2018 ADVENT DEVOTIONAL | FRESNO PACIFIC UNIVERSITY

Anticipation | Preparation | Coronation | Celebration

The birth of Jesus Christ

2018 Fresno Pacific University Advent Devotional

This year we decided to celebrate the coming of Christ in a devotional written by 25 pastors across denominations. This corporate effort is a reminder of our interdependence

in reflecting the living Christ in his church. We celebrate his coming as the Word of God made flesh in a child, who came “to take away the sins of the world.” We anticipate his return and the glory that will be revealed for all the earth to acknowledge.

He entered the world as a child, lived and worked as a carpenter and rabbi and died as a criminal on the cross. We celebrate his resurrection as the King of Kings who will come again to redeem those who have trusted in his name. We remember the past, are thankful for the present, but rejoice in the future of his coming again. Let us celebrate his birth while remembering who he is now—our Lord and Savior; the Word of God, the Prince of Peace and the soon coming King.

Joseph Jones, Ph.D. President Fresno Pacific University

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Anticipation

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Hope in The Neighborhood“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old from ancient times.” -Micah 5:2

Where were you born? A small town? A famous city? Small and forgotten. That is how Bethlehem is described in today’s verse. Sure, King David was born there, but that was generations ago. As Micah speaks, God’s

people find themselves in a bad place. Fear, turmoil, the threat of violence from the invading Assyrians, corruption in the government and the religious system too. Darkness reigns and hope is almost gone. Yet from this small, forgotten place hope and salvation will come, says the prophet. God promises to intervene in a surprising way. Expectation and anticipation are again rekindled. Things look bad, but God is still at work.

The prophet Micah reminds us of God’s promise of salvation in dark situations. The Advent season reminds us that it is found in Jesus, the promised ruler and Messiah. Have you placed your hope and trust in Jesus of Bethlehem? Are you joining him in his work to bring hope to others?

In this season we wait, pray, watch and hope…but we also act, helping usher in God’s Kingdom and salvation in the places we live. Maybe this Advent season while we anticipate Jesus coming again, we can participate with Jesus in simple, hope-filled actions in the ordinary places where we live…Shafter, Boone, Eugene, Birch Bay, La Grulla, Mountain Lake, Lustre, Marshall, Inman, Raisin City. These are the unexpected places where God is at work. These are the places where hope lives and salvation is present as Jesus is alive and active through his people. How will you demonstrate hope and impact your neighborhood today?

Lord Jesus, empower us to be hopeful and encouraging in the neighborhoods, campuses and workplaces in which we find ourselves today.

James Bergen (M.Div. ‘00) Lead Pastor, North Fresno Mennonite Brethren Church, Fresno, CA

SATURDAY | DECEMBER 1 SUNDAY | DECEMBER 2

The Present of God’s Presence“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” -Isaiah 7:14.

For many, the countdown of shopping days remaining before Christmas can initiate emotions of angst and anxiety. Picking out the perfect item has shifted the historic celebration of a Savior into a stressed-out season of busy parking

lots and maxed out credit cards.

Is it possible that in our hurried shopping for Christmas presents we are in danger of actually missing out on the presence of God this Christmas?

The prophet promised a sign in Isaiah 7:14 that there would be a child born who will be called Immanuel. The word Immanuel meaning…God with us. The creator of the universe wrapped the greatest gift of all time in swaddling clothes and placed him in a manger.

For hundreds of years, those who believed this promise of God waited with expectation for this sign to be fulfilled. Decade after decade would pass with a growing sense of anticipation for the Christ child’s arrival.

Thousands of years later, millions now irritably wait for the arrival of their online Cyber-Monday purchases to check-the-box of gifts that need to be purchased before Christmas morning.

Is it possible that in our hurried shopping for Christmas presents we are in danger of actually missing out on the presence of God this Christmas?

As the days inch forward toward our Christmas celebrations garnished with beautifully wrapped presents surrounding delightfully decorated trees, may we be mindful of the eternal peaceful presence of forgiveness that is offered through God’s perfect gift …the Christ child.

Brent Deffenbacher (M.Div. ‘99) Teaching Pastor, CrossCity Christian Church, Fresno, CA

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Wavering in Anticipation“ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” -Matthew 11:3

The Lord Jesus said, “...among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist…” With an accolade like that, John’s anticipation of the Messiah must have been driven by unwavering faith.

In Matthew 11:3, however, John sends his disciples to basically ask Jesus, “Are you the long-awaited Messiah, or not?” Some theologians assume John sent his disciples to ask Jesus this question for their own benefit. On the other hand, some believe John was personally struggling and wavering in his faith, thus needing confirmation. I’m inclined to agree with the latter.

At this time, John was imprisoned by Herod because of his biblical stance against sin. And because of the trials that accompany imprisonment, I believe John is sincerely wrestling with the messianic identity of Jesus. If Jesus is the anticipated Messiah who sets the captives free, why am I behind bars?

Has this Advent season presented you with trials? Do you find yourself struggling and wavering in your faith? If so, may we find encouragement in this truth from Scripture: “If we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself.” Be encouraged by the fact that sovereign God uses our wavering faith to point us to himself, the God who is altogether faithful.

As you and I celebrate the advent of Messiah’s birth and anticipate his glorious return, let us lay our trials and wavering faith at the feet of him who is faithful.

Holy God, we believe in you, until we don’t. Holy Spirit, please help our unbelief. May the good news of Christ’s Gospel drive our faith.

Paul Micu (BA ‘91, MA ‘97) Pastor, Highview Bible Church, Clovis, CA

MONDAY | DECEMBER 3

The Advantage of the Disadvantaged“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 2:17-18 (read Luke 2:8-14)

This past summer I attended the USMB convention as a delegate in Salt Lake City, UT. At the convention, we, the delegates considered approving a resolution which publicly declared a stance on the separation of children

from their parents at the border. After some conversation regarding the language and tone of the resolution, it became apparent to me that the delegates deciding on the resolution did not reflect the voice or perspective regarding the diversity in the USMB family of churches.

Luke provides a narrative which can help us understand the importance of listening to the voices of folks within our community of churches working in the margins and who may be perceived as “disadvantaged.” God was intentional in setting the stage for the birth of the Messiah. An angel appeared to “shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.” The shepherds were folks who did not have important political, religious or social status. However, they were chosen by God to be amongst to first invited to come to see the Messiah after his birth.

May we be reminded that the shepherds out in the fields are representative of the folks sometimes considered to be “disadvantaged” due to of lack of resources, education level, language, documentation status, etc. After the shepherds saw the Messiah, they shared their experience with others and all who heard were amazed.

May we understand the essence of what it means to truly walk together in harmony and amazed at the wonders God is doing in the margins.

Xavier Piña, Ed.D. (MA ‘05) Lead Pastor, Iglesia La Gran Comisión, Hanford, CA Chair, Hispanic Council, Pacific District Conference District Superintendent, Armona Union Elementary School District, Armona, CA

TUESDAY | DECEMBER 4

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The Greatest Gift“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

Christmas in our culture is big business. Americans are expected to spend more than a $1 trillion dollars on holiday-related expenses! This staggering sum is spent on everything from decorations to baking supplies, and of

course all those gifts. Gifts and other traditions are a wonderful part of Christmas, but there is a gift which exceeds them all in cost and value.

When God sent Jesus into this world he did so at a cost which is immeasurable. He did so, not out of obligation, but from an incredible sacrificial love for this world. In Christ, God extends to all people the promise of life, rescue from death and the promise of eternity. There is no way to buy this gift, no lay away plan or IOU’s accepted here. God’s great gift to this world is received by faith.

Advent is a season filled with anticipation. As we look back to the first coming of the Savior of this world we are reminded of just how precious a gift our God sent to us, and just how much we needed the new life he would provide. At the same time we anticipate his coming again, and the eternal life spent with him. May we be filled with awe at the extravagance of our God’s love, and be filled with all peace, hope, joy and love until his return.

God, we thank you for the incredible gift which you have given us in Jesus! As we await your second coming, may we follow in your footsteps, loving others as you have loved us in Christ Jesus.

Scott Holman (BA ‘98) Lead Pastor, Butler Church, Fresno, CA

WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 5

Preparation

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Prophetic Preparation“I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put my words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him.” -Deuteronomy 18:18 (read Deuteronomy 18:9-22)

A t some point, we all worry about what will happen in the future. Perhaps we take our fantasizing to another level, using the Bible to inform our future-guessing. We might even use these enlightened insights to help

us prepare for that (once ambiguous) reality waiting for us.

As Moses speaks to Israel before entering the Promised Land, he takes on the role of prophet. Soothsaying practices abound in this foreign land, offering false hope to those desperate for answers. God uses Moses to prophetically prepare Israel for counter-cultural living, to resist the lure of charlatans and swindlers.

In The Prophetic Imagination Walter Brueggemann writes, “The task of prophetic ministry is to nurture, nourish, and evoke a consciousness and perception alternative to the consciousness and perception of the dominant culture around us.”

Moses did this for Israel; God promised to continue to do this through the prophets. Jesus embodied this through his life and ministry so that all might be saved.

Advent is the perfect time for us to remember that our ministry on earth is not to be filled with worrying about the future. We are called to live as examples of Christ, evoking an alternative consciousness full of a special kind of hope. A hope restored by a child 2,000 years ago.

Holy Spirit, prepare us this Advent season to prophetically inspire hope in the lives of all we meet. May we share the counter-cultural love brought to earth through the birth of your son.

Jordan Ringhofer, M.A. Christian Ministry Student, Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary Lead Pastor, Hope Kingsburg MB

THURSDAY | DECEMBER 6

Get Ready “I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom… I will be his father, and he will be my son.” -2 Samuel 7:12b, 13

A storm is coming, get ready. As a kid who grew up in tornado alley, I understood that meant I needed to get my socks and shoes on so that if my family had to make a run for the cellar we could. I knew that I needed

to respond, to get ready, to prepare. I have to think that David felt something similar after hearing the prophet Nathan’s word from the Lord. While I might have been feeling nervous with butterflies in my stomach while I was preparing for a storm, David may have had butterflies for a different reason. God had given him an incredible promise, to establish David’s house forever. We know that this ultimately culminates in Jesus, but for David this was a wondrous destiny-changing moment. David responds with prayer. How do we respond? We are given the incredible call to follow Jesus every day. In this season of preparing for Advent, to celebrate the coming of Jesus, we can remind ourselves to prepare for the second advent of Jesus, when Jesus comes back again. May we prepare well.

Lord of heaven and earth, we are grateful that you have invited us to follow you. As we celebrate the season that you came to earth in Jesus, remind us of how we can prepare for your return. Help us lead lives that are honoring to you.

Ben Friesen, M.Div. (M.Div. ‘16) Lead Pastor, Cornerstone Community Church, Topeka, KS

FRIDAY | DECEMBER 7

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The Coming of a Sign“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” -Isaiah 7:14

I used to get lost all of the time when I traveled by car to destinations. But now that I have a GPS, I have learned to follow the instructional signs given to me, that I might arrive on time and to the right location. Signs are important, signs are

necessary, signs are for those who need to know where to go and how to get there. I’m glad to know today that God gives signs to his people so that they may know how to follow his directions and to understand what he would have them to know.

There was great drama in Israel, the king was not listening to God, nor did he have an ear to want to receive what Heaven wanted him to know.

Isaiah the prophet had a divine message that the people needed to hear. In this narrative we see that God had plan for his people and it involved the coming of his very own son, Israel’s promised king. He would be called Immanuel, which is interpreted “God with us.” He would be the sign that god was a with Israel, and that he had not forsaken them or neglected them. Jesus is the sign for this season. When we celebrate the advent of God we are celebrating the acceptance of God’s divine sign. His sign of love, forgiveness, acceptance and reconciliation is wrapped in the one we call Immanuel…God with us.

Thank you, Holy Father, for sending your precious son as a sign for all to believe. Thank you for being Immanuel, the God who tabernacles with men. May your name be glorified in this season.

Angulus Wilson (BA ‘89) University Pastor, Fresno Pacific University, Fresno, CA

SATURDAY | DECEMBER 8

Pruned and Prepared“There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse…” -Isaiah 11:1a (read Isaiah 11:1, 2a, 4a, 5a)

I ’m a city slicker. Growing up in Miami, south of downtown and most of the beaches, I was surrounded by trees and vegetation. They needed no tending— I could sling in a hammock and simply enjoy. Living in the Central Valley, I’ve

come to learn that trees are work. Fruitful, vibrant and healthy trees are a lot of work. I’ve discovered while living in the “World’s Fruit Basket” that although water is necessary and fertilizer essential to produce savory fruit, what prepares a fruit tree to really get growing is pruning. Pruning removes diseased, decayed and detrimental branches; paradoxically paving the way for sustained and abundant growth.

In Isaiah 11, Israel is being prepared for a pruning. Isaiah’s prophecy is largely a call for Israel to return to her God in faithfulness and holiness, to return to God’s loving care and protection. Yet, we know the story’s end. Israel is exiled to Babylon, the kingdom is lost and the future of God’s people is bleak.

But, in God’s orchard, this was Israel’s pruning. A pruning to prepare the stump of Jesse for the growth of God’s kingdom beyond Israel so, “…all the nations of the earth [would] be blessed.” Israel’s pruning made the way for Jesus’ advent, atonement and resurrection. So I ask: what pruning might God be seeking in you to prepare you for his works? What needs thinning or removing for you to be fruitful for God’s purposes?

Father God, prune the dead areas of my heart that siphon my joy and love for Christ, and prepare me again to live in the newness of life made possible in Jesus’ coming into our world.

Malcolm Light, M.Div. Lead Pastor, Reedley Mennonite Brethren Church, Reedley, CA

SUNDAY | DECEMBER 9

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It Does Matter"…zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this." -Isaiah 9:7 (read Isaiah 9:6-7)

Having pastored a local church for over 40 years, I’m still amazed at how we “undertake” ministry and serving our Lord. It’s like “any old way” will do. This is so far from the truth. In all we do, the Scripture says our goal

should be to glorify our Lord. Whether the task be great or small, it should make him “look good.” Colossians 3:23 reminds us God is deserving of our best at all times in every effort or endeavor. We deceive ourselves in thinking that God “understands” when presenting anything to him that is less than acceptable and not reflective of his glory.

I have heard preaching when the lack of preparation was obvious, music ministry where there was a minimum of rehearsal, papers written with minimal preparation; why do we feel that it is all right to do so? For the God we serve is worthy and deserving of our very best in preparation, planning and presentation.

It seems apparent in the prophecy given to us by Isaiah as he prophecies of the coming of Jesus; his birth, duties, reign, responsibilities, power and glory; giving us an expectation of the Son of God. The Prophet closes vs. 7, “…the zeal of the Lord God Almighty will accomplish this.” You and I have been far less responsibility but whatever we do for God, our “zeal” should be reflected in it. There should be an urgency and excitement as we render service to him. And let this season be a reminder.

Lord, I was made for your glory, and let my love and actions give evidence of this.

Paul Binion, M. Div. Pastor, Westside Church of God, Fresno, CA

MONDAY | DECEMBER 10

Endowed with God’s Glory"Endow the king with your justice, O God, the royal son with your righteousness." -Psalm 72:1

D id Solomon or David pray this prayer first? Whoever initiated it, Solomon seems to take it as his own song. But even more than this, God revealed the coming of his son, the King of Kings endowed with glory, wisdom, justice,

love and righteousness.

We can hear David’s heart for his son in this prayer, and we can sense Solomon’s desire to be a king that reflects God’s glory.

Solomon, both the king and the royal son, was destined to be endowed with God’s loving justice and righteousness. His inheritance was transmitted to him by his father David, but his right to rule came from God.

He excelled in many ways by depending on God and ruling himself and his people according to God’s law. But even with the amazing gifts of wisdom and wealth given to him by God, he did not always glorify God in his choices. He fell short in many ways.

God has a purpose for each of our lives. We are his masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus designed to do the work he prepared for us to do (Ephesians 2:10). We are here to make a kingdom impact! Our story is important!

Advent reminds us that God sent his son, the King of Kings, who does not fall short in any way, to fulfill his father’s love for us as our Savior full of grace and truth.

Thank you, father for endowing us with your son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, manifest yourself in and through the uniqueness of who we are to glorify Jesus and fulfill God’s purposes in our lives.

Terrie Purgason (M.Div. ‘94) Pastor of Equipping, The Word Community Church, Fresno, CA

TUESDAY | DECEMBER 11

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Superhero“What is his name, and what is the name of his son? Surely you know!” -Proverbs 30:4 (read Proverbs 30:1-9)

In recent years it seems as though there’s been a resurgence of “superhero” movies such as Ironman, Superman, Batman or the Avengers! We could evaluate all of these by their own merits such as the overall theme, violence or

how to deal with bad guys in our lives, but I think there’s a deeper message these films are tapping into: the need for superheroes. Whether we consciously think about it or not, I believe we all have a need for heroes in our lives and when things really get tough we need a good superhero!

I’d like to suggest that the ultimate superhero is Jesus. It may be a little odd to think of him that way, but he fulfills the greatest needs we have by his birth, death and resurrection. The writer of Proverbs 30 is obviously struggling with something in his life that draws him into an honest conversation with God. He realizes that he needs the Lord’s help and recognizes him for who he really is as well as the power of his word. As we draw closer to the celebration of Jesus’ birth, let’s be reminded of who he is and the needs all around us, as well as in us, for the ultimate superhero.

Lord, may we be reminded of who you are and all that you’ve done for us this Christmas season. May we also be burdened by the needs we see in our world and be prepared to share the ultimate hope found in Jesus with those who need a true superhero.

Pat Coyle, M.Div. Senior Pastor, Shafter Mennonite Brethren Church, Shafter, CA

WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 12

Coronation

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The Crowning Promise“The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David...” -Luke 1:32b (read Luke 1:31-33)

As we move through life, as we live and love, we become accustomed to the fact that promises are often broken. Broken promises sometimes make broken people, and yet, there’s something gritty and determined within the

human spirit that seeks to cash in the promissory notes that have been written to us. Israel often exemplified both.

The history of Israel is the story of promise: promises made by God and broken by God’s people. At the time of Jesus’ birth, as Israel was subjugated to Roman occupation of the Promised Land, it appeared as though God’s promise of a king and an everlasting kingdom was but a mirage. However, in a backwater of the Roman Empire, God’s people received a royal edict that the hour was now, that the promise of a king like David would be born. A shoot of new life was growing out of the decaying stump of Jesse, and his name would be Jesus.

The reality of King Jesus’ life would be defined by trust in and attunement with the promise of God’s love for the world, even as he wrestled Jacob-like with the brokenness in the world that gives rise to our mistrust of God, to the point of death on a cross. Yet what appeared to be the execution of a rebel was in fact the coronation of a king, and the surprising fulfillment of the long sought-after promise which would make us subjects of the ever-present and everlasting Kingdom of God.

King Jesus, help us, your subjects, be signposts of your promise to love the world back to life.

Dustin Maddox (BA ‘12, M.Div. ‘17) Associate Pastor, University Presbyterian Church in Fresno, CA

THURSDAY | DECEMBER 13

The Measure of Leadership“…He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever….” -Isaiah 9:7 (read Isaiah 9:6-7)

The installation of a new leader—whether monarch, president, dean, CEO or pastor—is often accompanied by much celebration. Expectations are high. Even ancient Israel, who had never had a king, thought Saul looked the part.

It’s an open secret that we favor leaders who come packaged in certain bodies: 58 percent of Fortune 500 companies have CEOs over six feet tall. This prejudice for leaders to look a certain way can lead us to overlook more important qualifications.

The primary responsibility of the king in ancient Israel was administration of justice and righteousness. Isaiah 9:6-7 is likely a reference to King Hezekiah, who instituted temple reform when worship practices had become corrupt.

Christian readers of the Hebrew Bible read this passage—full of promise and hope for a ruler whose reign is characterized by peace, justice and righteousness—and cannot help see the foreshadowing of the long hoped-for Messiah. During the season of Advent, full of joyful anticipation and longing for the reign of God to be fully realized in our lives, we are invited to assess where we place our hope and trust.

Are we assessing our leaders based on their administration of justice and righteousness? Or do we let blind prejudice against the type of body into which a leader is born determine their fitness to lead?

We may say we’re not leaders per se, but we each have areas of responsibility in our daily lives, which we can govern with justice and righteousness. Are you a teacher? Medical professional? Mechanic? Gardener? Retail associate? Administrator? Stay-at-home parent? There is much in your sphere of influence where you can bring about God’s justice and righteousness.

God of peace, stir us to govern our lives with justice and righteousness, so that your peace reigns on Earth.

Audrey N. Hindes (BA ‘01) Pastor, Willow Avenue Mennonite Church, Clovis, CA

FRIDAY | DECEMBER 14

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Star Search“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” -Matthew 2:10-11 (read Matthew 2:7-12)

“…and the Grand Champion award goes to…” the host announced enthusiastically.

Those words marked the crowning of winner on this hit American talent show from the 1980s. This person had defeated challengers along the way throughout the season and ultimately, in this final episode. Singers, dancers,

comedians and the like had all competed for the title, but only one emerged as the Grand Champion. As entertaining as this show was, the basic goal was to determine who would be the next big star—loved by all and celebrated by all.

Jesus is our Grand Champion, but unlike the winner of this talent show, he isn’t a celebrity with fans. Instead, He is the Savior with followers. He isn’t a star, but a star was used to lead the Magi to him. His challenger, Herod, was after a crown of his own and viewed Jesus as competition. It was as if the child the Magi found was also a contestant on a talent show. However, Herod was wrong. Jesus was (and is) the Savior of the World. King of Kings. Lord of Lords. Title already declared. Crown already won. Victory already claimed. Kingdom already introduced.

He is the fulfillment of our search.

Lord, as the star leads us in our search for You, may we rejoice when we find You. May we lay all of our gifts at your feet as we bow down and worship you, our Grand Champion.

Rici Skei (BA ‘02, MA ‘05) Co-Pastor, On Ramps Covenant Church, Fresno, CA

SATURDAY | DECEMBER 15

Good News. Bad News. Good News!“This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.” -Matthew 1:18

Late one evening, years ago and early in my ministry, I received a call from a desperate mother in my church about her teenage daughter. Could I come to the house immediately, she wanted to know. Her daughter had just told

her she was pregnant.

I went to their home that night, greeted the distraught mother at the door and then her teenage daughter in the living room behind her. I hugged this young lady and heard myself telling her, “Congratulations.” It did not go over well with her mom.

Good news. Bad news. Which was this pregnancy? Reflecting on that night I would have been wise to have taken my wife or a female colleague with me, though we had toddlers at home and the hour was late. To the mom, her daughter’s pregnancy was bad news. To the daughter, her pregnancy was good news. Which was it to God?

Mary’s pregnancy, presented in Matthew 1:18, was good news to God. In fact, we are told that the Holy Spirit was responsible for placing the child within her. Yet those around Mary would need help to see this pregnancy as anything but bad news. So the angel gave Joseph, Mary’s betrothed, what he needed to embrace her and her pregnancy as good news.

It remains a challenge for many to see Jesus’ conception, birth, identity, ministry, death, resurrection and promised return as the Good News that God tells us it is. Once we do, however, every bit of “bad news” is redeemed. We find hope where all seemed lost.

Dear God, give us what we need to see your (and Mary’s) son Jesus as the Good News that he is—the one who saves. And strengthen us to greet all we meet in the light of his Good News.

Mark Isaac (M.Div. ’93) Lead Pastor/Elder, Dinuba Mennonite Brethren Church, Dinuba, CA

SUNDAY | DECEMBER 16

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Fresh Perspective“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God…” -John 1:1 (read Mark 1:1 and John 1:1)

My younger sister was asked to create a painting capturing theme of her church’s sermon series. Yesterday, she texted our family saying she was frustrated with how the art piece was coming along.

“Spend some time with the canvas in your garden, your holy place, just you, a blank page and the Holy Spirit for a fresh perspective,” I said.

Hours later she texted us an entirely new art piece, inspired by her time with the Holy Spirit in her garden.

What if I did something similar with John 1:1 to gain some fresh perspective? I decided to take the Scripture with me into my holy place, my community. I walked the streets of Shafter, meditating on the passage.

As I was in Veteran’s Park, a pregnant mom walked by. And the thought came to mind, what if John 1:1 is about connection, communion, like a mother with a growing belly? The mom and the baby grow with each other. They need each other. They require each other. They are defined by each other. This Scripture is reflecting that deep connection of the Trinity. Created in God’s image, we are made for similar connection with God, and with our community.

Holy Spirit, thank you for providing fresh perspective when we seek out time with you. Whether our task is a piece of art or writing a devotional, you long to connect with us as we do our work in our communities.

Melissa Bergen (BA ‘04, MA ‘12) Pastor, Iglesia Compañerismo Cristiano, and Local Missions Director, Shafter Mennonite Brethren Church, Shafter, CA

MONDAY | DECEMBER 17

Who Are Your Parents?“and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who is called the Messiah.” -Matthew 1:16 (read Matthew 1:1 and Matthew 1:16)

G rowing up in a Mennonite Brethren church, I became experienced in playing “The Name Game.” You know the game, played by ethnic and denominational groups alike. It’s the game when someone asks your name

and while looking into your face says, “Oh, you are a Lautt. . . are you Robert’s daughter?” I am proud of the family I come from, but there is always a moment of pause as the other person sizes you up by the lineage you come from. It is the game that makes you want to belong, to be known and to be seen as having value.

Matthew Chapter 1 dives right into the lineage of Jesus since telling the story of a man’s life naturally would begin with listing his pedigree. For the Jews, the purity of lineage was very important and is what one’s value was based on. And so, when it is listed that Mary was the mother of Jesus, the response may be: What? Mary? The poor teenage girl from Nazareth, of all places? From this most unexpected of lineages, Jesus arrives on the scene. Jesus, called the Messiah, is the anointed one who would lead the people. This king turned the lineage rules upside down. Jesus invited people into relationship; he called them by name and spoke value and affirmation into their lives.

May we affirm and speak value to people, not because of their family lineage, but because they are daughters and sons of the most-high King, the creator God, who loves and delights in them.

Rhonda Lautt Dueck (BA ‘89, TC ‘93, MA ‘12) Associate Pastor and Micah Project Director North Fresno Church, Fresno, CA

TUESDAY | DECEMBER 18

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Celebration

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Celebration“Then sang Moses and the children of Israel this sing unto the LORD, and spoke saying, I will sing unto the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously: the horse and the rider hath he thrown into the sea.” -Exodus 15:1 (read Exodus 14:13-15:2)

Moses was destined to lead his people to freedom from the day he was born. His killing of an Egyptian for striking a Hebrew demonstrates where his heart was; however, there is no indication that he attempted to seek

God about how he should go about fulfilling his destiny. Therefore, his feeble effort was not only ineffective, but premature. He had the right idea, but the method and timing were his, not God’s.

For Moses, the celebration recorded in Exodus 15 occurred only after a season of expected opposition from Pharaoh and unexpected opposition from the very people he had been sent to liberate. Although he had not accomplished his ultimate goal of getting the people to Canaan, he led the people in celebrating the victory God had already given.

Every God-called leader has been given an assignment. Like Moses, we often face opposition from without and within. However, just as God had Moses’ back, he has ours. Moses had no idea how God was going to deliver Israel until the time came for him to act. Like it or not, we serve on a need-to-basis. Like Moses, we just have to trust him. We also have the responsibility to teach those who follow to celebrate every victory on the journey set before us.

Father, teach us to persevere through every opposing force, and to teach others to celebrate every victory you produce.

James E. Parks, Sr. Pastor, West Fresno Christian Center, Fresno, CA

WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 19

Joseph’s Call“But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 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 1:20-21

I find it interesting that, after calling Joseph’s name, the first words the angel speaks to Joseph are “Don’t be afraid.”

I think about the times when I’m talking with my wife, and the first thing I tell her is, “Don’t be mad, but…” It’s a cue that whatever I tell her next will give her good reason to be mad.

Joseph probably got that same feeling of apprehension when the angel began with “Don’t be afraid.” But the message from the angel was an incredible challenge for Joseph.

“Don’t be afraid, Joseph. God’s saving plans for the world are being entrusted to your care.”

Imagine for a moment: God’s plan for the redemption of the world depended on one man’s willingness to raise a child who was not his own.

This was the call of Joseph and he heeded the call.

What might God be calling you towards in this season? In what ways can you invest in the lives of people who are “not your own”?

Jesus, help us to respond to your call on our own lives to care for widows, orphans and the lonely and distressed in our world. Thank you for Joseph’s example of loving a child that wasn’t his own. Help us, in some small way, to do the same.

John Richardson (BA ‘03, MA ‘07) Lead Pastor, Prodigal Church, Fresno, CA

THURSDAY | DECEMBER 20

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Seeing Jesus“For my eyes have seen your salvation,” -Luke 2:30 (read Luke 2:25-32)

What does it mean to really “see Jesus?” Our text demonstrates God’s favor towards a faithful, focused individual whose heart’s desire was to witness the arrival of the Messiah. Simeon was a man who was influenced (v.25),

enlightened (v.26) and led (v27) by the Holy Spirit. Because of his sincere belief, his unwavering commitment and timely response in moving at the behest of the spirit, he received an awesome blessing and privilege…a true gift from God!

To really see Jesus, you must recognize the Holy Spirit as a gift, and be willing to allow the Holy Spirit to be the main influence in your life. God’s Holy Spirit in us, as Christians, is our greatest gift from God. The Holy Spirit is our unity with God, our source of communication from God and the guarantee that we are his children. The Holy Spirit is God’s gift to those who receive Jesus Christ as savior.

Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

To help us visualize Jesus in a better way, the Holy Spirit enlightens us. The Holy Spirit works to transform the minds of believers. The apostle Paul prays in Ephesians 1:17, “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.”

Lord, please help us to see Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. Help us to live in such a way that others see Christ in us!

Adrian A. Lee Church Administrator, Family Community Church, Fresno, CA

FRIDAY | DECEMBER 21

Crossing Borders“The Word Became Flesh and made his dwelling among us.” -John 1:14a

Have you had an opportunity to cross a border? Not just a state line, but a real border into a land that is distinct from your homeland. Traveling to India several years ago was a rich experience. Crossing borders reminds us of

the magnificent diversity of our world. We can’t begin to fully appreciate a people, culture or country unless we meet people, eat their food, experience their hospitality and discover a place they call home.

At Christmas we celebrate the incarnation—God became human—the eternal son experienced crossing a border from heaven to earth. It’s no small thing to consider that God so loved and valued humanity that he initiated this border crossing. Jesus experienced life in this world, yet lived without sin. He showed us what life is like across the border we couldn’t access—walled off because of our sin and separation from a Holy God. Jesus’ border crossing changed things forever. He taught us to pray for and expect the realities of his now accessed heavenly home to impact the earth and its brokenness (your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven). Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the border wall has been removed and peace is made through his reconciling power!

Lord, we are grateful this Advent season that in your great love for us, the son was sent to earth. Despite our lack of gracious hospitality to this holy visitor from heaven among us, we rejoice that your kingdom prevailed through love and sacrifice. We honor King Jesus today, the great border-crossing Savior of the world!

Gary Wall (BA '86, M.Div '89) Pacific District MB Conference Minister and FPU Trustee

SATURDAY | DECEMBER 22

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Hope in the Midst of Despair“All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: ‘The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel (which means “God with us”). -Matthew 1:22-23

In moments of darkness and despair, questions race through our mind: Why is this happening? Where is God? Does he care? I am sure Joseph was absorbed with these concerns as he reflected on his circumstances: the woman

he plans to marry is now pregnant (and it’s not his baby), he plans to break up without attracting attention, then he has a weird dream—an angel tells him this is all part of God’s plan.

In the midst of Joseph’s apparent betrayal and confusion, Matthew simply states: “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said…” God has a purpose and plan, even when we are coping with personal pain. His plan is totally unexpected (to use a virgin in the birth of the Messiah). Though his ways are higher than ours, God uses this miracle to proclaim he “is with us.” He is present, he cares, he guides, he knows our future.

Life is filled with challenges and perplexing events. Whenever you are in the midst of “darkness,” remember we worship a God who never leaves us alone and never gives up on us. Despite the confusion and craziness, Joseph chose to believe. We have that same hope because of Immanuel God is with us.

Lord, as we experience the storms of life, may we have the courage and faith to rely on you, our anchor, who provides strength, peace and hope.

Jim Aiken (BA '71, M. Div. '00) Pastor, Heritage Bible Church, Bakersfield CA

SUNDAY | DECEMBER 23

The First Christmas“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.’ When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’” -Luke 2:13-15 (read Luke 2)

I t’s an incredible wonder that on history’s first Christmas, Jesus left the comfort of the divine family to spend time with the human family—not as a visitor, but as a neighbor in Bethlehem! I can’t help but think of the extreme contradiction between

how Jesus spent his first Christmas morning in his neighborhood, and how we usually spend ours. When Jesus was born he was not to be found in the familiar or the comfortable. Instead, he chose to be found with marginalized neighbors, the poor, the estranged, the broken, the sinners, the lost, the corrupt. He chose to make them his true family. Christmas for Jesus was never just about the family he already had, it was always about the family he would make his own! The very ethos of Christmas is the story of coming to those who are outside of our family and making them part of our family. It is my deepest desire that this Christmas season would not be about you and yours—but about those in your neighborhood Jesus longs to love through you.

Jesus, bring to mind someone in my neighborhood to whom I can open my heart, my home and my very self this Christmas season.

Joe White (M.Div. ‘04) Lead Pastor, Neighborhood Church, Fresno, CA

MONDAY | DECEMBER 24

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The Blessing of a Promise“Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” -Luke 1:45 (read Luke 1:38-45)

We find ourselves at the conclusion of the first Advent in this passage. A joyful celebration of a promise that is about to be fulfilled, evident by the stirring of the baby within Elizabeth and the presence of the

Holy Spirit coming upon her. Elizabeth responds by referring to herself as blessed because she had faithfully believed that the Lord would fulfill his promise.

As we find ourselves waiting for the second Advent, we must ask ourselves if we can be described as possessing the same belief in the promise of his return? What blessings are we missing by forgetting the promises spoken to us by Jesus himself? We can live confidently in this Advent season, and all seasons of life, knowing that in remembering the promises given to us we not only receive motivation for greater obedience in our daily lives but the hope that comes in the blessing of the promises fulfilled.

Truthfully each of us has promises that we are waiting for fulfillment in. It is the gift of the Holy Spirit in this season that can prompts us to trust, anticipate and eagerly await not only the return of our Savior, but the continued fulfillment of his promises in our individual lives as we choose to position ourselves to remember what he has spoken.

Lord, we too often forget to remember your promise. We live our lives as if Advent has been completed. In this season, would you birth in us a greater anticipation and expectation of your return, the ultimate Advent. That we may too be called blessed because we believe your promises.

Dale Oquist, M.A. Lead Pastor, Peoples Church, Fresno, CA

TUESDAY | DECEMBER 25

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