Advent 2014 The Coming King

Transcription

1 Advent 2014 The Coming King 1

2 Advent 2014 The Coming King 2

3 Advent Devotionals 2014 As we prepare for Dec. 25 and the celebration of the first coming of Christ, we look with anticipation toward the Second Coming. Advent is derived from the Latin word adventus which means coming and begins on the fourth Sunday before Dec. 25. This year, we look at prophesies from Isaiah and Zechariah that were given to the nation of Israel as they waited for their coming Messiah. Use these daily devotions in conjunction with your own Advent traditions, which may include lighting a candle each week to represent Hope, Peace, Love and Joy. At the end of the daily devotion section we have included information on an activity which may be new to some families creating a Jesse Tree. This daily reading of a Bible story traces the lineage of Jesus and weaves the stories of the Old Testament to their fulfillment at the time of Christ s birth. May your Advent season be filled with the Hope, Peace, Joy and Love of Christ as we study His Word. Advent 2014 The Coming King 3

4 Advent 2014 The Coming King 4

5 Table of contents Week of Hope God s Grace pp Week of Peace God s Rule pp Week of Joy God s Return pp Week of Love God s Sacrifice pp Family Devotion Create a Jesse Tree p. 35 Jesse Tree Daily Scripture p. 36 Jesse Tree Ornaments pp Advent 2014 The Coming King 5

6 Week of Hope God s Grace Advent 2014 The Coming King 6

7 Sunday, November 30 Day One This morning, the first Sunday of Advent, Pastor Steve focused on Isaiah 11:1-10. As we prepare our hearts for Advent - the Coming King, read this passage of Scripture. Thank God that just as a small shoot grows into a strong tree, He came to the world more than 2000 years ago as a baby.to grow into the man who would be our salvation. 1 There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. 2 And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. 3 And his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide disputes by what his ears hear, 4 but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. 5 Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist, and faithfulness the belt of his loins. 6 The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together; and a little child shall lead them. 7 The cow and the bear shall graze; their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. 8 The nursing child shall play over the hole of the cobra, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder s den. 9 They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. 10 In that day the root of Jesse, who shall stand as a signal for the peoples of him shall the nations inquire, and his resting place shall be glorious. Advent 2014 The Coming King 7

8 Monday, December 1 Day two GOSPEL: There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. Isaiah 11:1 GROW: The prophet Isaiah was God s mouthpiece to the Israelite nation. Throughout the book of Isaiah, he is warning the people that they will be judged for their unrighteousness. Verse 1 of Chapter 11 refers to the House of David as a stump - a kingdom destroyed to the level of barely peeking above the grass. But David s reign had been established by God and its roots were deeply planted. From these roots, a shoot would bring forth Hope; Hope for the people oppressed because of their rebellion from God. In this passage, the coming Messiah is not referred to as a mighty warrior, king or conqueror as the Jewish people imagined their rescuer to be. Different Bible translations use the word shoot, twig or sprig not words that impart an image of strength or might. In chapter 10, Isaiah compares the enemies of God as strong and stately boughs which will take great labor to chop down. Yet Christ, the tender branch, is victorious over all. This is our Hope - that the baby Jesus who came into this world as a small shoot from the lineage of Jesse was God wrapped in human form, sent to rescue us from the judgment of our unrighteousness. GO: Who in your life, neighborhood, or workplace is facing a situation that appears hopeless? They need to be reminded of the Branch from the stump of Jesse who came to defeat the pain and hurt in our lives. The Christmas season is a time we like to focus on fun and sparkle. Do not let the pageantry shadow the hurt of those around you. Tell them of the Hope for this season - that the Messiah came to our rescue and still brings hope today. PRAYER: Lord, thank you that your reign is not like those in power throughout history temporary and prone for defeat. You established your Kingdom before time. Thank you that we do not have to put our hope in man, but it can be found in You. Open my eyes to those around me who need to hear of the Hope of You this Christmas. Advent 2014 The Coming King 8

9 Tuesday, December 2 Day three GOSPEL: There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. And his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord. Isaiah 11:1 3a GROW: Jesus was a man. He felt pain and needed food and understood all the dozens of qualities that make us human. But, Isaiah 11 tells us that, the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him. Rest upon him meaning it will always be there. The qualities of the Spirit of the Lord are listed as wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and fear of the Lord. This Messiah that was coming was not just sent to be a mighty ruler. He was coming with all wisdom and understanding of the people He was sent to save. GO: Because the Spirit of the Lord has given Jesus all understanding, knowledge, and might then we do not ever need to feel like we are alone in this world. Let the Hope of Christ and the knowledge that He is near and He understands give you the boldness to face any uncertainty or unfairness you may be experiencing. Did God bring someone to mind yesterday that is facing difficulties? Despite the challenges you may have in your life, take time today to reach out to them with a message or phone call to let them know that Isaiah 11 tells us the Lord understands and He is near. PRAYER: Thank you, Father, that the Spirit of the Lord provides wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, and knowledge. Help me to remember that all those are available to me when I study your Word and seek you out in prayer. Let my focus not be on an image of a baby in the manger, but the relationship I have with You as Lord and Savior the one who is my Hope in a difficult world. Advent 2014 The Coming King 9

10 Wednesday, December 3 Day Four GOSPEL: He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide disputes by what his ears hear, but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist, and faithfulness the belt of his loins. Isaiah 11:3a-5 GROW: Verse 2 shows that Jesus has the Spirit of wisdom, understanding and knowledge. Verses 3 5 explain that He uses these to judge, not as we do according to appearance or reputation, but with equity, righteousness and faithfulness. The Lord does not care if we have the most beautiful tree, brightest outdoor light display or best holiday hairstyle. He shall not judge by what his eyes see. The Lord does not listen to all the good things people say about themselves or the horrid things they say about others. or decide disputes by what his ears hear. The Messiah takes upon himself the duty to defend the poor and meek. He looks at the miserable, broken state of man and offers righteousness. In exchange for the pleas of the meek, He gives equity. He is completely encircled by righteousness and faithfulness. GO: Media tells us a good Christmas is all the family gathered in their nicest clothes with the nicest food with everyone smiling; every item on your list of wants is under the huge tree with perfectly coordinated ornaments glowing in front of a soaring picture window next to an ornate gingerbread house. Jesus does not use the standards of the world. He looks past the trappings of the earth into the heart. How can you celebrate this season with righteousness and faithfulness? Is it by serving others, giving to those in need, spending time with those dear to you or offering forgiveness? This year, let us not plan for a good Christmas - let us spread a godly Christmas to those we love. PRAYER: Lord you do not judge by what you see or what others say. Thank you for looking past my appearance and reputation and creating in me a clean heart. Just as you are a champion to the poor in spirit, let me be one who helps the poor in stature. You raise up the meek and count them as equals, let me see those around me in need and serve them with righteousness and faithfulness. Advent 2014 The Coming King 10

11 Thursday, December 4 Day Five GOSPEL: The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together; and a little child shall lead them. The cow and the bear shall graze; their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. Isaiah 11:6-7 GROW: The Kingdom that the Messiah the Branch from the stump of Jesse was going to establish would be marked by unity and peace. If we call ourselves Christians, followers of Christ, then as subjects in this kingdom we should be known for our unity. Enemies who once had the roles of lions and calves now live together without strife. Men of the most fierce or volatile dispositions, who would devour a weak business partner or exploit a situation are altered by the gospel and grace of Christ. Matthew Henry s Bible Commentary explains these verses by saying, they (believers) shall live in love even with the weakest and such as formerly they would have made an easy prey of. So far shall the sheep be from hurting one another, as sometimes they have done, that even the wolves will agree with them. This is fulfilled in the wonderful effect of the gospel upon the minds of those that sincerely embrace it; it changes the nature, and makes those that trampled on the meek of the earth, not only meek like them, but affectionate towards them. GO: Perhaps this definition of what the Kingdom of God should look like is the reason some in our world do not think they need to be part of a church. Perhaps they see wolves and leopards and lions behaving like wolves and leopards and lions. Instead, they should see people of all personalities serving together, living life together and working to share burdens and celebrate success. Make time this week to have coffee, share a meal or gather to pray with other believers. If someone has wronged you, offer forgiveness so you can go forth as one flock and reach out to others who need the Hope of the Kingdom. PRAYER: Dear Lord, forgive me of the times I am focused on getting my way that I do not stop to ask if it is creating unity or if I am preying on the weak. Your church should be an example of how to love people, work together and get along. Please change my heart to see people as you do - equal and worthy. Give me courage to stand up for those who are being treated unfairly and show them Your love. Advent 2014 The Coming King 11

12 Friday, December 5 Day six GOSPEL: And again Isaiah says, The root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:12-13 GROW: Though Isaiah was writing to the Jewish people of their coming Savior, in the book of Romans Paul reminds us that Jesus did not come only for the Jews. Yes, the Children of Israel were God s chosen people, but Jesus came to extend that covenant to all. In Him, we can have hope. Once we believe in Him as Lord, we can receive joy and peace and the power of the Holy Spirit (this same Spirit which gave Jesus all wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and might) allows us to live life in hope. The true message of Christmas is that our Creator, separated from us by our rebellion, clothed Himself like us and came into this world. Fully God, yet fully man. This baby in a manger came to free us from our hopelessness a life with no purpose and a death with no mercy. The Branch of the stump of Jesse took upon Himself every sin ever committed and died on the cross to bridge the divide between wretched man and a holy God. Man searches for fulfillment in other people, in works, in material goods, in sources of addiction. But our only Hope is in Christ the Lord. GO: Take some time and think about what having Hope in Christ means to you today. If you do not understand how Christ can give you hope, contact someone to help you look at Scripture and find an answer to your questions. If you have found Hope in Christ through a relationship with Him, resolve today to share your story of Hope with someone. PRAYER: Jesus, my only Hope is You. You provide salvation from an eternity separated from love, a purpose for me during my time on earth and a reason to show love to a world that is often unkind. Thank you for coming into a sinful world to bring hope. Advent 2014 The Coming King 12

13 Week of peace God s Rule Advent 2014 The Coming King 13

14 Saturday, December 6 Day seven This first week of Advent we have focused on Hope and how Jesus is the greatest example of God s Grace to us. Grace to become co-heirs with Christ in His Kingdom. Grace that He not only came to judge with righteousness and faithfulness but took on the judgment of our sin so we can be found blameless before a Holy God. Read again this week s key passages: Isaiah 11:1 10 Romans 15:12-13 FOCUS THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK: Though Christ came from humble lineage and as a helpless baby, He defeated evil and brought Hope to the world. The Spirit of the Lord rests on Jesus giving all wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and fear of the Lord giving us boldness to know He understands our need. Jesus does not judge by our appearance or reputation, but looks straight to the heart. Followers of Christ should live together in unity and peace. Jesus came to Earth to bring Hope to all people. AS A COMMUNITY: This week, the worshippers of HNW commit to spreading the Hope of Jesus in our community by seeking the wisdom, understanding, knowledge and fear of the Lord by studying His word and spending time in prayer throughout this season. We ask that our church be known as a place of unity and not strife welcoming of all people to show them the Hope of Christ Jesus. *This week through next Wednesday, Dec. 10 you can participate in our annual Three Trees giving event. Three Trees is an opportunity to provide a gift for those in need. Take a gift tag from one of the trees located around the HNW campus and return the unwrapped gift by Dec. 10.* Advent 2014 The Coming King 14

15 Sunday, December 7 Day One Re-read this week s sermon text: Isaiah 9:2 7. As we celebrate this second week of Advent we focus on Peace. As you rest this Sabbath, ask the Lord to show you what His Peace should look like in your life. 2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. 3 You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil. 4 For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. 5 For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire. 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Advent 2014 The Coming King 15

16 Monday, December 8 Day two GOSPEL: The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy;... Isaiah 9:2 3a GROW: In the chapters preceding these verses, Isaiah had told of the dark and gloom the people of Israel were experiencing because they had turned their allegiance away from the Lord Almighty. But, the people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. Advent, preparing for His coming, is a four week reminder that we no longer have to live as people who walk in darkness. Jesus light has shone on us and our lives do not have to be filled with things of the dark fear, uncertainty, desperation, hiding. It is easy to be fearful in the dark. It seems the mind plays tricks and imagines more monsters when there is no light to prove they do not exist. The light of Christ brings peace. 2 Chronicles 15 says that Israel had been without the true God and there was no peace. Advent brings the reminder that we have received the light of Jesus and this light brings true peace to our hearts. GO: This week, we light the Advent candle of peace. Perhaps you are not celebrating with a traditional Advent wreath and candles but generally everyone has at least one candle in their home they can set out for mealtime. One evening this week, invite a friend or family to join you for dinner nothing fancy, just a time to enjoy the company of others during this busy season. Throughout the Advance Study on Discipleship, Pastor Steve reminded us of the importance of sharing meals together in order to develop relationships. Find someone to invite for a meal, light a candle to represent peace and ask how you can pray for Christ s light to shine in their life. PRAY: Lord Jesus, thank you that I no longer have to walk in darkness. The gospel brings light, peace and joy to every part of my life even when things are difficult. Help me remember that as a follower of You I need to let those around me know of this light. Give me boldness to tell the story of Your love to those around me and help me make time to share a meal with someone in order to speak of Your peace. Advent 2014 The Coming King 16

17 Tuesday, December 9 Day three GOSPEL: they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil. For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. Isaiah 9:3b 4 Read Judges 7 for the telling of God s defeat of the Midianites using Gideon and 300 men. GROW: When people in darkness receive light, they rejoice. Verses 3 & 4 describe this rejoicing on the level of those who have toiled and sweat in the fields and now receive a bountiful harvest. Or those who have fought and struggled in battle to win the war and now get to divide the property of the ones they have defeated. For people who have struggled and been oppressed, that weight is lifted and they will no longer be struck down. Isaiah even reminded the people of the well-know story of Gideon s defeat of the mighty Midianites with only 300 men. When we receive the Light of Jesus into our lives by accepting a relationship with Him we no longer live under the oppression of evil or slavery to sin. It does not mean everything is easy... farmers do not have an easy time preparing for harvest and soldiers do not have an easy time preparing for battle but we are promised a harvest and a defeat of enemies because Jesus has ensured we will be victorious. Sometimes those victories do not seem to be coming or certainly are not in the way we would plan. Gideon started with 30,000 warriors but won the battle with 300 men smashing jars and waving torches. During this week of peace, allow the Lord to take some of those burdens from you as you declare victory as on the day of Midian. GO: Today you may need to spend some time writing out the burdens, yoke and oppression you are facing. Then, ask God to remind you that He knows the trials you face and He can bring peace. If this list includes situations that involve other people such as illness, relationship trouble or unforgiveness, take time to reach out to those people and let them know that even in this difficulty you can rejoice because the Messiah brings peace to His people. PRAY: Lord Almighty, thank you that I can rejoice like the time of harvest or after winning a huge battle because You have taken on my burdens and defeated the enemies who want to steal my joy. As I list the things that are troubling me I release them to You. Some of these situations I cannot control, so I ask you bring me peace as You handle them even in an unlikely way as you did with the defeat of the Midianites. Let me have the patience to not worry and the wisdom to give You credit when these battles are won. Advent 2014 The Coming King 17

18 Wednesday, December 10 Day four GOSPEL: You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil. For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire. Isaiah 9:3 5 GROW: Verses 3 & 4 of chapter 9 proclaim the joy that is received because the Messiah came. Just as God delivered the Israelites from the oppression of people such as the Midianites, Jesus coming provides a way for us to be delivered from the oppression of sin and a life apart from God which causes us to rejoice. Verse 5 says the coming Messiah brings not only joy to the people but peace. All the boots needed for the battles the Israelites faced so often and their clothes that were stained with blood because of these wars would no longer be needed they could be used as fuel for a fire. Jesus did not come, as the Jewish people anticipated, just to bring them victory over their enemies and establish a great kingdom on earth. Jesus came to bring peace to the hearts and lives of all people. If all people would truly commit to the cause of Christ every boot of the trampling warrior and garment rolled in blood would be obsolete because there would be no war. Jesus came to bring peace to our hearts and lives individually so that we can share that peace with our neighbor, city, state, nation and world. GO: The nation of Israel was yearning for peace from their mortal enemies. The nation s history records battle upon battle, war upon war; and the people were weary. It does not take long to search the media to find accounts of present-day people weary of war. This Christmas, take time to consider those in other nations who have fled from their homes due to violence. Today you/your family can someone in the military and thank them for their role in providing peace ( join with other Southern Baptists responding to global needs by giving to the Baptist Global Response ( or pray that those living without peace will feel His light. PRAYER: Jesus, I do not have to live in fear or uncertainty because you have brought light to the darkness of my life. In times when I am confused, remind me that I do not have to have all the answers in order to have peace. Bless those around the world who are physically living in places without peace. Show me how I can help in bringing them the Light of You by sharing the joy of your coming. Advent 2014 The Coming King 18

19 Thursday, December 11 Day five *PLAN NOW TO PARTICIPATE IN TOMORROW EVENING S JOY EXPLOSION. MEET IN THE WORSHIP CENTER AT 6:30 P.M. AS WE SHOW THE LOVE OF JESUS TO OUR COMMUNITY BY CAROLING, DISTRIBUTING GIFT BASKETS AND INVITING AREA RESIDENTS TO OUR CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES.* More information is available at hnw.org GOSPEL: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 GROW: For to us, given. God became flesh and gave Himself to man - not the angels or other high and lofty beings. This Son of God was given to us. And though he came as a baby, all power and authority to rule was placed on his shoulder. He alone would establish a kingdom. And this ruler, who came as a baby, would be known to his subjects as Wonderful because He is both God and Man, the representation of everything beautiful; Counselor because He has received the counsel of God since before time and offers this wisdom to His people; Mighty God who defeated the grave and rescued us from perishing; Everlasting Father who will not abandon his children; and Prince of Peace who rules in peace and offers peace to those who follow Him. GO: Make sure those who visit your home (or cubicle) this season see glimpses of the true meaning of Christmas in your decorations. Isaiah 9:6 is a great verse to write, type out or print from a site online and display or share with others. Hide these words in your heart to let others know the reason to celebrate is because of a child given to us whose name is Wonderful Counselor, Might God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. PRAYER: Jesus, what an awesome verse of scripture you inspired Isaiah to write. Thank you for coming to us to take on all the problems and right all the injustice in the world. You are the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. Let me live out today as one who is a loyal subject of such a powerful king. Advent 2014 The Coming King 19

20 Friday, December 12 Day six *DON T FORGET TO ATTEND THE JOY EXPLOSION TONIGHT AT 6:30 P.M.* GOSPEL: Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. Isaiah 9:7 GROW: This Prince of Peace came to establish a kingdom of justice and righteousness that would never decrease and have no end to peace. Once more no end to his government s increase; no end to peace; established and upheld with justice and righteousness forever. As a people, the majority of time and energy we spend is on things that are very temporary - beauty that will fade, items that will break or lose our interest, jobs we will one day leave. Isaiah 9:7 reminds us we are part of something much bigger than the items that we look around and see in our day to day life. We have received a King who came to earth to establish (through us) a reign that will never end, marked by peace that will continue forever, that offers justice and righteousness to each person who admits they need a Savior and submits to His lordship. GO: Fear, worry, and regret have no place in a kingdom of increase, peace, justice and righteousness. This Christmas enjoy the peace that Christ s birth brought to the lives of His followers. Be brave enough to set aside what the world says should be the focus of your time, talent and energy and seek out ways to build God s kingdom. PRAYER: Jesus, when I look around at the world it is easy to forget You are over all. It is easier to see the wrong, the evil, and the troubled. Strengthen me to seek out ways to show the broken people in this community around me that you provide an escape from the hopelessness that seems to surround us. Thank you that You loved me enough to include me in Your kingdom. Advent 2014 The Coming King 20

21 Week of joy God s Return Advent 2014 The Coming King 21

22 Saturday, December 13 Day seven Throughout this Week of Peace, Isaiah has reminded us that Jesus came to establish a kingdom. But, through God s mercy, He rules in peace. The Messiah came to earth and exchanged His status for a crown of thorns. Read again this week s key passages: Isaiah 9:2-7 Judges 7 FOCUS THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK: The world walks in darkness, but the Prince of Peace brings light. We can rejoice because the Lord has taken our burden and gives us victory often in ways we do not expect. Jesus came to establish peace. God gave His son to us as a gift that is wonderful, wise, mighty and everlasting. God s Kingdom will remain forever in peace, justice and righteousness. AS A COMMUNITY: This Advent season, HNW wants to be an example of peace to the northwest side of Houston. To do this: 1. We will focus on kingdom-works that promote righteousness and not become consumed with the materialism around us 2. We will look for ways to show peace to those in our neighborhoods and workplaces who need comfort and understanding and We will rejoice together at every opportunity as we celebrate the coming of our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. Advent 2014 The Coming King 22

23 Sunday, December 14 Day One Today s sermon comes from Zechariah 9:9 17. Rejoice as the daughters of Zion and Jerusalem as we celebrate the coming of the King. 9 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. 10 I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim and the war horse from Jerusalem; and the battle bow shall be cut off, and he shall speak peace to the nations; his rule shall be from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth. 15 The Lord of hosts will protect them, and they shall devour, and tread down the sling stones, and they shall drink and roar as if drunk with wine, and be full like a bowl, drenched like the corners of the altar. 16 On that day the Lord their God will save them, as the flock of his people; for like the jewels of a crown they shall shine on his land. 17 For how great is his goodness, and how great his beauty! Grain shall make the young men flourish, and new wine the young women. 11 As for you also, because of the blood of my covenant with you, I will set your prisoners free from the waterless pit. 12 Return to your stronghold, O prisoners of hope; today I declare that I will restore to you double. 13 For I have bent Judah as my bow; I have made Ephraim its arrow. I will stir up your sons, O Zion, against your sons, O Greece, and wield you like a warrior s sword. The Lord Will Save His People 14 Then the Lord will appear over them, and his arrow will go forth like lightning; the Lord God will sound the trumpet and will march forth in the whirlwinds of the south. Advent 2014 The Coming King 23

24 Monday, December 15 Day two GOSPEL: Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he. Zechariah 9:9a And behold, the star that they (the wise men) had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. Matthew 2:9-10 GROW: Zechariah prophesied that a righteous king bringing salvation would cause the children of Israel to shout and rejoice. Matthew records the account of the wise men reaching the baby Jesus and rejoicing exceedingly. Though Zechariah s scripture was written more than 2500 years ago and the wise men rejoiced at seeing Jesus more than 2000 years ago, the reaction to knowing the King has come for his people is the same today we should be filled with joy. This third week of Advent celebrates the Joy of Christ. In the English Standard Version of the Bible the words joy and rejoice are each recorded more than 200 times. Verse after verse reminds us that God s people are to be a people known for rejoicing. We prepare and anticipate the coming of Christ Jesus because He brings us joy. GO: Who in your sphere of influence needs to be reminded of the joy of the Lord? Do you know someone who, like the wise men, is searching for the Savior? Rejoice greatly and shout aloud to those around you that joy has come to the world. PRAY: Lord I rejoice today that you came to the world. This Christmas, let my joy be renewed as I read your Word and pray each day. Let my heart be full of joy that is found only in You. Let my life so reflect your joy that others notice and want to know more about You. Advent 2014 The Coming King 24

25 Tuesday, December 16 Day three GOSPEL: And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. Isaiah 35:10 GROW: Christians, or followers of Christ, are the ransomed of the Lord. Jesus came to pay for our freedom. He came to give His life as a ransom for our guilt and freedom from the power sin had over us. His coming meant our rescue from captivity. Because of this, we will receive everlasting joy. During our life on earth we will have sorrows, but the promise of eternal life with Christ means we can rejoice even in times of trouble because we will one day live with Him in a place of everlasting gladness and joy. GO: One day, when Christ returns, sorrow and sighing will flee away. Until then, the brokenness of this world will bring difficulty. There is never a good time to be ill, but it is especially difficult during the holidays. Who do you know who is either sick and battling illness themselves or has the difficult task of being a care-giver for someone who is ill? Take time today to contact that person and offer them your encouragement and prayers. Remind them that they are loved and can rejoice that God loves them, even though they are hurting and unwell. PRAY: Thank you that I can sing and rejoice because I have been ransomed from a life apart from you, Jesus. When I get discouraged by sorrow and trouble remind me that Your joy is in my heart every day. I pray for those who are sick and injured. Heal their bodies, give rest to their caregivers and let those of us who believe in You show them the joy of our salvation. Advent 2014 The Coming King 25

26 Wednesday, December 17 Day four GOSPEL: You will say in that day: I will give thanks to you, O Lord, for though you were angry with me, your anger turned away, that you might comfort me. Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation. With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. And you will say in that day: Give thanks to the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the peoples, proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be made known in all the earth. Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel. Isaiah 12 GROW: What a beautiful passage to remind us of the joy we have because of Christ s coming. His anger at our sin was covered by His blood so that He now gives us comfort. God is our salvation and we do not need to have any fear. The Lord is our strength and salvation a salvation that pours over us like water and fills us with joy. This comfort, salvation, and strength should cause us to rejoice. Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be made known in all the earth. GO: The joy of the Lord will only be made known in all the earth if we tell others. During October and November each of us was challenged through the Advance Spiritual Growth Campaign to begin discipling someone - intentionally meeting with a friend or co-worker to tell them how the Lord is showing His comfort, salvation and strength in your life. If you are not part of a discipling relationship pray today that you have the courage to reach out and begin this process of letting the Lord s glorious works be made known in all the earth. Plan to attend the DiscipleMaking Conference Jan. 23 & 24 to learn how to share the joy of your salvation to encourage someone else s spiritual walk. PRAYER: Lord I thank you that though I was separated from God by my sin you provided a way for my guilt to be covered by your blood. I trust in You and thank you for salvation, comfort and strength. I will rejoice in opportunities to share of Your glory with those around me. May your fame be made known in all the earth. Advent 2014 The Coming King 26

27 Thursday, December 18 Day five GOSPEL: Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation. God, the Lord, is my strength; Habakkuk 3:17 19a GROW: Habakkuk 3 is a prayer in a continuing conversation the prophet was having with God. He was reflecting on the suffering and bondage the nation of Israel had faced, and was sure to face again. But, as is characteristic of time spent in prayer, the focus shifted from the troubles to the miraculous ways the Lord blesses and provides. Habakkuk knew that trouble would come again to Israel. But, his strength and faith was in God. So, even if all the fields turned to dust and the herds were all gone, he still had reason to rejoice. Our happiness and joy cannot be dependent of the amount of money in our bank account or the abundance or lack of food in our pantry. Just as Habakkuk prayed, our attitude should be yet I will rejoice whether in times of plenty or need. GO: In the latest census, 22% of Houston s population lives below the poverty line. That means a family of four has an annual income below $23,000. If we know our joy comes from the Lord and not things, we should not be spending on more stuff this Christmas when one-fourth of our neighbors do not have enough money to pay for basic expenses. This week, bless someone with the excess God has given. You could only buy two presents instead of three for someone, skip the stocking stuffers this year, forgo the new outfit for the Christmas service, not eat out for a week. There are many ways to save money and give to someone in need. Many, many organizations have easy ways to give this time of year. Sit down with your family, giving thanks that there is food to eat, and decide how you can show the joy of the Lord to someone in need. PRAYER: Lord thank you for the way you continue to provide for me. In times when it seems your blessing is not as easy to see, I pray that my attitude is like that of Habakkuk s and filled with joy. Help me to recognize the blessings you have given and not be deceived into comparing with those around me. I will take joy in you, the God of my salvation. You are the Lord, my strength. Advent 2014 The Coming King 27

28 Friday, December 19 Day six GOSPEL: But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, Let s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about. Luke 2:10-15 GROW: All the angels filled the sky to sing Happy Birthday to Jesus. Can you imagine? The Angel of the Lord was standing by the shepherds, telling them not to fear, he was only there to announce the arrival of the Messiah. Then a great company of angels fills the heavens with rejoicing. How could the shepherds not be excited? Just like those shepherds, we have been told of the coming of the Messiah. We know that the Son of God came to earth to redeem us and give us a future with Him for eternity. In the words of the Chris Tomlin chorus, How can I keep from singing Your praise? How can I keep from shouting Your name? Phillippians 4:4 admonishes, Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice. GO: Share some joy! Bake cookies and invite the neighborhood children over to decorate with a million sprinkles, ask a feeble neighbor if they need help preparing for the holidays, take your friends caroling at a local hospital, make hot chocolate and give to those who work outdoors. Don t hide the joy of Christ s birth. Just as the angels proclaimed to the shepherds, find a way to show the joy of the good news to those around you. PRAYER: Glory to God in the highest! The good news of great joy has come to us. My heart overflows with gratefulness that You came to earth. Thank you for loving me and filling my life with joy. Advent 2014 The Coming King 28

29 Week of love God s Sacrifice Advent 2014 The Coming King 29

30 Saturday, December 20 Day seven This Advent focus on Joy should fill your heart with excitement at the coming of Christ first as a Savior in a manger and again to reclaim His people and establish his Kingdom on Earth. Read again this week s key passages: Zechariah 9:9 17 Matthew 2:9 10 Isaiah 35:10 Isaiah 12 Habakkuk 3:17 19a Luke 2:10 15 Phillippians 4:4 FOCUS THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK: Many are searching for Christ and need to hear that He bring salvation to all. Because Jesus ransomed us, one day all our sorrows will be traded for everlasting joy. We can rejoice because Jesus is our salvation, comfort and strength. Even if we lose all material goods, we can still be filled with joy because we know the Lord. Jesus is the good news of great joy for all people. AS A COMMUNITY: Statistics tell us that each day of 2014 there were 80 people who moved to Precinct 4 of Harris County where Houston Northwest Church is located. If Precinct 4 were a city, it would be the 10th largest in the nation. That s a lot of people who need to hear about the joy of the Lord! Invitation cards are available to give to friends, neighbors and co-workers inviting them to a Christmas Eve service. Take some tomorrow after service and share this opportunity with others. Advent 2014 The Coming King 30

31 Sunday, December 21 Day One Reread today s sermon text of Isaiah s prophecy: Isaiah 53 1 Who has believed what he has heard from us? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? 2For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him. 3 He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4 Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away; and as for his generation, who considered that he was cut off out of the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people? 9 And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him; he has put him to grief; when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand. 11 Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied; by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore I will divide him a portion with the many, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong, because he poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors; yet he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors. 7He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth. Advent 2014 The Coming King 31

32 Monday, December 22 Day two GOSPEL: Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. Philippians 2:5 7 GROW: Paul s letter to the Philippians is an explanation of love that Jesus, who was equal with God, did not remain exalted on high but lowered himself and took on the form of a servant. God s plan to rescue humanity could have taken any form He chose. But, He decided the way to show His great love for us was by sacrificing His Son. GO: The family of Houston Northwest has now spent three weeks studying the same scripture through this Advent Devotional. This discipline is helping build the same mind among our body. As believers, our attitudes should be in unison with each other and with Christ as we work to bring Him glory and further His kingdom. Allow Jesus love, which He so freely gave as He came to rescue us, to pour out onto those around you. PRAY: I do not understand so great a love that You would give up the splendor of heaven and come to earth. Thank you for taking on my judgment and loving me enough to die in my place. Let me show this love to all those I come in contact with. Advent 2014 The Coming King 32

33 Tuesday, December 23 Day three GOSPEL: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him. John 3:16 17 GROW: John 3:16 is one of the most well-known verses about love in all the Bible. It is fitting we use this passage as our Advent celebration comes to a close. Advent the anticipation of the Incarnation, when God comes to earth as man is God s display of His love. God loved each of us in the world so much that He chose to leave heaven, take on the form of a man and bear the punishment for all sin. God did not come to bring judgment and condemnation, He came to save us. This is God s sacrifice for us. This is love. GO: This month we have shown Hope by calling those needing encouragement, gathering together to celebrate the season and sharing our own salvation story. We have offered Peace by gathering for meals, supporting those living in physical unrest, and sharing Scripture. We have spread Joy by being examples to those searching for the Savior, consoled the sick, given to those in need and followed Jesus command to be a disciple. We have done all these things because God loved us so much, He sent His only Son to save us. Resolve that 2015 will be a year you share the Love of Jesus. PRAY: God I do not understand why you pursued me and wanted me so much you allowed Your Son to die so I can have eternal life. I am grateful for Your love. As the entire world pauses to celebrate the birth of Jesus let me be a light for You. Advent 2014 The Coming King 33

34 Wednesday, December 24 Day four GOSPEL: In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be registered, each to his own town. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. Luke 2:1 7 GROW: Tomorrow the season of expectation ends with the coming of Christmas Day the day we celebrate the arrival of the Messiah. It is for this celebration we have prepared our hearts, filled our minds with scripture and practiced the disciplines of hope, peace and joy with those around us. GO: Join together with other believers today to celebrate Christmas Eve. If you are at home in Houston, services will be held at 1:00, 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. at Houston Northwest Church. If you are traveling, find a service to attend and celebrate the gift of Love sent to us from God. PRAY: Thank you for giving us a reason to celebrate. Thank you for your hope, peace, joy and love. It is time; o come, o come Emmanuel. Advent 2014 The Coming King 34

35 FAMILY DEVOTION TIME Create a Jesse Tree WHAT IS A JESSE TREE? The Jesse Tree helps connect the custom of decorating Christmas trees to the events leading to Jesus birth. The Jesse Tree is named from Isaiah 11:1: A shoot shall come out of the stock of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots the sermon text for our first Sunday of Advent. The Jesse Tree represents the family tree of Jesus and tells the entire story of God s salvation plan, beginning with creation and making its way through the Old Testament, showing how it all points to the coming of the Messiah. Reviewing this plan reminds us of how the Israelites waited for the birth of Jesus, and how we wait for His second coming today. HOW DO WE MAKE ONE? Each day from Dec. 1-25, a Scripture passage is read together as a family and an ornament that represents the people, prophesies or events of the story is added to the tree. The tree can be a typical evergreen tree, a gathering of branches or a paper tree hung on a door. Ornaments are provided at the end of this devotional book or they can be printed from a variety of sites online, constructed from clay or household items or purchased in sets from stores such as LifeWay. The purpose is not perfection or a specific look, but the sharing of God s Word and the connection that all the events of the Old Testament led to the anticipation of Advent --- the coming of our Savior. WHICH SCRIPTURE DO WE USE? Daily Scripture (for older children, longer passages to explain the story in greater detail may be appropriate) Advent 2014 The Coming King 35