI want to follow Jesus. ship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his God set the stars to give light to the world; Son, purifies us from all sin. The star of my life is Jesus. In him there is no darkness at all; The night and the day are both alike. The Lamb is the light of the city of God: Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus. I want to see the brightness of God; I want to look at Jesus. Clear Sun of righteousness, shine on my path, And show me the way to the Father.

If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us. 1 John 1: 5-10

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he I’m looking for the coming of Christ; I want to be with Jesus. said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever folWhen we have run with patience the race, lows me will never walk in darkness, but will We shall know the joy of Jesus. have the light of life.” John 8:11 —Kathleen Thomerson, 1966

Epiphany Sunday

January 3, 2016

“The First Noel”

“May the kings of Sheba and Seba bring gifts. May the

kings fall down before Him.” Psalm 72:11

lthough no Christmas season would be complete without the melodious singing of this tuneful carol, very little is known about its They looked up and saw a star origin. It is believed Shining in the east, beyond them far; And to the earth it gave great light, to have had its rise And so it continued both day and night. in France during the Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel 15th century. Noel Born is the King of Israel! is a French word originating from And by the light of that same star Latin meaning Three Wise Men came from country far; To seek for a King was their intent, “birthday.” The And to follow the star wherever it went. song is thought to Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel have been brought Born is the King of Israel! across the channel to England by the This star drew nigh to the northwest, “Nativity” Anon. Flemish painter, c.1500 wondering troubaO'er Bethlehem it took its rest; And there it did both stop and stay, dours (traveling singing groups). The carol under the English Right o'er the place where Jesus lay. form, “Nowell,” became a great favorite for Christmas Eve, Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel especially in the West of England. This was when the entire Born is the King of Israel! village gathered for singing and celebrating the bringing in of the Yule log. At this time carols were thought of as popular Then entered in those Wise Men three, songs meant to be sung outside the church rather than within. Full reverently upon the knee, And offered there in His presence, “The First Noel” portrays in vivid narrative style the story of Their gold and myrrh and frankincense. the birth of Christ. All six stanzas are needed to complete the Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel entire event when the hymn is sung. The sixth stanza urges us Born is the King of Israel! to join together to sing praises to god for the marvels of his creation and for the salvation provided through Christ’s shed blood. The repetition of the joyous “noel” in the refrain is equivalent to our singing “happy birthday” to someone. It is interesting to observe that the “King of Israel” was first announced to “certain poor shepherd” only, but in the final stanza the phrases “let us all” and “mankind hath brought” remind us that Christ came to redeem the whole world. Let us allow the joy of Christ’s birth to be reflected on our faces and heard in our glad singing of praises to Him all through this Christmas season. The First Noel, the Angels did say Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; In fields where they lay keeping their sheep, On a cold winter's night that was so deep. Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel Born is the King of Israel!

— Keneth W. Osbeck “Amazing Grace”

“

“What Child Is This”

“...When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us go to Bethlehem…” Luke 2:15

eelings of sadness come over me whenever I hear this deeply moving carol. It is, after all, set in the key of E minor, the “saddest of all keys.” Yet triumphant joy dispels the sadness as we exclaim: “This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing.” The melancholic melody is a famous old British tune called “Greensleeves,” originally a ballad about a man pining for his lost love, the fair Lady Greensleeves. Tradition says it was composed by Henry VIII for Anne Boleyn. That’s unlikely, but we do know that Henry’s daughter, Queen Elizabeth I, danced to the tune. Why lies he in such mean estate Shakespeare refers to it twice in his play, The Merry W ives of Where ox and ass are feeding? Windsor. In Act V, for example, Falstaff said, “Let the sky rain potaGood Christians, fear, for sinners here toes; let it thunder to the tune of Greensleeves.” The silent Word is pleading. It was licensed to two different printers in 1580, and soon thereThis, this is Christ the King, after was being used with religious texts. It is first associated with Whom shepherds guard and angels sing; Christmas in 164, in a book titled New Christmas Carols, in which it Haste, haste to bring him laud, was used with the poem “The Old Year Now Away Has Fled.” The babe, the son of Mary. For nearly 150 years, however, “Greensleeves” has been most So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh, identified with “What Child Is This?”. The words of this carol are taken from a longer poem written by an insurance agent named WilCome peasant, king, to own Him; liam Chatterton Dix, born in Bristol, England, in 1837. His father The King of kings salvation brings, was a surgeon who wanted his son to follow his footsteps. But havLet loving hearts enthrone Him. This, this is Christ the King, ing no interest in medicine, William left Bristol Grammar School, Whom shepherds guard and angels sing; moved to Glasgow, and sold insurance. Haste, haste to bring him laud, His greatest love was his prose poetry for Christ. He wrote two The babe, the son of Mary. devo— William C. Dix, 1865 tional books, a book for children, and scores of hymns, two of which remain popular Christmas carols: “What Child Is This?” and “As With Gladness Men of Old.” All of Dix’s hymns should be more widely sung today, for they are masterpieces of poetry, filled with rich scriptural truth. What child is this, who laid to rest, On Mary's lap is sleeping? Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, While shepherds watch are keeping? This, this is Christ the King, Whom shepherds guard and angels sing; Haste, haste to bring him laud, The babe, the son of Mary.

— Robert J. Morgan, “Then Sings My Soul 2”

“Adoration of the Magi” Andrea Mantegna, c. 1462

Epiphany

(meaning "appearance", or "manifestation") is a Christian feast day which celebrates the revelation of God in human form in the person of Jesus Christ. It falls on January 6 or on a Sunday close to that date. On this day, Christians commemorate principally the visitation of the Biblical Magi to the child Jesus, i.e., His manifestation to the Gentiles.

Twelfth Night or Epiphany Eve is a festival in some branches of Christianity marking the coming of the Epiphany, and concluding the Twelve Days of Christmas. The celebration of Epiphany, the adoration of the Magi, is marked in some cultures by the exchange of gifts, and Twelfth Night, as the eve of Epiphany, takes on a similar significance to Christmas Eve.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Song of the Angelsâ&#x20AC;? William-Adolphe Bouguereau, 1881