always winter, never christmas A D V E N T AT H I G H L A N D PA R K P R E S
always winter, never christmas A D V E N T AT H I G H L A N D PA R K P R E S
prayers & practices The world of Narnia invites us to imagine and wonder. In Narnia we encounter Aslan, the great lion, the one who rules and reigns, the one who speaks truth with a single gaze, the one who mercifully and sometimes painfully invites each person to new life. He is the one who runs and plays, who creates and conquers; all bow down to him. Even as he is the one who roars on high, he serves down low, longing to make a way where there seems to be no way. Aslan in Narnia is as Jesus is in our world. It is through the eyes of children that we encounter Aslan. Their encounters with Aslan remind us of our encounters with Jesus. The corresponding stories in the chapters of The Chronicles of Narnia are listed each week. It is recommended that you read their stories along with this guide. These children are not so different from any of us. They encounter him with awe and wonder, pain and mercy, fear and hope, and through everyday presence. Their encounters sound similar to our encounters. Do we not long for these encounters? Do we not want the fear and wonder of encountering someone greater than ourselves, who is sovereign and knows how all things will turn out? Do we not want mercy and forgiveness, and freedom from guilt, shame, and sin? Do we not long for the hope of life after we have made a mistake? Do we not want to know that Jesus has been with us through the darkest times? And do we not want these encounters for everyone? This Advent season you are invited into the world of Narnia and encounters there with Aslan. On the following pages, the elders of HP Pres invite you to meditate on Scripture, join in prayer, and engage in a practice each day of Advent. May our encounters with Jesus also be the encounters of others. As we enter the world of Narnia, may we be reminded of our world, may we pray for those in our world, and may we live out the goodness of God in our world. With wonder,
Laura Murray Pastor of Spiritual Formation
how to use this guide There are a few ways to engage this guide, whether you go through it in solitude and silence or with another person, your family, or a group. Some are shown below. 1. Decide whether you will go through the guide alone or with your family, a spouse, or a group. 2. Place the guide in a visible place in your home or workplace for all participants to see. 3. Include it as a part of your daily routine. 4. Read the corresponding stories in The Chronicles of Narnia each week. Purchase the books or find them at your local library.
5. Read the Scripture and prayer. Spend as much time meditating on the Scripture as you feel led and feel free to add any prayers. 6. If reading with another or in a group, share how you can live out the practices of each day. 7. Enjoy these simple gifts of story and Scripture, prayer, and practices this Advent season!
10
the awe of aslan W E E K O N E | D E C E M B E R 2–8
20
the mercy of aslan W E E K T W O | D E C E M B E R 9–15
30
the promise of aslan W E E K T H R E E | D E C E M B E R 16–22
40
the presence of aslan W E E K F O U R | D E C E M B E R 23 –24
45
advent events & opportunities
the awe of aslan W E E K 1 | D E C E M B E R 2 –8 The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe “Chapter 8: What Happened after Dinner” Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy are brothers and sisters who inquire of Aslan with fear and wonder.
S U N D AY, D E C E M B E R 2
T H E AW E O F A S L A N
read
pray
Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road—the desert road— that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of the Kandake (which means “queen of the Ethiopians”). This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the Book of Isaiah the prophet. The Spirit told Philip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.”
Sovereign and Gracious God, you promise that those who do seek you will surely find you. Shine your light on those who do seek you this day. Open their minds and hearts to receive the extraordinary truth that you are the all-powerful Lord of the Universe who enters our world bringing the good news of your love and mercy toward all those who seek you.
Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. This is the passage of Scripture the eunuch was reading: “He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth. In his humiliation he was deprived of justice. Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth.” The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.
Prepare us as your people to respond to any seekers you may put in our path with words of encouragement and truth, sharing the very life you give to all who respond to your love. Lord, we fervently pray for you to bring the lost and broken-hearted, the alienated and the skeptical close to your forgiving presence and by the power of your Holy Spirit bring them to the knowledge that you are the One they have been seeking. In the name of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, we welcome seekers to this community of faith and we pray that you, Lord, will fulfill their longing for you in this place. Amen. N A N C Y S E AY
A C T S 8 : 2 6–35
PRACTICE Be ready today for an opportunity to guide a seeker—someone who is curious and asking questions about God—toward Jesus.
10
M O N D AY, D E C E M B E R 3
T H E AW E O F A S L A N
read
pray
The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.
Dear Jesus, we acknowledge that you are the King over all things. You have the power to forgive our sins of the past, the present, and the future, so why do we struggle to make you first in our lives? Why do we struggle to surrender control of our lives to you? Lord, you are the King, you are our King. Take control. Take us where you wish us to go, to do what you want us to do. We admit we are a little afraid, yet we know you are our protector. With such a powerful protector, no destination or task is too big. May we be a witness to others who are living without the grace and joy you have provided us. Some avoid you. Some will only say you are a good moral teacher. Still others only go through the motions of being a follower and have yet to develop a personal relationship with you. You stand at the door and knock and they only have to open that door. Help us to reflect your love to them and guide them to open that door. Use us. We await your direction: oh, what a glorious King you are.
C O L O S S I A N S 1:1 5 –19
Amen. DOUG SMITH
PRACTICE See yourself as Jesus’ representative here on earth. As you go through your day, are you being an accurate reflection of him to others? Do others see his joy, his hope, his grace through you? Ask God to help you reflect his love today. 11
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 4
T H E AW E O F A S L A N
read
pray
‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
Dear Lord and God our Father, who is seated on the throne at this very moment, unchanging above this ever-changing world, unshaken over the storm that might be hitting us: may your light of truth pierce through the dark clouds of our lives, and your love melt the snow and ice on our hearts. Give us the strength to hear and trust your promise. Show us that the true “spring” we long for is not after the “winter” but before the feet of Jesus. The ultimate freedom and happiness we may enjoy is not outside the “problem,” but inside you and you alone. May the pierced hands of your Son wipe away the tears in our life and the lives of our loved ones, right now, right here. But even if not, may the very Jesus who himself wept for us and with us, be our true comfort and friend. Let us see that we can share joyful songs of hope to a hopeless world. We pray this in the precious name of Jesus, the true “Aslan,” the lion and lamb of God.
R E V E L AT I O N 2 1 :4–5
Amen. M O YA N G
PRACTICE Look around and pay attention to someone who is in a “winter,” a time of acute pain and brokenness. How can you bring a word or action of goodness into their life?
12
W E D N E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5
T H E AW E O F A S L A N
read
pray
That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.
Almighty God, as we read these verses, we cannot grasp what John means by, “That which was from the beginning,” “the Word of life,” or “the eternal life” as he describes Jesus Christ without leaning on the Holy Spirit. We thank you for your Holy Spirit showing us how much you loved us in sending your Son to be seen, heard, touched, and believed, and to die for us on the cross. We now can enjoy fellowship with you and be cleansed for all eternity. We are also grateful for these eyewitnesses, our predecessors, who proclaimed, “The life appeared . . .” with all they had to give, even to the point of martyrdom. You have said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29b). We pray that is us. We ask for your help in “seeing” you in all your glory, being reminded of our unworthiness and yet the grace of your forgiveness, and striving for purity of heart. May we “see, touch, hear, and believe” you as deeply as our predecessors did. May we see you, Lord, in “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40). May we be emboldened to proclaim to all “the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us.” In your Son’s precious name.
1 J O H N 1 : 1 –3
Amen. SUSANNA OGDEN
PRACTICE Meditate on the mysterious terms that John uses: “That which was from the beginning” (picture our Lord before the creation of the universe); “the Word of Life”; “the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us.” How are you enjoying this fellowship with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ? 13
T H U R S D AY, D E C E M B E R 6
T H E AW E O F A S L A N
read
pray
In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.”
Heavenly Father, when we dare to think about encountering you, we confess that we are filled with awe, and even a little fear, about being in the presence of such holiness. Shamed by our sin, we know we are unworthy, inadequate, and deserving of death. Yet, whatever uneasiness we feel is misplaced, because, in your mercy, you have extended grace to us through Jesus. You cleansed the unclean, and through that transformation, prepared us for your work to be done through us. We are so grateful for the Bible, because your Word provides example after example of ordinary men and women being used by you to accomplish the extraordinary. As you did for those men and women, open our eyes and fill our hearts so that each of us can see the need and make a difference. Guide our steps and make us instruments of your work. Send us forth with the confidence only you can give. Allow us to carry a glimpse of your holiness forward into a world hungry for your truth. In the saving name of your Son, Jesus Christ.
At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty.” Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.” I S A I A H 6: 1 –7
Amen. MONT Y MONTGOMERY
PRACTICE Reflect on the life of one biblical character with whom you identify personally. How did God use that character to accomplish the extraordinary despite sin and imperfection? Are there any similarities in your life? What might God be calling you to do? 14
F R I D AY, D E C E M B E R 7
T H E AW E O F A S L A N
read
pray
Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. Who can proclaim the mighty acts of the LORD or fully declare his praise? Blessed are those who act justly, who always do what is right.
Almighty God, please accept our praises for your open arms toward us. You love us deeply, and because of this we can enjoy your goodness through your amazing grace, for it is sufficient for each one of us. We thank you for your Son, Jesus Christ, who was born to deliver us from our sins. We pray that you continue to grow in us and in those you have called us to disciple and serve, a hunger and thirst for your love that endures forever. May we always remember to praise your holy and mighty name, in all circumstances, from generation to generation through your Son, Jesus Christ.
P S A L M 10 6: 1 –3
Amen. J O H N WA N J O H I
PRACTICE Does my praise match the mighty acts of the Lord in my life, or is there a mismatch? How can my praise show another the greatness of God?
15
S AT U R D AY, D E C E M B E R 8
T H E AW E O F A S L A N
read
pray
I declare to you, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”
Father, we thank you that you are victorious over sin and death, evidenced by your life, death, bodily resurrection, and appearances to over 500 eyewitnesses. Those who believe in you will also experience this same victory. Your word gives us hope that life on earth is not all there is. When you call us home, we will enjoy eternal life with you in immortal bodies. We will gather with the other saints in your kingdom, praising you forever. We pray that we would live as we believe, by loving you and loving our neighbors, as you commanded. Give us the strength and courage to seek first your kingdom, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ near and far, in both word and deed.
“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 C O R I N T H I A N S 1 5 :5 0–57
We pray for those who do not know you yet. May they accept your gracious invitation to believe and follow you. We too were once lost, but you demonstrated your love for us in that while we were yet sinners, you died for us. Thank you, Lord Jesus. Amen. MARK NALL
PRACTICE Ponder this. If you were to die tonight, would you go be with the Lord? Will you one day have the imperishable, immortal body discussed in 1 Corinthians 15? If so, praise God and take time to thank the Lord for this indescribable gift. If not, then believe in Jesus and accept his invitation into his family, and you will be saved. 16
NOTES
T H E AW E O F A S L A N
17
the mercy of aslan W E E K 2 | D E C E M B E R 9 –1 5 The Voyage of the Dawn Treader “Chapter 7: How the Adventure Ended” Eustace, a prideful and petty boy, encounters the painful mercy of Aslan.
S U N D AY, D E C E M B E R 9
THE MERCY OF ASLAN
read
pray
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Dear Jesus, you invite all of us to come to you, and you promise to give us rest. We confess that we are weary and burdened by the pressures to work harder, to strive to be good enough, believing the lie that we have to be good enough to be loved and accepted by you. Help us to cast off this burden of self-reliance and pursuit of living a perfect life. Instead, may we seek to know you and rely on you to give us all we need. May our lifestyle of surrender and pursuit of a deeper relationship with you be transformative, and contagious to those who have not trusted in you as their Savior. Holy Spirit, equip us to encourage others to take on Jesus’ yoke, to accept his free gift of salvation, and receive rest for their souls. We pray this in the power of Jesus’ name.
M AT T H E W 1 1 : 2 8–3 0
Amen. L AURIE CONNELL
PRACTICE Pray daily for someone in your sphere of influence who doesn’t know Jesus. Pray that they will believe they are accepted by God not because of what they do, but because of what Jesus did by dying on the cross for their sins. Pray that they will be filled with peace and joy in the knowledge of God’s great love for them. 20
M O N D AY, D E C E M B E R 10
THE MERCY OF ASLAN
read
pray
So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.
Our Father, help us see ourselves as we really are, scales and all, and understand our profound need to be transformed. Help us realize that we cannot shed our sinful nature on our own. Give us hearts to submit to you, knowing change and true repentance can be painful as we give up comfortable and self-serving parts of our lives. We confess that we do not like change, and that we want to be in charge. We are self-satisfied and self-centered, more than we care to admit. And yet at times we find ourselves unsettled, unhappy, and even miserable without knowing why. Reveal to us that the discomfort is from knowing, deep down, the profound difference between the way we are and often act, and the people you created us to be, made in your image and meant to reflect your character. In your mercy, Lord, forgive us, and replace our old selves with new selves who sincerely desire to be righteous and holy and live into the truth taught by your Son, Jesus.
That, however, is not the way of life you learned when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. E P H E S I A N S 4 : 17-24
Amen. SCHUYLER MARSHALL
PRACTICE Think of habits or practices that are in conflict with the commandments and Jesus’ example. How can we truly love others, especially those we find unlovely or irritating? What is one step we can take now to begin demonstrating that love? 21
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 1
THE MERCY OF ASLAN
read
pray
All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Father God, we come to you in this season of Advent with many things on our minds and on our hearts. The year-end and the holiday so easily steal our joy, clothing us in earthly anxieties. Calm us of those anxieties and help us have unspeakable joy in you. We surrender the things that occupy our minds and take our attention off you, your coming, and your amazing grace.
1 P E T E R 5: 5 B –7
Lord Jesus, we humble ourselves at the foot of the cross and are amazed at your coming, your living the perfect sinless life, and dying for our sins to be forgiven. Help us clothe ourselves following your perfect example. Help us to experience humility the way you want us to. Holy Spirit, show us the way to re-clothe ourselves following your example. We desire love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control as we let go and let you direct our thoughts, our actions, and our lives. Help us as we humbly come to you seeking your will and joy in this season of Advent and Christmas. Amen. TA D M C I N T O S H
PRACTICE What can you do today to share joy with another person?
22
W E D N E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 2
THE MERCY OF ASLAN
read
pray
The Sovereign LORD has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed.
Gracious God, you offer the words of life to us through the Bible and your Son, Jesus Christ. As we wake up each morning may your words be the first in our minds, allowing your truth and love to sink deep into our hearts. Throughout the day may your words also echo, reminding us you are with us.
ISAIAH 50:4
As you speak, and we listen, may we take to heart what you say, and how you instruct us. It is not our education, or peers, or this world that gives us the greatest instruction, but you. As we listen, it is not for the sake of ourselves but for those you have placed around us. May we be men and women, and boys and girls, who speak words of encouragement, strength, and hope to those who are tired, hurt, and lonely. Help us to see who needs a word of encouragement today and may we love them well. In Jesus’ name. Amen. L A U R A M U R R AY
PRACTICE Hold on to the truth that God is the greatest encourager and receive his encouragement today. Then pay attention to the people around you today. If there is someone who seems weary, offer him/her a word of encouragement just as God did for you. 23
T H U R S D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 3
THE MERCY OF ASLAN
read
pray
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Thank you, Father, for making a way for all of us to be brought back to you for eternity. All we have to do is to believe that your Son, Jesus, died for our sins on the cross and to make him our Lord. Then we are saved forever. You offer us this wonderful and completely undeserved gift.
E P H E S I A N S 2 : 8 –10
As hard as we might try, we cannot save ourselves from our sinful nature. You did for us what we could never do for ourselves. Whether we recognize it or not, our sin is so deep that removing one layer merely exposes the blackness of more sin underneath. Like the prideful and petty Eustace, who could never shed enough scaly dragon skin on his own, we can never make ourselves clean enough and acceptable to you. It is only through faith in your Son that we can be saved from our sin, which separates us from you. Thank you for your amazing grace! Amen. MARIE CROWE
P R AC T I CE Recognizing that we can do nothing to earn our salvation, look for a good work to do today in appreciation of God’s saving grace. Know that he has prepared this task in advance especially for you to do! 24
F R I D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 4
THE MERCY OF ASLAN
read
pray
You have searched me, LORD, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, LORD, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word. Your Word teaches us that you planned for and created us according to your perfect plan. You created us and every aspect of our being and our life. You know our inmost thoughts and being and see our every action from the day we were born. You brought us into this world for your purpose. You walk beside us through our ups and downs as we navigate our earthly circumstances. Thank you for making us the way we are. Remind us often that we are fearfully and wonderfully made in your image. Remind us that we are loved and known by you, our Heavenly Father, like no other person can love or know us. Remind us that you made us, down to the smallest detail, and that nothing you do is by accident. Therefore, remind us in good times and in trials that we are your sons and daughters, we are forever blessed by the way you made us, and we are a unique part of your perfect plan and your eternal Kingdom. If we should doubt our identity, our abilities, your promises, your power, or your grace, walk with us to seek your truths. Empower us to live up to the purpose and potential you have in mind for us.
P S A L M 1 39: 1 –6, 13 –16
Amen. WINNIE LEE
PRACTICE Is there someone in your life or in the lives of people close to you who is difficult to get along with? Have you stopped to think about how God created him or her? Try to see an “imperfect” person through God’s eyes. Ask God to give you his perspective. Seeing others through God’s eyes can help us better appreciate them and follow God’s instruction to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 19:19). 25
S AT U R D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 5
THE MERCY OF ASLAN
read
pray
This 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 in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
Heavenly Father, we are reminded through this scripture how you are the light of the world, leading and guiding us toward a life cleansed by your forgiveness and renewed by your presence. Through your Son, Jesus Christ, who exemplified this light, we are purified from sin and experience your warm embrace. Help us to walk in your light daily, living as Jesus taught us and receiving the strength and encouragement that is found through fellowship with other believers. As your redeemed people, help us to reflect your light into this world.
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. 1 J O H N 1 : 5 –9
Amen. JED MELSON
PRACTICE Everyday light uncovers what is hidden or undistinguishable in the darkness. In a similar way, allowing God’s light to shine in our lives reveals areas that were previously covered in darkness, opening them up to his merciful and healing touch. Is there an area of your life that needs God’s light shone on it? 26
NOTES
THE MERCY OF ASLAN
27
the promise of aslan W E E K 3 | D E C E M B E R 16 –2 2 The Silver Chair “Chapter 2: Jill Is Given a Task” Jill, a young girl whose sin causes a friend to fall, encounters Aslan with deep and unquenchable thirst.
S U N D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 6
THE PROMISE OF ASLAN
read
pray
I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.”
Heavenly Father, we praise you for your steadfast, unconditional, and gracious love for us. Thank you for your tender mercy and being slow to anger as we all fall short of your glory. Thank you for giving us the living Word, which gives encouragement for our souls, and for the gift of hope in you, which renews our strength and gives us the power to persevere in times of fear, grief, and pain, and be joyful and patient in our darkest day. Forgive us for not trusting you when we fail to hold onto that hope. Help us to use missed opportunities, broken relationships, disappointments, and mistakes as learning moments to search our own hearts. Give us courage and compassion to accept ourselves and our faults, and to forgive others as you have forgiven us so we can live in peace. We ask all these things in Jesus’ name who is the living water of eternal life.
L A M E N TAT I O N S 3 :1 9–24
Amen. CYNTHIA BEECHERL
PRACTICE Take a moment to search your heart for any current regrets. Allow God to take control of the circumstances rather than attempting to control them and the people surrounding you. As you receive grace from God, extend that grace to another today.
30
M O N D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 7
THE PROMISE OF ASLAN
read
pray
This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence: If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything.
Lord God, we find ourselves quick to self-justification when we have done something wrong. Help us to recognize our rush to self-justification. Give us your perspective and your vision for ourselves, to be able to see ourselves honestly. And as we see ourselves honestly, forgive us for our self-condemnation. For you offer us great mercy in our guilt and forgiveness as we sin.
1 J O H N 3: 1 9–20
We are grateful that you see us when we are hurt and when we are afraid. We thank you for moving toward us with healing, courage, love, and grace. Thank you for your hope and salvation when we are despairing. Thank you for your love, which is greater than any fears that we have and provides all we need. Amen. CHARLES CLIFT
PRACTICE As you journey through this season of Advent, pay heed to your reaction when something startles you or scares you. Are you quick to judge yourself, or others? Pause and reflect on that unexplainable, eternal stamp God put inside you, and be encouraged that his love is greater than any self-judgment. In your prayers, as you rest in his presence, ask God to confirm your identity in belonging to him, his grace, his love, and his truth. Offer this to someone who needs to hear God’s grace today. 31
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 8
THE PROMISE OF ASLAN
read
pray
You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water.
O God, creator of peace and lover of unity, through knowing you we have eternal life, and we serve you in perfect freedom. How assuring it is to know that you are our God!
P S A L M 63: 1
Your presence in our lives strengthens our souls, just like a desert that is parched and dry. Within your care, our souls are satisfied, and we seek your glorious majesty, as your constant love gives us more than life itself. Show us your grace, O God, and we will bless your name through all our days, and lift our hands to you in thankful praises. Our lips will shout praises to you, our God! God of mercy, you are our only source of help and power. Defend us from all attacks of our enemies, and in trusting your defense, we may be free from all fear. Keep us in the shelter of your throne as we cling to you. Be our joy, O God, we pray. Show mercy, we pray, to those who struggle to turn to you for redemption. We beseech you for them and pray for true repentance, and for the power of the Holy Spirit to move in and through them, so that, at the last day, we may share your eternal joy through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen! PETER GITHU
PRACTICE How does your mind, body, and soul need strengthening today? Talk to God about this need, and be on the lookout for others who might need similar encouragement today. Encourage them as you have been encouraged by God. 32
W E D N E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 9
THE PROMISE OF ASLAN
read
pray
Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Dear God, you have the power to meet our every need. Thank you for that. Yet sometimes we are reluctant to come close to you. We may be parched, like Jill, or we may be hungry, lonely, tired, ill, even forsaken or betrayed. The good news is that you are sympathetic to all of our concerns. You have experienced them yourself.
H E B R E W S 4 : 14 –1 6
Jill was reaching a point of desperation— thirsty enough to risk facing the lion. For us, it may seem like an act of courage to approach you for help when we feel so separated from you. But the lion was not guarding the stream. He was offering water—life-giving water. Jill, who mustered boldness to approach the lion, had her thirst slaked immediately—and received much more. We pray that we will be like Jill when we are thirsty or lonely or feel forsaken. Help us be bold, even though we may fear your response at the moment of our request. You can relate to us in our weaknesses, more than we can imagine. We are so grateful that we can approach you, our loving God, who will shower us with grace and mercy in all circumstances. Amen. BOB GL ASGOW
PRACTICE Is there someone in your life who, like Jill, is waiting for desperation to set in before approaching God? Is there someone in your life who is looking for the courage to approach God? Can you pray for them? Can you share with them your own experience, that God listens and responds with grace and mercy to all who call on him? 33
T H U R S D AY, D E C E M B E R 20
THE PROMISE OF ASLAN
read
pray
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Dear Lord, you know everything there is to know about us and more, including our most depraved thoughts and feelings, our anxieties, insecurities, and fears. You know these things because you are our Creator and our omnipotent Lord. You also know because you came in the form of a man to earth, where you experienced what we experience, and where you suffered at the hands of our ancestors, who treated you horribly. We would treat you no differently if you came to earth today. Yet, unbelievably, you still love us and pursue us relentlessly. You also know our hopes, dreams, and longing to be in your loving arms. You know our desire for the forgiveness of all our sins and the things we have done. Please continue to draw us to you so that our thirst for true peace is permanently quenched. We pray we would receive your true and everlasting peace.
P S A L M 1 39: 23–24
Amen. NEIL RAMBIN
PRACTICE Think about the insecurities and feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and guilt you are wrestling with. What is it like to imagine that God continues to love us, desires to remain in relationship with us, and lead us to righteousness? How can you best encourage others with the same message? 34
F R I D AY, D E C E M B E R 21
THE PROMISE OF ASLAN
read
pray
Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”
Father God, we live in a world full of thirsty people—ourselves included. We thirst for significance. We thirst to be understood and seen, taken care of and accepted. We thirst to be fully known and fully loved. The world knows the thirst of our souls and happily offers us “other streams” to meet our deepest needs: money, career, relationships, status, food and drink, sex, stuff—the list goes on and on. Ultimately, all of these “streams” leave us even more parched than before. But Jesus offers something the world cannot. He promises that when we choose to follow him he will satisfy the unquenchable thirst of our souls—that in him we are enough. In him we are fully known and fully loved. And for those who follow Jesus, his is a love that will fill us and satisfy us for all eternity. Thank you! So, Holy Spirit, give us eyes to see those around us who are in need of your living water—and move us to pray that they will encounter you this season and know that there is no other stream. It is in the saving name of Jesus we pray.
“Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” J O H N 4 : 10 –1 1 , 13 –14
Amen. L AUREN EASTBURN
PRACTICE Is there someone in your life who is struggling? Pray that the Holy Spirit will give you an opportunity to gently share the peace you have found in Jesus and a specific way he has satisfied a deep longing of your soul. 35
S AT U R D AY, D E C E M B E R 22
THE PROMISE OF ASLAN
read
pray
“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other.”
Lord, we come to you today in awe as a people whom you not only chose to love first, but whom you are willing to call friends. You have shown us your love by coming to us in human form and laying down your life for us in the ultimate sacrifice to complete your prophecy. You have redeemed us from sin that we could not conquer on our own, and this leads us to an undying gratitude and a desire to show others this love. Today, during this season of Advent, and forevermore, let us remember this love and live out our gratitude through acts of kindness to those that the world has marginalized, shunned, and pushed aside. Let us celebrate this bond of friendship with our courage to walk in the light that you have shown, being unafraid of persecution for the sake of your name. Let us remain confident in your Word and truth as we build up those around us, and love as you have taught us to love.
J O H N 1 5 : 9–1 7
Amen. DYL AN BRAMHALL
PRACTICE Think of one person in your life who needs encouragement to remain committed to building their faith today. Pray for them today and find a way to encourage this person today.
36
NOTES
THE PROMISE OF ASLAN
37
the presence of aslan W E E K 4 | D E C E M B E R 2 3 –24 The Horse and His Boy “Chapter 11: The Unwelcome Fellow Traveler” Shasta, a slave boy with a painful past, sees Aslan has been with him all the time.
S U N D AY, D E C E M B E R 23
THE PRESENCE OF ASLAN
read
pray
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.
Dear Heavenly Father, you have provided the Light of the World, Jesus Christ, an act of love for us that is beyond our comprehension. And yet despite receiving the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, we confess that we often walk in darkness, unaware and desensitized to your omnipotent love for us. We often live in this world defaulting to worldly ways and worldly values without considering the ever-present Holy Spirit in our lives. But we pause now to praise you and confess our failures to you. We ask you to make us more mindful of your presence and more sensitive to the divine appointments you place in our lives. Please create in us an expectation and eagerness for these divine encounters. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ.
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
Amen. BEN BELL
I S A I A H 9: 2 –7
PRACTICE Choose an hour this week for a spiritual practice of remembering God’s presence. In that hour, set a timer to ring every 5 minutes, resetting it each time it rings. When it rings, allow it to be a reminder that God is with you whatever you are doing. After this hour is finished, spend time reflecting on the divine significance of his workings in your life and the people he has given you to love this day. 40
M O N D AY, D E C E M B E R 24
THE PRESENCE OF ASLAN
read
pray
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Dear Lord, you are God Almighty! Everything was made by you and for you! You are the light of life! You have come into the dark world of evil and unbelief and lostness and death. And you have overcome the darkness so that whoever believes in you may not remain in the darkness. Light up our life, Lord, that we may shine like stars in this dark world to share your love, peace, and joy! We pray for those who are still in the darkness. Lord, tear down what prevents people from seeing you. May they see you and know that you are God. May people see the work Jesus Christ has done and honor it by coming out of darkness into light!
J O H N 1 : 1 –5
Amen. LISA DONG
PRACTICE Look around to see who is still walking in the darkness. How can you help them see the light of life?
41
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 25
C H R I S T M A S D AY
read In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
42
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. L U K E 2 : 1–2 0
Our gracious God, we thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus, who was born to us this day that we might have hope, life, and salvation. As he entered our world, may he also enter the world of those we love who do not yet know him. We pray that we would be people that show others the gift of love and grace available to them in Jesus. This is our Christmas prayer. Amen.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
advent events & opportunities The Advent season offers the opportunity to share in the ancient longing for the coming of the Messiah, as well as the call to be alert for his Second Coming. Find ways to worship, connect, and serve with us this season! See our event and worship listings on the following pages or visit hppres.org/advent.
A LW AY S W I N T E R SERMON SERIES Sundays, Dec. 2–23 Visit hppres.org/advent for specific details of each Christmas celebration. S U N D AY C L A S S G AT H E R I N G S Visit hppres.org/advent for specific details of each Christmas celebration. TREASURES OF HOPE Through Sunday, Dec. 9 HP Pres will be collecting gift items to stock the Treasures of Hope store. Monday–Friday, Dec. 10–14 Volunteer to greet, wrap gifts, and stock shelves at Treasures of Hope store. F I S H & L O AV E S GIFT MARKET Through Wednesday, Dec. 19 Contribute to local and global ministries in honor of your loved ones. Purchase online, Sundays in the Sanctuary Narthex and Wight Garden, or Monday–Friday at the Front Desk in the Bell Center. CUP OF CHEER Sunday, Dec. 2 2–4 pm, Chris Popolo’s Home
HIGHLAND KIDS & STUDENTS CHRISTMAS C E L E B R AT I O N S Wednesday, Dec. 5 There is a Christmas celebration for each age group from 1st–12th. Visit hppres.org/advent for specific details. F R I D AY S T O R Y T I M E Friday, Dec. 7, 9:30–10:30 am Explore Advent with your kids or grandkids four years old and younger. Story time will include a fun craft and snack. A D U LT 6 0 P L U S CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON Friday, Dec. 7 12–2 pm, Dallas Country Club Come join in fun and fellowship with friends to celebrate the Christmas Season together. Reservations required by Tuesday, Dec. 4. Cost: $25 PA R E N T S ’ M O R N I N G O U T Saturday, Dec. 8, 9:30 am–12:30 pm Parents, enjoy a morning out during the busy Christmas season while we care for your children ages 2 months through Kindergarten! For free! Registration required.
Bring a friend to the Women’s Ministry annual Christmas gathering!
45
LIVE PERFORMANCE OF THE LION, THE WITCH, & THE WARDROBE Wednesday, Dec. 12, 6 & 7:30 pm Bell Center Children and adults alike will experience the artistic beauty and wonder of C.S. Lewis’ classic work from a new perspective during this play performed by the A.D. Players. This is a free event, open to all ages. Complimentary child care is available with reservations for children ages 3 and under. CHRISTMAS WITH T H E H I G H L A N D PA R K CHANCEL CHOIR Friday, Dec. 14 7 pm, Sanctuary Brilliant new compositions celebrating the birth of Christ coupled with innovative arrangements of familiar carols (some with audience singing!) make this concert a seasonal event that will enrich the holidays. COLLEGE CHRISTMAS PA R T Y Tuesday, Dec. 18, 6:30–8 pm Dinner and gathering for any college age students at the Dunns’ home. H A N D E L’ S M E S S I A H Friday, Dec. 21 7 pm, Sanctuary The Chancel Choir and Orchestra offer a highlight to the holiday season with a performance of Handel’s Messiah. An annual tradition that becomes more exciting and glorious each year. 46
CHINESE CHRISTMAS E VA N G E L I C A L E V E N T Saturday, Dec. 22 6–9 pm, Bell Center The Chinese Ministry will hold a worship service with a pageant, followed by dinner and fellowship. LESSONS AND CAROLS Sunday, Dec. 23 5–6 pm, Sanctuary A traditional program of Lessons and Carols is presented by our 2nd–6th grade choirs. This is a heartwarming worship service celebrating the birth of Jesus as told through Bible readings, songs, and congregational carols. S TA R T I N G P O I N T Sundays, Jan. 27–Feb. 10 11:15 am–1:15 pm, Bell Center The church is not an organization you join: it’s a family you belong to. During this three-week experience, you’ll learn about the heart and mission of Highland Park Pres, see what it’s like to be part of a small group, and have an opportunity to join our church family.
christmas eve at highland park pres S U N D AY, D E C E M B E R 23 *5–6 pm, Sanctuary Lessons and Carols: Led by Children’s Choirs with Candle Lighting M O N D AY, D E C E M B E R 24 11 am–6 pm, Front Lawn Live Nativity Animals *12, *2, *4 pm, Sanctuary Children’s Story and Candle Lighting *6, 8, 10 pm, Sanctuary Choir, Brass Ensemble, and Candle Lighting *Child care is available for children 2 months–3 years. Reservations are encouraged but not required. hppres.org/highland-kids
chinese church christmas gathering S AT U R D AY, D E C E M B E R 22 6 pm, Bell Center
christmas eve at peak street church M O N D AY, D E C E M B E R 24 4 pm, 4301 Bryan Street
all nations christmas celebration T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 25 11 am
hppres.org/christmas