A Worship Magazine
Easley Presbyterian Church
Easley, SC
Nov. 2015
Vol. 1 Issue 3
A common thread that joins us together with Christ and with each other.
All Saints Day All Saints' Day began as a day to honor Christians their lives in the process.. who were martyred in the Roman persecutions. 4. Spend the day with your family watching movies Over time, it has been or documentaries about saints. transformed into an opporYou can find them at the library, or tunity to honor all departed even online. Christians. In The Presbyteri5. Help to continue the work startan Church, it is a day of ed by a saint. Look for a charity remembrance for the that speaks to you or reminds you saints, with the New Testaof a loved one and contact the ment meaning of all Chriscoordinator. Ask if there are any tians of every time and volunteer opportunities or any othplace. In many local er way in which you can help. churches, All Saints' Day 6. Donate to charities in honor of serves as the congregathe person who has had the most tion's "memorial day," positive influence in your life. You where the names and lives can donate money, food or of departed members and goods. friends who died in the past 7. Pass the lesson on. Teach others year are remembered. what you have learned from the Honor Saints on All Saints people who have touched your Day. Here are some ideas life. The stories will be especially for honoring those Saints in helpful for children who need role you own life: models. 1.Attend a church service. 8. Light candles in honor of someThe readings and hymns one who was a positive force in are specially chosen for this your life. Prepare a table in a safe day and they focus on corner of your house, place a few those in the Bible who have pictures of your loved one on the shown faith in God. table and light some candles and 2.Read books about saints. quietly reflect on their lives, how Before they were called they have touched you, and how This tapestry from the Cathedral of Our Lady of saints, they were regular the Angels was woven in Belgium using Egyptian you can touch others in the name people dealing with every- cotton and digital files from the artist, John Nava. of Christ. What's so lovely about the tapestry is that recog- 9. Spend the day in reflection. day life. Many books have nized, canonized saints are side by side with some been written to show the unknown saints, ordinary people. Think about the lives of the saints kind of struggles they had you know, the problems they ento deal with. countered and how they solved 3. Read sections of the Bible containing stories of them. Also think about what effects their achievesaints. The books of the Old and New Testament ments may have had on your walk with Christ, and contain stories of people who fought great odds to how you may like to apply their life lessons to your follow God's word and keep their faith, often losing own life.
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Sunday, November 1 All Saint’s Sunday Reformation Sunday James 1;1-18
James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Greetings. 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. 9 Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position.10 But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. 11 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business. 12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. 13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. 16 Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.
Detail of tapestry “Communion of the Saints” by John Nava, combining historic saints of the church with everyday contemporary believers.
Hymn Meditation: The Church’s One Foundation
“Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior.” Ephesians 5:23 In 1866, Pastor Samuel Stone desired to write a hymn that would reaffirm the Lordship of Christ as the foundaiton of the church. Stone was described as the poor man’s pastor. He demonstrated his firm belief that the church was the instrument of Christ for meeting the needs of people. The “church” is a group of people who are called out from the world by God Himself. The church consists of people who meet regulalrly for worship, inspiration, instruction, and fellowship. After that, Christ our Head sends His own back into the world to represent Him and to model His love for all mankind. Give thanks to God for your local church as well as for fellow-believers of the Church universal throughout the world. Let us reaffirm our conviction in Christ as the head of the church as we sing this musical truth — “The church’s one foundaiton is Jesus Christ her Lord; with His own blood He bought her, and for her life he died.”
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Anthem: “Giver of Each Perfect Gift”
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17 Have you ever been faced with overwhelming self-doubt? Have you ever been paralyzed by fear of failure? Have you ever been consumed by the certainty that you are just not good enough? I know all of those things very well! But I Giver of each perfect gift and blessing from above, have also come to understand that I have May we give as you have given, freely and with love. been given a good and perfect gift. It is a Nothing that we have to offer, nothing we possess precious thing — not of my own making, or Comes to us by our own hands, O Giver, we confess. of my own doing, but it is a gift from above. Yours the power and the might, yours the majesty. The Father of Lights, whose faithfulness en- Yours alone the kingdom, Lord, the heaven, earth, and sea. dures forever has graciously given every Yours each gift and yours each heart that gratefully responds; Now we give them back to you, to whom all things belong. good and perfect gift. I find so much comfort in this under- Giver of each breath we take, we give our lives to you. standing: “I am confident of this, that he Giver of our health and strength, we give the work we do. who began a good work in you will carry it Giver of our daily needs, we give of what we own. on to completion until the day of Christ Je- All we offer back to you has come from you alone. —Pamela Martin, 2010 sus.” Philippians 1:6 The One who gave the gift will be faithful to nurture it and complete it. Along with that comfort also comes responsibility. The gift is given with a purpose—His purpose. What is God calling you to do? What good and perfect gift has he given to you? How is He perfecting it and completing that good work in your life? How will you gratefully give back to the Father of Lights? — Robert Norris
Prayer Response : “Jesus, Remember Me”
One of the criminals who were hanged there was hurling abuse “Jesus, remember me, at Him, saying, “Are You not the Christ? Save Yourself and us!” But when you come into your kingdom.” the other answered, and rebuking him said, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? “And we indeed are suffering justly, for we are receiving what we deserve for our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” And he was saying, “Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom!” And He said to him, “Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise.” Luke 23:39-43
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Hymn Meditation: “My Faith Looks Up to Thee” Some of Jesus’ words to His disciples about having faith in God leave me wondering if I can ever exercise that level of trust and confiMy faith looks up to thee, thou Lamb of Calvary, dence in prayer. I can’t recall telling a Savior divine! mountain to relocate itself into the Now hear me while I pray; take all my guilt away; ocean and watching it happen. O let me from this day be wholly thine! Hudson Taylor, pioneer missionary to May thy rich grace impart strength to my fainting heart, China, said that Jesus’ words in Mark My zeal inspire; 11:22, “Have faith in God,” could be As thou hast died for me, O may my love to thee translated, “Hold on to the faithfulness Pure, warm, and changless be, a living fire! of God.” While life’s dark maze I tread and griefs around me spread, D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, former pastor Be thou my guide; of London’s Westminster Chapel, appreBid darkness turn to day; wipe sorrow’s tears away; ciated Taylor’s insight and said: “Faith is Nor let me ever stray from thee aside. holding on to the faithfulness of God When ends life’s transient dream. When death’s cold, sullen stream and, as long as you do that, you cannot go wrong. Faith does not look at the difShall o’er me roll; ficulties. . . . Faith does not look at itself Blest Savior, then, in love, fear and distrust remove; or at the person who is exercising it. O bear me safe above, a ransomed soul! — Ray Palmer, 1830 Faith looks at God . . . . Faith is interested in God only, and it talks about God and it praises God and it extols the virtues of God. The measure of the strength of a man’s faith, always, is ultimately the measure of his knowledge of God. . . . He knows God so well that he can rest on the knowledge. And it is the prayers of such a man that are answered.” “Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven. Your faithfulness endures to all generations” (Ps. 119:89-90). —David C. McCasland from Our Daily Bread. This hymn text was written in 1832 by Ray Palmer, a 22-year-old school teacher. Two years later, Palmer shared this text with his friend Lowell Mason, a well-known musician, and Mason set it to music. From that time on this musical expression has had an important place in nearly every hymnal that has been published.
Hymn Meditation: “For All the Saints” Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race that is marked out for us. Hebrews 12:1 Who are the Saints of God? Every believer whom God has called by His grace and sanctified by His Spirit has been called to sainthood. Bishop William W. How wrote the text of “For All the Saints” in 1864, for use in the Anglican church liturgy commemorating All Saints Day. It was originally titled “Saints Day Hymn - Cloud of Witnesses - Hebrews 12:1” How do we
5 For all the saints, who from their labors rest, Who thee by faith before the world confessed, Thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest. Alleluia, Alleluia! Thou wast their rock, their fortress, and their might; Thou Lord, their captain in the well-fought fight; Thou in the darkness drear, their one true light. Alleluia, Alleluia! O may thy soldiers, faithful, true, and bold, Fight as the saints who nobly fought of old, And win with them the victor's crown of gold. Alleluia, Alleluia! O blest communion, fellowship divine! We feebly struggle, they in glory shine; Yet all are one in thee, for all are thine. Alleluia, Alleluia! And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long, Steals on the ear the distant triumph song, And hearts are brave again, and arms are strong. Alleluia, Alleluia!
best honor the memory of loved ones and friends who have contributed to our lives? By rededicating our own life to God, obeying Him implicitly, and reaching out to the needs of others. We should be thankful for the memories of those believers from our local church who were called home during this past year. We should be thankful for their influence in our lives - directing us to God, tutoring us in truth, and modeling the virtues of the Christian life. In preparation for this All Saints Day Service, let us take a moment to recall the various individuals who have especially influenced our lives for God. Let us breathe a prayer of thanks for their memory. For all the saints who from their labors rest, who Thee by faith before the world confessed, Thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest: Alleluia! Alleluia!
Celebrating the Saints “Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God
From earth's wide bounds, from ocean's farthest coast, to you; consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate Through gates of pearl streams in the countless host, their faith.” -Heb. 13:7 Singing to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost: I was raised in a denomination that didn't celeAlleluia, Alleluia! — William W. How, 1864 brate All Saints' Day. Later, I was introduced to what has become a celebration I look forward to each year. The pastor at our church said he loved All Saints' Day because it is a good time to reflect on all the saints who have gone before us and those who have made an everlasting impact on our lives. Instead of preaching, he held one of the most memorable services I have ever experienced. He put unlit candles on the altar and invited the congregation to come forward and light a candle in honor of the "saints" in their lives. I loved hearing my friends one by one gratefully share the names of their saints with the rest of us. Even though I might not know the people they name, I appreciate them and love them for being a part of my friends' lives. And I realize that no matter what beliefs we have, we can each point to specific people in our lives who have nurtured us in our faith, stood by us, and helped us navigate through life. In the same way that my own saints helped to guide me, I hope that I have been and will be a guide to someone else. — Joanne Hirase-Stacey (Idaho, USA)
Prayer: God, thank you for those who teach us well and help us learn to follow you. Help us to support, encourage, and guide others in this same way. Amen. (From Upper Room Daily Devotions)
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Sunday, November 8
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James 1:19-27
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. 21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. 26 Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. 27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
Hymn Meditation: “Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above” The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice. Psalm 97:1
Jan van Eyck, from Ghent Altarpiece
Following the Protestant Reformation, which was climaxed by Martin Luther’s posting of the 95 theses at the Cathedral of Wittenburg in 1517, Lutheranism became the dominant religious force in Germany and throughout much of Europe. In the 17th century, there was an important renewal movement within the Lutheran Church known as Pietism. One of the important characteristics of the 17th century Pietistic Movement was the involvement of laymen in the church. Many of the hymn writers and important voices in the church at this time were the lay people from all wlaks of life. Such was the case with Johann J. Schutz, an authority in civil and canon law, living in Frankfort, Germany. Schutz wrote a number of religious publications as well as five hymns. This is the only hymn still in use. — Kenneth W. Osbeck, “Amazing Grace”
7 Sing praise to God who reigns above, the God of all creation, The God of power, the God of love, the God of our salvation. With healing balm my soul is filled, and every faithless murmur stilled: To God all praise and glory!
Anthem Meditation: “I Can Do All Things”
What God’s almighty power has made God’s gracious mercy keepeth; By morning glow or evening shade God’s watchful eye ne’er sleepeth. Within the kingdom of God’s might, lo! All is just and all is right: To God all praise and glory!
The Powerful Gift of “Why Not?”
The Lord is never far away, but through all grief distressing, An ever-present help and stay, our peace and joy and blessing, As with a mother’s tender hand God gently leads the chosen band: To God all praise and glory!
I am grateful for the encouragement of a godly family. My grandmother is part of a large and closeknit family — we call them the PatThus all my toilsome way along I sing aloud thy praises, terson Clan. There were 5 sisters That all may hear the grateful song my voice unwearied raises. Be joyful in the Lord, my heart: both soul and body take your part: and 2 brothers in the family. I think To God all praise and glory! one of the greatest gifts they have — Johann Scutz, 1675 given to me is the powerful gift of “Why Not?” I remember so many times when one sister would decide to do something they’ve never done before. The other sisters never seemed to question the sanity of it, they just all jumped into it together with the attitude of “Why Not?” One may decide: “I want to learn to make a basket today”. “Why Not?” and “Me too!” would be the response of the other sisters and before you knew it, they were all weaving baskets together. How about ceramics, or painting a picture, or judging a flower show, or making a quilt, or taking a trip to Europe, etc… “Why Not?!” Let’s do it together! There is a great and powerful gift in that kind of encouragement. There is a fearlessness in taking on a new creative task, and a great strength and unity in doing it together. A true gift from God. We as a church are often presented with opportunities for something creative and NEW. That can be frightening at times. But can you imagine the power of unity if we as the Family of God jumped in with the attitude of “Why Not?!” and even more “Let’s do it together!” Amen. — Robert Norris
My grandmother’s (Virginia Yeargin) Cathedral Windows Quilt
8 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, Christ who strengthens me, Christ who strengthens me. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. I can do all things. I can clap, I can run, I can laugh in the sun. I can stomp, I can shout, I can spread God’s love about. I can jump, I can play, I can cheer, I can pray. I can dance, I can sing, I can do most anything. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, Christ who strengthens me, Christ who strengthens me. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. I can do all things. — Mark Burroughs
Hymn Meditation: “We Are One in the Spirit” Jesus prayed, "May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me." -John 17:23 (NIV) “THE wooded slope was ablaze with autumn colors - fiery reds and oranges, vivid yellows and golds. Occasional splashes of green added to the chorus of color. God's masterpiece! I thought. Only God could create individual colors and blend them together to produce a landscape of breathtaking beauty like this. The Body of Christ is like that multicolored forest. God has created individuals with unique personalities and expects us to work together, portraying unity for the world to see. Some people are visionaries, while others We are one in the spirit We will work with each other possess the ability to fulfill we are one in the Lord we will work side by side plans. Some folks are We are one in the spirit We will work with each other bubbly and impulsive we are one in the Lord we will work side by side while others are quiet by And we pray that all unity And we'll guard human dignity nature, proceeding only may one day be restored and save human pride after careful thought And they'll know we are And they'll know we are Christians and prayer. Some peo- Christians by our love , by our love by our love , by our love Yes they'll know we are Christians ple are gifted leaders, Yes they'll know we are Christians by our love while others prefer to by our love serve behind the scenes. We will walk with each other All praise to the Father Our response to people's We will walk hand in hand from whom all things come differences c a n We will walk with each other And all praise to Christ Jesus strengthen unity or de- We will walk hand in hand his only Son And together we'll spread the news And all praise to the spirit stroy it. that God is in our land Who makes all things one. Does the world see unity And they'll know we are Christians And they'll know we are Christians when it looks at our by our love , by our love by our love , by our love churches? If not, what Yes they'll know we are Christians Yes they'll know we are Christians can we do to change by our love by our love that? Just as the hillside's —Peter Scholtes, 1966 colors combined to cre-
9 ate a beautiful picture, so the Body of Christ is most glorious when we work together in unity. — Grace Fox (British Columbia, Canada)
Prayer: Dear God, help us to appreciate the uniqueness of others. May those around us see unity when they look at the Body of Christ. Amen. —- Upper Room Devotions, September 8, 2003
Anthem Meditation: “Love One Another”
This anthem is by Dr. Robert C. Lau. Dr. Lau is from Lebanon PA. He has served on staff at several universities in the North East. He is currently an adjunct member of the Humanities Division of Penn State-Harrisburg. In addition to his work in education, Dr. Lau serves as Organist/Choirmaster at Mt. Calvary Episcopal Church in Camp Hill, PA, and maintains a private studio in Camp Hill, teaching composition, violin and viola. “Let Us Love One another” echoes the ideas set in Romans 12 — “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves...Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with Beloved, let us love one another, muFor love comes from God, tual And all who know and call upon his name Are children of our Lord. affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not Beloved, this is what love is; lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in Not that we love God, hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. ConBut that he loves us and sent his only Son tribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to To free us from our sin. strangers. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep How can we not know our God? How can we not love our God? with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; He sent his only Son to die for all our sins. do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not Is there greater love than this? claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil Is there greater love than this? for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceBeloved, if this is how God loves, ably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but Then we should love all me, leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, And live in perfect harmony with all, And God will live in us. "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." No, "if Let us love one another. your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, Let us love one another. give them something to drink; for by doing this you will — Arnold B. Sherman heap burning coals on their heads." Do not be overcome
10 Called as partners in Christ’s service, Called to ministries of grace, We respond with deep commitment Fresh new lines of faith to trace. May we learn the art of sharing, Side by side and friend with friend, Equal partners in our caring To fulfill God’s chosen end. Christ’s example, Christ’s inspiring, Christ’s clear call to work and worth, Let us follow, never faltering, Reconciling folk on earth. Men and women, richer, poorer, All God’s people, young and old, Blending human skills together Gracious gifts from God unfold.
by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Hymn Meditation: “Called As Partners in Christ’s Service” Doing Your Part
“You are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 1 Corinthians 12:27 Before my left big toe was amputated, I had never really thought much about my toes. I quickly learned what a difference losing one big toe can make. Once it was gone, I walked with a limp, and it was difficult to keep my balance. I Thus new patterns for Christ’s mission, now realize that even the smallest member of my body is imIn a small or global sense, Help us bear each other’s burdens, portant to the proper functioning of the whole. Similarly, the Breaking down each wall or fence. body of Christ has no insignificant members; all God's children Words of comfort, words of vision, are needed for the body to work properly. If one part is missWords of challenge, said with care, Bring new power and strength for action, ing or injured, the church's effectiveness is hindered. As Christians, together we are God's hands, mouth, feet -- and toes! Make uis colleagues, free and fair. God wants to use all of us with our unique gifts and talents to So God grant us for tomorrow do the work of the kingdom: teaching God's word; helping Ways to order human life the poor, needy, and sick; reaching out to those who are lost. That surround each person’s sorrow To be complete, the body of Christ needs the skills and talents With a calm that conquers strife. each of us can offer. Make us partners in our living, Our compassion to increase, Dear Lord, please show us how we can be involved in the Messengers of faith, thus giving Hiope and confidence and peace. work you are doing on this earth. We pray as Jesus taught us, — Jane Parker Huber, 1981 saying, "Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen."* Paula D. Davis (Alabama, USA), Upper Room Devotional, 2011
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Sunday, November 15 James 2:1-13
My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. 2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. 3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” 4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6 But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong? 8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,”[a] you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. 11 For he who said, “You shall not commit adultery,”[b] also said, “You shall not murder.”[c] If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker. 12 Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
Hymn: “For the Beauty of the Earth” “The God who made the world and everything in it, he who is Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in shrines made by human hands, nor is served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mortals life and breath and all things.” Acts 17:24 One of the delights that we as adults have in being around children is to hear their squeals of pleasure as they observe and discover some ordinary object about them. No doubt our heavenly Father is also pleased when His children take time to observe and appreciate his creation and then to simply express joyous gratitude to Him for His countless blessings. This hymn reminds us of the common blessings of life that many of us often take for granted — the beauties of
“Angels of Creation: Fifth Day” — Sir Edward Burne-Jones, c.1860
12 nature, our parents, family, friends, church. The lyrics direct our “grateful praise” to God Himself, the giver of every good and perfect gift. For the beauty of the earth, For the glory of the skies, For the love which from our birth Over and around us lies: Lord of all to thee we raise This our hymn of grateful praise. For the wonder of each hour Of the day and of the night, Hill and vale and tree and flower, Sun and moon, and stars of light. Lord of all to thee we raise This our hymn of grateful praise. For the joy of ear and eye, For the heart and mind’s delight, For the mystic harmony Linking sense and sound and sight:
Hymn Meditation: “In Christ There Is No East or West”
Lord of all to thee we raise This our hymn of grateful praise. For the joy of human love, Brother, sister, parent, child, Friends on earth and friends above, For all gentle thoughts and mild: Lord of all to thee we raise This our hymn of grateful praise. For thyself, best gift divine To the world so freely given; For that great, great love of thine, Peace on earth and joy in heaven: Lord of all to thee we raise This our hymn of grateful praise. —Folliott S. Pierpoint, 1864
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3;28). One of the clear teachings of the Bible is that the gospel does not presuppose the superiority of any race or culture. In the past, missionary endeavor has too frequently imposed “our” culture on others while spreading the gospel, often putting native believers in bondage to another culture rather than to Christ and the Scriptures alone. Written in 1908 In Christ there is no east or west, by the noted EngIn him no south or north, lish writer, John OxBut one great fellowship of love enham, this misThroughout the whole wide earth. sionary hymn text In Christ shall true hearts everywhere was part of a script Their high communion find; for a pageant at a His service is the golden cord giant missionary event sponsored by the London Missionary Close binding humankind. Society’s exhibition, The Orient in London. It is estimated that Join hands, disciples of the faith, over a quarter of a million people viewed this presentation. It What e’er your race may be. was continued from 1908-1914 both in England and in the UnitAll children of the loving God ed States. Are surely kin to me. An interesting account of the impact of this hymn relates an In Christ now meet both east and west; incident during the closing of the days of WWII when two ships In him meet south and north. were anchored together, one containing Japanese citizens, All Christly souls are one in him and the other American soldiers, all waiting to be repatriated. Throughout the whole wide earth. For an entire day they lined the rails, glaring at one another. —John Oxenham, 1908 Suddenly someone began to sing “In Christ There Is No East or West.” Then another on the opposite shipped joined in. Soon
13 there was an extraordinary chorus of former enemies united in praising God with these words: In Christ there is no East or West, in him no South or North, but one great fellowship of love thru out the whole wide earth.
Anthem Meditation: “In My Father’s House” Matthew 10:29-31 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. 30 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.31 So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
In my Father’s house, you will find a place in the warm embrace of an open door. In my Father’s house, leave the past behind, Come inside and find what you’re longing for. In my father’s house, solace can be found, Comfort will surround the bruised and broken, In my father’s house, children live in peace, war and hatred cease and love is spoken, In my father’s house, in my Father’s house.
How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty! Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest near your altar. Blessed are hose who dwell in your house. Psalm 84
In my Father’s house, you will find a place in the warm embrace of an open door. In my Father’s house, leave the past behind, Come inside and find what you’re longing for. In my father’s house, pardoned from all sin, free from what has been, life can start again, In my father’s house, prodigals come home, I can imagine the psalmist walking to the temno one walks alone, come and enter in, ple, finding inspiration to write this text. He feels his In my father’s house, in my Father’s house. —Pamela Martin, 2006 own longing to be close to God and be in the
house of God. “My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.” And in that rapturous moment, he looks up at the altar of the Lord and sees that birds have made nests in the shelter of that sacred space. It might be easy to view that and be outraged and disgusted that these pests and vermin would dare desecrate the holy place—-the very altar of God Most High. But in that moment of inspiration, the psalmist knew that even the sparrow finds a place of refuge in the house of the Lord. He ends his thoughts on the sparrow and the altar by saying: “Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you.” He imagines no greater joy than to be like the sparrow and dwell in the house of the Lord and be continually praising his God. It’s a beautiful image. It is echoed in the text from Matthew — not even the sparrow is beyond our Father’s care. So don’t be afraid. We don’t always have the same sentiment, but perhaps we should. Our anthem shares this view of “My Father’s
14 House” as a place of comfort and safety and refuge. Are we welcoming to the stranger — the outcast—-the intruder — who comes into our church and “desecrates” the holy space? Do we offer a safe place for the “least of these”? The psalmist and the gospel writers caught the vision. Can we? Holy Father, we come broken and battered to your house, longing for healing. We come outcast and lost to your house, searching for community. We come sinful and ashamed to your house, seeking forgiveness. Come, Lord, make this church your house. Come, Lord, make this heart your home. Amen. —Robert
Hymn: “O For a World”
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” --Matthew 5:9 During 13 difficult days, Prime Minister Menachem Begin of Israel, President Anwar Sadat of Egypt, and I worked at Camp David to negotiate a historic peace agreement. When we returned to Washington, I was invited to address a special session of the U.S. Congress. I had no time to develop a lengthy speech, but I decided on the way to the Capitol to quote Matthew 5:9. I wanted to say, “Blessed are the peace-makers,” but I couldn’t remember what came next. So I called for a Bible to be waiting for me when I got out of the limousine. Upon my arrival, a staff member slipped me a piece of paper that said, “for they will be called children of God.” I repeated it as I asked Sadat and Begin to stand. Peacemakers are very special -people. They have to understand and sympathize with others who have differing points of view. Begin and Sadat’s countries had been at war four times during the previous 25 years. They hated each other. I kept the two men apart for their last 10 days at Camp David because they couldn’t sit in the same room without all the old animosities coming out. Peacemakers have to empathize with both sides, even though both sides can’t be completely right. Through common trust, understanding and flexibility, they must find a way to get both sides to come together. They must make sure that every time one side gives up something, they can expect to get something more important at the end. And finally, both sides must win. If one side loses and the other wins, the peace will not last. Every Chris-tian faces altercations or arguO for a world where everyone respects each other’s ways, ments that can degenerate into animosity or Where love is lived and all is done with justice and with praise. misunderstanding. But if we choose to be peacemakers -- if we choose to act as chilO for a world where goods are shared and misery relieved, Where truth is spoken, children spared, equality achieved. dren of God -- then we can make a positive difference for good, as did the Prince of We welcome one world family and struggle with each choice Peace. That opens us to unity and gives our vision voice. Dear Lord, help me, as a Chris-tian, realize that The poor are rich, the weak are strong; the foolish ones are wise. peacemaking is my heritage as a child of Tell all who mourn: outcasts belong, who perishes will rise. God. Help me remember that as a follower of O for a world preparing for God’s glorious reign of peace, Christ I must let my voice and my actions be Where time and tears will be no more, and all but love will cease. used to strengthen your kingdom on earth, by —Miriam Therese Winter, 1987 the power of the Holy Spirit. I ask these things in my Savior’s name. Amen. —President Jimmy Carter
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Sunday, November 22 Christ the King Sunday Thanksgiving Sunday Colossians 1:11-20
May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from his glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share inthe inheritance of the saints in the light. He has rescued us from the power of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; or in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers—all things have been created through him and for him. He himself is before all things, and in him all things hold together. He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that he might come to have first place in everything. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross.
Hymn: “Come, Ye Thankful People, Come”
“Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms.” Psalm 95:2 The first American Thanksgiving was decreed by Governor Bradford in 1621 to commemorate the Pilgrims’ harvest. Later George Washington proclaimed November 26, 1789, as a national day of thanksgiving, but the holiday was not repeated on a national basis until Abraham Lincoln named it a national Harvest Festival on November 26, 1861. After that time, the holiday was proclaimed annually by the President and the governors of each state. Finally in 1941, Come, ye thankful people, come, For the Lord our God shall come, Congress passed a bill naming Raise the song of harvest home; And shall take the harvest home; the fourth Thursday of Novem- All is safely gathered in, From the field shall in that day Ere the winter storms begin. All offenses purge away, ber as Thanksgiving Day. Giving angels charge at last Henry Alford was born Octo- God our Maker doth provide In the fire the tares to cast; ber 7, 1810, in the Bloomsbury For our wants to be supplied; Come to God's own temple, come, But the fruitful ears to store area of London. Henry was a Raise the song of harvest home. In the garner evermore. powerful preacher and a brilEven so, Lord, quickly come, liant scholar. He served in a All the world is God's own field, Bring thy final harvest home; small parish in Wymeswold for Fruit as praise to God we yield; Gather thou thy people in, over 18 years before taking an Wheat and tares together sown Are to joy or sorrow grown; Free from sorrow, free from sin, appointment to a large church First the blade and then the ear, There, forever purified, in London. While in Then the full corn shall appear; In thy presence to abide; Wymeswold, he wrote many Lord of harvest, grant that we Come, with all thine angels, come, hymns for use in worship at his Wholesome grain and pure may be. Raise the glorious harvest home. small parish. “Come, Ye Thank— Henry Alford ful People, Come” was written
16 for the English Harvest Festival, the British version of the American Thanksgiving holiday. The first stanza of this harvest hymn is an invitation and exhortation to give thanks to God in his earthly temple for the heavenly care and provision of our earthly needs. The following two stanzas are a reference to the parable of the Wheat and Tares from Matthew 13:24-43. The final stanza is a prayer for the Lord’s return — the “final harvest home.”
For a canvas of colors, For a concert of sound; For the unfolding seasons, The earth spinning round. For the birth of each sunrise, For the sky set ablaze; For these simple gifts, We give simple praise.
Anthem Meditation: “Simple Praise”
The heart of the Giver, the hand of the One From whom every blessing of living has come; For measureless mercy and limitless grace, For these simple gifts we give simple praise.
Thanksgiving Tradition
Simple praise for the Giver, And thanks to the One Who has given us breath And given His Son. To the Giver of blessings For all of our days, For these simple gifts, We give simple praise. For the love of a mother, For the touch of a hand; For the deeper emotions We can’t understand. For the lessons we learn From the trials we face; For these simple gifts, We give simple praise.
Remember your leaders, those who spoke the For a canvas of colors, For a concert of sound; word of God to you; consider the outcome of their For the unfolding seasons, The earth spinning round. way of life, and imitate their faith. -Hebrews 13:7 For the birth of each sunrise, For the sky set ablaze; For these simple gifts, We give simple praise. (NRSV) I am not sure when the tradition began for our Simple praise for the Giver, And thanks to the One family. We stand around the Thanksgiving table, hold- Who has given us breath And given His Son. ing hands. Nourishing foods are spread out on the ta- To the Giver of blessings For all of our days, For these simple gifts, We give simple praise. ble; aromas fill the room. Yet no one sits down. — Pamela Martin, 2005 The question is asked, "Who isn't with us today?" The names of people who are not able to join us are spoken. All those around the table are free to speak the name of anyone they miss, anyone who has touched their lives. Some named are family, friends, teachers, pastors, and neighbors. Our tradition also encourages us to name those who have touched our lives but are now in the presence of the Lord. Often there are tears of thanksgiving for what these people have added to our journeys through life. Each one has been a gift of grace from God. Gratitude fills our hearts. Who has had an impact on your life? Why not begin today to offer thanks to God for that person? To speak the name at this season's celebration gives witness to another's life of faith, which is God's gift to you. —Viola Ruelke Gommer (Pennsylvania, U.S.A.)
17 Prayer: Dear God, thank you for those who touch our lives. Help us to touch the lives of others with your love. Amen. (From Upper Room Nov. 27, 2003)
Hymn: “Now Thank We All Our God”
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? No in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:35,37 Now thank we all our God, From some of the severest human sufferings imaginable during the With heart and hands and voices, Who wondrous things has done, 30 Years’ War of 1618-1684 - a war that has been described as the In whom this world rejoices; most devastating in all history - this great hymn of the church was Who from our mothers' arms born. Has blessed us on our way Martin Rinkart was called at the age of 31 to pastor the state With countless gifts of love, And still is ours today. Lutheran church in his native city of Eilenberg, Germany. He arrived there just as the dreadful bloodshed of the 30 Year’s War began, and O may this bounteous God there Rinkart spent the remaining 32 years of his life faithfully Through all our life be near us, With ever joyful hearts ministering to these needy people. And blessed peace to cheer us; Germany, the battleground of this conflict between warring And keep us still in grace, Catholic and Protestant forces from various countries throughout And guide us when perplexed; Europe, was reduced to a state of misery that baffles description. The And free us from all ills, German population dwindled from 16 million to 6 million. Because In this world and the next. Eilenberg was a walled city, it became a frightfully over-crowded All praise and thanks to God refuge for political and military fugitives from far and near. The Father now be given; Throughout these war years several waves of deadly diseases and The Son, and him who reigns With them in highest heaven; famines swept the city, as the various armies marched through the The one eternal God, town, leaving death and destruction in their wake. The plague of Whom earth and heaven adore; 1637 was particularly severe. At its height Rinkart was the only minister For thus it was, is now, remaining to care for the sick and dying. Martin Rinkart’s triumphant, And shall be evermore. — Martin Rinkart personal expressions of gratitude and confidence in God confirm for each of us this truth taught in Scripture, that as God’s children, we too can be “more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”
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Hymn: “Come, Thou Almighty King” “ Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of Glory? The Lord Almighty — He is the King of glory.” Psalm 24:9-10 The doctrine of the Trinity Come, thou almighty King, has been controversial help us thy name to sing, help us to praise! since the earliest days of Father all glorious, Christianity. In AD 325, the o'er all victorious, Council of Nicaea affirmed come and reign over us, its belief in the Triune GodAncient of Days! head. During the 16th cenCome, thou incarnate Word, tury Reformation period, it gird on thy mighty sword, our prayer attend! was again denied by the Come, and thy people bless, Socinians. And still today, and give thy word success, many theologians deny the Spirit of holiness, on us descend! doctrine. Come, holy Comforter, This familiar Trinity hymn is thy sacred witness bear in this glad hour. also one of our most popuThou who almighty art, lar hymns for Sunday mornnow rule in every heart, ing worship services. It apand ne'er from us depart, peared anonymously in Spirit of power! England in about 1757 to To thee, great One in Three, commemorate Trinity Suneternal praises be, hence, evermore. day. It has been attributed Thy sovereign majesty by some to Charles Wesley may we in glory see, since it first appeared in a and to eternity love and adore! — Anonymous pamphlet published by John Wesley. This is a hymn that must always be sung with all four stanzas. To omit any of the first three would be to slight one of the members of the Godhead. The final stanza is a grand affirmation of the mysterious doctrine of the Trinity, that God is One yet Three and ever worthy of our love and adoration.
— Kenneth W. Osbeck, “Amazing Grace”
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Church Music: “Gather ‘Round the Thanksgiving Table” In their book The Voice of Our Congregation, Terry York and David Bolin compare church music to the Thanksgiving Day Dinner. Norman Rockwell painted a series on freedoms. In his Freedom From Want, he paints a Thanksgiving scene. The turkey is placed on the table and everyone’s face is smiling with the anticipation, we suppose, for the feast about to be eaten. But a careful look at the Rockwell painting shows the subject is not food at all. The faces, with the exception of two figures setting the turkey on the table, are not looking at the dishes but at one another. The joy of the feast is in community — generations united by stories, dreams, and laughter — the fruit of freedom. Tables are for community. Some of our Lord’s greatest lessons were in the context of a meal. The feeding of the five thousand was one occasion. The miracle had nothing to do with the taste of the fish, but everything with people and their needs being met. Worship, like a good meal, is an exercise in Christian community. Every congregation can be just as picky in their musical tastes as in their dining. Life experiences have brought a variety of musical tastes to the table. Some musical dishes are full of old favorites — comfort food, if
you will. Others are new recipes with strange spices from around the world. Some may love the carrots, but will pass on the green beans, but everyone should be fed. And as our mothers have always done, everyone should be encouraged to try new dishes. Just like the Thanksgiving meal, the worship service has been lovingly prepared with the very best of all that we have. If you do not care for the broccoli, pass it along and be grateful that someone else at the table is being well-fed. When the mashed potatoes get passed, dig in and be grateful. When the paprika corn soufflé is passed, don’t just say “We’ve never had corn that way for Thanksgiving,” try it. You might find the new flavor very appealing. Let’s take a look at that painting again. See the grandparents placing the turkey on the table? Well, that’s you and me — the worship leaders (and that includes the choir) should always be working to provide the very best of a variety of dishes to serve our family (the congregation). Like the painting, the focus of the gathering should not be about the food or the music. It should be about being with family and enjoying the company. This season, the choir and congregation will be singing a wide variety of musical styles. These songs may not appeal to everyone, but it is the intension that everyone is feed a well-prepared and healthy meal.
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Sunday, November 29 First Sunday of Advent Matthew 1:1-17
This is the genealogy[a] of Jesus the Messiah[b] the son of David, the son of Abraham: 2 Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers,3 Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar, Perez the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, 4 Ram the father of Amminadab, Amminadab the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon,5 Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse, 6 and Jesse the father of King David. David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah’s wife,7 Solomon the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asa, 8 Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Jehoram, Jehoram the father of Uzziah,9 Uzziah the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah,10 Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amon, Amon the father of Josiah,11 and Josiah the father of Jeconiah[c] and his brothers at the time of the exile to Babylon. 12 After the exile to Babylon: Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, 13 Zerubbabel the father of Abihud, Abihud the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor,14 Azor the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Akim, Akim the father of Elihud, 15 Elihud the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob,16 and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who is called the Messiah. 17 Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Messiah.
Hymn Meditation: Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus
Anticipation 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. But our anticipation is the Lord’s second advent - when victory over sin and death will be complete and final. The Old Testament prophecies were very specific concerning our Lord’s first advent. The prophets gave the exact location of his birth (Micah 5:2) as well as the sign that He would be virgin born (Isaiah 7:14). Come, thou long-expected Jesus, Born to set thy people free; Likewise the New From our fears and sins release us; Testament gives clear Let us find our rest in thee. instructions regarding Israel’s strength and consolation, the second advent: Hope of all the earth thou art; “There will be signs in Dear desire of every nation, Joy of every longing heart. the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; Born thy people to deliver, and upon the earth Born a child and yet a king, distress of nations ... and Born to reign in us forever, Now thy gracious kingdom bring. when these things begin By thin own eternal Spirit to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your Rule in all our hearts alone; redemption draweth near” (Luke 21:25-28). By thine all-sufficient merit “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus” is another of the more Raise us to thy glorious throne. — Charles Wesley, 1744 than 6,500 hymns written by Charles Wesley. It was first published
21 in 1744 in a small collection of 18 poems tittles 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 hymn texts. Just as Christ’s birth 2,000 years ago dramatically changed the course of human history, so will the return of our Lord as the King of kings. With the saints of the ages we pray, “Come, Thou longexpected Jesus!” Rejoice in the truth that God’s eternal promises are unchangeable: Christ was born and He will return.
Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming From tender stem hath sprung! Of Jesse’s lineage coming, As those of old have sung. It came, a floweret bright, Amid the cold of winter, When half spent was the night. Isaiah ‘twas foretold it, The Rose I have in mind; With Mary we behold it, The Virgin Mother kind. To show God’s love aright, She bore to us a Savior, When half spent was the night.
O Flower, whose fragrance tender With sweetness fills the air, Dispel in glorious splendor The darkness everywhere. True man yet very God, ymbols are a curious thing. Some have universal meaning. From sin and death now save us, Others are more colloquial, having significance only in a And share our every load.
“Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming”
S
— 15th century German
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 of our Lord Jesus Christ. The scriptures make a number of references to flowers. Most of them allude to the flower fading and dying away. Unique to Christ, though, is the knowledge that this rose blooms eternally. From the frail, tender stem of man blooms the beautiful, mighty, eternal Rose. That said, this wonderful, beloved hymn was not originally about a “rose” at all. The original line was “Behold a twig ever sprouting.” The German word for twig is Reis. This word became confused in translation and became Ros which means “rose”. But why might the Germans have thought Rose instead of Reis (twig)? A likely explanation is in the common symbolism of the wintertime feast. Europeans used plants that 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 as a similar symbol. For the Europeans, the Christmas Rose has long been used this way. (The Christmas Rose is a winter blooming plant that is not really a rose at all.) God can take even a human mistake or misunderstanding and transform it into a powerful symbol. Closely connected with the rose/flower image, this song speaks of the Promised One sprouting “amid the cold of winter when halfspent was the night.” This is certainly not the first hymn to use winter imagery describ-
22 ing 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.”
“The Winter Rose” 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. — Joseph Martin, 2004
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O Lord, How Shall I Meet You? “God’s Extravagance is Our Instruction for Living”
O Lord, how shall I meet you, how welcome you aright? Your people long to greet you, my hope, my heart’s delight! O kindle, Lord most holy, a lamp within my breast, To do in spirit lowly all that may please you best.
“It is God himself who has made us what we are and given us new lives from Christ Jesus; and long ages ago he planned that we should spend these lives in helping others.” —Ephesians 2:10
Love caused your incarnation; Love brought you down to me; Your thirst for my salvation procured my liberty. O love beyond all telling, that led you to embrace In love, all loves excelling, our lost and fallen race.
W
You come, O Lord, with gladness, in mercy and goodwill, To bring an end to sadness and bid our fears be still. e know that the season of Christmas In patient expectation we live for that great day When your renewed creation your glory shall display.
is a season of giving, because of the — Paul Gerhardt, 1653 gift we have received in the Baby, Jesus Christ, but has anyone ever given you a COW for Christmas? Well, no one has ever given me a cow for Christmas, but someone has given money for a cow to be purchased for another family in honor of me. Christmas and Advent are seasons for us to reflect on something mysteriously wonderful and life changing…God sent His Son to the earth to walk with us, walk among us, dwell with us (Literally “pitch His tent among us). Not only that, but this babe came to give us something EXTRAVAGANT – His Life— so that we might have forgiveness for our sins and hope for our life now and hereafter. As we make plans for Christmas and what gifts we will give to our children, grandchildren, parents, grandparents, friends, and neighbors, think about giving something extravagant, and life giving. We each already have so much – everything we literally NEED – and even more of what we just plain WANT. There are people and families in the world who are just struggling to make it through the day – wondering if they will have food to eat and clothes to put on their bodies. The money you spend on Christmas presents this season could easily rescue several families from day in, day out poverty. Even a small portion of what you spend on presents could transform the lives of people who have no hope. Consider giving the gift of hope through a charitable organization this Christmas and know that you have made a difference in the world beyond where you live. The gift of just $20 can supply a hungry family with a hen that will lay over 200 eggs in a years time! Can you imagine? These eggs can be eaten or sold for income! Challenge yourself this year to think beyond your yearly traditions and expand the wealth and joy you have received to include families outside your circle! You will be the one who receives the blessing and in turn will challenge others to give extravagantly! —Marianne Norris
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Devotion on Advent Art
“The Annunciation” Jan Van Eyck
T
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 (centre 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 wall-paintings 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.
25 Characters of the Nativity: Mary
M
ary was a young Jewish girl who was chosen to bear the longawaited 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.
Chrismon Symbols
C
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 Christian Year: Celebrating Our History of Faith Celebration describes what happens every time the
people of God gather for worship. The focus of every worship experience is to actualize the divine presence in our lives. Everything that happens centers on what God has done in Jesus Christ – his life, ministry, death, and resurrection. However, we are a people who share a history, not only of what God did in Jesus the Nazarene, but of God’s profound interest in the redemption of God's creation. From the beginning of the Old Testament we can see this divine concern in the call of Abraham and the liberation from slavery in Egypt, the formation of a nation, the calling of the prophets. In each event, we see God’s pursuit. All of this renders a fullness and enriches our sense of celebration in worship. The chief aim in worship is that it be whole in every aspect. Celebrating the Christian Year offers us a natural rhythm involving the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. You may ask, "What is the Christian Year and how did it come to be?" From what we read in Acts, that fledgling community, following the resurrection of Jesus, centered its worship around the temple. They found their strength and devotion as they gathered as a community for study, fellowship, prayer, and the breaking of bread (Acts 2:42). Everything centered around the resurrection of Jesus. The focus was on remembering what Jesus had taught them. Those, then, were the beginnings of what we now know as the Christian Year. Even though that early Christian community was maintained by a discipline tied to the temple, it very soon began to note the importance of the first day of the week or ‘the Lord’s Day' (Rev. 1:10). In similar fashion, the various seasons began to take form, each with its own particular function in the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We must remember that the focus of all that took place when the people gathered to celebrate, was the resurrection of the Lord. The Christian Year is divided into two cycles: Easter and Christmas. The first to surface was Resurrection or Easter. It is worthwhile to note that the
crucifixion of Jesus coincided with the Jewish Passover, a time for remembering God’s act of liberation of God’s people, from Egypt. Although every Lord’s Day the Christian community celebrated the resurrection of Jesus, every year as the Jewish Passover rolled around, it seemed proper and fitting to celebrate in a special way the resurrection of Jesus. As time went on, a time of preparation was added and extended to what we now know as Lent. Pentecost, the beginning of the Church, brought this season to an end. The second cycle revolves around the birth of Jesus or Christmas. This appeared much later. It is interesting to note that the event of Epiphany was celebrated even before the birth event. As with Resurrection, there developed a time of preparation prior to the Nativity, which we know as Advent. The Chr istian Year begins with Advent, in anticipation of the coming of the Word made flesh. Two blocks of time, one following Epiphany and the other following Pentecost are known as "ordinary time." In the weekly designations they are referred to as "Sunday after Epiphany...or Pentecost." During these "ordinary times," the lectionary readings strive to cover the entire Scripture. Making use of the Christian Year offers us an opportunity to address the "whole" in the proclamation of the gospel. It affirms and offers ample evidence that we are indeed one Church. No matter where we go or where we worship, we will always be at home. Indeed this is real celebration! —Dr. Noé E. Gonzales is a Rio Gr ande Confer ence r etir ed clergyperson. He resides in San Antonio, TX.