Being Courageous
By Susan Klein

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9

In the past decade, the slogan “No Fear” has been prominently displayed on the apparel of teen-agers and young adults. Founded by twin brothers, a California-based company has made a name for itself among the younger crowds who engage in racing, surfing and snowboarding. The attitude has developed into one of being extremely daring and taking huge risks while engaging in these sport venues. However, its meaning has taken on a broader scope with some young people whose actions define courage as taking unnecessary risks in an attempt to prove they have “no fear.”

God’s Word paints a slightly different picture of courage. It has nothing to do with athletic prowess or extreme sports. Most often, the courage mentioned in Scripture has to do with men facing battle or people in difficult life-circumstances. When the odds seem stacked against them, the Lord steps in with a reminder of His presence and power, commanding them to trust Him and fear not! The word “courage” used in these verses means “to strengthen by fastening upon.” Our courage comes from our being strengthened by fastening ourselves upon God, and His power. We don’t get it from our own strength, and we don’t find it in the absence of fear. Most definitely, there is usually fear involved! God has given us the emotion or feeling of fear as a warning to avoid harmful situations, not to draw us into them. He knows we will have fear, and rightly so! But His command is to cling to Him in our fear and trust in His power.

Recently, I attended the funeral of a woman who died of cancer. Many spoke of her courage as she battled the disease to the very end. Her courage was not that of “I can beat this in my own strength,” for she knew she had no power over it and that the odds were stacked against her. Rather, she knew that God would empower her to face the outcome of her situation, whether good or bad. She fastened herself to Him for strength to get through each difficult day. She remained courageous in the face of fear and doubt. She fought a good fight in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Whatever your battle or your difficult life-circumstances, take courage! You are not alone and you will not be overcome. God promises to be with you wherever you go. Fasten yourself to Him!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What things or circumstances in life do you fear the most?
2. Memorize a verse having to do with courage. When you are feeling fearful, say the verse out loud and ask God to intervene with His power.

FURTHER READING:
1 Chronicles 28:19-20; Matthew 14:25-27; Acts 23:9-11

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She is the Coordinator of Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study and one of its teachers.

Living REAL in the Real World After All…
By Elin Henderson

“And we know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding so that we
may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life.”
1 John 5:20 (NKJV)

Reality shows are the biggest thing to hit TV these past decades. Every time I touch down on American soil, I am amazed at the nuances I find. Reality shows about surviving, finding love, getting lost, racing, eating weird foods…you name it, they’ve made a show about it! The buzz has even made it all the way here to Mozambique. This last year, scouts for “Survivor” searched for a location for their next shoot. Apparently, they found some great places, but the cities here don’t seem to be adequate for their crews! Oh well, don’t expect to see “Survivor: Mozambique” on your TV screens just yet.

Truth is a core essential to Christian living and believers need to be constantly seeking after it. How easily we are duped into believing a lie…and not usually because it is so far from the truth, but more often because it is so close to the truth. Satan is called the Father of Lies and wants to keep us from walking in truth. How do we keep ourselves from being sucked into the near truths or lies that the world and the enemy are constantly throwing our way? Well, we have several top-of-the-line sources for “reality.” The Word of God is our source of truth. Not only that, but we have God Himself, the Author of truth, alive and well within us in the form of the Holy Spirit. He promises to guide us into all truth. And finally, we have the example of Christ who lived His whole life in step with grace and truth.

Part of claiming the truths revealed by the Holy Spirit through His Word and lived out by His Son, is also being honest with ourselves. Too many of us live with varying degrees of self-deception. We aren’t always honest with where we are at and what is going on in our lives. Maybe on the outside things seem “rosy” to those around us, but inside we are living far from the reality of that. David says in Psalm 51:6 that God desires truth in the inner parts of our souls. Truth inside and out sets us free to be all that God wants us to be.

May our lives be “reality shows” for the world to look on and see truth and all that comes with it!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What safeguards do you have in place to keep yourself focused on truth?

FURTHER READING:
John 1:14, 8:32, 16:13, 17:17

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to nine-year-old Callie and six-year-old Elias.

Thank you
By Dawn Weimar

“Sing to the Lord with Thanksgiving…”
Psalm 147:7

I have a friend who always sends thank-you cards and is committed to teaching her children the same. I have to admit that I had not been in the habit, but knowing her and seeing her commitment to a written thank you has changed my perspective completely. It is so much more than a gesture. It is a good habit! I’ll not claim to be perfect, but there can only be good in stopping to appreciate a kindness or gift by pulling out a pen and paper to express gratitude.

Jesus also instructs us in this matter. In Luke 17, Jesus meets and heals ten lepers whom He instructs to go and show themselves to the priests. “One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him…and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, ‘Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?’”

Whoa! Sounds like a pretty powerful rhetorical question. Jesus makes it quite clear that He expects us to demonstrate our gratitude. Well, of course, Jesus knew these lepers would be grateful; He is omniscient after all. That must mean there are other reasons for us to express gratitude. Gratitude and its expression demonstrate that we understand and appreciate the sacrifice or kindness that someone has shown us. We don’t take it for granted. I believe gratitude establishes us with a gracious attitude.

Let’s consider the opposite…Do you know someone who never appreciates a kindness or gift? Someone who never even says “thank you”? What does that look like? How do you prefer to be viewed?

My grandma always says that she is thankful every time she reads the obituaries…and her name is not mentioned! She’s a stitch! But, seriously, when is the last time that you thanked the Lord for your first morning breath and daily bread? For His love? For Jesus?

Be creative as you practice an attitude of gratitude. And, pull out those thank-you cards!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Write two thank you notes today…one to someone in your life whom you need to thank for an act of kindness and one to the Lord, the Giver of all good things.

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 118, 139; Luke 17:11-19; Ephesians 1:15

Dawn is a wife and mother of three daughters, and is active in Oakwood's worship ministries. She's a pediatric nurse, currently working as VP of Business Development in Population Health Improvement.

Experiencing Toddler Love
By Pamela Blattner

“He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger or temporary resident and gives him food and clothing.”
Deuteronomy 10:18 (Amplified Bible)

My grandson, who’s two and a half, and I were on an excursion one day. I was craving Noodles & Company’s Mac-and-Cheese. I scanned the place and found a booth. Suddenly, Logan opened his mouth and “roared” to a man who was smiling at him. I looked around and saw an older man with baggy pants, zipper half shut, and hair uncombed and unwashed. He had a stubble beard and his nose was so varicose it looked like a road map. Even though he was across the room, I was sure he smelled. He was smiling and flapping his hands toward my grandson. Immediately my “grandma protection switch” went to “on”!

“Hi there, little man; what a cute kid. I see ya, son,” the man said. Logan was jumping in the booth, smiling and saying “hi.” Everyone in the restaurant noticed and looked at us…and then at the old man. Our Mac-and-Cheese came and the man continued to be a nuisance with Logan. “So…big! Peek-a-Boo! Hey look he’s smiling at me!” the man said. I told Logan to stop smiling at the man; to turn around and eat! I was embarrassed and thought to myself, “Nobody thinks you’re cute. Stop talking to my grandson.” I ate in silence, inhaling my food as fast as I could, but Logan did not! He didn’t eat a thing. As I snatched him up to leave, the man was standing between me and the door. I prayed, “Lord, just get me out of here.”

I was almost to the door when suddenly Logan propelled himself in the man’s direction. In the blink of an eye an old man and a toddler embarked on a “high five.” Logan leaned forward in total trust and love, pursed his lips as if he was extending a kiss toward the stranger and laid his head on his hand. The man’s eyes welled with tears, and he extended his aged hands and cradled Logan’s back. “Ma’am, you take real good care of him. Bless you. I just got my Christmas gift.” As he released Logan, his face showed deep pain. I felt it. I felt his soul. Holding Logan tightly, I cried and prayed, “Lord, please forgive me.”

God reminded me that day that if we’re going to enter the Kingdom of God, we have to come as children. I witnessed God’s love through my grandson. Logan didn’t judge his appearance, but in innocence, he saw the man’s soul first. That’s God-like love at its finest.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Do you find yourself judging others by outward appearances? Confess and allow the Lord to change your heart to match His.

FURTHER READING:
Luke 6:30-36; Romans 12:1-2, 13:8-16

Pam and her husband Richard have two adult children and two grandchildren. She serves Oakwood through its Family Care Ministries.

The First Christmas
Luke 2:1-20 (NLT)

At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant.

And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.

That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”

Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”

When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished, but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Reflect on the story of the first Christmas. What stands out as you read the account? What’s the reaction of your heart? What emotions are you experiencing as you ponder the birth of Jesus?
2. Ask the Lord to reveal to you His Glory and Joy this Christmas.

Awe and Wonder
By Susan Klein

“Therefore, stand in awe of God.”
Ecclesiastes 5:7

One of my favorite Christmas songs is Third Day’s rendition of, “Mary, Did You Know?” Some of the lyrics are as follows:

Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day walk on water?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you've delivered, will soon deliver you.

Mary did you know that your baby boy will give sight to a blind man?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will calm a storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angels trod?
And when you kiss your little baby, you have kissed the face of God.

Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy is heaven's perfect Lamb?
This sleeping child you're holding is the great I am. (1)

Being a mother myself, I have to stop and wonder what exactly did go through Mary’s mind when she conceived the Son of God? Scripture tells us she was visited by the angel Gabriel who told her she would conceive and give birth to God’s Son. He even told her what to name Him, and that He would reign over the house of Jacob forever. At approximately 15 years of age, did she fully comprehend the magnitude of her situation? What were her thoughts as she carried Him in her belly for nine months? What went through her mind as she cradled Him in her arms in a dark, cold stable in the middle of the night? And what did she think when the shepherds arrived, already knowing of His birth?

I can only imagine that she was filled with awe and wonder! I’m sure, like any new mother, she counted His fingers and toes to make sure they were all there. And she probably caressed His tiny arms and kissed His sleepy face. But beyond that, I believe she pondered the majesty of God’s plan for her and for this holy infant she held. I imagine she didn’t get much sleep as she gave thought to how her life would be forever changed by this miraculous event. I’m sure many of the questions in the song ran through her mind that night. “My son, God’s Son, will one day rule the nations?!!”

As you celebrate the birth of your Savior, take a moment to ponder, as Mary did, the magnitude of this blessed event. Allow your mind to be filled with awe and wonder!

FURTHER READING:
Luke 1:26-38, 2:8-20

(1) © 1991 World Music/Rufus Music/ascap, by Mark Lowry and Buddy Greene

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She is the Coordinator of Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study and one of its teachers.

Regifting
By Vernette Kureck

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!”
2 Corinthians 9:15

To give an unwanted gift to someone else or to give something one previously received as a gift is called regifting. More than half the adults recently surveyed found regifting acceptable. In fact, even the etiquette experts at Emily Post Institute approve of the practice in some circumstances.

Here are some things to consider before regifting: What is the gift’s condition? Only new, unopened gifts should be considered. Don’t give items that have been owned for a long time. Generally, if you have to dust it off, it is not regiftable. Also, what are your intentions? Are you giving a gift just to give a gift? Is this something the recipient would really like or need, or are you giving it because you ran out of time or need to reciprocate? Also, common sense recommends that you only regift items to people who are not going to see the original giver.

What do you think the best Giver of the best Gift thinks of regifting? God’s best Gift, of course, is His beloved Son, Jesus Christ. For some people, Jesus is an unwanted gift. For others, He is the best gift they have ever received and they want to share Him with others. If that describes you, what condition are you in to share? Have you been allowing Jesus, through the Holy Spirit, to work in your life, or do you need to do some spiritual dusting? Generally, the longer Jesus resides in your life, the more the qualities of His love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness and self-control should shine forth from you. What you have will be seen as a desirable gift, a wanted gift to those around you—and a needed gift, regardless. Beyond that, the beauty of regifting Jesus is that He is multiplied. It is spiritual math! “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

Jesus came as a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes. Most people know the story. But a gift isn’t truly possessed until it is unwrapped and used. God gave His Son to save mankind. To save you. To save me. Someday, we will see the Original Giver and He will know what we did with His gift. Knowing the joy of His salvation, let us rejoice in sharing that truth with others. Give the ultimate regift.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Are you prepared to share God’s greatest Gift? If not, what’s holding you back?

FURTHER READING:
John 6:53-57; Hebrews 7:24-25

Vernette and her husband Ken have two children and seven grandchildren. When she’s not “grandparenting,” she’s busy as Oakwood Church’s financial secretary and as part of the leadership team for We Women’s Moms Nurturing Moms.

Purposeful Birth
By Karen D’Amore

“For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16

In the movie My Sister’s Keeper, tragedy threatens to tear apart the Fitzgerald family when their two-year-old daughter Kate is diagnosed with leukemia. Conceiving another child to serve as a bone marrow match is their only hope for Kate’s survival. An unconventional birth thru genetic engineering and in vitro fertilization, Anna is brought into the world to be a genetic match for her older sister. Anna’s pre-planned birth was for the express purpose of saving the life of another. The fate of Kate’s life was dependent on the birth of her sister Anna.

With Christmas drawing near, I am moved to reflect on the purposeful birth of Another. Prophets would speak of His birth hundreds of years in advance. Born of a virgin, the unconventional, miraculous birth of Jesus would bring joy to the world. “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Shepherds, wise men, and angels all shared in the excitement of knowing about this great event. They knew this was no ordinary baby. A star paused over Bethlehem just to mark the way for those who were looking for this special child. Yes, God would send His Son, Jesus, to be born into this world, for the express purpose of being our Savior. Jesus was born to die! Our only hope for eternal life would be dependent on His birth and eventual death.

Through the purposeful birth of Jesus, all who believe in Him have the hope of heaven. A perfect genetic match for all sinners, we can partake of His “marrow” and be saved. Christmas is the celebration of the birth of our Savior! Are we celebrating as though our every breath of life depends on Him? Or has the Light that shines brighter then any other been hidden behind tinsel and trees?

Christmas takes on new meaning when viewed in the context of John 3:16, doesn’t it? God sacrificed His son in life and death because of His love for us. This Christmas we can celebrate with hope in our heart and joy in our soul. Jesus’ purposeful birth gave us life…now and forever.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Is there someone in your life that is in need of His lifegiving “marrow”? Share with that person how they too can have the perfect gift of eternal life.
2. What can you give to Jesus this Christmas? Your heart? Your love? Your time?

FURTHER READING:
2 Corinthians 9:15; John 14:6; John 6:46

Married to husband Dan, Karen is the Salon Coordinator for Intrigue Salon & Spa, the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study and a volunteer at the Wildlife In Need Center.

“Making a List, Checking It Twice”
By Jennie Pierce

“O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you.”
Psalm 63:1

Like the traditional Christmas jingle, I found myself doing just that: making my list and checking it twice. But this list wasn’t a log of the items to buy my loved ones; it was a log of what needed to be done today…my “to do” list. I knew my day was going to be packed, and I needed to streamline every waking minute.

Then, it dawned on me. Was “Quiet time with Jesus” on my list? Actually, it was! The truth is, however, that it was posted lower, almost as if to say, “I’ll get to that after I have done all these other things…if I have time.” I had already checked off several items on my list, but I was placing the accomplishment of other tasks before spending time with my Savior.

The Christmas season is so special, so beautiful, so . . . time-consuming. Unfortunately, there is an irony that exists. The very season that is intended to focus on and celebrate the Savior too often keeps us from doing just that!

So, this Christmas season, as you find yourself making your list, won’t you be sure to check it twice, to be sure that “Spending Time with Jesus” is at the very top? After all, He placed YOU at the top of His list when He came to earth as a baby, to eventually sacrifice His life on the cross for your salvation.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What is on your “to do” list in front of spending time with Jesus? Are you willing to re-design your list to put Jesus in His proper place? He longs to meet with you.

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 63; Deuteronomy 6:5

Jennie is a wife and mother of three. She is active in Oakwood’s musical worship ministry and works part-time for a chiropractor.

Old Age Isn’t for Sissies!
By Pamela Blattner

“Abraham did not weaken in faith when he considered the utter impotence of his own body…no unbelief or distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong and was empowered by faith as he gave praise and glory to God.”
Romans 4:19-21 (Amplified)

My friend, Vi, lives on the lower level of her son’s house. Recently, my granddaughter and I went to visit and I found myself smiling before we even entered the living room. We stepped down the stairs and saw her napping in her recliner, the fireplace burning softly. I touched her gently on the shoulder and she awoke. She insisted we sit near her and doused both of us with hugs and kisses. Vi’s living quarters are spotless, despite the fact that her swollen legs make walking extremely difficult. Her advanced age and health limit her mobility, so much so she rarely goes out anymore. Every visit, whether with Izzy or a church friend, is a blessing and a glimpse into a world that is long gone.

Vi is the most optimistic person I know. She is also realistic and in constant discomfort. She knows that so many of her dreams are lost…she has outlived many friends, family members and her beloved husband, yet she is happy. She still has energy left for living. And, when I leave a visit with her, I’m more energized and a little happier myself. She is a link to a rich and beautiful past, deeply connected to the Christian community through her fervent prayers.

There are many of us who view our friendship with Vi as a precious gift and we treasure the warmth and love she showers upon us. Her life is a closed history book: joy and sadness, hope and loss…a testimony that where there is hope, there is life. During our visits, I look at the faces of all of her family whose photos surround her chair. I see the cards and letters on the table next to her that communicate the concerns and updates of those that are dear to her.

Vi’s life, devoted to Jesus, reflects a promise of the Lord in Isaiah: He is our eternal companion. Isaiah 46:4 (amplified) says, “Even to your old age, I am He, and even to hair white with age will I carry you. I have made and I will bear; yes, I will carry and save you.”

GOING DEEPER:
1. This a great time of year to remember our elderly relatives and friends. Who is God bringing to your mind today? How can you serve that person this week?

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 91:14-16, 92:14; Proverbs 10:27; 1 Corinthians 4:16

Pam and her husband Richard have two adult children and two grandchildren. She serves Oakwood through its Family Care Ministries.

The Magnificat
By Dawn Weimar

“My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.”
Luke 1:46b-48a

He understands that we are dust and frail. He understands the circumstances in which we live. He understood that the role He had called Mary to was not an easy one. Mary was to be the mother of the Savior, but who would believe her? Mary was a young girl engaged to be married. People would whisper. Mary knew this would not be easy. Yet she replied to the angel, “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said” (Luke 1:38).

A humble state indeed. Who was Mary to share this news with? Surely, they’d take her away in a straitjacket to a room with padded walls. Yet, our gracious Lord was mindful of her humble state. He provided a confidante. “Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her six month. For nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:36-37). Elizabeth was not just a confidant, but someone who understood the power and mercy of God’s miraculous work in her life. But God didn’t stop there. Elizabeth was not just a confidante, for Mary did not have to tell her. Elizabeth already knew.

“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed, ‘Blessed are you among women and blessed is the child you will bear! …Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished’” (Luke 1:41-42, 45).

Wow! Elizabeth not only knew, she knew, she understood this momentous world-changing occasion, and her soul rejoiced in God her Savior. Mary had a soulmate to share and rejoice with. She didn’t have to tell the story, she didn’t have to explain. God prepared an older woman for her to visit with and spend time with for three months. What a gift! And Elizabeth was living the fulfillment of her own heart’s desire, her own miracle from the Lord.

Today, meditate on who the Lord is and the marvelous works He has done in your life…in others’ lives…for His people. Let your spirit rejoice in who God is and His role as Savior. There is nothing you did to deserve a Savior. He just is your Savior if you ask Him to be. Humble yourself. Then, rejoice in the Lord for He is mindful of your humble state. Consider and rejoice!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Re-read the last paragraph and ACT on it!

FURTHER READING:
Luke 1:26-56

Dawn is a wife and mother of three daughters, and is active in Oakwood's worship ministries. She's a pediatric nurse, currently working as VP of Business Development in Population Health Improvement.

Celebrate Christmas
By Pamela Blattner

“And you will sing as on the night you celebrate a holy festival; your hearts will rejoice as when people go up with flutes to the mountain of the LORD, to the Rock of Israel.”
Isaiah 30:29

I love the songs, smells, and warmth that the month of December brings. I crank up the boom box in our living room to “experience” Andréa Bocelli’s voice as he tenderly and passionately sings “Oh Holy Night.” As the song progresses to its crescendo, I become ushered into Christmas. Charlotte Church is next, and her singing traditionally accompanies our tree-trimming activity. Hiding the pickle ornament marks its conclusion. And, my good friend Perry Como is the only one I allow in my kitchen during the annual extreme grandparenting cookie decorating extravaganza!

I believe that when God sees us lighting the CHRISTmas tree in our homes, He feels honored and glorified. The crèches that adorn our mantles and homes dressed up with beautiful strings of lights usher powerful memories of God’s greatest Gift to mankind: Jesus. He inhabits our praise as we sing to the traditional hymns, carols and sweet new melodies that worship His Name. What beautiful memories we can create to symbolize Christ’s entrance into the world.

God loves celebrations. When Jesus was born, God celebrated big time! Our Christmas tree lights are nothing compared to the way He decorated the skies with heavenly fireworks to introduce the Light of the world. He scheduled the angelic choir to announce the Lamb of God to the lowly shepherds and He sent a star to lead the kings from the East to worship the King of all kings.

I also believe that God enjoys our fanfare at our Christmas Eve services. When I was growing up, I gazed toward the front of the sanctuary to see the beautiful tall Christmas trees almost guarding the nativity scene, with the figure of baby Jesus lying in the manger filled with hay. Large choirs accompanied overpowering pipe organs that pounded out hymns of thanksgiving and praise. I can imagine His delight! Can you imagine the joy of the Lord as he draws our sweet aroma through the heavens?

This year, as we decorate our homes and celebrate Christmas traditions, let’s have fun and find creative ways to show our families how to delight in the symbolism of the season. Thank you, God, for loving celebrations…and the reminders they are to us of who You are and why You came.

GOING DEEPER:
1. How can you show the joy of Christ’s birth this season to those around you?

FURTHER READING:
Exodus 10:9; 1 Chronicles 16:27; Nehemiah 8:12

Pam and her husband Richard have two adult children and two grandchildren. She serves Oakwood through its Family Care Ministries.

Solid Foundation
By Jennie Pierce

“He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.”
Psalm 40:2

When my family decided to go on a frisbee golf outing, I knew I was in trouble. I had been warned about two ponds strategically placed on the course that were slimy, stinky and stagnant. Those disgusting ponds, paired up with my inability to accurately throw a disc, guaranteed a lose-lose situation for me.

Sure enough, it didn’t take long before I landed my disc in one of those ponds. Mustering up my courage…and stupidity…I proceeded to look for my disc. I carefully eased my feet into the water, only to feel the most disgusting, slippery mud ooze between my toes and suck me in. In fact, the mud was so slippery, I literally could not stand up. The only way to lurk around for my disc was to lean forward with my hands and crawl around on all fours. One slight, sudden move would send me plunging down. Even with the aid of a large stick, I could not maneuver, and failed to retrieve my long, lost disc…all as the result of one really bad aim.

Life is like that sometimes. One wrong decision, one act of disobedience, one fleshly response…and before we know it, we’re floundering, slipping, trying to keep from going under. Our firm footing has turned into mush.

Jesus Christ Himself claims to be the most reliable foundation there is; and, fearing Him—as in reverencing Him and having a wholesome dread of displeasing Him—is the key to having that treasure. With a firm foundation, we will not be shaken when life’s storms assail. When we’re walking obediently with Him, He is pleased with us and gives our feet firm, solid ground on which to stand. And, when we do end up messing up, we’re reminded that even His love stands firm forever (Psalm 89:2)! As the old hymn so accurately reminds us, “On Christ the Solid Rock I stand; all other ground is sinking sand.” (1)


GOING DEEPER:
1. On what are you relying as your foundation? If it’s something other than Jesus Himself, it is nothing more than temporal and unreliable. Let Jesus be your true, One Foundation.

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 37:23; Isaiah 33:6; 1 Corinthians 3:11; Matthew 7:25

(1) The Solid Rock, words by William Bradbury

Jennie is a wife and mother of three. She is active in Oakwood’s musical worship ministry and works part-time for a chiropractor.

Light of the World
By Susan Klein

“The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.”
John 1:9

Like many people, one of the things I enjoy most about Christmas is the dazzling display of lights we surround ourselves with! You can drive to almost any neighborhood in America and see homes and trees lit up in brilliant splendor. One of my favorite things to do at night is to turn off all the lights in the house—except for those on the Christmas tree. I could sit for hours just mesmerized by the tiny white lights sparkling off the ornaments and icicles!

I imagine a couple of thousand years ago, there were some brilliant lights to behold! Imagine a group of shepherds, watching over their flock late at night. The sky was flooded with the twinkling light of millions of stars against an ebony sky. One of them was especially bright that night, seeming to make the others dim in comparison. Then, out of the darkness of night came an even brighter light. One so brilliant that it terrified its onlookers! But the message that came out of that particular light was one of hope, for it spoke of a Savior being born nearby.

I love how God chose to send His Son into the world at night. He sent the light of the world in the midst of darkness, literally and figuratively. I wonder if, when the Shepherds reached the stable, they saw a light emanating from it. I do know that all who heard about this great light from the shepherds were amazed by it! Even Mary treasured up these things and pondered them in her heart.

God sent His Son, Jesus, to be the light of the world. Think on that for a moment. In Him there is no darkness at all! No wonder we are drawn to “the Light!” He keeps us from stumbling, He has great glory surrounding Him, He exposes the things hidden in darkness. And if we know Him as our Savior, His light is in us!

Light of the world You stepped down into darkness.
Opened my eyes, let me see. Beauty that made this heart adore You
Hope of a life spent with You. Here I am to worship,
here I am to bow down, here I am to say that You're my God.
You're altogether lovely, all together worthy, all together wonderful to me (1)

GOING DEEPER:
1. Take a moment during the busy holidays to sit in a dark room with only the glow of your tree lights or a candle. Ponder, as Mary did, the words from this song and think about what that light means to you.

FURTHER READING:
John 8:12, 12:35-36

(1) Lyrics from “Light of the World”, Copyright © 2000-2007 Hughes, Tim CCLI 3266032

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She is the Coordinator of Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study and one of its teachers.

Walking as He Walked
By Elin Henderson

“He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.”
I John 2:6 (NKJV)

Have you ever seen little children with the same gait and walk as their parent? I have, many times, and get a real kick out of it! Is it just genetic? Are they purposefully copying their parents? I don’t think so. I believe it is something that is learned and happens over time as they walk hand-in-hand together. I saw this example most clearly with some friends. They had adopted their son at one month old, and I remember watching his dad and him walking down the sidewalk one day when the little fellow was about two years old, and sure enough, he was walking just like his dad! The same gait and shoulder arrangement. It was quite cute to watch.

We are called to “walk as He (Jesus) walked” and some interpret that as merely imitating Him. I think it is more than that. When we walk hand-in-hand with our Savior, mile after mile, through the good and the bad, we start adjusting our gait to His, positioning our shoulders to His. Before we know it, we are walking as He walks. It isn’t imitation, but rather a transformation that takes place.

As 1 John tells us, this walk comes out of “abiding” in Him, our spirit in fellowship with His. He is our example, but He is also our life. So much so that Christ’s example to us wasn’t just a list of tasks that He did—healed the sick, fed the hungry, comforted the brokenhearted—but rather, His abiding constantly in the Spirit and being available to Him 24/7. “Thy will be done” is how Christ lived. If we want to walk as He walked, we must start there!

Just as we can, at times, identify children’s parents by how they walk, our Father should be obvious by how we walk. Jesus was marked by His walk because it reminded the people around Him of His heavenly Father. People should be able to look at us and say, “You know, she is different then the rest of us, her gait and walk is something new to watch…it reminds me of Jesus, it reminds me of our Heavenly Father!”

GOING DEEPER:
1. In what areas of your life are you walking a lot like Jesus? In what areas do you need to allow Him to transform your walk? Surrender those things to Him now.

FURTHER READING:
John 15:5

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to nine-year-old Callie and six-year-old Elias.

Family Trees
By Carolyn Hulliberger

“A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham…”
Matthew 1:1

Recently, I was contacted by a complete stranger on my Facebook account. She was working on the Hulliberger Family Tree, and as it turns out, she is a distant cousin, of sorts, to my husband. In the ensuing conversations, she sent a picture of my husband’s great-great-great grandfather Henry, with all of his sons. I couldn’t help but wonder about these ancestors. What were they like? Was Henry a hard worker? Did he treat his family well? Was there love and laughter in their home? Would he be someone that I would be proud to know, or distance myself from?

For many of us, the questions about our ancestors could go on and on, and that is part of the fascination with genealogy research. The problem is that research may tell you the “who” and “when” of those who have gone before, but few know the “how” and “why” of the characters of our personal history beyond a couple of generations.

This is not the case with Jesus. The New Testament opens with 17 verses detailing the connection from Jesus all the way back to Abraham. Consider some of those listed. There are heroes of faith…Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. There are those of colorful reputation…Rahab and Tamar. There were those who were just plain evil…Manasseh and Abijah. And many others who were quite ordinary. At least 42 generations are represented, and the Old Testament chronicles many of their stories in terrific detail.

Regardless of the individuals in His lineage, Jesus came just as promised…the son of a virgin, a descendent of Abraham, of the line of David. His pedigree included king and harlot, Jew and Gentile, faithful and faithless. God used each generation to bring about the perfect circumstances for His Son’s birth.

This Christmas, as you read the story of our Savior’s birth, don’t rush past the genealogy. Instead, reflect on those whose stories play a part in bringing our Messiah to us.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What do we learn about the character of God based on the diversity of Jesus’ genealogy? What does this tell us about Jesus’ purpose on earth and the plan of salvation?

FURTHER READING:
Matthew 1:1-17; Luke 3:23-38

Along with caring for her husband, two children and the dog, Carolyn is an Office Representative for State Farm Insurance, serves as a small group leader for Wednesday p.m. Bible study, and is the treasurer for Women’s Ministries.

Desert Flowers
By Karen D’Amore

“Even the wilderness will rejoice in those days. The desert will blossom with flowers.”
Isaiah 35:1

“Creature of Habit” would have been a well-suited title for me. Not particularly fond of change, leaving my family and lifelong friends would prove to be a test of my “comfort zone” nature. And moving from a quaint beach town in Southern California to the Las Vegas desert was like going from the Land of Milk and Honey to the Land of Melba Toast!

Making friends in this transient new town proved truly challenging. Soon my desert home became more then a geographical location; it became a place in my heart where the Lord would have me visit for awhile. Loneliness was not my friend of choice; however, it became a familiar song. But it was in that place in the lonely desert, Jesus would enter the loneliness and become my closest friend. He wanted me all to Himself, where He could deepen my commitment to Him, and then teach me the value of godly friendships. Parched….my heart began to thirst for the loneliness to be quenched.

Sharing my testimony publicly would begin my journey out of the desert. Transparently sharing my struggles, my failures and my miraculous road to conversion drew many in the audience to identify with my life. Those women went on to become my precious “Desert Flowers.” And as desert flowers only bloom for a season, God would use those women to help carry me through one of the most difficult seasons in my life.

When I was stricken with malignant melanoma, those women became an extension of God’s loving arms. My “Desert Flowers” prayed with me, cried with me, drove me to and from the hospital and prepared meals for me through months of radiation treatments. My special friends would eventually share in the victory of my being cancer free.

As the cactus flowers only bloom in the spring, those seasons of dry desolation magnify the beauty of the desert in bloom. My season of loneliness magnified the preciousness of my “Desert Flowers.” And it was through those precious “Desert Flowers” God empowered me to bloom in the midst of life’s thorns.

GOING DEEPER:
1. How can you befriend someone who is struggling with loneliness?
2. In what ways could you be a better friend to someone in your life?

FURTHER READING:
Galatians 6:2; I Timothy 5:10; Colossians 3:12-14

Married to husband Dan, Karen manages Intrigue hair salon, is the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study, and co-leads a freshman girls’ small group.

Think Happy Thoughts
By Jennifer Pierce

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Philippians 4:8

In the movie Hook, when Peter Banning finds himself back in Neverland, the race is on to save his kids. The trouble is, it won’t happen unless he can fully convince his own self that he truly is “The Pan.” The Lost Children are convinced that if he could find his one happy thought, surely he would fly again. After many failed attempts, Peter, in his exacerbated state, focuses his mind on one very precious thought: his kids! And Peter begins to fly.

Until Peter found his happy thought, he was frustrated, confused, angry, and even scared. Amazingly, when he changed his thinking, he was ready to take on the world (or, in this case, Captain Hook and his alligator).

The Scriptures remind us of the importance of right, healthy thinking. You see, it’s not just a matter of “having” right thinking; it’s a matter of shaping and developing right thinking. It doesn’t necessarily just “happen.” Philippians 4:8 says to “think on these things.” That’s a present active command. Not only should I be doing it, but I should be doing it constantly. Anything that does not pass the eight descriptions listed in that verse should not hold our attention. If we follow this command, there is no room for hosting thoughts that are negative, condemning, unholy, unpleasant, false or evil.

The Psalmist, David, longed that even his very thoughts were found pleasing to God (Psalm 19:14). Too often we focus on our actions, all the while forgetting that God sees and knows our thoughts, too.

The challenge is a proactive one. How can we intentionally and purposefully train ourselves to think on things that would be God-honoring? A few tips may include: listen to encouraging music; post a Scripture verse on the bathroom mirror or kitchen cupboard where it can be seen daily; pray for the person who irritates you; read your Bible on a regular basis; look for something positive to say about a negative situation; memorize Scripture; walk away from gossiping friends; or exercise regularly.

Unlike Peter Pan, it’s time to grow up…and dwell on the praiseworthy thought!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Does your thinking pattern match the description in Philippians 4:8? If not, confess that to your Heavenly Father and make purposeful plans this very day to change.

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 1:2, 19:14, 63:6; Joshua 1:8

Jennie is a wife and mother of three. She is active in Oakwood’s musical worship ministry and works part-time for a chiropractor.

Riot Gear
By Karen D’Amore

“Put on the full armor of God…”
Ephesians 6:11a

On April 30, 1992, a somber spirit hovered over the crowd as we lay to rest a fellow police officer. As the parade of police cars exited the cemetery, an emergency broadcast echoed from the police radio, “all units report to the command post.”

In response to the acquittal of four Los Angeles police officers accused of beating motorist Rodney King, riots had erupted in the streets. Looting, assaults, arson and murder plagued neighborhoods within a 30 mile radius.

Dressed in our formal police uniforms, none of the officers in my police car were properly equipped for battle. Delaying our response to the command post, we returned to the police department to retrieve body armor, riot sticks, helmets, gas masks and tactical shields. After equipping ourselves for battle, we took to the streets and engaged in a war of civil unrest. For six days, with the assistance of National Guard tankers, we fought fires, dodged bullets, and stood guard over injured and dying citizens.

As women, the majority of us will never participate in a physical war. But as Christ-followers, we face the threat of a spiritual battle everyday. We fight against an enemy we cannot see. Our struggle is not “against flesh and blood, but against…spiritual hosts of wickedness” (Ephesians 6:12 NASB). Preparation and protection is the key to winning the battle. Each day we must put on the full armor of God. Using the armor and weapons He supplies, we are able to fight in His power and strength. Only then are we are able to stand.

It would have been a foolish to set foot on that Rodney King battlefield without the proper riot gear. Recalling specific incidents of that experience, had I not been adequately equipped, I could have died. Yet now, as I rush to begin my days, I often leave home unprotected and ill-equipped to withstand the spiritual battles I encounter. Exhausted and discouraged I crawl into hiding, too defeated to return to life’s battlefield.

In our daily routine, we prepare ourselves to face each day by fixing our hair and putting on make-up and clothes. But as Christ-followers, we can’t stop there. Each day, as we prepare to face the world, let us put on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith and the helmet of salvation. Only then will we…“be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power” (Ephesians 2:10).

GOING DEEPER:
1. What steps are you taking to ensure that you are equipped to withstand the spiritual battles in this life?

FURTHER READING:
Ephesians 6:18; Romans 13:12

Married to husband Dan, Karen is the Salon Coordinator for Intrigue Salon & Spa, is the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study, and is a volunteer at the Wildlife In Need Center.

Setting Terms Are We?
By Elin Henderson

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”
Romans 12:1 (NKJV)

I was watching a movie recently and an admiral in the Navy was giving instructions to his captain. The captain then retorted with some ideas of His own and the admiral said, “Setting terms are we?” The captain replied, “No, just respectfully requesting.”

Whether we call it “setting terms” or “respectfully requesting,” we are all guilty of doing just that with the Lord. We give Him certain areas of our lives and hold others back. We say, “I am gifted in this way, so feel free to use me there, Lord, but you can just forget about nursery detail! I am not about to do that!”

What causes us to constantly set terms with Him instead of giving Him our all? Fear would probably be near the top of the list. We fear what it could mean for us if we fully surrender. What if He really would put us in the nursery? What if He really would call us into full-time ministry? What if He really would have us deal with a past fallen relationship? Secondly, our pride gets in the way. We simply think we know better than the Lord regarding what we can and cannot do.

By setting these terms, we limit our availability and usability to the Lord. And, in this struggle comes unrest as we willfully hold back areas in our lives from Him. But the just live by faith! Faith says that even though we don’t understand and can’t see the outcome, we are willing to trust. It’s in that trust we find rest. We think we know our limitations, but truly our Creator is the only One who is most intimately in tune with our capabilities and capacities. Will not His grace be sufficient even when it seems our abilities or limits are not enough?

The Lord is constantly desiring to use us more, extending and enlarging our territories and stretching us to be more like Him. Take the leap of faith and say, “Lord, no terms attached, I am available!” No matter what He calls you to do, you can find peace in knowing your Maker will provide all you need to fulfill the task. Give yourself wholly, a living sacrifice, to Him to be used as He sees fit!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Is there anything in your life that the Lord has asked you to do that you’ve refused? Surrender it to Him today, acting in obedience and trust.

FURTHER READING:
2 Corinthians 3:5, 12:9; Deuteronomy 15:8; 1 Chronicles 4:10; Romans 1:17

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to nine-year-old Callie and six-year-old Elias.

In the Driver’s Seat
By Jennifer Pierce

“Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.”
Proverbs 4:13

Okay, I admit it: I’m tired of being a taxi mom! All the time spent (or wasted) in a vehicle on any given day…and the pay is lousy. So, when the prospect of having an upcoming teenaged driver came our way, I began to get really excited. For the first week, that is.

I’m sure the scenario in our family is no different from other families when there is a new teenaged driver. There seems to be a lot of tension (personally, I tend to claw my side of the door and try to firmly press down on a brake that isn’t even there). In addition to tension, there is yelling. “Slow down!” “Don’t take the corner so fast!” “Stop hugging the inside lane!” “Use your signals!”

Maybe it isn’t even the driving mistakes that make me so frustrated. After all, she is a novice. Mistakes are to be expected. It’s the response from her that gets me every time…a flippant “Yep!” or “I know!” seemingly without any remorse or change of habit. Doesn’t she realize I know what I am talking about? I’m not out to get her. I’m trying to help her from potentially hurting herself and others in her care.

That’s when it hit me: I am just like my daughter! I proceed to drive my “spiritual vehicle” of life as if I am invincible and beyond any need for instruction. Sometimes from the Lord directly, or through loving people in my life, God tries to intervene with a “Slow down!” or a “Yield on the yellow!” and I continue to furiously drive with a “Yep, I know!” attitude. I am not really listening or taking His counsel to heart. Do I realize that if I don’t gladly accept His instruction and implement it in my life, the inevitable result is a crash and burn? Receiving instruction makes us wise, helps guard our lives and gives clarity to life.

“He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”

GOING DEEPER:
1. In what areas of your life are you not receiving instruction well? Why not?
2. Do you realize that the choices you make always affect more than just yourself? What changes will you make today to embrace godly counsel and obey?

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 32:8; Proverbs 1:8, 8:33, 13:13

Jennie is a wife and mother of three. She is active in Oakwood’s musical worship ministry and works part-time for a chiropractor.

Remember
By Dawn Weimar

“Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name.” Malachi 3:16

I have a book that I started years ago. It is just a binder with plastic sleeves, but in it I save important spiritual lessons, as well as thank you cards and other letters. It is my Book of Remembrance. I save these things to remind me of what I’ve learned and the little ways that God has used me to touch the lives of others. I take this book out periodically to review these things and remember. Sometimes, I go through my book when I am down, and sometimes when I just need encouragement that my life has mattered and still does…that God is using me to accomplish His purposes.

We so easily forget ways in which we touch others’ lives, even when it is documented. When I review these items, it’s as if I am reading them for the first time. Why is it that we don’t have to reread anything to remember the times in which we’ve failed miserably? Oh, we remember those like they were yesterday! That’s good, I suppose, so we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past. What’s not good is that we more easily remember our failures and unfulfilled dreams, instead of the ways we succeed. I have to think that this inclination is what often contributes to depression or suicidal tendencies; the negative can so easily overpower anything positive, if we allow it.

Interestingly enough, the things that really touched someone else cost me next to nothing, except time and a heartfelt exchange, kind gesture or word of encouragement. Isn’t it fascinating how God chooses to use us in big ways as we simply go about our daily lives?

In the movie “It’s a Wonderful Life,” God shows the main character, George Bailey, what the world would be like without him. We won’t get the opportunity to see the full impact our lives have had on others until heaven, but we can find ways to remember and praise God for revealing to us some of the ways in which we’ve made a difference. Don’t let something that really matters go unrecognized and undocumented. Write it down! If God wrote down things for His people to remember, certainly this is good for us to do as well!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Start a Book of Remembrance today, praising God for using you to touch the lives of others.
2. Be part of building someone else’s Book of Remembrance. Send a note to someone, describing how her life, words or actions have mattered to you.

FURTHER READING:
Micah 6:8; 1 Samuel 30:6

FOR FUN:
During this Christmas season, watch “It’s a Wonderful Life” with family or friends.

Dawn is a wife and mother of three daughters, and is active in Oakwood's worship ministries. She's a pediatric nurse, currently working as VP of Business Development in Population Health Improvement.

Stop Squirming!
By Susan Klein

“He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love...”
Zephaniah 3:17

I have an adorable Calico cat nuzzling her head in my lap right now! She’s purring and squirming with delight as I scratch under her chin. I’m savoring the moment because it won’t last long. While Mia is fully grown, she still looks and acts like a frisky little kitten, playing and pouncing most of the day. She never stays in one place for long, always racing from one thing to the next. I love her to pieces and enjoy watching her silly antics, but am a bit disappointed that she isn’t ever cuddly for more than sixty seconds. And only when it suits her fancy! I desperately wish she would stay on my lap so I could enjoy her for awhile. I just want to lavish my affection on her! But, I know that any second now, she’ll get distracted and move on to something more urgent or entertaining. Yep...there she goes! Off to chase a ladybug.

I bet my heavenly Father wishes I’d sit still more often, too. I get out of bed some mornings with my feet running as soon as they hit the floor. I do try to pray before I leave the bed, but occasionally start drifting back to sleep. And I’m usually racing out the door by 6:45 a.m. to drive my daughter to school. I always have good intentions of getting back home to have my quiet time, but some mornings I decide to go to the gym and work out on my way back. Other mornings, I head to the computer to “check email real quick,” and stay there way too long! When I do finally settle into my favorite rocking chair, I still manage to get distracted by the simplest of sights and sounds. The phone rings and I think I should get up just to see who it is, “in case it’s important!” Or, I look over at the table and see an inch of dust that really needs to be taken care of right at that moment. I’m really no different than Mia!

When God says, “Be still, and know that I am God,” He means for more than a minute! He desires some intense time of aloneness with us so He can lavish His love on us. He truly enjoys our company. If we need to close our eyes so we don’t see the dust, or turn the phone on mute, then so be it. Let’s put aside the distractions of the day, stop squirming, and get cozy with the Father!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What are the things that keep you from “sitting still” with God?
2. What steps can you take to resist the urge to squirm?

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 46:10; Isaiah 30:15a, 32:17

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She is the Coordinator of Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study and one of its teachers.

Swept Away
By Jen Wollner

“You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High…”
Luke 1:31-32

“I’m already overwhelmed with Christmas and we aren’t even to Thanksgiving yet!” I complained to my husband last week. My goal this year was to get a jump on things so that I didn’t get too stressed in the last-minute rush. Well, it didn’t work! All I’ve done is extend the timeframe in which I feel the pressure of the Christmas season. The planning, shopping, lists, food, parties…all needing to be accomplished amidst kids, laundry, ministry commitments, friendships and more! With everything that’s on my plate these days, I feel like I’m being washed out to sea by the waves of a tsunami.

If your schedule and responsibilities are anything like mine, you, too, may be caught up in the whirlwind of the season. But, as I make my lists and check them twice, it occurs to me that I’ve forgotten something. How could this be? I thought I was so careful and organized, but, well, it happened. In the middle of the hubbub of Christmas, I’ve forgotten the Reason for the celebration…you, too?

The circumstances surrounding the birth of Jesus are utterly amazing! How could we let ourselves forget the virgin, the angels, the shepherds, the star…the promise of a long-awaited Messiah…the tiny baby in a lowly manger? Oh, how I desire to be swept away in the wonder of that event instead of weighted down by the tasks of this month. I long to experience the joy of the good news of Christ instead of the empty materialism of the holiday. I’m desperate to regain control over the chaos of this time of year by trading my endless lists for His matchless grace and limitless love. Glory to God in the highest!

As we attend to the “tyranny of the urgent” this Christmas, let’s also vow to take the time to still our minds and hearts, allowing ourselves to be wholly swept away by the love our God showered on us the night He delivered His Son, our Savior.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Which of the circumstances surrounding Jesus’ birth amaze you the most? Why?
2. What steps can you implement to ensure your focus this month is on the Reason for the season instead of just the season itself?

FURTHER READING:
Luke 1:26-38, 2:1-20

Jen and her husband are busily parenting three children under the age of 6. Jen heads the Fresh Start ministry and is on the leadership team for Mission: Hope, Oakwood’s orphan care ministry.