“Noticing” by Carroll Makemson
Luke 1:46b–55 “I’m bursting with God-news; I’m dancing the song of my Savior God … mercy flows in wave after wave on those who are in awe” (Luke 1:46b–47, The Message). Pictures of cute children, greetings from family and friends, and beautiful illustrations with wishes for Christmas joy brighten our mailboxes on December days. Come […]
“Peacekeeping Among Sisters” by Eleanor Guinn
Matthew 5:1–12 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons [and daughters] of God” (Matthew 5:9). It is hard to have one sister. It is very difficult to get along with two. And if they’re both younger, then it is an impossible task. Miriam and Laurel are often fighting with each other, […]
“The Handbasket of Despair” by Gary Smith
Matthew 6:25–34 Clearly, I have done something to upset the editor-in-chief of our “Advent Guide.” Dear readers, every time I sign up to contribute, dear Sue (Wright) gives me very hard assignments. I could bore you utterly by recounting them, but Sue knows, in fact, I think she revels in it (like the evil elf […]
“The Handbasket of Despair” by Gary Smith
Matthew 6:25–34 Clearly, I have done something to upset the editor-in-chief of our “Advent Guide.” Dear readers, every time I sign up to contribute, dear Sue (Wright) gives me very hard assignments. I could bore you utterly by recounting them, but Sue knows, in fact, I think she revels in it (like the evil elf […]
“Finding Steadiness in Change” by Emmitt Drumgoole
Psalm 89:1–4, 19–26 “I declare that your steadfast love is established forever; your faithfulness is as firm as the heavens” (Psalms 89:2). My Christmas experiences have changed annually. God hasn’t. Three years ago, Kristen and I traveled to Houston to spend a few days with my family. It was the first time Kristen got to […]
“The Radiance of God’s Glory” by Lisa Shoemaker
Hebrews 1:1–4 “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven” (Hebrews 1:3). Here we are in the third week of Advent, clamoring […]