by Pastor Steve Peich

"And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)

You are reading this on the day before Christmas; the day that changed every other day for all eternity. And if you are like most folks, the holiday season has just about left you breathless with all its busyness. But I want to invite you to stop for a moment, take a breath, and consider something as we wait for Christmas day.

A very young virgin travelled with her betrothed approximately 90 miles for about a week to arrive at the small town of Bethlehem. As I consider Mary’s journey from the time the angel told her she would carry the Son of God, it is hard to grasp how such a simple peasant woman would be so significant in changing the world by bringing to flesh the Word of God.

When we reflect on how simple or small our life may seem in the great scheme of things, many of us may think that we do not have much to offer in bringing God’s best into this crazy world. But Mary’s story challenges all of that. Here was a woman, likely of little education and from some podunk town 90 miles from anything spiritually significant, about to be a part of something that would change the world and humanity forever.

As John 1.14 clearly reminds us, the Word became flesh. But we must never fail to remember who it was that helped bring that about. Mary, in one very physical and real sense, gave flesh to Jesus. So, my question before you today is this: do we, as Christians today, join with Mary in giving ‘flesh’ to Jesus in our world today?

Think about that for a moment. As Mary gave physical flesh to Christ through birth, the Bible tells us that we give flesh to Christ by living out His life together. We give flesh to His words in our actions. We give flesh to His goodness when we stand against sin in His name. We give flesh to His justice when we live justly with our neighbor and fight for God’s justice in our world. We give flesh to His provision in our giving to others in need. We give flesh to His forgiveness and grace when we forgive and have mercy toward others who have hurt us. You get the idea.

The work of the Word become flesh did not end 2,000 years ago. It continues through the body of Christ, His church, today.

Merry Christmas!

Reflection:

• How have you seen others “give flesh” to the purposes, power, values, and character of Christ in your years as a Christian?

• What can you “give flesh” to this coming year? 

by Pastor Tim Shaw

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

I flew to Southern California this week to be with my family for Christmas. I’m actually writing this as we bounce our way across the Pacific. It was only yesterday (December 18th) when a Hawaiian Airlines flight from Phoenix hit severe turbulence as they approached Hawaii, injuring a number of passengers and flight attendants. I’m praying for those who were hurt or traumatized on Sunday.

Today, as we boarded the flight I’m on, the pilot and the chief flight attendant repeatedly warned us that we would be flying into that same storm on our way to California. They cautioned us and exhorted us to stay in our seats with our seatbelts securely fastened until it was safe to get up and walk around the cabin.

We need seatbelts on flights across the Pacific Ocean, and we need them in our everyday lives. We need something that is going to keep us safe and secure when the challenges of life hit suddenly and things begin to shake.

Throughout the weeks leading up to Christmas, we have been on a journey. We’ve been exploring the hidden identity of the Child born in Bethlehem more than 2,000 years ago. This One who was swaddled in strips of cloth, cradled in His parents’ arms, and asleep in a feeding trough for animals was none other than the Mighty God, the Prince of Peace, and the Light of the World. God Himself came to Earth to be with us and to offer us His strong and secure embrace to hold us fast when life begins to shake.

Charles Wesley, the brother of theologian John Wesley, wrote over 6,000 hymns. His brother described Charles’ hymnal as the best theological book in existence. Charles wrote one of the most famous and beloved Christmas carols we sing every year. In the second verse of Hark the Herald Angels Sing, he wrote, “Veiled in flesh the Godhead see. Hail the Incarnate Deity. Pleased as man with us to dwell. Jesus, our Immanuel. Hark the herald angels sing. Glory to the newborn King.”

Though hidden from our view, we are encouraged to see that our God is with us. The One who is all powerful and all loving is with us in the midst of the storms. He has come to bring us His peace, to light our path, and to accompany us on our journey through life. We are not alone. He is our Guide and Companion, who is with us in the turbulence we might be experiencing today.

Hark! the herald angels sing


Glory to the newborn King;


Peace on earth and mercy mild,


God and sinners reconciled:


Joyful all ye nations rise,


Join the triumph of the skies,


With the angelic host proclaim,


Christ is born in Bethlehem:


Hark! the herald angels sing


Glory to the newborn King.

Reflection

• What turbulence are you experiencing today? What are its sources? What emotions are coming to the surface?

• In prayer, talk with Jesus about all that, and tell Him which aspects of His veiled identity you need most today (His power and might, His peace, His light, His presence). Ask Him to fill you with His Spirit, listen for His voice, and watch for how He answers your prayer.

by Pastor Dan Chun

So the Word became human and made His home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen His glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son. (John 1:14)

Sometimes people are in awe when they meet a celebrity. They become speechless. Not sure what to say. They might want to ask for an autograph, but they freeze. They can’t think of an opening line just to converse. This happened to me many years ago as a teenager, when I “met” singer Bob Dylan. I had figured out where to stand to see him when he arrived at the backstage door for his concert. I was there with my friend Carl, but when Bob Dylan walked by me …. I froze! No picture. No autograph. Just a stunned middle school student watching one of his heroes walk by.

When it comes to Jesus, we can sometimes forget that He is actually God who came down to this planet to live among us. It is incredibly mind-blowing! The Bible passage says He was full of “unfailing love and faithfulness.” He would love us and be loyal to us forever.

While it would be understandable that we might be speechless before God, God wants us to know that He is accessible through Jesus. Jesus is God in the flesh. He became human so that we might know of His unfailing love and His faithfulness.

This Christmas remember that God came to this earth and is with us every day. In spite of being the Maker of all things and all people, He is accessible, and far, far greater than any rock star.

Reflection:

• Think of a time when you met a famous person. How did you feel?

• How do you feel when you meet with God in prayer?

• How would you live your life knowing He loves you and is with you always?

by Lauren Stein, Elder for Young Adults Ministry

It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. (Deuteronomy 31:8)

It has been a great honor to serve as the Elder of the Young Adult Ministry for these last six years. I’ve walked alongside so many amazing young people. Because young adulthood is such a highly-transient season, some were a part of our ministry for years and others for just a few weeks. Regardless of how long they were with us, we consistently chose to answer the call to be present with whoever walked through our doors. In everything we did, our hope was the same: that while they were with us, that they felt seen and known, by us and by God.

In these last few months, I’ve wrestled with the fact that my time as an elder is not ending in the way that I had hoped. In November, our ministry learned that our second Director of Young Adults in one year is resigning. I spent most of November tearfully reflecting on the last six years and feeling afraid and unsettled of what the future holds.

But even in this season of petrifying uncertainty, I’ve clung to the fact that our God is Immanuel and so much bigger! Deuteronomy 31:8 speaks of the future we have with our God, Immanuel. We have a God who goes before us. He walks ahead of us as a guiding presence in the midst of the darkness and confusion. When we don’t know the way forward, He guides our steps as an ever-present light.  

He also promises to be with us and never leave us. And while it seems like such a small promise, it is truly one of His greatest promises. To walk through life’s challenges without fear of abandonment is truly a gift. In the midst of our joys and our sorrows, He is there. He is present with us and sees us in and through it all. Our God is with us, and as a result, we do not need to hold on to our fear.

Admittedly, I am still in the process of learning to embrace this promise, but I choose to keep moving forward by faith with our God who is “striding ahead of you ...He won’t let you down; He won’t leave you. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t worry.” (The Message version)

Reflection:

• What would it look like for you to embrace the promise of His presence?

• What would you do differently if you lived life clinging to this truth?

by Paul Zukunft, Elder for Impact Ministries

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4)

As the former service chief of the Coast Guard, I drew upon this verse of the twenty-third Psalm to embark upon a campaign to proactively address the statistically high percentage of suicides endemic to our service members. Time and again, those contemplating a permanent solution to a temporary moment of despair felt as if they were alone. I am no behavior health specialist, but in our many successful interventions, I discovered that those who contemplated suicide felt isolated by their “unique” hardship and that the world would be a better place without them in it.

It had been service policy to not console the grieving families of a service member who had committed suicide and the advantage of being the “boss” is that you could change that policy. And so I did. For I, too, had felt the cloud of darkness overwhelm me, as if I was alone, until the God who is with us, Immanuel, provided me comfort.

It was May 28, 2012 – a date that is indelibly imprinted in my mind. I had just assumed command for all Coast Guard operations spanning over 60% of the globe from the Rocky Mountains to Africa, including the Arctic and Antarctica. I was at the top of my game, or so I thought. But that sense of invincibility came to an abrupt halt when I received a phone call, and expecting it was my command center seeking my advice on an operational matter. Instead, it was my oldest daughter, Heidi, and she could barely utter the words, choking with gasps of emotion and saying, “Dad…Jered is dead.”

Jered was my oldest son, and he fell into God’s comforting arms at the tender age of 26. He was the valedictorian of his high school class and absolutely brilliant. My pride and joy! As he was growing up, his intellectual curiosity would always stump me as he probed for answers that would challenge the best of minds. Yet, in his freshman year of college, he started hearing voices that would plague him for the remainder of his stunted life.

Upon learning of his death, I was not just devastated, but guilt-ridden, tormenting myself for not being there when Jered needed me most. Sadly, we do not get a mulligan, a “do-over,” and the best one can do is to pick up the pieces of a shattered life and move on.

That is where Immanuel provided me comfort and especially to provide comfort to grieving families of deceased service members and remind them that they are not alone and that God is with them. I would call the mothers, fathers, and spouses of our departed service members, and their first response went something like this, “Thanks for the call, Admiral, but you have no idea of the grief we are suffering.” And then I told my story, Jered’s story. It was as though Jered’s tragedy was the rod and staff that provided those families members comfort. They were not alone in their grief and suffering. Their despair was not “unique.”

It is no coincidence when we celebrate “The Light of The World” that there are many who feel the shroud of darkness envelop them. Suicide rates tend to spike during the Advent season, a season of hope, yet that hope exacerbates despair among those who have no hope.

And so I close by sharing this with each of you. I am the master of disguise! By all outward appearances, I have been abundantly blessed with good fortune. And that the wind has always been to my back and the road ahead was an easy, downhill stroll. But that is not my reality and nor is it for any of us!

By sharing our travails in life with those who find themselves in that valley of darkness, we become that messenger to convey Immanuel - God with us. We can empathize grief on a personal level and, at the same time, provide a beacon of hope through our faith in the Lord our God. And by doing so, we tear back the curtain to let the light of the world shine upon the faces of those who have only known despair.

Reflection:

• Google the lyrics to Simon and Garfunkel’s Bridge Over Troubled Water, and contemplate the “I” in those lyrics as Immanuel. (It sure helped me when I crossed those troubled waters!)

• How might you be the rod and staff that provides comfort to others? And with whom would you start?

by Jeremy Lim, Elder for Men’s Ministry and Discipleship

When I was in high school, a friend of mine was tragically killed in a car accident. The night he died, I retreated to my room and cried in a way I had never cried before. I did my best to sob as quietly as I could into my pillow, as I wanted to be alone. It worked for a while until I felt a hand on my shoulder. I didn’t look up to see who was there because I knew it was my dad. He didn’t say anything, but he kept his hand there until my tears eventually ran out.

In this final week of Advent, we celebrate Jesus as Immanuel, God with us. Jesus’ birth ushered in a new era of heaven overlapping with earth in a way the world had never seen before. God wanted to be fully with us, and He was willing to do whatever it took to make this happen. My dad’s hand on my shoulder that night was one of the most tangible experiences I’ve had of God being with me. Clearly my dad is not Jesus, so what was behind this profound experience?

All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it. (1 Corinthians 12:27)

One of the most fascinating realities for each of us who profess faith in Christ is that we don’t just enjoy a personal relationship with Jesus, we get to be Jesus to people who need to know that God is with them! Not only that, we also get to experience God’s presence when we are with others who embrace their role of representing Jesus through the way they live.

As we celebrate the wonder and miracle of Jesus’ birth and acknowledge Him as Immanuel, may we also remember that we, His Church, are His body here on earth. We are the space where heaven and earth overlap and God’s unmistakable presence can be experienced. We are, quite literally, His hands reaching out to remind our broken world that He is with us.

Reflection:

• Can you think of a time when you experienced the presence of God through being with another person? Have you ever been that person for someone else?

• How did God, through Jesus, interact with the people Jesus lived with? How does God, through you, interact with the people you live with?

by Jenny Sung, Executive Coordinator and Campus Pastor for The Vine

How precious to me are Your thoughts, O God, how vast is their sum! If I were to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand; and when I awake, I am still with You. (Psalm 139:17-18)

What does it mean that Jesus is Immanuel – that the One who saves is the One who came and dwelt among us and continues to be with us today? God came to be with us, not just to experience humanity. He came to intimately connect with what was lost. And just as He longs to be with us each day, God is pleased when we seek intimacy. 

Intimacy means seeking His presence and longing to be with Him. Intimacy means we are tuned in to listen for His voice as we become familiar with His ways, His character, and what He is concerned about and doing in this world. Intimacy means doing life together with God each day.

When my kids are with me, I’m keenly aware of their presence. As their mom, their thoughts are important to me. I care about what they care about and desire an intimate connection with them. I pray our relationship will always be close, even as they mature into adulthood. At 14 and 17 years of age, they are teenagers, so this takes intentionality on my part. One of the things I’ve practiced over the years is that when they start speaking, I will often turn off whatever is in the background. If the radio is on, I turn it off. If I’m watching a show, I’ll pause it and ask my children to repeat their words. As much as I can, as intentional as I can be, I turn off or stop what I’m doing to tune into their words and find out what they are thinking.

If this is how I am with my children, how am I with my God? If God is at the center of my life, and I am a follower of Christ, how much more valuable are His thoughts to me? The psalmist in 139 cried out, “How precious to me are Your thoughts, O God, how vast is their sum! If I were to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand; and when I awake, I am still with You” (Psalm 139:17-18). In this Advent season, I pray that we may be intimately connected with our God, who is always with us, Immanuel, and that we would tune out any distractions that would get in the way of being with Him.

Reflection: 

• What does it mean that Jesus is Immanuel in your life?

• What are some ways we can be intentional to tune out distractions and build intimacy with God?

by Phyllis Unebasami, Director of Young Adults Ministry

Isaiah 61:1-4 NIV

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor. They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations. 

As an educator of 40-plus years, I have served in many socially vulnerable communities. Jesus comes alongside me in my most challenging and, sometimes, lowest moments. When I sincerely seek Him, when I’m authentic with my emotions and exposing my gut thoughts about the devastation of circumstances that I am powerless to change, then He joins me. He is the beacon of light, reminding me of my unique purpose and providing what is needed to take the next step. Advent is a time to reflect on His purpose to heal and save us, and how my purpose is tethered to Him. 

Kindness and hope are His beacons of light in dark and stressed environments. I’ve learned that if I am to join God as He calls, I must not expect it to be delivered to me, but I must seek Him by going into the communities to serve. Sometimes it’s as close as the person next to me. It is not about later; it is about showing up immediately, knowing I can make a difference. It is about empowerment as an individual and as a team – living up to the promise to also care and tenderly aid others. This is the promise Jesus left for us, if we want to join Him – leaving a legacy worthy of Him for our children and future generations. We are His beloved. It is about creating a safe, engaging community that welcomes and cares for all. This is a personal responsibility because He gifted sacrificial love to me, to you, first. 

We are created to be united in God’s perfect love for each of us. Perhaps mission work is not reserved for only those who already believe in the Triune God (Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit) but for ALL of us. I’ve learned that when we put aside our differences and find shared hopes and universal values that unite us as one global community, our sovereign God can orchestrate the circumstances and opportunities to bring diverse people together and grow our faith in Him. I believe He delights in our efforts to serve the vulnerable and each other. There, we will find Him again and again, whether it is an initial discovery of His existence, rekindling our passion for Him, or celebrating His unwavering goodness and faithfulness to us. 

In this season of celebrating Jesus’ birth, let us remember His purpose and commit to joining Him by participating in the realization of God’s promise to the world. 

Reflection:

• Do my thoughts and actions reflect the light of Jesus? Why or why not?

• What might I do today to chase away darkness in someone’s life? 

by Chevas Wong, Contemporary Worship and Creative Director

Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” (John 8:12)

Advent is one of my favorite parts of our Christmas celebrations. There are many things to cherish about this tradition. This year, one thing that I particularly appreciate in our journey through Advent is observing and recognizing God’s faithfulness and intentionality. 

We will experience times of great darkness. We all can share stories of our experience living in this broken world, stories of injustice and hurt and cruelty, yet we find a purpose in Scripture to not only hold fast to the promises of Jesus, but also exhibit the promises of Jesus.

Jesus says that even though we will have trouble in this world, God has established hope at the end. It gets even better for us: in Jesus we can find hope through the journey. If we choose to follow Him.

Sometimes we face darkness that our words cannot drive away. But the Bible says we can have the light of Jesus, and that we can share the light of Jesus with others. I’ve come to know the voice of our Father, and it sounds like hope. His words bring life. 

Reflection:

• Have you ever heard God speaking to you? If yes, what was the last thing He said?

• Where do you think God is leading you to share the light of Jesus today? And what do you hope to see? 

by Patty Kamahele, Administrative Assistant

"I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in Me will no longer remain in the dark."  (John 12:46)

The other night we had an unexpected power outage, so I looked for any kind of light near me and grabbed my iPad. The light from my device stood out amid the darkness of the room. 

And that's how the Light of Jesus is...He stands out in the midst of a dark world.

Sometimes we don't like to admit that we lived in darkness before we came Him. But no matter how we lived apart from Jesus, it was darkness.

I remember stepping into a church full of the Light of Jesus, after being in a very dark bar a few nights before. The contrast was overwhelming and I knew I had been in the wrong place, especially in comparison to the light only the Lord gives a heart. It was then, that I gave my life to Him.

The Light can dispel darkness, but the darkness can never dispel the Light. This Christmas, may we glory in the Light of the World…Jesus. He is the One who worthy of all praise, all honor, and all worship. 

Please take a few moments to listen to this song: Light of the World by Lauren Daigle

Reflection:

• How has your life changed since you came to the Light of Jesus?

• How can you be a Light to those around you this CHRISTmas?

by Kathy Makuakane, Executive Assistant to the Senior Pastor

I was raised in an atheist family. We did not believe in a god, attend church, or pray, and I did not know even the basic story of Christmas. I’m deeply grateful that I do know it now.

In high school, I began to wonder about the meaning of life. I wrestled with the question that if I did well in school, secured a successful career, married a good man, raised a family, aged well, travelled the world, and then—gulp!—died, what was the point? Even a positive life story seemed bleak.

That question led me to investigate whether there really was no God. I thought that if God existed and I did not believe in Him, at the end of my life, I would be lost. On the other hand, if I were somehow duped into believing in a God who did not exist, I would not be any worse off at the end of my life than if I didn’t believe in Him. (I learned later that this philosophical argument is called Pascal’s Wager.)

So, I simply started asking, “Are You there?” I asked many times over the course of many months and did not receive an answer.

Then, one quiet evening, I entered my dark bedroom at dusk. I could still see a faint light outlining my window. I have a detailed snapshot of that permanently etched in my mind because this was about to be a pivotal moment in my life. I asked once again, “Are You there?” This time I added, “Because I really want to know.”

To my shock, I very clearly got an answer: “Yes, I am here.” It wasn’t audible, but the words were absolutely unmistakable. I was stunned, as if I had taken a blow to my chest. I sat down hard on the bed, and I could not breathe. Tears streamed down my face and I would never be the same.

In that dark room, God began a process that He continues to this day, showing me more and more of who He is and that there is a very real and powerful point to this life. I had no idea then who Jesus was and how wonderful life with Him would be. That faintly illuminated window is a perfect metaphor. It was a faint light that has shown me the way to greater and greater discovery of the true Light of the world … Jesus.

As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, may we remember the point of the story. “The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.” (John 1:9)

Reflection:

• Think of a time when you sensed the Lord revealing Himself to you unexpectedly.

• How did it change your life? What new things did you discover?

• Dedicate some time to ask Him for more light, perhaps to answer an important question you still have.

by Gary Toh, Director of Prayer Ministry

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

And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped Him snugly in strips of cloth and laid Him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. (Luke 2:1-7)

A few weeks ago, Pastor Tim preached about how King David led the procession to bring the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem. It was such a big occasion welcoming the presence of the Lord back into the city. No expenses were spared; even the place where the Ark rested was opulent and regal.

In the Old Testament, the prophets foretold the coming of the Messiah – the Savior of the World. We would expect that God would come to Earth in a fantastic way. I could imagine Him coming in a chariot made of fire and accompanied by legions of angels. It will be such a glorious event that nobody would miss it.

But instead of coming with fanfare, power, and authority, the Lord chose to come as a baby born into a family. Jesus did not have a golden cradle to rest His head on; instead, He was laid on a manger. The Savior of the world came as a humble and vulnerable little human.

With Jesus being born into a family, I wonder if He is trying to tell us that He would like us to be part of His. The Bible says we are all adopted into God's family as sons and daughters when we become followers of Jesus.

God decided in advance to adopt us into His own family by bringing us to Himself through Jesus Christ. This is what He wanted to do, and it gave Him great pleasure. (Ephesians 1:5)

Family is important to God, so remember to make time for family during this busy season. And be alert because the Lord may be nudging you to connect with other people, too, especially those who are alone or have no family. Welcome them with an open heart.

Reflection:

• How can you point people to Jesus this week?

• Pray for someone you know who’s hurting this Christmas because they’ve recently lost a loved one.

by Karley Kamitsuka, Finance Administrator

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12)

Oftentimes, I will go fishing with friends at night. The first few times I went, I didn’t have a flashlight. But after a few times going, I finally got myself a headlamp. I was no longer at the mercy of darkness. I could walk forward with the confidence that I won’t stub my toe on a rock, step into a hole, or worse, fall off a cliff and into the water.

Jesus came on Christmas Day to liberate us from the darkness of sin. He is the Light of the world, and those who follow Him, do not walk in darkness. Rather, their life is like the light of a new dawn that shines brighter till it breaks forth into a perfect day (Proverbs 4:18).

Without the light of Jesus, people are held captive in darkness. Even though they may be refined by culture and filled with a sense of intense religiosity, they are still held prisoner by sin.

The baby born in the manger in Bethlehem, the young man who grew up in a carpentry shop in Nazareth, and the man who died on the cross in Jerusalem are one and the same. This is Jesus, the Light of the World. He is the Bright Morning Star (Rev 22:16) and the Sun of Justice (Malachi 4:2). Jesus is the light that illuminates humanity – for humanity, with its wisdom, is held in darkness.

Jesus comes into your life through His Spirit. When you acknowledge Him as the Savior, you are transformed; you receive a new heart, mind, family, and citizenship. You are now a child of the light. You live in the light and can walk safely and securely toward the light of heaven.

Reflection:

• Think of a time when you experienced Jesus as the Light of the world.

• How has Jesus transformed your life?

by Pastor Steve Peich

“What has come into being in Him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.” (John 1:4-5)

This week of Advent, we reflect on Jesus being the Light of the world. For me, it is also a time I reflect on how Jesus continues to carry out His ministry of lighting up the darkness of humanity through me.

I often watch a movie called Romero” to help inspire me. It’s about an El Salvadorian Bishop (declared a saint a few years ago) who lit up his world.

In the 1970s, Bishop Romero was a gentle and easy-going guy who, for a while, wined and dined with all the important people of El Salvador. You know, the generals, politicians, the wealthy class, etc. The elite considered him a “safe” choice for archbishop because he didn’t question their actions. 

While he lived as a “safe” Christian, he affected very little change in a very oppressive and violent society. But through the persecution and death of one of his priest friends, he was awakened to a new reality. He finally saw how the practices of the dominant culture were very antagonistic to the ways of God’s kingdom, even though many of the people of that dominant culture went to church.

Jolted into seeing things more accurately, Bishop Romero began sharing with the common people via radio some hard-hitting messages that were centered on the Bible.

In so doing, the people started to find strength and encouragement to stand up for what was godly and just. And the people of the status quo hated Romero for it. They tried to curb Romero’s preaching, but they could not silence him with truth because the truth was on his side. As our scripture says, the darkness cannot overcome the light of Christ, but it sure does push back really hard – even violently. 

Eventually, one day, while serving communion in his church, he was killed by gunfire by a government death squad. But fortunately for us, before he died, he stated this:

“A church that doesn’t provoke any crisis - a gospel that doesn’t unsettle, a word of God that doesn’t get under anyone’s skin, a word of God that doesn’t touch the real sin of the society in which it is being proclaimed, what Gospel is that? Very nice, pious considerations that don’t bother anyone, that’s the way many would like preaching to be. Those (Christians) who avoid every thorny matter so as not to be harassed, so as not to have conflicts and difficulties, do not light up the world they live in.” 

And my friends, know this today –– you and I are called by God, Himself, to “light up the world we live in.” 

Reflection:

• How does the example of Saint Romero speak to you? How might Jesus be calling you to light up your corner of the world?

• How do you see God’s light overcoming the darkness in your soul, your relationships, and your culture? 

by Kelli Wong, Director of Hospitality, Human Resources, and Finance

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7)

Paul writes in the passage above, “Do not be anxious about anything…” How can we not be anxious about our lives and our friends and family? There’s so much to worry about and so much to “figure out.” But Paul gives us clear instructions about how to deal with the things we are anxious about so that we will experience the peace of God.

“But in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

We need to be intentional when we turn to God. This isn’t just a quick prayer of “God I need you to do this….” This is us praying and petitioning our Heavenly Father… with thanksgiving, as we present our requests to Him. Then…“the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Paul isn’t telling us that if we pray and petition with thanksgiving God is going to give us what we want. Paul is telling us that if we do these things, our hearts and minds will be guarded by the “peace of God, which transcends all understanding.” The troubles and challenges of the world will still exist and will always exist until Jesus, the Prince of Peace, Himself returns.

We can find purpose in this truth as we face the challenges in life, both seemingly big and small.

Reflection:

• What are the things that are making you anxious?

• What can you be thankful for?

• What would it look like for the “peace of God, which transcends all understanding” to guard your heart and mind?

by Pastor Tim Shaw

He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5)

These remarkable words in Isaiah 53 are part of a prophetic poem about a “Suffering Servant.” Chapter 53 is surrounded by some of the most significant promises God makes to us in Scripture. Who is this Suffering Servant who will take the punishment we deserve so that we might be at peace with God, with ourselves, and with others? 

Isaiah 52 assures us that our sin has not permanently alienated us from God but that God has found a way to bring us into a relationship of intimacy and love with Himself. The invitations offered in the chapters that follow are all made possible because of what this Suffering Servant accomplished. Our God can restore and redeem broken, sinful people – people like me. Our God is a merciful, compassionate, gracious, and loving God.

I was raised in a Christ-exalting, Bible-affirming church with parents who were followers of Jesus. My maternal grandfather was a Four Square Gospel pastor, and his father-in-law (my great-grandfather) was one of the pastors who co-founded the Assemblies of God. I was shaped by a family with a deep and rich legacy of Christian faith. I had known about Jesus since I was a boy. But, during my high school and early college years, I drifted away from God. Like the Prodigal Son, I eventually came to my senses, admitting I was in trouble. I was hurting. I did not know how to resolve the pain, losses, and wounds I had experienced and continued to experience because of the poor choices I was making.

After months of struggling, God offered me an unmistakable invitation. “Tim, you’ve tried all sorts of things to resolve the pain you are experiencing, and that has not worked well, has it? Remember Me? Why don’t you come back to Me? I am able to resolve, heal, restore, empower, and guide you. My love is what you’re searching for.”  

So, on one Christmas Day in college, I said “Yes” to Jesus. I once again saw, with great clarity, that the Child in the manger had come to die for me so that I might have life and know a peace that passes all understanding. From that moment to today, Jesus has been opening my eyes, mind, and heart and showing me who He is. The all-powerful, all-knowing, Holy God had come to our little planet in Jesus of Nazareth. The Child in Bethlehem grew up to be the man Jesus, who was pierced for me on the cross so that I could be united, forever, with God. His wounds have been healing my wounds ever since that Christmas Day.

Reflection:

• What does it mean to you that by the wounds of Jesus you can be healed?

• What, if anything, stands in the way of you and a deeper relationship with Jesus? Confess it, turn away from it, and say your “Yes” to Jesus.

by Rosella Shishido, Communications Coordinator

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. (Psalm 46: 1-3)

One summer in July, when I was on the 19th floor in the radio station I worked at, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the city of Manila. The glass walls rattled, and the whole building swayed. Co-workers were screaming, crying, and running for cover. I ducked under a desk and hurriedly prayed, “Lord, if someone has to die, let it be me and not the others.” 

It was chaotic, and I was afraid. But at the same time, I had this inexplicable sense of inner peace, the kind of peace that, as the Bible puts it, “surpasses all understanding.” It was a quiet reassurance that God’s got this. He was present and in control. And for me, that was enough. If it was my time, I was confident that He’d be there to welcome me home. 

Psalm 46:1-3 is our reassurance that God is present even in the chaos. He’s present and ready to help, give protection, rest, relief, and the means to replenish our strength so we can move on. Picture the Lord lowering the drawbridge to let you into His stronghold when you feel threatened or afraid. He is that strong tower we can run to for safety (Proverbs 18:10). 

But how is it possible to have peace on the inside when it’s absent on the outside? It’s because Jesus can show up in our situations to give us peace. He uses it to address our fears. 

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you!’ After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. Again Jesus said, ‘Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” (John 20:19-21)

Bible teacher and author Clarence L. Haynes Jr. wrote that when “Jesus greeted His disciples with the phrase ‘Peace be with you,’ .... [it] was far more than just a platitude or casual greeting. ...He had to settle and calm all the emotions that were raging inside of them. He had to speak rest to their souls and peace to their hearts.”

Jesus extends that same peace to us today, if we trust Him to be our Savior. His peace can transcend even the most difficult circumstances, and even when the world feels like it’s being shaken, literally or figuratively. 

Peace be with you, Friend.

Reflection:

• If you knew that you only had one more week on earth, how would that affect the way you live?

• Do you have the 100% assurance of heaven? Why or why not?

by Patti Marshall, Elder for Prayer Ministry

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

Seven hundred years before Jesus’ birth, Isaiah spoke into a situation where Judah felt powerless and afraid. As enemies grew in strength and grasp, the people didn’t know if God was for or against them or if He had simply abandoned them. This reassuring verse tells of a child who will be born bearing the title Prince of Peace, a child given by God, who will represent His presence and embody His attributes. 

Because Judah focused on busyness and fluctuating emotions and circumstances, peace was elusive. Not found or felt. They forgot how their faithful God of Shalom always kept His promises for restored wholeness, harmony, and health in people, climate, and the land through the Promised One, Jesus the Prince of Peace. 

In November, peace was as elusive as a butterfly. I chased it, but it was often out of reach. I left my iPad on an airplane and lost a credit card. My husband fell and shattered a glass table. The washing machine overflowed. I lost my diamond ring. The month was drenched with impatience over forgetfulness, bogged down with frustration of getting a new credit card, overwhelmed with fear from the fall, soppy with soapy water on the floor, and flooded with tears of sentimental loss. 

I got so caught up in the busyness and fluctuating emotions and circumstances that I forgot Jesus’ words: “Peace, I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27) 

I only remembered Him saying, “In this world you will have trouble.” I forgot that He also said, “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. … But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)  Peace, that’s not found or felt, expressed itself in grumbling prayer, uneasy sleep, and fluttering angst.

Everyone is searching for peace, which can be elusive, especially in a world with war, violence, political disharmony, and fear of physical safety. So don’t forget, as I did. Remember the God of Shalom and His Son, the Prince of Peace, who promises to restore hope, wholeness, harmony, health, and rest to us.

PS. When I finally let go and released those four peace robbers to Jesus, a butterfly rested in my open hand.

Reflection: 

• Read Isaiah 9:6 again.

• Are you yearning for peace? That “calm of mind that is not ruffled by adversity, overclouded by a remorseful conscience, or disturbed by fear”? The Prince of Peace (Shar Shalom) awaits your invitation into that yearning.

• And here’s the Christmas version of the song “Isn’t He,” if you want to sing along and praise our Prince of Peace.

by Paul Zukunft, Elder for Impact Ministries

Ephesians 2:14 NIV: For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.

The title of this devotional conjures warm and comforting thoughts in a sanctuary lit by candles as the congregation sings Silent Night. Our Prince of Peace prevails over hostility, and I will first share a real-life story from World War II that exemplifies how great is our God.

It was Christmas Eve 1944 during the Battle of the Bulge when three American soldiers, including one badly wounded, knocked on the door of Fritz Vincken and his German family in the heart of the Ardennes forest. The three soldiers had been separated from their battalion. Fritz described them as looking more like big boys than battle-hardened soldiers. Fritz’s mother attended to their injuries and provided a hot meal when there was another knock at the door. There stood four German soldiers, the elite Wehrmacht. The corporal leading the patrol told Fritz’s mother that they had become lost and requested food and shelter until daylight.

In response, Fritz’s mother said that she had three other guests who these Wehrmacht may not consider friends. To which the corporal responded, “Amerikaner?” Fritz’s mother de-escalated any hostility and observed that any of these soldiers could be her son, including the American boy with a gunshot wound fighting for his life. And finally, she stated, “This is one night, this Christmas night, let us forget about killing.”

The Germans and Americans stacked their weapons outside, and eventually, a sense of calm and relaxation overtook each of the soldiers as they shared food and wine together with tears streaking their battle-weary faces. There was peace through Christmas morning when the two groups of soldiers shook hands and departed to rejoin their battalions.

For our Prince of Peace to prevail, Fritz’s mother had to step out and way out of her comfort zone since she could have been executed for harboring enemy soldiers. And so it is on a more personal level in our everyday lives. We just may have to step out of our comfort zones to welcome the Prince of Peace.

I cannot count the number of times I’ve faced hostility, from running down drug smugglers, to encountering civil disturbances in the midst of a natural disaster, and yes, dealing with conflict within my household. And when such hostility occurs under one’s roof, the dividing wall must be broken down just as it was in the Ardennes forest. There cannot be a win-lose outcome, and God does not gloat over the vanquished. And I say that as a hyper-competitive, Type A creation of God. 

So in order for me to enable the Prince of Peace to vanquish such hostility, I turn to the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 22, verses 37-39:

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it. Though shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.

This Advent season and always, please join me in not becoming embroiled in the many facets of hostility that divide our world today. And just think, if there was a universal commitment to “love thy neighbor as thyself,” what a better world it would be so that all may sleep in heavenly peace.

Reflection: 

• When you hear the words ”heavenly peace” in the Christmas carol Silent Night, what thoughts fill your mind and heart?

• How might you be an instrument of heavenly peace, following the lead (but not as life-threatening) of Fritz Vincken’s mother?

by Christian Schroppel, Director of High School Ministry

As we draw closer to Christmas and the end of the year, everything seems crazier. Traffic is horrendous, finding a decent parking spot seems impossible, and the checkout lines stretch on forever. Not to mention everything is getting more expensive and harder to afford. It can be easy to become overwhelmed and lash out at loved ones and strangers around us.

I tend to be a bit more irritable this time of year, especially while driving. I have a tendency to leave late and then blame the drivers around me for my tardiness. I can get so stressed that I forget to show the love of Christ. I have found that praying for patience and those around me as I drive seems to help me be more at peace. It also helps when I leave on time.

As Christians, we can demonstrate the peace of the Lord to those around us this Christmas season. Rather than getting caught up in the consumerism the world has to offer, we can get caught up in a peace that is beyond understanding. Rather than getting frustrated with our loved ones, we can be grateful for the opportunity to spend time with them. After all, we know the true reason we celebrate Christmas in the first place –– the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.

We read in John 14:27 – "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." Jesus offers peace that we can never receive from the world. This Advent season, do not let your hearts be troubled but be excited that we have a God who loves and cares for us the way Jesus does.

Reflection:

• What is something that is troubling your heart right now that you could turn over to the Lord?

• How do you deal with stress during this time of year?

• What would it look like if you had more of the Lord's peace?