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A GIFT FOR YOU AND A GIFT TO SHARE The carols of Christmas have provided wonder, anticipation, and joy throughout the decades. These songs remind us of the presence, hope, and gift of Jesus. These songs prepare us for the day we celebrate Jesus coming to Earth, as a vulnerable baby to a needy world. This Advent prayer devotional is a gift to you from the elders of Highland Park Pres and a gift for you to share.
It is an invitation to sit in his presence, offer him ourselves through prayer, and to pray on behalf of this world Jesus loves so much. Each page has a daily Scripture for meditation and a prayer to lift up. We hope you take time to sit and reflect on him and those he came to save. May the promptings of these prayers give you courage to love others generously and joyfully this season.
TIPS FOR FAMILIES The Advent season can be so busy for families. Here are a few simple ways to walk through this guide together: 1. Find a “place” and “time” to follow this guide together. Examples are: after dinner, before bedtime, or at breakfast. 2. Give ownership to each member of the family. Examples are: one person is responsible for reminding the family of the place and time, another reads the Scripture, another reads the prayer. This can be rotated weekly or be the same for the entire season. 3. Rotate ownership among family members. For example: one person leads everything one day, another person another, and so on. Do what works for your family!
4. During time together, read Scripture, pray the prayer by reading it, and ask the following questions:
• What does this Scripture tell us about God?
• What does this Scripture tell us about what God has done?
• How does the Scripture and prayer lead us to love others today?
• Who will we love today? Write
down names and love them! Share with each other what happened when you shared God’s love.
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ADVENT AT HP PRES
DECEMBER 2017 Advent: Dec. 3–24
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Highlander Concert Messiah
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LISTEN ON SPOTIFY We’re getting into the Christmas spirit with some of our favorite songs, and we’d like to share them with you! Compiled by the staff at HP Pres, this eclectic mix represents part of the wide range of music loved by our church family. Listen at hppres.org/playlist,
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on Spotify by searching for “Highland Park Pres,” or by scanning the code below with the Spotify app.
WEEK ONE O COME, O COME, EMMANUEL............................................9
WEEK TWO IT CAME UPON A MIDNIGHT CLEAR.................................. 19
WEEK THREE JOY TO THE WORLD............................................................ 29
WEEK FOUR SILENT NIGHT....................................................................... 38
CHRISTMAS DAY PRAYER FOR CHRISTMAS DAY.. .......................................... 41
ADVENT GUIDE OPPORTUNIES DURING ADVENT AT HP PRES................ 42
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DECEMBER eavenly Father, we come to you in awe of your power and glory. You told us through the prophet Isaiah that a child would be born to us, a son given to us. That foretelling came true with the birth of Emmanuel, our Jesus, your Son. Today we continue to be amazed at his life and his words revealed to us through Scripture. These words give us peace and hope for eternal life. During this Advent Season, we pray by the power of the Holy Spirit for the strengthening of those who believe in you. May we be strengthened to share your word and truth with others. Father, we pray for those who have not heard your Word. We pray for those who want to believe but have yet to call you Father, that they may come to believe you, receiving your grace and mercy.
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MATTHEW 1:23 (NIV) “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).
JOHN 1:14 (NIV) The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
In your name we pray. Amen. Art Harding
O COME, O COME, EMMANUEL 9
DECEMBER hat wonderful news! A great light dawned in the darkness over 2,000 years ago. All of this because God came to Earth as a child, born in humble circumstances, and became a leader and King of Kings. Those who followed him had a far richer life than they could imagine. The same is true for us today. No wonder he is called “Mighty God.” Thank you, God. And for those who have broken bodies, minds, hearts, lives, or relationships, or are lonely and poor, they have a new hope, a promise of changed lives, because of this child. Thank you, Jesus. May we be agents of comfort, justice, and mercy as we draw near to you with open hearts and courageous feet. Thank you for coming into the world to transform us so that we can serve others. Amen. Bob Glasgow
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ISAIAH 9:2, 6-7 (NIV) The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. 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.
DECEMBER ur Father, we are so grateful for your provision of the rising Son, prophesied by Zechariah. This son, Jesus, gives us salvation through the forgiveness of our sins. You sought us in darkness and provided your son as a great light for us. Lord, you are indeed merciful to us, not holding back your son and the salvation he offers, from anyone who places their trust in him. We pray for those who still walk in darkness. We pray they would see the light of your son and trust in him. We pray that we may effectively proclaim Jesus to a world so in need of reconciliation, peace, and truth. Father, guide our efforts and remind us the Holy Spirit helps us in our efforts to tell people about the light of the world. Lord Jesus, we thank you that you came to give eternal peace, not as the world gives, but forever as a gift of salvation for those who trust in Jesus.
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LUKE 1:76-79 (NIV) “And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.�
Amen. Schuyler Marshall
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DECEMBER ear Lord, you are infinitely unfathomable, going back in time beyond our comprehension. You have created all things that have ever been made, and you are sovereign over all things. You are incredible in ways that we cannot imagine, and we praise you! Your life always conquers death, disease, and destruction, and your light always conquers darkness. We thank you for sending your son to bring life and light to this dark world. We thank you for this victory we have in Jesus and the hope that his light and life bring. We pray that your light will shine especially bright through us this holiday season in our families, in our neighborhoods, and in our workplaces. We pray for courage and boldness as light-bearers. We also pray for those in darkness around us, whose eyes are blind to the life and light you bring. Please open their eyes and soften their hearts, and give us ready lips and feet to minister to them. We pray that our lives might better reflect your life and light to the world around us, for your glory and honor. Amen. Ben Bell
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JOHN 1:1-5 (NIV) 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.
DECEMBER ather God, we praise you for who you are–the one who created us, loves us, guides us, and frees us from bondage. Thank you for being our Emmanuel–God with us–and for guiding us by your truth so we don’t have to follow the world’s fabrications. Father, forgive us for allowing the world to squeeze us into its mold and for insisting on doing things our own way, rather than being obedient to you. Your son gave up everything so that we might gain everything. Yet we insist on clinging to the nothings in our lives, foolishly thinking that we can make something of them. Please allow the very nature of your Son to be made whole in us so that we may become like him. Please fill us with your Holy Spirit so that we may follow you in humble obedience. Please give us the grace to have the same mindset as Christ in all our relationships, so that people will recognize him in us and be drawn to you in a new and fresh way. Amen.
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PHILIPPIANS 2:5-8 (NIV) In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!
Andy Raub
2017 HP PRES ADVENT GUIDE 13
DECEMBER ord Jesus, we give thanks that you came to Earth to live with us and like us. We are thankful for the perfect and sinless life you lived, a life we could never live ourselves. We are eternally grateful that you came to die for us, saving us from sin. Your rising from the grave conquered the sting of death; therefore we can have eternity with you. This is an incredible gift to us. Help us to be grateful in humility and joy. May we also share this great gift of salvation with others. Your coming to this earth and victory over death is our greatest reason for celebration this season. We come to you seeking your peace, love, and joy this Advent season. Help us focus on you and your victory for us. In Jesus, holy and saving name we pray. Amen. Tad McIntosh
14 O COME, O COME, EMMANUEL
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1 CORINTHIANS 15:54-55 (NIV) 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.” “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”
DECEMBER eavenly Father, we give you thanks for breaking through the darkness of the world by sending your son Jesus, the light of the world. He came to conquer sin and illuminate the way for all to know truth and follow the path to eternal life. We confess our preference for the darkness of sin, self-sufficiency, and isolation. We pray that we do not run from your light, but allow it to penetrate every dimension of our lives. May your light cleanse us and free us from sources of security other than you. May we see the path of salvation and sanctification you reveal through your son and spirit, and follow it. May we feel the warmth and comfort that you provide as our fire and refuge.
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JOHN 8:12 (NIV) When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.�
Transform all of us, including those who do not yet know you, so that each and every day we take steps to follow you. May your spirit of truth, life, power, salvation, and hope dwell in us so that we may also shine like Jesus. Amen. Chandler Phillips
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IT CAME UPON A MIDNIGHT CLEAR EDMUND HAMILTON SEARS, 1849
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RICHARD STORRS WILLIS, 1850
DECEMBER ather, we love this time of year anticipating the celebration of the good news, the gift of your son to us. We love the beauty and drama of the story in your word: the setting– nighttime, quiet mystery, then... Angel appears Angel speaks Angel concert Advent’s here! Should we also expect to be visited by angels this Advent season? We pray that we will be open to your messengers, Lord. Overcome our difficulty to express great joy and allow us to receive your gifts and share them with those around us. We pray your favor will rest on the people in our church, in our city, and in our world! Let your good news bless us with your peace. Glory to God in the highest heaven! Amen. Charles Clift
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LUKE 2:8-14 (NIV) 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.” 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.”
2017 HP PRES ADVENT GUIDE 19
DECEMBER ear Heavenly Father, We thank you for loving us unconditionally and for your presence to guide us. There are times we have heavy burdens and feel weighed down by frustration, negativity, excessive demands, persecution, and anxiety. In these times, remind us that Jesus carries our burdens, giving us calm and the assurance he is with us to help us. May we learn to release our worries to you as worries weigh us down spiritually and physically. Give us eyes to look back and see anything you wanted us to learn during these trials. Lord, thank you for always being there and leading us toward good. Give us perspective in our situations and trust in our times of trial. In Jesus name we pray. Amen. Jeff Boykin
20 IT CAME UPON A MIDNIGHT CLEAR
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MATTHEW 11:28-30 (NIV) “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.�
DECEMBER ur Heavenly Father, you embody grace, righteousness, compassion, and our eternal protection. You lovingly bring us the deepest and most peaceful rest for our souls. You deliver us from death, sadness, and aimlessness. As we celebrate the birth of your son, we thank you for sending him as our example of how to live graciously, act righteously, live compassionately, and protect the unaware among us. He taught us how to live and die as a humble servant while remaining the King of Kings. As we live and walk in the land of the living, we are surrounded by brokenness. Within this broken world, we have the privilege of walking before you in your light and in your ways. We pray that your Holy Spirit will light our paths with your truth, embolden us to share the good news, comfort those who are hurting, and give us pure servants’ hearts with which to love others as ourselves.
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PSALM 116:5-9 (NIV) The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. The Lord protects the unwary; when I was brought low, he saved me. Return to your rest, my soul, for the Lord has been good to you. For you, Lord, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before the Lord in the land of the living.
In your son’s precious name. Amen. Susanna Ogden
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DECEMBER racious Lord, you guide us in ways in which we are not even aware. You provide for our physical needs in this life and throughout eternity through the gift of your son, Jesus Christ. You are there with us as we face struggles and hardships, as well as times of incredible joy. Thank you for strength in the face of adversity. Thank you for all the gifts you give, even though we are undeserving. Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit which dwells within us and allows us a closeness to you through all our days on Earth until we can one day be fully reconciled to you. Most of all, we thank you for the glory that awaits us in Heaven, as a result of the forgiveness of all our sins, through the ultimate sacrifice paid with the blood of Jesus. For all these things and more, we praise you, Lord. Amen. Dylan Bramhall
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PSALM 23 (NIV) The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
DECEMBER ather God, creator of all things, both seen and unseen. We acknowledge and praise you as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. We are created by you, for you, and for your purposes. Help us understand that we are all sinners saved by grace through faith, by the blood of Jesus. You are the everlasting God. You do not grow tired or weary but give strength to those who are. Your love, grace, and mercy comfort us. You work all things for the good of those who love you. Even though we do not understand or like our trials, they may be part of your providential plan for our good and your glory. Help us to trust you in our trials. By our words and actions, may we boldly and winsomely share the good news of Jesus to those who have not heard and do not know about him. This means here in Dallas and to all the nations, as you have commanded us. Father, give us courage to join in your global plan of redemption, as you draw people near to you. May we go on short-term mission trips or help send missionaries out into the world with our financial resources. Since we have been given much, may we also give generously, blessing others. May we live lives of obedient surrender to you our master, and Lord of all. And may we say, “Here I am Lord, have your way.� Amen.
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ISAIAH 40:28-31 (NIV) Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Mark Nall 2017 HP PRES ADVENT GUIDE 23
DECEMBER oly Father, we approach this season of celebration of your son’s birth with excitement and hope. We are also concerned that we will not dedicate time to center ourselves on you. This wonderful season of celebration has become cluttered with gift-giving and all the social events. We so desire this season of celebration to be centered on the coming and birth of your son, Jesus Christ, and the peace he brings. Your prophet, Isaiah, foretells of Jesus’ coming some 700 years before his earthly birth. We now live in the reality of his birth, life, ministry, and resurrection. The foundation of my faith and hope rests in these realities. We commit ourselves to you this season to tell of these magnificent realities, the good news of salvation, to friends who do not know Jesus, and his great gift. And by doing so, we will also come to know you better. We commit to being more centered on Christ and the life he wants us to live. May we live a life that approaches a heaven that Christ desires for us here on Earth. Amen. Doug Smith
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ISAIAH 46:3-4 (NIV) “Listen to me, you descendants of Jacob, all the remnant of the people of Israel, you whom I have upheld since your birth, and have carried since you were born. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”
DECEMBER ord God, the hymn we sing says, “The world in solemn stillness lay, to hear the angels sing” and today you tell us again to “Be still and know that I am God.” With quiet hearts we come to you. Amidst the clamor of busyness around us, you assure us that we need not fear because of the truth that you are indeed the Almighty God, sovereign over all, present with us today, and who the whole Earth will exalt as God. Thank you, Lord, for the vision of a transformed world. Together one day, people of every tribe, language, and nation will praise you. Your promise of this transformed world gives us peace and assurance. As a church, may we lean into that future by reaching out to our community and to the world, serving as your hands and feet, bringing all glory to you.
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PSALM 46:10 (NIV) He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
So, Lord, we sing praise to you with our whole heart. You are our gracious king, Prince of Peace, and savior of our life. May our reverence and praise of you bring calm, peace, and stillness to our souls that we might do our part this day to exalt you in word and deed. Amen. Nancy Seay
2017 HP PRES ADVENT GUIDE 25
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JOY TO THE WORLD ISAAC WATTS, 1719; ALT
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ATTR. GEORGE FREDERICK HANDEL, 1742 ARR. LOWELL MASON, 1836
DECEMBER ear Heavenly Father, bless us with a new song in our hearts for the marvelous things you have done! Let us sing praises to you, for you hold the power for salvation to everyone who believes in Jesus. Your mercy and your faithfulness has been revealed to all generations, and all creation rejoices at the coming of our Lord! Father, thank you that we are chosen, loved, and accepted. We confess that we have sinned in thought, word, and deed, in what we have done, and failed to do. Yet you still choose to love us, forgive us, and cleanse us. Our hearts sing with gratitude for you, for your steadfast and unconditional love for us. Father, bless us to be a people filled with thankfulness of your grace and mercy so that our lives reflect a contagious joy, pouring out an attitude of gratitude. May we live a life of joyful celebration of your goodness and grace as we seek to love you more, and to love and serve those you have put in our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. Laurie Connell
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PSALM 98 (NIV) Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. The Lord has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations. He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—shout for joy before the Lord, the King. Let the sea resound, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy; let them sing before the Lord, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples with equity.
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DECEMBER ear Kingly Father, we are grateful that you are on the throne above the world and you will reign forever. This gives us comfort and confidence that you are in control and we can rejoice. We thank you for ruling all people and nations as well as the messes that we make. You rule in a just manner, with equity, fairness, and righteousness. You make all things right, forgiving us our sins, remembering them no more. This allows us to step down when we try to sit on your throne. We are grateful you are our refuge, our safety, and stronghold, when we are oppressed, downtrodden, or in trouble. This enables us to feel secure and protected, and we can rest in your arms with joy. Thank you, Kingly Father–with you on the throne making all things right, just, and secure in your perfect timing, we can trust you. We can be transformed through the power of Jesus reconciling us to you. We can work through the mighty Holy Spirit to help improve and make strides in our families, in our city, and the world, with joy streaming from you. In the great power of Jesus’ name, Amen. Annette Vaughn
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PSALM 9:7-9 (NIV) The Lord reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment. He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity. The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.
DECEMBER ord Jesus, we thank you for the joy that you brought to the world through your righteous endurance on the cross. Because of you, our sin has been washed clean, far as the curse is found, and we rest comfortably in the truth that our Savior reigns eternally. With this joy in our hearts, help us to persevere in our daily worship and honor of you, and be encouraged by the “great cloud of witnesses� in Heaven who joyfully went before us. Allow our hearts to prepare room for your presence during this season of Advent, that we might fully experience the wonders of your love. Amen. Jed Melson
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HEBREWS 12:1-2 (NIV) 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 marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
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DECEMBER reat Jehovah, during this season of joy we are thankful that you arrived as a tiny baby, reminding us of the miracle of our own lives. The lights of the season remind us that even in birth you are the light of our lives. Let us enjoy the creation you have placed around us, the sun, the moon, the stars, the rain, and the snow. The mountains and seas are reminders of your great power and magnificence and serve as everyday glimpses of how wonderful our life in heaven will be. Your provision is always more than we deserve, yet you continue to provide. And when we are weak, you strengthen us in our suffering. Let the joy of your presence always be in our minds and hearts.Guide us each day toward you. Let your word be a part of our daily pursuits, so we will see your path for us clearly. Let us sing Joy to the World with all glory to you this season. Amen. John Walsh
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PSALM 16:11 (NIV) You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
DECEMBER eavenly Father, in this season of Advent, keep us close. It is easy for each of us to get caught up in the festivities and activities of the season and become distracted. When our focus is on you, though, we see that you are the author and creator of everything that is good in this world. In only a few days, we will celebrate your most perfect gift, and our anticipation is almost tangible. You pursued us in our brokenness, and Jesus showed us the way to truly know you. In a world where change seems incessant, you never change, and we are comforted by your oneness. Nothing eclipses your glory which will shine forever. No matter our circumstance, your unashamed love for us endures. Keep us in prayer, keep us in your word, and open our hearts so that your unwavering light daily transforms us to be more of a reflection of you. Praise be to you, the Light of the World! Amen.
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JAMES 1:17 (NIV) Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
Monty Montgomery
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DECEMBER eavenly Father, let us sing your praises! Thank you for loving us so much that you sent your only and precious son, Jesus, to live in and among the world and die for our sins. We all fall short of your glory and through Jesus’ life and suffering, we learn how to live by faith, pray, forgive, love one another, flee from temptations, and mostly how to honor and adore you in joy. Forgive us, Lord, for seeking happiness in our circumstances rather than leaning on you from whom only true joy comes. Everything on Earth is temporary, but the good news of Jesus Christ will stay with us for eternity if we humbly believe and accept him as our Lord and Savior. Fill us with the Holy Spirit so we can live according to your will. We exalt you because you are the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. You are our refuge and our strength. Let us find great joy and be good stewards in sharing the good news that salvation brings. We ask all this in Jesus’ name. Amen. Cynthia Beecherl
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PSALM 47:1-2 (NIV) Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. For the Lord Most High is awesome, the great King over all the earth.
DECEMBER ear Heavenly Father: please quiet our busy hearts, minds, and hands to pause often to delight in Jesus. We find ourselves distracted daily by our obligations and our desires. We often give our attention and time to worldly pursuits instead of the important work that you call us to–walk with our brothers and sisters in becoming transformed followers of Christ. The Son of God has walked with us and will come again. Let us rejoice in our salvation which is given freely to anyone who follows Jesus. Father, please give us joyful hearts to receive your gift. Give us the right perspective to see the enormity of Jesus’ promises to us. Let us rejoice in every way and tell others of you through our joy! In Jesus, your holy and precious son, Amen.
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PSALM 96:11-13 (NIV) Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it. Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let all the trees of the forest sing for joy. Let all creation rejoice before the Lord, for he comes, he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in his faithfulness.
Winnie Lee
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ather God, as we read the story of the night Jesus was born, we can find ourselves picturing the “Hallmark version” of that first Christmas– an angelic baby sleeping soundly in a manger; shepherds tending to their well-behaved sheep; angel choirs singing sweetly in the sky. But Father we pray that we wouldn’t lose sight of the magnitude of what happened that first Christmas night when Heaven broke through, and your promise to send our rescuer was fulfilled. Help us to be transformed by the power of the good news of the angel, “…a Savior has been born to you; he is… the Lord.” The God of the universe came down from Heaven and took on flesh, not just to save the world but to personally save you and me–because
of his unfathomable love for us. That’s not just good news; it’s the best news. We pray that this revolutionary good news of Christmas would move us to confidently share your love and the promise of your faithfulness with all those you put in our path. Holy Spirit, give us eyes to see each person we come into contact with as your beloved–someone who is worthy of our love and grace because you lavish them with yours. May we remember and joyously proclaim the best news of the greatest gift, “Christ the Savior is born; Christ the Savior is born.” It is in his saving name we pray. Amen. Lauren Eastburn
LUKE 2:1-11 (NIV) 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 38 SILENT NIGHT
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.”
CHRISTMAS EVE AT HP PRES JOIN US FOR WORSHIP 3821 University Blvd, Dallas, TX 75205 NATIVITY ANIMALS 11 AM FRONT LAWN UNTIL 6 PM SERVICE WITH CHILDREN’S 12 PM STORY & CANDLE LIGHTING
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SERVICE WITH CHILDREN’S STORY & CANDLE LIGHTING
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SERVICE WITH CHILDREN’S STORY & CANDLE LIGHTING
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SERVICE WITH CHOIR, BRASS ENSEMBLE, & CANDLE LIGHTING
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SERVICE WITH CHOIR, BRASS ENSEMBLE, & CANDLE LIGHTING
Help us prepare for this big day by letting us know which service you and your family are planning to attend at hppres.org/christmaseve. We want to make sure that every guest who walks through our doors has a seat, and one of the best ways you can help us welcome them is by making room at our 4 and 6 pm services by attending at 12, 2, 8 or 10 pm instead.
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SERVICE WITH CHOIR, BRASS ENSEMBLE, & CANDLE LIGHTING
Nursery care is available for children 2 months-3 years for all Christmas Eve services except 8 and 10 pm. Reservations are encouraged but not required. hppres.org/nurseryreservations
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SILENT NIGHT JOSEPH MOHR TRANS, JOHN FREEMAN YOUNG, 1863
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FRANZ XAVER GRUBER, 1818
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
ay your day be filled with joy, praise, and gratitude for the Savior of the world! May your wonder continue and your curiosity be uncontained as you grow more into the likeness of Jesus. May those who do not know Jesus, see him today and be gripped by his beauty, glory, and love.
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LUKE 2:13-20 (NIV) 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.”
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.
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When
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ADVENT 2017 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.
SUNDAY CLASS GATHERINGS
CHRISTMAS DINNER
Visit hppres.org/advent for specific details of each Christmas celebration.
Wednesday, Dec. 13, 5:30–8 pm Elliott Hall An adult evening of dinner and dancing for all members, hosted by your deacons. Big band swing music provided by the Dave Tanner band.
FRIDAY STORYTIME Friday, Dec. 1, 9:30–10:30 am Explore Advent with your kids or grandkids four years old and under. Storytime will include a fun craft and snack.
CUP OF CHEER Sunday, Dec. 3, 2–4 pm Pauline Neuhoff’s Home Bring a friend to the Women’s Ministry annual Christmas gathering!
HIGHLAND KIDS & STUDENTS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS Wednesday, Dec. 6 There is a Christmas celebration for each age group from 1st–12th. Visit hppres.org/advent for specific details.
COLLEGE CHRISTMAS PARTY Tuesday, Dec. 19, 6:30–8 pm Dinner and gathering for any college age students at the Dunns’ home.
STARTING POINT Sundays, Jan. 21, 28, and Feb. 4 11 am–1 pm, Parlor 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.
Details for all these events at hppres.org/advent
TREASURES OF HOPE CHRISTMAS STORE (DLF) Through Sunday, Dec. 10 HP Pres will be collecting gift items to stock the Treasures of Hope store. Details at hppres.org/advent Monday, Dec. 11–Friday, Dec. 15 Volunteer to greet, wrap gifts, and stock shelves at Treasures of Hope store.
AKOLA POP UP STORE AT NORTHPARK Through Friday, Jan. 5 Volunteers will work alongside a store manager and the Akola Dallas Women selling jewelry that is handmade by women in Dallas and Uganda!
MISSIONARY BLESSING Sunday, Nov. 26, 9–10:30 am Elliott Hall The congregation is invited to join together to prepare Christmas gifts for our missionaries and mission partners.
FISH & LOAVES GIFT MARKET Through Sunday, Dec. 17 Contribute to local and global ministries in honor of your loved ones. Purchase online, Sundays in Stained Glass Hallway, or weekdays in Welcome Center.
RECONCILIATION OUTREACH CHRISTMAS PARTY Friday, Dec. 8 Celebrate Christmas with the annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree at Reconciliation Outreach.
CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS With a gift of $25, your poinsettia will be used to decorate the Sanctuary on Christmas Eve. Poinsettias can be picked up after the 10 pm worship service on Christmas Eve. If you are interested, please get an order form located in the Welcome Center or visit hppres.org/advent for more information.
Details for all these events at hppres.org/advent
CAROLS SERMON SERIES Sundays in Advent Your favorite carols contain incredible teachings about Jesus. Join us on Sundays as we look at familiar songs in a new light.
ADVENT FESTIVAL Wednesday, Nov. 29, 6–7 pm Elliott Hall Children’s Choirs Nativity performance, dinner, crafts, and service project for kids 4th grade and under.
HIGHLANDER CONCERT: HANDEL’S MESSIAH Friday, Dec. 8, 7 pm, Sanctuary The Chancel Choir and Orchestra offers a highlight to the holiday season with a performance of Handel’s Messiah. The complete version plays like an exciting theater piece, with
scenes, acts, and narratives that tie together the prophecy, birth, earthly ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
HIGHLANDER CHRISTMAS CONCERT Friday, Dec. 15, 7 pm, Sanctuary Sing along with your church family and the Chancel Choir and Orchestra to the inspiring sounds of Christmas.
CHINESE CHURCH CHRISTMAS PAGEANT Saturday, Dec. 23, 5:30–8:30 pm Bell Center The Chinese Ministry will hold a worship service with a pageant followed by dinner and fellowship.
Details for all these events at hppres.org/advent
Help us prepare for this busy day by letting us know which service you and your family are planning to attend at hppres.org/christmaseve. We want to make sure that every guest who walks through our doors has a seat, and one of the best ways you can help us welcome them is by making room at our 4 and 6 pm services by attending at 12, 2, 8 or 10 pm instead. Nursery care is available for children 2 months to 3 years for all Christmas Eve services except 8 and 10 pm. Reservations are encouraged but not required. hppres.org/nurseryreservations