By Roslyn Catracchia, Director of Worship and Performing Arts

Merry Christmas everyone! 

For many, many, many of us, this is probably not the Christmas we might have expected or hoped for, for any number of reasons. We aren’t WHERE we wanted to be, WHEN we wanted to be there, WHO we wanted to be with, doing WHAT we wanted to be doing, and so on and so on.

I don’t mean the “and so on’s” to sound sarcastic. On the contrary. It’s just that the list could go on endlessly because it’s been such a strange and different year for the majority of the world.

But in the midst of all the “strange and different,” in the midst of so much uncertainty, there is one certainty. As Pastor Dan preached yesterday, Love came down at Christmas for me and for you. For each and every one of us. He came down to show us the Way. Jesus, our Redeemer, the Lover of our Souls, came to show us Love…perfectly.

And while we might not all agree on everything, the one thing I believe we can all agree on is that Love is a very, very good thing. Countless songs have been written about it. “All You Need Is Love” “I Will Always Love You” “Love Is A Many Splendored Thing” “Reckless Love”…This list too goes on and on and on. 

The Bible tells us one priceless thing after another about Love. But maybe none so beautifully as in the 13th chapter of 1 Corinthians, “where Paul preached a message of love even more brilliant than the sun.” (I wish I came up with that phrase!) Madeleine L’Engle wrote that in her book, “Walking on Water—Reflections on Faith and Art.” 

“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails… For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” - 1 Corinthians 13

The Good Book also tells us a lot about Love in Proverbs. I’m gonna share a few of those good things from Chapter 3, things that I read and re-read to myself.  

“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight… Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act.” - Scripture from Proverbs 3

So how can we “not withhold good?” I’m gonna write that again. How CAN we NOT withhold good?” I wanna expand that thought…to not withhold good from anyone! After all, God’s grace showers us with good so often even when we don’t deserve it. 

So how can we share God’s love today on this Christmas Day, when Love came down and dwelt among us some 2,000 years ago? I think there are countless creative ways!

This is my last devotional for the year, and I was excited to write just a few of my thoughts on Love. It’s my favorite subject. I’ve only preached once in my life, many years ago. I’m definitely better behind the piano! But on the one day I preached, I preached on Love. And I mentioned something then that I want to share with you all today. 

When I was a child, my dad didn’t tell my brother and me very often that he loved us. I’m certain now, as an adult, that he did. The first time I remember him actually telling me he loved me was when I was 21 years old, on a phone call. After he hung up, I stared at the phone and started crying and my aunt said, “What’s the matter?!” I said, “My dad said he loved me.” I remember everything about that moment.

Our mother, on the other hand, told me and my brother that she loved us at every opportunity, daily, for years and years and years. I’m forever thankful to her for not holding back when it came to telling us and showing us Love.

“Love God, Love people, and reach the world for Christ.” My mom did that GREAT.

Today, on this Christmas day, I’m asking God how I can share His Love more fully, with the world, in my neighborhood, in my family, in my home. Not in some vague, indistinct, hazy way, but clearly. 

The past couple of devotionals I’ve written have included a song as a reflection. Today I share with you another one of my favorites, “Love Came Down At Christmas,” from Our Daily Bread. 

Click HERE to hear the song: https://www.youtube.com/watchv=4_OVjatkjOA&list=RD4_OVjatkjOA&start_radio=1

Merry Christmas everyone! And warmest wishes for a wonderful Happy New Year. 

DJ Roz, signing out!   

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I pray you send Your Holy Spirit to open our eyes, to show us how we can love more fully, more deeply, more like You. In Your precious name, Lord Jesus, Amen.

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by Karen Makishima, Director of Children and Family Life Ministries

I would make a horrible Santa because I struggle with gift giving. It is not my gift. I’m great at receiving gifts but not at giving gifts. I’ve tried to figure out why gift giving is not my gift. Could it be that I don’t take the time to get to really know people around me so, therefore, I wouldn’t know what they would like? Or are all of my friends and family rich Americans who have everything already? What could I give them that they would appreciate or want? Or am I just tight-fisted with my money? The jury is still out on why I struggle with gift giving. If you are one of my friends or part of my family...I apologize.

There is a song that I taught to the kids a loooong time ago. The song’s title is, “What Can I Give to the King?” I love the lyrics because it tells me exactly what gift I should give to the person that I want to be at the top of my list.

(Lyrics)
What can I give to the King?  
Give to the one who has everything.
What can I give? What gift can I bring? 
What can I give to the King? What can I give to the King?

Give Him a heart that’s open up wide
Give Him a life that’s got nothing to hide
Give Him a heart that’s tender and true
And He’ll give it all back to you; yes, He’ll give it all back to you.

Give Him all glory, His people on earth
Give Him all praises, this day of His birth
Give Him all honor in all that we do
As He’s given His life to you

What gifts will you be giving this year? Better yet, what gift will you be giving to the King who is the Savior of the world? This King has everything...yet desires your heart.

Prayer:  Lord, we thank You for sending Your one and only Son to the earth as a baby yet remained God. Help us to give You our hearts completely. Amen.

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Matt Yamamoto, Director of High School Ministry

Luke 7:18-23

“John’s disciples told him about all these things. Calling two of them, he sent them to the Lord to ask, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?’ When the men came to Jesus, they said, ‘John the Baptist sent us to you to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” ’ At that very time Jesus cured many who had diseases, sicknesses and evil spirits, and gave sight to many who were blind. So he replied to the messengers, ‘Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.’”

Christmas is only two days away! It is the season for giving, joy, peace, carols, lights, parties, and family. It is supposed to be merry and bright. All of these words connected with Christmas bring up strong imagery of Hallmark commercials and sugar cookies that I have never experienced during Christmas myself. These words are seemingly so innocent, but they build up an expectation that often times don’t hold up to reality.

I believe that expectations are what make Christmas so stressful. We are expected to have amazing gifts for everyone, have a clean home, bring an elaborate dish to the family party, be the most cheerful version of ourselves, and do all these things simultaneously. Some people may be able to pull this off, but the rest of us are faking it ‘til we make it.

Expectations are so dangerous because there is only one way to fulfill them and a million ways to fail at them. And when we do fail, often times it causes us to feel like failures or keeps us from ever trying for fear of failure. To further complicate things, not only are there expectations that we put upon ourselves, but there are those that others put on us. Christmas is a minefield of these. Just trying to match the values of presents alone is a nightmare.

Here is the ray of hope: Jesus failed at expectations as well.

The passage above describes an account in which John the Baptist, Jesus’s own cousin who from birth was told that he was to be the one who was going to pave the way for his cousin, the Messiah, Jesus, begins to doubt whether or not Jesus was really the Messiah. It doesn’t explicitly say it, but it seems as though he was inquiring because Jesus was not meeting the expectations that John the Baptist had for Him. As a baby in Elizabeth’s womb, John jumped with joy as the pregnant Mary entered the room, and now he was asking Jesus if he was supposed to be looking for a different Messiah.

Think about it. Jesus, the only perfect one to walk this earth, failed to meet expectations.

If Jesus can’t even meet expectations, then we really need to be kind to ourselves when we don’t—and especially kind to others when they don’t. This is what grace is, giving people the room to be human, especially when they fail to meet our expectations.

On top of the normal pressures of the Christmas season, we are doing so amidst COVID. Let’s have a kind word ready when gifts aren’t exchanged, when people choose not to come to family parties, and when masks are worn during gatherings. Our normal expectations don’t work during an economic and health crisis. Let’s be especially kind to ourselves and each other this Christmas season, so much so that when we look back on this Christmas, we will reminisce that this was the kindest, warmest Christmas we’ve ever had.

Prayer: Dear gracious Father, we thank You for your eternal grace. Even when we might feel like we are failing because we don’t meet expectations, You don’t see us that way. Help us to have Your heart of grace and kindness this Christmas season. Release people from the expectations that we might have on them and count everything as a blessing this year. Amen.

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By Rosella Shishido, Communications Ministry Coordinator

I’m blessed with an uncommon name. I know it’s uncommon because most people don’t remember it and have come up with their own versions of it: Rochelle, Rosalie, Roselle, Rose, Rosalia, Roslyn and, the most creative of all, Roseloa (sounds like a disease, doesn’t it?). So imagine my surprise when years ago Mattel came out with a Barbie doll came named Princess Rosella! Yup! She was the star of the animated movie Barbie as the Island Princess. Even Hallmark made her one of its keepsake ornaments in 2014, which I bought, of course.

The Princess Rosella ornament will always have a special place in my heart. Not just because we share the same name, but also because it reminds me that I, too, am a princess. I have no royal blood, but I am certainly a child of God. I’m not one who sings, but I am a daughter of the King of Kings. I don’t have much financial worth, but my Father is the Creator of Heaven and Earth.

The thing is I forget sometimes who I belong to. When something doesn’t go as planned or something bad happens, I worry, I become afraid, I lose confidence, or I feel deflated, instead of keeping my head up high (like a princess) with the confidence that Father God knows what I’m going through, sees every situation, and will make things work out for my good.

If you’ve put your faith and trust in Jesus, the Son of the Almighty God, if you’ve declared that He is the Lord and Savior of your life, guess what? You’re royalty too, like me! Remember that next time you’re discouraged or when you don’t feel important. Try adding “Prince” or “Princess” before your name, and say it out loud right now. Doesn’t that just feel good?  

Pause for a minute and think about how much God loves you as His child.  

He loves you and me so much that He sent His divine Son, Jesus Christ, to be born on Earth as a human baby on Christmas Day and later become the Savior of the world. He is the reason for Christmas. He is, in fact, the inventor of Christmas.

“She will give birth to a son, and you (Joseph) are to give Him the name Jesus because He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21)

Prayer: Father God, thank You for giving me the right to become Your child, and to be part of Your royal Kingdom. I praise You, I worship You, I adore You, and I love You. Amen. (John 1:12-14)

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By David Free, Deacon

It’s that time of the year again – bring on the Christmas carols!

I awoke this morning with “peace on earth, goodwill to men” running through my foggy head. I thought to myself, I know this tune. What is it? It’s a Christmas carol, I’m certain, but I can’t quite place it. Oh well, it doesn’t matter anyway, the words don’t apply to our world today. There certainly is no peace on earth and definitely no goodwill toward men in our country.

I thought on. We just finished a national election in our country, one that has ripped the very fiber of our nation and set people against each other because of differing political beliefs. Where’s the goodwill toward men? I’m as guilty as the next guy. I have raged at my TV, yelling at it as if it could hear me. I have communicated my beliefs to friends of like-mind and closed my ears to those who do not agree. So where is my goodwill to men? I’m certainly not showing any of it!

Back to the Christmas carol, I looked it up on good old Google – I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day, oh yah, of course, that’s it. Well, I decided to look a little further and discovered that it is based on the 1863 poem Christmas Bells by American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The song tells of the narrator's despair, upon hearing Christmas bells during the America Civil War, that hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth, good will to men. The carol concludes with the bells carrying renewed hope for peace among men.

Wait a minute, I thought to myself. Isn’t this just what we may need today?

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep
God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men.

I hear you, Father. You are speaking to me. I promise, I will be kinder to my TV. I will stop and listen to the other side. I will offer goodwill to people and pray for peace on earth.

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” (Luke 2:14 NKJV) 

Prayer: Father, at this time in our country’s history, we pray that You will lead us from troubled times to peace and goodwill to all. May our country’s motto, in God we trust, burn brighter in our hearts and may we hear the bells on Christmas morning. Amen.

By Peter Kang, Elder for Impact Ministries

“How can I, your servant, talk with you, my lord? My strength is gone and I can hardly breathe.” (Daniel 10:17 NIV)

When COVID hit, it seemed like the world was shutting down, and the lockdown was starting to make it harder to just breathe. From wearing a mask in public to subconsciously holding your breath when passing people, the essential function to breathe was getting complicated.

We had to carefully meter out our essential activities, like grocery shopping, and for the Kang family that means a trip to the local Costco. But wait, even that experience has changed. No longer were those wonderful ladies giving out food samples! That was date night for me, especially on a Saturday when every aisle had something to fill your belly. “Here, honey, try this. It’s abalone from the Big Island.”

These days not only do I leave Costco hungry but I also hold my breath so many times that I’m not able to properly enjoy the rotisserie chicken that’s still an amazing $4.99! But I soon realized I was tired and out of breath in more than the physical sense. 

After about a month of staying at home, I was not in that wonderful place where I was able to serve, and my spiritual side was not able to “breathe.” It was not all about making sure we had enough toilet paper or Lysol, but also letting God carefully lead me into “breathing” life into those in need. 

Before you start throwing your McRib at me (available for a limited time), I am not suggesting that we serve recklessly or break any laws. There are ways to serve and “breathe” with strategic partner organizations, like the FoodBank and The Pantry. The FoodBank is amazing, and The Pantry operates a food distribution center in Kalihi on Oahu, and it serves the community three days a week. You’ll find many First Prez folks there “breathing” life into the community as they volunteer.

You don’t have to be a superwoman (like Jennine Sullivan who runs The Pantry), or highly talented (like Chris Pan), or even be an incredible pastor (like Dan Chun). You can go to the First Prez website and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to serve. If you’re not able to leave home, how about calling that person you know who might be alone? Maybe share a meal with a few friends (while observing social distancing). Even a smile and a shaka to those you bump into is also good. 

It’s almost Christmas, and we have a generous God who we can never outgive. As you hold your breath in the elevator, or while waiting in line at the checkout, don’t forget to “breathe’ in the love and power that God has poured into you. Yes, just breathe. It’s actually not complicated.

Prayer: We confidently come to You, Lord, and ask that You bless us in every way so that we may be a blessing to others. That we would “breathe” life into those in need. And as we breathe, our strength would be renewed and our joy would be evident to all. Make clear in our hearts and minds that You truly love us in ways that cannot be brushed aside. Blow us away with Your goodness and enable us to soar to amazing heights. Remind us that You have chosen us and called us Your “beloved.” And if can, please bless those ladies at Costco who give out samples, and may they resume doing their all-important work in 2021. Amen!

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By Marianna Meachen, Director of Care Ministries

Like millions of people, I love listening to and singing Christmas Carols. They warm our hearts and move us as they evoke the sights and sounds of Christmases long ago, both those from our childhood and those that hark back to the birth of the beautiful baby born in a manger. Even in the secular world, there are often small moments that interrupt consumerism and allows the true meaning of Christmas to shine through.

There is a sense of exaltation and well-being from a beautiful carol. Even the word carol fills our hearts with the love that Jesus brings. Carols (joyful songs) bring us together and connect us in groups of shared experiences and feelings. 

As much as I love Christmas carols that speak of the majesty of Jesus' birth, I love Advent carols as well! Not many may know there are Advent carols. They talk about the birth to come, of that time when we are longing for Jesus, looking for that expectant hope that comes on Christmas Day. 

As I wrote in my November 29th devotional, we need both Advent and Christmas. During Advent, we prepare our hearts to receive our newborn King. Today is December 17th. That means there are still eight more days to prepare to walk that journey with Mary and Joseph as they traveled to Bethlehem for the census. Joseph walked alongside the donkey laden with a heavily pregnant Mary. Did he think about the words of the angel who told him not to fear? Was there anxiety about the baby to be named Jesus and what their future would bring? Was there anticipation about this child conceived by the Holy Spirit? And what He would look like? How would he parent God's Son? And Mary, still very young, unwieldy, uncomfortable, perhaps a little frightened of labor and giving birth. What would it be like to touch the face of God? 

What did it feel like when Jesus became the Lord of your life and your King? Did you take it for granted, or do you continue to prepare daily to spend time with Him and receive His goodness and love? Let's continue to look for Him, seek Him, and be ready to tell others about His wondrous redeeming love. We sing Christmas carols, but Advent carols speak of preparation to receive the Christ child. Please prayerfully read the lyrics to my favorite Advent carol written by Charles Wesley in 1744 entitled "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus," and feel the joy and anticipation of Jesus’ coming.

Come, thou long expected Jesus
Born to set thy people freeF
rom our fears and sins release us

Let us find our rest in thee
Israel's strength and consolation
Hope of all the earth thou art
Dear desire of every nation

Joy of every longing heart
Born thy people to deliver
Born a child and yet a king
Born to reign in us forever

Now thy gracious kingdom bring
By thine own eternal spirit
Rule in all our hearts alone
By thine own sufficient merit

Raise us to thy glorious throne
By thine own sufficient merit
Raise us to thy glorious throne

Jeremiah 29:13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Prayer: Abba, Father, let us continually look for You in everything we do and say. May Your heart sync with ours and fill us to overflowing that we might know the joy of Your presence and the love You bring each day. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

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By Jenny Sung, Executive Coordinator

Despite 2020 being one of the strangest, unbelievable, and devastating years we have experienced, there have also been countless moments of connection when God broke through our desperation, shining His love, hope, comfort, and peace within our daily realities. 

One of those beacons of light have been the conversations in Connect Groups each Sunday after the worship services. This past Sunday, I had the privilege of discussing Pastor Dan’s sermon, “Wise Men and Wise Women,” with a small group of women after the 4 PM online worship service. 

It was in this discussion that the application of wise people in our lives came to light. Elizabeth Glenn, who was our discussion leader and gave her Advent testimony the week before, shared her struggles and wisdom gained from her life. Her experiences mirrored mine in a lot of ways, and I realized that God had gifted this circle of wise women in that moment at that time to bring restoration, hope, and comfort to a difficult week. 

As we shared struggles from our past and current prayer requests, I realized there was comfort and healing in knowing we all walk together, not always as strong, polished champions but as wounded healers to one another. There was nothing extra special about us except for our deep belief and faith in the love and hope of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Most of us are wounded healers arm in arm, relying on the grace and mercy of God and pointing others toward Jesus. This is the authentic reality of a Christian life. 

In his sermon Pastor Dan shared “wise people point us to Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who came to this earth ... the wisest of all human beings to save us. It is Christ that would really give us hope and life.” The circle of wisdom that day drew us all closer toward Jesus, bringing hope and joy to the meaning of Christmas this Advent season:

“Do not be afraid; for I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day, in Bethlehem, in the city of David, a savior who is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)

Dear Lord, thank You for this season of Advent when we can reflect on the good news of Jesus coming to us on that special Bethlehem night, in the city of David. Thank You for bringing wise people into our lives to experience Your presence and know You in a deeper way. We pray You will surround us all with wise men and wise women who will point the way towards You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray, Amen.

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By Rene Toyota, Administrative Assistant

A child will be born to us. A son will be given to us. He will rule over us. And He will be called Wonderful Adviser and Mighty God. He will also be called Father Who Lives Forever and Prince Who Brings Peace. (Isaiah 9:6–7)

I LOVE Disney cartoons and movies. Okay, I love a lot of kid-friendly movies, not just because I have three kids and was forced to watch the movies, but because Disney draws you into a fantasy world that you can disappear into for an hour or two.

I recently watched Disney's 2019 Lion King. It's about the Circle of Life, the old dying to bring something new. The lion Mufasa is the King of the Pride Lands, where he lived. Mufasa and his wife births a son that they named Simba. Simba is to take Mufasa's throne when Mufasa passes. 

Simba is a curious little cub. And just like how the snake tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden to disobey God, Scar, Mufasa's brother and Simba's Uncle, tempts Simba to prove that he’s ready to lead the Pride Lands. And for Simba to prove it, he'll need to go into the dark valley. 

Simba gives in to the temptation and eventually goes to the dark valley. Disobeying his father's orders never to go there. Simba eventually needed saving, and that's what got his father, Mufasa, killed. Scar then manipulates Simba by placing shame upon him and tells Simba that the best thing to do was leave the Pride Lands and never to return. With Simba gone, Scar can then take Mufasa's Kingship and rule over the Pride Lands as he always wanted.

Simba grows up hiding behind a hakuna matata "no worries" attitude with Timon and Pumbaa. Until his past catches up.  He finds out that his home, the once very beautiful Pride Lands that was full of life and unity, has now dissipated under Scar’s ruling. There’s no life left in the Pride Lands. Food became scarce and whatever life remained was in danger. But, with some coercion from an old friend, Simba decides to go back home and fight to bring life back to the Pride Lands.  In doing so, he’ll need to take back his Kingship from his Uncle Scar.  Which in the end, he successfully did.

In the Collins Dictionary someone suggested this definition for circle of life: “Nature's way of taking and giving back life to earth. It symbolizes the universe being sacred and divine. It represents the infinite nature of energy, meaning if something dies, it gives new life to another.” It also represents vitality, completion, wholeness, and perfection.

That's what Lion King is about. Simba fought to give new life to what had died. Just like our loving Father has done for us. We all know it's not nature's way. It's God's way. He gave life to this earth. He gives life to each one of us. 

Christmas represents hope in the Circle of Life. We are gifted a new beginning, under a new King, one who rules forever and ever. A King whose peace is firm and unshaken. A King whose ruling is unending. The gift of Jesus has allowed us to shed the old and have a new beginning. God has given us Jesus who is our vitality, completion, wholeness, and perfection. 

This Christmas, instead of looking at what happened the last ten months or what's happening in the world now, let us look to God and praise Him. Let’s give Him thanks for the eternal gift He has given us. God has born a Son unto us. A Son who has given us everlasting peace, hope, and love. A Son who offers us a new life, a new beginning.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for gifting us Jesus––Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace––who gives meaning to the Circle of Life. Amen.

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By David Chang. Director of Ministry Support

A few weeks ago I was sharing with our Worship Director Roz that when things get busy, my priorities shift. It seems that with so much to do, the first thing I drop is my spiritual disciplines. Along with praying for me, she gave me the perfect gift for this time. It was a book by Madeline L’Engle, “Walking on Water.” Madeline (who also authored “A Wrinkle in Time) shared a thought from a Hawaiian Christian:

Before the missionaries came, my people use to sit outside their temples for a long time meditating and preparing themselves before entering. Then they would virtually creep to the altar to offer their petition and afterwards would again sit a long time outside, this time to “breathe life” into their prayers. The Christians, when they came, just got up, uttered a few sentences, said Amen and were done. For that reason my people called them haoles, “without breath,” or those who failed to breathe life into their prayers. – Mother Alice Kaholusuna

This was me. My spiritual disciplines had become “without breath.” I would pray, read Scripture, meet with my small group. And when it was done, I would hurry back to my to-do list. I did not breathe life into prayer, Scripture reading, and small group.

So I did a word-search on “breath” in the Bible. I was surprised to see so many references. Here are the ones that spoke directly to me:

“How can my Lord's servant talk with my lord? For now no strength remains in me, and no breath is left in me.” (Daniel 10:17 ESV)

That’s me. Feels like after I sprint to the top of a hill, trying to breathe.

“Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.” (Genesis 2:7 ESV)

God didn’t just form me with His hands, He breathed His breath into me. Only then did I become alive.

“Then he took a deep breath and breathed into them. ‘Receive the Holy Spirit’” (John 10:22 MSG)

It was not only the Heavenly Father who breathes on me, Jesus also desires to breathe on me that I might receive the Holy Spirit.

Someone reminded me of the traditional Hawaiian greeting called “honi.” It is walking up to someone, slowing down, stopping in front of them, touching foreheads, touching noses, breathing together. Sharing our breath.

I think that’s what the Holy Spirit is inviting me to do in this busy season. I need to “honi” my Heavenly Father. I need to come to God. I need to slow down. I need to stop. I need to sense my Heavenly Father bending down, to touch His forehead to mine. I need to feel His nose touching mine. I need to feel His breath.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I am breathless. I come to “honi” You. Fill me with Your breath that I may live. Lord Jesus, I come to “honi” You. Fill me with Your breath that I may receive Your Holy Spirit. Amen.

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by Shayna Kusumoto, Graphics and Communications

Straddling my board, squinting out at the horizon, I’m hungry for the next set. Waiting, waiting—I see a bump…it’s coming…get into position, swing my board around, paddle for it….

This is the feeling of anticipation I had in mind when putting together the latest drone sequence in our opening prelude, “O Come O Come Emmanuel.” You’ll see at the start of every service now until Christmas eve. If you haven’t seen it yet, get to Sunday’s worship service a few minutes early and you will.

I never used to like that song. I didn’t know what it was about and it just seemed to go on and on one verse after another. But doing this video edit made me fall in love with it and it’s been on repeat in my head ever since. It got me thinking about all the ways our lives lie in wait just like the Israelites as they anticipated the promised Messiah coming to rescue them.

The opening shot peers down on a solitary boat, swimming in loneliness. Waiting. Wondering. It’s at once magnificent and sad as the Armenian duduk instrument plays. Later in the sequence you see an affluent oceanfront neighborhood—asleep as the stealthy drone flies overhead. We may not often see ourselves as “mourning in lonely exile here,” but we are held captive in different ways—captive to our screens, captive to the rat race, captive to pleasing people. Exiled to anxiety and depression, exiled in wealth, exiled in selfishness.

For me personally, I know God’s given me victory in many areas—loss, trauma, illness, sin, addiction. And yet there are many struggles I’m still stuck in—waiting for God to pull me out or do a miracle.

Even so, the prophecy holds true: “Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign: See, the virgin will conceive, have a son, and name him Emmanuel.” Isaiah 7:14

Emmanuel means God with us. And truly, He came 2,000 years ago and He is WITH us today! The slow moving shots of still waters, reef, Chinaman’s Hat in the distance… show we aren’t always cognizant of His presence.

But the song calls us to REJOICE! REJOICE! EMMANUEL! The Son of God has already come to the people of God—that’s you and that’s me. We have every reason to rejoice right now!

Before that perfect set comes. When it comes but it’s not our turn, when the wave closes out or we don’t make the section. Even during the long lull. All we need to do is awaken our consciousness with the realization that God is with us HERE and NOW!

And so, heading back to the lineup or during the long wait, I can take a deep breath and thank Him for this gorgeous day. I can look around and go “WOW, God, You are so good!” You created all this! You are here!

“The Christian life oscillates between these two poles: the overflowing joy of the ‘already’ redeemed (Eph 1:7) and the tearful yearning of the ‘not-yet’ redeemed (Eph 4:30). Not that we ever leave the one or the other in this life. We are ‘sorrowful, yet always rejoicing’ (2 Cor 6:10).” –John Piper

This Advent season, as you come early to Sunday worship so that you can see the video prelude I’m talking about, I pray you will not just notice the nice scenery and masterful musical arrangement or even the AMAZING voice of Christina Souza. My deep prayer is that you identify with the anticipation of your Savior and the realization of Emmanuel God with us, and REJOICE in how He has come to free YOU. 

So feel free to paddle between the waiting and riding, waiting and riding. Enjoy the company of friends around you. Maximize the range of emotion and experience that God intended. It’s not just about the wave, it’s also about the wait. And that is, by definition, Advent. 

Advent: “a time of expectant waiting and preparation for both the celebration of the Nativity of Christ at Christmas and the return of Christ at the Second Coming.” - vocabulary.com

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By Pastor Steve Peich

“In His name the nations will put their hope.” (Matthew 12.21)

One of the major themes during Advent is the notion of Hope. It’s important to reflect on such theme during Christmas because in a time like ours, where there is so much uncertainty and where every type of media is blasting out one fearful headline after the next, losing hope can be pretty easy. Moreover, when we don’t have hope, we can easily become cynical and jaded, or maybe even despairing in life.

In the 1950’s there was a professor at Johns Hopkins named Curt Richter who conducted a study on rats. He would take rats and put them in a large jar of water and measure the time where rats swam around before they died. Half the rats he simply put in the jar and left them to swim. This group of rats all perished, some surprisingly quickly.

The other half, Richter would let swim, but then lift them up out of the water and then place them back into the jar to swim again. Richter found out that when he picked them up and held them just for a little while before putting them back, they swam much longer than any of the rats that were left alone. In fact, all these rats lived to see another day. 

Richter reasoned that the rats learned that they were not doomed and the situation was not lost. In short, when they had reason to keep swimming they did. He concluded that when you eliminate hopelessness the rats do not die. 

Humans are obviously different than rats, but one similarity stands out – Hope can do wonders to keep us going. This is why Christmas is not merely some nice little holiday for the winter, but it is that powerful reminder that Hope remains for our world so long as Jesus is Lord. It once again reminds us of the great reasons for which we live as Christians. 

How many of us need to take some time to take a breather and simply reflect on our God-given reasons to keep swimming? How many of us need to speak with good friends, pastors, or therapists, etc. to remember why there is still hope for what we are going through? 

So here’s my challenge to you. How can you become the one who speaks hope to others – to your family, your friends, your neighbors, your small group, and your church community? How can you refrain this Advent season from sending those emails, texts, and videos that only fortify our fears and instead make it a spiritual discipline to send or post one hopeful story, song, video, text, or message each day? In a time when millions are struggling to find hope, let’s make it a habit to give our world reasons for hope through Jesus Christ. 

Blessing: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15.13)

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By Matt Yamamoto, Director of Youth Ministry

“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19)

My first job ruined the Christmas season for me. 

I worked in the watch department at Liberty House Ala Moana. Being on the mall level was a special form of torture. I was bombarded with the general music that was played all over the store, and then there was the piano that played by itself one story above me, and then there was the music coming from the juniors’ section, which competed with the make-up section, which had at least two or three different songs playing at the same. All these different sources of audio stimulation vying for the consumer’s attention was overwhelming to say the least, but come mid-October and increasingly earlier every year, all of them would play Christmas music, non-stop! I found my attitude towards Christmas not just shifting, I started to dread the season too. I found that it had completely lost its magic, and it all felt so hollow.

Luckily I left that job years ago, but it left a lasting effect in that I refused to acknowledge Christmas or anything related to it until after Thanksgiving. I would complain if I walked through a store that had a Christmas section up in November, or I would change the radio station if there was a carol playing. I was kind of a miser about it.

But this year some of the ice has melted off my cold heart. We got a Christmas tree BEFORE Thanksgiving, and I’ve found myself humming some of the holiday jingles. I find myself really trying to connect with Christmas and the Christmas story in deeper ways than I have in the past. I don’t know if it’s because of COVID, and I am feeling sentimental and hoping Christmas will bring some semblance of normalcy, or if I am getting softer as I grow older. But as I have paid special attention to the Christmas story, I was reminded that one of the things that I have always admired about Jesus’ mother, Mary, was her ability to live in the wonder of the moment, treasuring and pondering what is happening.

Let’s be clear, it would be natural to think that it was easy for her to do so. After all, she is the mother of Jesus. But these moments didn't always come in the simplest of circumstances. The first time this was mentioned about her was when the angel announced to her that she was chosen to give birth to the Messiah. Even for an adult, finding out that you are having a baby can be extremely stressful, and so for Mary, a young teenager, I imagine that she had to have worried about what Joseph was going to say, let alone her friends, family, and neighbors. Instead she chose to treasure the moment in her heart.

This Christmas season let’s choose to follow Mary’s example, and treasure the positive things that God has blessed us with this year, despite COVID or even perhaps because of COVID. There are many things that we can be thankful for. I wouldn’t be surprised that as we grow older, we will look back on this season of our lives, this crazy year, with wonder.

Prayer: Help me, Lord, to recognize the blessings and opportunities that may not be so obvious in difficult or confusing situations. Please open my eyes and my heart to how You are at work around me. Amen.

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By Pastor Tim Shaw

The birth of Jesus is passed over by Matthew with great economy. He covers the actual event in one sentence. “Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod” (Matthew 2:1). No stable, no shepherds, no angelic choirs, just Bethlehem in Herod’s day. By naming the place of Jesus’ birth, the little town of Bethlehem, and the context in which that birth took place, during the time of King Herod, Matthew has ahold of something that was, and still is, wholly unexpected and utterly astounding. Great hope is wrapped up in that one verse from Matthew.

Jesus, the one who was born king of the Jews, was in the arms of his young mother Mary in the town of Bethlehem. But another king was in charge of that town and everything and everyone surrounding Bethlehem at the time of Jesus’ birth – or so it seemed. On a hill, towering over the town of Bethlehem, King Herod had constructed an enormous palace. It was called the “Herodian”. It covered 45 acres and was the third largest palace in the world in his day. From his fortress, Herod could see the Dead Sea, the Judean wilderness and of course Bethlehem. Herod was a man of great vision and enormous power.  Tragically, he was willing to use and abuse that power to exert his control over others. It was into this fractured world that Jesus was born. Taken at face value, it would have appeared that the humble birth of Jesus would have no impact at all on the unjust power structures of the Roman Empire. But God had a plan.

In chapter 1 of the Gospel According to Matthew there is a genealogy that show us that Jesus was born, as promised, into the line of King David, which placed him in the lineage of Jacob. King Herod was an Edomite, which placed him in the lineage of Jacob’s fraternal twin brother Esau. You can read the dramatic story of these two brothers beginning in Genesis 25. During their mother’s pregnancy, God explains the jostling taking place inside her womb. God tells Rebekah, “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger.” (Genesis 25:23). This remarkable promise that the younger son will rule over his elder brother is completely unexpected and counter-cultural. That inversion of the power structures in that day simply did not happen. But watch this! Here is the dramatic truth that relates to the story of Jesus and Herod. Jacob is the younger of the two boys. He will rule over his older brother Esau.

That promise is continuing to unfold today. The descendent of Jacob (King Jesus) is born into a world dominated by a descendent of Esau (King Herod). The kingdom ruled by Herod was built on aggression, cruelty and the abuse of authority. The Kingdom of God, ruled by Jesus, finds its origins in great power that expresses itself in love and vulnerability.  Herod was thirty-three years old on the day he was inaugurated king of Judea, the same age at which Jesus died on the cross to inaugurate the in-breaking of His kingdom into our world. With the birth of Jesus, God is in the process of personally inverting the unjust power structures of our world.

I’ve been to the Herodian and looked down on Bethlehem from its towering heights. As I stood there, looking at the place where Jesus was born, it dawned on me that all that Herod created is now in ruins. Herod was just in it for himself. Jesus, on the other hand, left no buildings or palaces but His kingdom of love, mercy, justice, truth and grace is still being born in the lives of women and men, girls and boys all over the world. 

The good news of Christmas is that the One who came in weakness and vulnerability and because of love, is on His throne. That is why you and I can live with hope this Christmas. Jesus is King and He is ready to bring us hope, new life, and His peace as He fills us with His Presence and love. In the words of the familiar Christmas carol, let us pray, “O holy Child of Bethlehem! Descend to us, we pray. Cast out our sin and enter in. Be born in us today.” Amen

O Little Town of Bethlehem, sung by Fernando Ortega

Enjoy this familiar carol sung to a non-traditional tune. A new melody to a familiar song can help us consider the meaning and significance of the words being sung. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN and sing along.

O little town of Bethlehem, 
How still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep 
The silent stars go by; 
Yet in thy dark streets shineth 
The everlasting Light;
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight. 

For Christ is born of Mary,
And gathered all above,
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
Their watch of wondering love. 
O morning stars, together 
Proclaim the holy birth!
And praises sing to God our King,
And peace to men on earth. 

O holy Child of Bethlehem! 
Descend to us, we pray;
Cast out our sin and enter in,
Be born in us today.
We hear the Christmas angels
The great glad tidings tell;
O come to us, abide with us,
Our Lord Emmanuel!

How silently, how silently,
The wondrous gift is given!
So God imparts to human hearts
The blessings of his heaven.
No ear may hear his coming,
But in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive him, still
The dear Christ enters in. 

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By Roslyn Catracchia, Director of Worship

We’ve just finished the second Sunday of Advent. And if you’re not feeling a little lift in your step yet, and if you haven’t noticed your smile lingering a little longer these days, maybe it’s time to listen to some Christmas music!

I’ve never thought of myself as a DJ, but since this past Rooted session, I started doing something with my Rooted group that I had never done before – ending each meeting with a worship video of a song that I felt went with the message of the day. And today I want to do the same for you!

There’s something so special about Christmas music. One interesting thing is that we all have different tastes, so what I love might not be what you love. But I’m going to share the first song on my yearly Christmas Favorites playlist. It’s called “Appalachian Carol.” And if you click on this link below, you can listen to it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3VsB-BaGx4

Some of you may recognize it, if you’ve come to our Christmas services over the past years because I try to sneak it in each year as part of the pre-service music. I never ever get tired of it. Just like I never get tired of Silent Night, even though I must have sung it thousands of times in my life.

William Faulkner once wrote something like this (sorry if I got the wording wrong!):

“I would say that music is the easiest means in which to express, but since words are my talent, I must try to express clumsily in words what the pure music would have done better.”

Leo Tolstoy wrote, “Music is the shorthand of emotion.”

Billy Joel once said, “I think music in itself is healing.”

I agree with all three of them. If you enjoy Appalachian Carol, I encourage you to get the entire album called “Majestic Christmas” by Our Daily Bread. It’s instrumental music that is meant to enhance your quiet moments with God. For me it certainly does, and I hope that it fills your heart and brings that lift in your step or smile to your face!

DJ Roz signing out!

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of music. Please tune our hearts to sing Your praise and to lift our eyes toward Bethlehem. Amen.

By Matt Yamamoto, Director of Youth Ministry

'When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. (Luke 2:15-18)

I can’t believe that it is already December, and Christmas is right around the corner. This is a very special Christmas though. I know that the temptation is going to be to try to keep it as normal and traditional as possible in a year that has been full of turmoil and grief, but even though that might be true, I think that the Lord is challenging us to look beyond what we have all faced this year to what others have faced.

On the surface, the media presents Christmas as a beautiful, perfect experienced awash in warm light and bathed in the aroma of gingerbread cookies. But the original Christmas was far from it. Jesus was born into this world in a cave, among domesticated and work animals, laid in their water trough, miles and miles away from home with no family to celebrate with, a far cry from the ideal start for the King of Kings. I can imagine how confusing and painful this experience must have been for Mary and Joseph. This is not how the Messiah was supposed to enter into the world. I can imagine that all of their hopes and expectations must have been dashed to the ground.

In this moment, Jesus’s story isn’t all that different from what many of our neighbors are experiencing. This is not what this year was supposed to look like, especially not Christmas. Some find themselves out on the streets, like Mary and Joseph did on that night, just looking for a safe place to stay. The only light they are awash in is the warm light of the street lamp.

Amidst all those doubts and fears, out of nowhere, come a group of excited shepherds, looking for the Messiah, sent by angels. Can you imagine the beacon of hope they represented to Mary and Joseph? This really was the Messiah, the one sent by God to save His people, these shepherds confirmed it. And once they encountered Jesus, they could not hold it in but spread the good news to all.

We can be those shepherds to those around us. Entering into people’s dark times and confirming for them that God loves them and has sent messengers of hope! This year I challenge you to go beyond your normal Christmas traditions and start a new one by finding someone who is in need and being a blessing to them because God has blessed us.

Prayer: Dear loving and generous Father, please help us to be a reflection of Your love and generosity this Christmas. Please bring to our minds and hearts someone who needs to know that You are there and love them, and help us to offer them something meaningful to make their Christmas just a little brighter. Amen.

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By Roslyn Catracchia, Director of Worship

We are in the season of Advent! I can’t believe it. December is here! And while the weather outside isn’t frightful, thus no reason for a fire to be so delightful, it was fuh-reeeeezing last night! I heard it was 69 degrees. I could not get warm! Oh, the pains of winters in Hawaii ☺ 

So if you didn’t notice, I was wanting to keep this devotional on the light side. Jeff preached a beautiful message this past Sunday, the first Sunday of Advent. His message was all about making room. If you didn’t get a chance to watch it, I highly recommend it. (Great message, Jeff!) And after the sermon, everyone who joined a Connect Group discussed the sermon questions. And question #2 seemed to strike a chord in many of us. 

“Has anyone ever made room for you when it was costly to do so?”

I thought of a number of examples. But the one that stood out so clearly in my memory was when I was 20 years old. I was a struggling musician dating an out-of-work construction worker at the time. And when I told my mom he asked me to marry him, my mom looked me in the eye, took a beat, and said, “Let’s have lunch tomorrow!” 

The next day we had lunch, and two weeks later I was on a plane to New Jersey, where I would stay the next 9 months with my Aunt and Uncle while I went to secretarial school across the Ben Franklin Bridge in Philadelphia (mothers can be so wise!).

I experienced my first winter there, my first snowfall. I experienced frightful weather! But they had made room for me in their home and in their hearts. I’ll forever be thankful to my Aunt Barbara and Uncle Bud.

As Jeff asked us, I’m asking you to remember, has anyone ever made room for you when it was costly to do so? Take a moment to reflect and remember, big moments, small moments. 

Years ago, Pastor Dan wrote a sermon about a similar subject. ‘Tis the season, and it’s very easy when we read the Christmas story and hear the Innkeeper saying, “Sorry, we’re full up! No room in the Inn.” Back then, I wrote a song about it. Some of you may have heard it before. HERE'S THE LINK TO THE SONG, in case you’d like a little break in your day to listen and reflect. 

Happy first week of Advent, friends! Let’s keep an eye open to see when God is asking us to make room, in big ways and small. 

There’s Always Room At The Inn by Roslyn Catracchia

O holy Father, who could have thought
You could love a someone like me?
I look at my life with my failures and faults 
And I don’t know what You see.
But somehow you take what little I am,
And what little I have to give,
And You make me and mold me, new everyday,
And You show me a new way to live.

And there’s always room at the Inn,
And You tenderly welcome me in.
And wherever I go, it’s so good to know
There is shelter and warmth within,
For there’s always, always room at the Inn.

O holy Father, what have I done 
To deserve Your mercy and grace?
You sent Your own Son, who came as a child
So my sins could be erased.
Yet how often I’ve said, “I’m too busy my Lord,
To do what You’ve called me to be.”
Still You give me a glimpse of the world through Your eyes,
And I see what You want me to see,

That there’s always room at the Inn,
And You tenderly welcome me in.
And wherever I go, it’s so good to know
There is shelter and warmth within,
For there’s always, always room at the Inn.

And this gift that You’ve given is promised to all, 
Promised by You alone.
So let us be bold and love in return
By welcoming everyone home.

For there’s always room at the Inn,
And You tenderly welcome us in.
And wherever we go, it’s so good to know
There is shelter and warmth within,
For there’s always, always room at the Inn.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, help us to see when You want us to make room for others, and for You, in big ways and small! Thank you, Jesus, for coming as a baby, and for being patient with us reluctant creatures. Amen

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By David Chang, Director of Ministry Support

2020 has been a tough year with the COVID-19 pandemic bringing illness and death, the economic downturn bringing hunger and homelessness, and the elections bringing division and uncertainty. Surveys taken by various public health agencies have shown that the majority of Americans are experiencing an increase in anxiety and depression. In the midst of all this dark news, there’s been interesting articles about hope published by governmental health agencies and professional medical journals. They detailed how hope and optimism would improve physical, mental, and emotional health. It’s interesting that scientists and medical professionals would show a direct linkage between hope and health. That nudged me to look at what the Bible says about hope.

There are lots of verses in the Bible about hope. One that stuck out for me is in Romans 5:

3 We also celebrate in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces patience, 4 patience produces a well-formed character, and a character like that produces hope. 5 Hope, in its turn, does not make us ashamed, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. 

It grabbed me because this explains what is going on with me right now.

• “CELEBRATE IN OUR SUFFERINGS” – God knows that we are suffering. He sees the sickness, poverty, and division that sin has brought to us. I realize that God is not ignoring what is happening to us. I realize that He is holding back disease so it does not take our lives. He is providing provision so we do not starve. He is giving us sanctuary so unrest does not injure us.

• “SUFFERING PRODUCES PATIENCE, PATIENCE PRODUCES A WELL-FORMED CHARACTER” – I am super patient when there is no suffering going on ☺! Impatience brings about all kinds of health issues for me and conflict with those around me. So I need to realize suffering builds patience in the same way resistance in exercising builds endurance.

• AND A CHARACTER LIKE THAT PRODUCES HOPE – There it is, that’s how I get hope. There are no shortcuts. Some of those articles distinguish hope and optimism. They say that optimism is passive, just wishing for things to change for the better. Hope, on the other hand, is active. Hope is taking action to change. It means praying, reading the Bible, meeting with other Christians, bringing blessings to people around you.

• HOPE, IN ITS TURN, DOES NOT MAKE US ASHAMED, BECAUSE THE LOVE OF GOD HAS BEEN POURED OUT IN OUR HEARTS THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT WHO HAS BEEN GIVEN TO US – So I should be proud that our hope does not come from denying the suffering, instead it is realizing that God is loving us and equipping us with the Holy Spirit in the suffering.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I celebrate in the suffering because through it, You are transforming me. Through it You are giving me hope. As you pour out Your love in my heart, help me to pour Your love into the heart of others. As You have equipped me with the Holy Spirit, help me to bring hope to others, especially in this first week of Advent where we celebrate hope. In Jesus name, Amen.

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By Julie Lockyer, Events Scheduler and Receptionist

Not too long ago I did a Visio Divina (Latin for “divine seeing”) over Zoom with a few ladies that I know. I am glad they are a part of my life and that I got to do the Visio Divina with them. The purpose of the Visio Divina is to listen to what God may be saying to you while looking at a picture and discovering how it relates to your life. 

The picture we looked at was Rembrandt’s painting of Jesus and the disciples during a storm in the Sea of Galilee. Some disciples were holding on to the boat, one man was standing inside the doorway of the boat, and a few men were sitting listening to Jesus at the front of the boat. They each had their own way of dealing with what was happening around them. But through this storm they were all looking at Jesus. 

There were waves crashing on one side of the boat. It looked rough and very dangerous. But on the other side, I could see the sun starting to break through. To me, that meant hope in the eye of the storm!

After pondering on the image, we shared with each other what God told us and how it related to our lives. What I loved most about this exercise is that though we all had our own individual stories of stormy situations, we all had our eyes on Jesus. We were like the disciples! No matter what we go through, we have Jesus to look to. He is the one that helps us get through the storms in our lives. He is the One who gives us HOPE.

“‘The LORD is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I hope in Him!’” Lamentations 3:24

Thanksgiving and Christmas can be a rough time for me and my family. Years ago My dad went into the hospital right before Thanksgiving and never came home. He passed away on December 14, 2000. His birthday is December 20th. My children's dad passed a couple of years ago also in December. His birthday was in December as well. And I had an uncle who passed and his birthday was also in December. 

In spite of the sadness, I look to Jesus to get me through it. I know that the people I love are celebrating up in heaven with the One who came down for us. I get to rejoice knowing I will see them all again one day. I know that no matter what I have been through, I can turn to Jesus and He will shine through the stormy clouds.

As Christmas approaches let’s lift our heads toward Jesus. He is the only One who can get you through the storms you may be going through. It could be the death of someone you love, or a divorce, or separation from a loved one. No matter what it is, Jesus loves you and is there for you.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for sending us Your son Jesus! When we are feeling down and are going through the storms in our lives, help us to look up! Help us to turn to Jesus and hold onto Your promises that this too shall pass. Thank You, Lord, for the people around us who can help us hold our heads up and encourage us to keep looking to You. Amen.

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By Marianna Meachen, Director of Care Ministries

When I was a little girl growing up in southwestern Indiana, we looked to Christmas with great anticipation, but for all the wrong reasons. Although we sang songs about the coming of the Christ child at church, our expectation as children was that Santa was coming. That was exciting to us. After all, we talked about Jesus all the time and He was already here.

When I was around nineteen, I read a book about the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem entitled Two from Galilee by Marjorie Holmes. As I read, I thought about the journey we take each year to prepare for Christmas. As I began to learn more about this season of preparation, I realized that Christmas is incomplete without Advent. (The word “Advent” is derived from a Latin word that means “coming,” a looking forward to the birth of Jesus Christ. Today, the season of Advent lasts for four Sundays leading up to Christmas Day.)

American author Jeff Goins says, “Christmas is not meant to be an isolated day, but a festival of the incarnation in the midst of the Church year. Christmas is only properly understood after having the preparation provided by Advent. In the midst of the secular excesses leading up to Christmas, Advent provides a welcome solace and an opportunity to continually re-oriented ourselves to God’s will as we expectantly wait with patriarchs, prophets, and kings for the true meaning of Christmas, the incarnation of the Son of God.”

The season of Advent is a gift of waiting and watching. I have learned to embrace this entire season of coming. It’s not just an arrival that makes Christmas special; rather, it is the combination of Advent and Christmas together. Without a destination, we would never begin a journey. Arriving at the destination gives meaning to the trip. 

Here are some ways to consider to help you prepare your heart during Advent:

• Have an Advent wreath in your home and talk about the meaning of the different candles each night at dinner.

• The app YouVersion provides a 25-day Advent reading plan.

• Ask God in prayer each day to prepare your heart to receive His Son anew.  

• Be generous to others in small ways like giving them a call, a text message, or a card in the mail.

We need both Advent and Christmas, together. Both are essential to understanding the coming of the Christ child into the world and the significance of it to us. Many of us need to recapture the importance of taking a spiritual journey. May our journey this year be the journey of Advent.

“But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33, NIV) 

Prayer: O Gentle Savior, let us journey to that lowly stall at Bethlehem to once again meet and worship You. Prepare us on our journey that through You we may be salt and light to the world. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray. Amen

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