Prayer:  As we remember Jesus born in Bethlehem long ago, may we know he is in our hearts today.  Peace on earth.  Amen
 
Reading:  Micah 5:  2-5a (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:   I was born in Bethlehem.  In a hospital called St. Luke's, no less.  Well, actually, the hospital is in Fountain Hill, a small suburb of Bethlehem but close enough.  It felt kind of special.  On top of South Mountain, there is even a huge star that shines over the city during the Christmas season.  I could also add I grew up in the town of Nazareth about 10 miles to the north but that would border on bragging.  There are Bethlehems and Nazareths in other places, the most important being in the Holy Land.  But it sure gave my childhood mind something real to grasp when I saw the star and stood at manger scenes.
 
The message of a savior to be born in Bethlehem, as foretold by the prophet Micah and later told in the nativity stories of the Gospels, truly resonated with me.  I never doubted it happened.  Albeit on the other side of the world but, whatever, I was very young.  However, for the people of Micah's time, the idea probably seemed unlikely.  The shepherd David came from Bethlehem and became a great ruler but Micah is talking much bigger.  Feeding his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God; the one of peace. (v. 4,5)
 
Maybe it is easy for us to believe Jesus was born in Bethlehem but even more we need to believe is He is in our hearts.  Peace in our hearts.  Peace on earth.
 
-- Ruth Gates

Prayer:  Thank you for those who share our joys and understand our struggles.  Together there is faith, hope and love as you, Lord, are with us, too.  We sing your praise.  Amen
 
Reading:  Luke 1:  39-55 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  On the last Wednesday of the month, I gather with a few women friends for dinner.  We arrive with haste and stories to tell, particularly from the past month.  This recent gathering was just after Thanksgiving where I shared the joys of seeing almost all my closest family members (missed a sister-in-law, nephew and his wife) and also the struggles of a flat tire and furnace breakdown (neither of which  left us in a total lurch and both got fixed without a hitch so it was only more to be thankful for at Thanksgiving).  We also exchanged Christmas gifts and one I received was a decorative pillow embroidered with the lyrics, Soon it will be Christmas day!  The giver told me she chose it because I sing a lot.  So I began singing Silver Bells.
 
Reminds me of Mary and Elizabeth.  Mary went with haste to Elizabeth to share the news the Messiah, the Savior of the Jews, was on the way.  Elizabeth, before she even heard, felt that joy within her.  Surely there was also a caring understanding of the position Mary was in with what seemed to be an untimely pregnancy.  And with that, Mary sang a song of praise - the Magnificat.
 
Mary and Elizabeth.  Last Wednesday Women.  Faith, hope and love.  Emmanual - God with us.
 
-- Ruth Gates

We often reprint prior devotions.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on November 3, 2013.
 
Prayer:  Be like a refiner’s fire in our life, God, and purify us.  We await your coming.  Amen.    
 
Reading:  Malachi 3: 1-4 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  One of my favorite selections in Handel's Messiah is "But Who May Abide the Day of His Coming?"  It is based on this scripture verse, which is from the last book in the Old Testament.  This is the book right before Christ comes in Matthew's gospel.  And while there is a great amount of time between when Malachi and Matthew took place, it is interesting that such a passage would be placed in God's Word right before Jesus comes to earth. 
 
"Who shall stand when he appeareth?  For He is like a refiner's fire and he shall purify..."  Just as Christ came to earth as a child and purified the chosen people, so will He come again.  And then, who shall stand when he appeareth?  
 
--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  Lord God, we sing praises to you especially during this season of celebrating the birth of your son, Jesus.  Let you salvation be known in all the earth.  Amen
 
Reading:  Isaiah 12: 2-6 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:   As we prepare for Christmas, consider what Christmas would be like without music?  Ever wonder how many songs, carols, cantatas have been composed over the centuries for this wondrous season?
 
Think about it.  If we did not celebrate Christ's birth, there would be such a void...a silence.
 
Instead we have: Advent hymns, Christmas carols, Rudolph and Frosty, Messiah sing-alongs, bells jingling, Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular (I am going this year!), holiday parties where all end up singing.  Perhaps I could do without carols becoming integral parts of tv commercials.  Still, bring on all the music of the season, I say.
 
Every time we sing or hear a Christmas song, it is an ageless reminder God has sent His Son to bring salvation to all.  How wonderful to proclaim that message through music and song.
 
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
 
-- Alice Yeakel

Prayer:  Dear God, may we find joy by loving.  Amen.
 
Reading:  Philippians 4:  4-7 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
Joy is a small word with big impact.  Let's look at JOY like this:
Love Jesus
Love Others
Love Yourself
 
We find our joy by loving.  In our text today we...
Love Jesus by rejoicing in the Lord always.
Love Others by being gentle with everyone.
Love Yourselves by not worrying, by praying and by being thankful.
 
Find joy by loving.
 
-- Alice Yeakel

Prayer:  A song of joy is in our hearts when know we are made new in you, saving LORD.  Amen
 
Reading:  Zephaniah 3:  14-20 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
The book of Zephaniah, like several books of the prophets, begins angrily and contains strong words of judgement against the evil doings of the people.  But it ends with singing because of the promise God will restore and save.
 
What would you rejoice about if you had the chance to be made over by God?  He can and he will, you know.  What changes would you like to see in yourself, your church or your community?  Be renewed and keep at it.  Do not let your hands grow weak. (v. 16)
 
-- Ruth Gates

We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on December 7, 2015.
 
Prayer:   Lord God, teach us how to live to our neighbors and to you. Amen
 
Reading: Luke 3:7-18 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?
 
Reflection: I just love John the Baptist’s reproach of the crowds in our reading! As a pastor, sometimes I want to say those same lines to individuals or church council when discussions turn towards an earthly focus of money, church building, Christian education curriculum, collecting visitors, or any other well-meaning church related subject that keeps us from being focused on Jesus. “You brood of vipers!” And the crowd is so shaken that they ask a question.
 
“What then should we do?” And John’s reply is one of kind action. He says, you know all that stuff that you have that you save for yourself? Yea, that stuff, give it away. Do you really need two coats or all this extra food that is probably past its expiration date? Oh and tax collectors and soldiers be fair and happy with your job and wages. Don’t use your position of power for personal gain but for the good of all people. It basically comes down to think of the wellbeing of others as well as, if not before, yourself.
 
Even in Jesus and John’s day, this was counter cultural, just as it is in ours. We live in a “take care of yourself first” and a “first come, first serve, too bad for all the rest” society. But as Christians we are called to more. We give of our excess, and yes we have excess. We give to the holiday charities that do toy and food and clothing drives. We give to social service agencies locally and in the church to further the mission that John puts us on and Jesus affirms, that we are to love and serve our neighbors. How are you doing that as we get closer to Christmas?
 
--Peter Horn
 
 
 
 

We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on November 2, 2013.
 
Prayer:  Comfort your people, God.  Speak tenderly to us when we cry out to you.  Amen 
 
Reading:  Isaiah 40: 1-5 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  When I was in college, I caught a broadcast on television right after Thanksgiving called "Handel's Young Messiah."  Basically, it was a modern version of Handel's great oratorio complete with drums and keyboard synthesizers.  I enjoyed the show and went out and bought the record album a few weeks later.  
 
Since then, I have greatly enjoyed Handel's Messiah in any form.  I have several recordings of the work, including more modern renditions.  How can one not enjoy a rousing chorus of the "Hallelujah Chorus!" 
 
Two years after I watched that show on television, I had the opportunity to participate in a "Messiah Sing-A-Long."  The audience got to sing the choruses of Handel's great work and soloists provided some of the singing.  It was a great event. 
 
Handel based his "Messiah" on several biblical passages.  In this first one, Isaiah is telling us what God has said:  Comfort my people and make way for the Lord's coming.  He is foretelling of Jesus Christ's birth.  The glory of the Lord will appear for all to see, just as God has promised.  
 
--Chad Hershberger
 

Prayer:  Gracious and Loving God may the words from my mouth be from my heart.  May they be clean and acceptable in your sight.  May they be helpful and uplifting for those who hear them.  Amen.
 
Reading:  Luke 1: 68-79 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?  
 
Reflection:  After being mute for nine months Zechariah sure did have wise words to say.  As I read his words I am truly thankful for the leading of the Holy Spirit and the prophecy that was shared.  There is a lot to take in from what he said.  What really impacted me the most this time when I read through it was from the beginning and the end.  In verse 68 I appreciate how He looks favorably upon us to redeem us.  God’s grace and love for us to send us a savior is truly spectacular.  We are not at all worthy but God saves us anyway.  The other part that I found particularly impactful this time was in verse 79 where we are to be guided into the way of peace.  The USA and other parts of the world are struggling with peace.  It is sad to see how people treat each other.  For Christians it should be easy because true peace for us comes through Jesus.  I hope we all find peace at this time of year and carry it with us into the future.
 
--Charlene Rineer

Prayer:  Thank you, heavenly Father, for sending Jesus.  May we remember at Christmas Christ was with us and Christ is still with us.  Amen
 
Reading:  Philippians 1:  3-11 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
Let's do a word play:
 1.  Invert the M in CHRISTMAS and it becomes CHRIST WAS.
 2. Now remove the W and A and replace with I.
 Now we have CHRIST IS!
 
Every day Christ IS here with us: in our hearts, watching over us, caring about us.  Advent is a time of waiting for Christ who WAS born so we can know Christ IS always with us to finish the good works He has begun in us.
 
-- Alice Yeakel

Prayer:  Dear God, your message of love comes to us always.  May we notice how and hear it.  Amen
 
Reading:  Malachi 3:  1-4  (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
Some say snail mail may become a thing of the past.  I say a handwrtitten card or letter sent through the US Postal Service will be special always.  Therefore, I happen to frequent the post office and particularly enjoy buying stamps.  So many varieties to choose from and I use certain ones for certain correspondences.  Right now I have on hand celebration stamps for birthday cards, flower stamps for sympathy and get well wishes, Mr. Rogers stamps for friendly notes, Hot Wheels stamps for a particular car buff I know, etc.  Recently I sent thank you cards using stamps honoring First Responders to friends who helped in a time of need.  I sometimes wonder if the recipients notice my purposeful use of stamps.  More importantly though, my stash of stamps is of Forever Stamps so they will enough postage to get the message there always.
 
The message of God's love comes to us in many ways.  The prophet Malachi announced a messenger is coming who will prepare the people for the LORD's return.  Perhaps the message of God's love comes to you through celebrations, remembrances of loved ones or healing wishes, a kind word of friendship, an understanding of a particular interest or a helpful hand in time of need.  Most importantly though, God's love is Forever and his message comes to us always.
 
-- Ruth Gates

Prayer:  Lord, thank you for the gracious gift of your Son and for the forgiveness offered to us through a baptism of repentance. Remind us to always make room for you in our hearts. In your Holy name we pray, Amen.
 
Reading:  Luke 3:1-6 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  Today is the first Monday of the Advent season, and in this passage Luke tells of John the Baptist. John calls for repentance and comes before the Messiah, in this way he is very similar to the Old Testament prophets who were foretellers- they presented the Word of God to God’s people and called on them to respond. John is specifically calling for the people of God to respond with a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
 
John the Baptist is also very similar to a herald, who in ancient times would arrive in a city ahead of a king to announce his arrival and to call for the citizens to prepare the city for the King. This preparation was often extreme and could involve things such as excavation of mountains and roads so that the King’s path of travel would be optimal. John says to ‘prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’ In a way he is also saying ‘grab your shovels and clean all the junk out of your heart- repent of your sins and you will be forgiven!’
 
This Advent season, we are reminded of the same message. And although it seems like we are just excavating our homes as we begin to display all the Christmas decorations, we should also be excavating our hearts to make room for the gift that keeps on giving- the precious baby Jesus!
 
--Anne Harshbarger

We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on November 27, 2015.
 
Reading:  Stir up your power, Lord Christ, and come.  By your merciful protection alert us to the threatening dangers of our sins, and redeem us for your life of justice, for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the prayer, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this prayer?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this prayer or is my favorite part?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this prayer stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this prayer? 
 
Reflection:  Each of the prayers of the day in Advent begin: Stir up. This Sunday and the fourth Sunday of Advent we pray Stir up your power, Lord Christ, and come.  Those are both frightening and hopeful words.  “Let sleeping dogs lie,” they say.  But here we pray that the power of God will be stirred up.  That could be very scary.  Yet, there are powers operating in this world that frighten us greatly, too.  The hopefulness of this prayer is that God’s power comes and stirs in this world to heal it, make it whole. 
 
Let us pray throughout Advent that God’s stirring in this world brings us peace.  Let it begin with each of us. 
 
--Jim Bricker

Prayer:  Teach me your ways, O Lord.
 
Reading:  Psalm 25:1-10 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  There is now a penalty in the National Football League, much to the chagrin of many fans, called “taunting.”  It is a usually a subjective call made by the officials, and is called when one player stands over the opposition while the opposition is on the ground, spikes the ball aggressively in the direction of the opposition, or performs any other act that could be seen to provoke the other team unnecessarily.  This is a serious penalty and results in a 15-yard assessment on the offending team.
 
That’s the image I see when I read, “Do not let me be put to shame; do not let my enemies exult over me.”  Probably none of us like to be put down.  Even the ancient Hebrews experienced that.  David turned to God for help with this one.
 
We can’t really control other people’s behavior.  We can’t keep them from exulting over us or putting us down.  What we can control is how we react to being put down.  There was once a sign in my office that said, “Nobody can make me feel inferior without my permission.”  Stick anything you want in for “inferior.”  Today the word is “put down.”  Nobody can make you feel put down without your permission.”  What I’m trying to say is, if someone exults over you or tries to put you down, just don’t participate.  If you don’t take the bait, you won’t be put down. 
 
Remembering that even David struggled with this can help us, I think, to know God’s ways when someone taunts us.  Just don’t participate.
 
--Jim Bricker
 
 
 
 

Prayer:  Dear God, whenever and wherever we share a bit of Good News, we are missionaries of your Word.  Strengthen our hearts and direct our ways as we share your love.  Amen
 
Reading:  I Thessalonians 3:  9-13  (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
Let us give thanks for Timothy and all who follow the teachings of Jesus and spread His word to others.  Let us all be missionaries in our own way.
 
As a teenager I was approached by an older member of our congregation telling me I should become a  missionary to Nicaragua and Honduras.  No way, I thought!  The idea scared me and I did not pursue her recommendation.
 
But through sharing music and stories with the children of my church and the public library I hope I have become a kind of a missionary.  Always choosing songs and books with a positive message.  We can all use and share our own special talents to inspire and help others.
 
-- Alice Yeakel

Prayer:  God, help us look to the days when all your promises will be fulfilled.  We are thankful your righteousness is ours in Jesus now.  May we see justice and safety in your name.  Amen
 
Reading:  Jeremiah 33:  14-16  (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
Jeremiah wrote this when Jerusalem was in rubble:  The days are surely coming, says the LORD, when I will fulfill the promise I made...  (Jeremiah 33: 14)  Better days are coming
 
I am writing this devotion just days after the attack on the worshippers at the Tree of Life synagogue which left 11 dead and six wounded.  I remember driving through Squirrel Hill 30+ years ago when I lived and worked in Pittsburgh.  I saw Jewish men in long black robes and beards talking together and children in uniforms walking to and from school - boys wearing yarmulkes.  People trusting in God's covenants and it strengthened my faith.  The LORD is our righteousness.
 
The days of justice and safety are surely coming.  For the faithful of the Tree of Life synagogue, the people of Pittsburgh and all who mourn the brokenness of this world.  Because God's covenants cannot be broken.
 
-- Ruth Gates

Prayer:   We heard your words, O Lord, and look forward to the best that is to come.  Amen.   
 
Reading:  Luke 21: 25-36 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  Fig newtons.  I like them.  An not necessarily the name-brand kind.  I think the generic ones are even better. 
 
When I was a camp counselor, our director also liked fig newtons.  But she also knew the fig newton dance.  That was a little before my time.  But we laughed when we talked about fig newtons.  In fact, I just laughed out loud because fig newtons are, well, a funny name.
 
Winter.  I don’t like winter.  I think I suffer from that seasonal affected disorder or whatever it is called.  When the days get short and I don’t see sunlight, my mood is affected. 
 
But Jesus reminds us, through the fig tree, that the summer will come.  We will appreciate it more if we go through the dark winter.  The next time you see a fig newton, be reminded that better things are to come.  Jesus promises it, so let’s believe it! 
 
--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  Lord, show me someone to serve today.  Amen. 
 
Reading:  Daniel 7:13-14 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  Dreams are sometimes disturbing but mostly fascinating.  Some dreams reveal things that are true.  Sometimes dreams have been known to make God known.  Such is this little vision.  Daniel sees a human-like person (rather than a beast as in a former dream), given God’s authority—dominion, glory, kingship.  Then a purpose is stated— “that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him.”  There is, of course, the reality that Jesus later claims this God-given authority as belonging to Him.  But, setting that aside for now, I am struck by the image of servanthood.  We Christians (and others) talk about service and serving—God and our neighbors.  There are always questions about how to best do that.  But, for today I want us to just consider this—serving means we are looking away from ourselves toward others.  Rotary International has a helpful motto: “Service Above Self.”   That just about does it, I think.  Whom might we serve today?  Let us consciously and intentionally serve someone near us today and in so doing serve our God. 
 
--Jim Bricker

Prayer:   We give thanksgiving, God, for Christ, our King, on this day and every day.  Amen.    
 
Reading:  Psalm 93 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  It’s an interesting juxtaposition to be looking ahead to this Sunday when we celebrate Christ, the King, on this Thanksgiving Day.  But upon further thought, it makes sense.  As we count our blessings on this day each year set aside to do just that, we can thank God for Christ, our King.  We can be grateful for the abundant love that we are shown through Jesus.  May we share that love towards others on this special day.        
 
--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  Praise to you, Almighty God, who was, is and is to come.  We have grace and peace always through you.  Amen
 
Reading:  Revelation 1:  4b-8  (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:   Before getting into the somewhat confusing book of Revelation, John"s greeting is of grace and peace from Almighty God, who is and who was and who is to come.  While the rest of the book may be complicated, this is plain and clear - Almighty God always has been; always will be.  Alpha and Omega - beginning and end.
 
Take a moment and think.  How difference does grace make in your life?  What does peace feel like?  Grace and peace really is a good place to start and to stay.  Another day we will dig further into Revelation.  Another day may not feel as grace-filled or peaceful.  Still, everyday, Almighty God is with us.
 
-- Ruth Gates

We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on November 17, 2015.
 
Prayer:  As we think about our words and actions, please help us to do all in your glory, Lord, and leave a legacy for generations to come.  We also pray this day for our First Light Devotion writers, who will be gathering tomorrow in retreat to write devotions for the coming months.  Be with them and guide them in their task.  Amen.    
 
Reading:  2 Samuel 23:1-7 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  Our scripture text today tells us that these are the last words of David.  He lived a long, productive life.  And, he died.  It’s something all of us face.  You know the old saying, “There are only three assurances in life:  birth, death, and taxes.” 
 
Last month, my wife’s family gathered in southwestern Ohio to celebrate her grandmother’s 100th birthday.  It was a great party, celebrating the life of a woman who was all about family, faith, and serving others.  It was a milestone that most people don’t ever see and I was so blessed to be part of this occasion. 
 
Twelve days later, after she hit the centennial mark, died.  She suffered a fall that week and failed quickly.  This past weekend, her family gathered to celebrate her life again, this time at a memorial service.  Again, people talked about her strong family ties, her faith, and how she was important in the lives of others.
 
David and Grandma Schneider left legacies for the generations that followed them.  They lived their lives in glory to God and were respected by their families.  What will your legacy be, when someone writes your last words? 
 
--Chad Hershberger
 

Prayer:  Lord, help us to be loyal to you. 
 
Reading:  John 18:33-37 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  Have you ever seen a cross with Christ hanging on it with a crown on his head?  The one I remember has Jesus clothed in a white robe.  That image is called Christus Rex  -- Christ the King.  This Sunday much of the Christian Church celebrates Christ the King Sunday.  What does it mean that Christ is King?  What meaning does the idea of king have in our lives?  We in the west, at least, have no experience of living in a kingdom. I do like King Arthur, the round table, Camelot, Lancelot, Merlin.  How about you?
 
But back to Jesus being king.  What does that mean to us?  I guess in the end it means that Jesus calls the shots.  But that image also brings up thoughts of what happens when one doesn’t go along with the king.  I don’t think that is what it is really al about.  I think it means that our ultimate loyalty is to God in Jesus Christ.  And we probably all agree with that to some degree.  But, how does that loyalty get lived out in real life?  A bit of a problem in my life.  How about yours?
 
Anyhow, Christ is King.


--Jim Bricker
 
 
 
 

Prayer:  Gracious God may our words be uplifting and helpful.  May what we say to each other be inspiring.  May what we put out there in social media be truthful and kind.  Help us use our words wisely.  Amen.
 
Reading:  2 Samuel 23:1-7 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  David was a man of many words.  He wrote many Psalms praising God.  In his last words he tells more about himself and how God used him. David’s last words offered some advice from his life and a warning.  David was not perfect, but God still used him for good.  Words are very powerful things.  We should all carefully use words both spoken and written.   Words used wrongly can get you in a world of hurt.  There is a rule of thumb that I used when I was teaching.  Before you speak, THINK. Always ask yourself: Is this True? Is this Helpful? Is this Inspiring? Is this Necessary? Is it Kind? May our words be good and pleasing to God. 
 
--Charlene Rineer

Prayer:  Dear God, help us to not stumble.  Thank you for watching over us.  Your wisdom and love lights our way.  Amen
 
Reading:  Psalm 16 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
I like this Psalm.  It is so upbeat and full of positivity (a good word).
 
We hear so much negative news it is hard to see the positive.  Look for it.  It is out there.  While we may still have to deal with the bad, a bit of good can give us strength.
 
We know in our hearts God is watching over us.  He gives us wisdom and His love lights our way so we do not stumble.
 
Therefore go forth and do good joyfully!
 
-- Alice Yeakel

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, we are your hands and feet in this world.  May we use them to love and do good deeds.  Amen
 
Reading:  Hebrews 10:  21-25 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds.  Hebrews 10: 24
 
God's Work.  Our Hands. has been a phrase to provoke (encourage) us to love and do good deeds.  For years we have set aside a Sunday in September when whole congregations participate in service projects while wearing bright yellow t-shirts with God's Work.  Our Hands. in big black letters.
 
God's Work.  Our Hands.  reminds us we are the hands God has here on earth.  But what if the phrase becomes a bit too common?  What if it becomes so familiar we stop thinking what it means and stop doing good deeds?
 
How about a new phrase?  Put Feet to Your Faith is the same idea with different words.  I must admit, when I first heard it, I was provoked to love and do a good deed.  What color should we make the t-shirts?
 
-- Ruth Gates