Happy New Year

A belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everybody!

We hope your Christmas was a wonderful time celebrating the Savior’s birth and getting together with loved ones.

It has been an eventful year or should I say “a year of love” as we had three 3 weddings in the family. It all started with my sister Cheryl to Sir Michael Patterson in February, then my nephew John to LeeAnn in April and then my chum/”other sister” Lorien in July to Mark Trepus (or Marcus Aurelius as he so graciously permits me to call him). Each wedding was beautiful and we were so thankful to be able to be a part of each one. Congratulations again to all you love birds!

Pastor Donavon…he’s been a busy boy this past year. Our church finds itself, and consequently our family, in transition with the resignation of the lead pastor. So, in the interim, Donavon’s responsibilities have increased to leading in music (we’ve noticed that often job responsibilities don’t “shift” in churches they just get bigger). So we are definitely in a stretching time when it comes to our faith. There are many unknowns for us right now that pose some challenges for us but we have seen God handle challenges before and we are REALLY curious as to what He’s up to at this stage in our lives. Our church has begun the pastoral search process and now we wait for God to reveal his direction for us. Well, I guess we can’t say that life is boring.

Mrs. King…she’s been a busy girl this year. I am a 3^rd grade teacher at The River Academy and so, so thankful that I am there and that our girls have the opportunity to attend. It is a wonderful place and has brought about much growth for our entire family. True, it has been insanely busy since school started but my husband has been wonderfully supportive right down to the not-so-glamorous details like cooking dinner,, doing dishes and laundry. There is no way I could do this without his faithful support…thank you Juano!!!!!! You are a blessing indeed!!!!!!!!!!

Miss Katie….she’s been a reading girl this year. Reading is still one of Katie’s favorite pastimes especially if it’s in the fantasy genre. She also loves playing “elvish” type games with her school chums and has even created her own world (with accompanying maps etc.). Katie has also taken to cutting up old clothes and making new ones for various stuffed animals, dolls and, at times, for herself. Unfortunately she has a mother who knows nothing about sewing so we use non-traditional methods like staples, hot glue and Scotch tape. Though a blue ribbon from 4H is probably not in the cards she sure is having lots of fun and it’s enjoyable to watch. My personal favorite was when she made a hat out of some old tights that looked like a newborn’s cap with a topknot and a personal monogram. Proud of her creative efforts she wore it confidently to school on more than one occasion. You go girl!

Another HUGE treat for Katie this past year was a trip to Washington D.C. and Rome with Grandma and Grandpa King last February. This was quite an adventure! We left Auntie Cheryl’s wedding to deliver Katie to the airport for a 10 day trip. It was one of those times when you didn’t want to think too hard about how far away she was. Her time abroad was wonderful and boy do Grandma and Grandpa know how to travel! They thoroughly took advantage of their time in both places. Katie’s favorite sites were the Lincoln Memorial and the Palatine Hill in Rome. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa…what great memories!

Miss Stephanie…she’s been a mothering girl this year. Steph’s latest thrill is her new American Girl doll, Zoe. I just finally figured out that I am a grandmother. There are now 5 place settings at the dinner table and I am often asked to pray for Zoe as I tuck Steph in at night. Zoe has even made us late to church for not being ready on time! Suffice it to say Steph LOVES playing with her new doll. Steph continues to be an imaginative sort and enjoys drama, her doll house and wants to become a babysitter. Stephie also possesses a generous nature. This Christmas she bought an American Girl doll for her sister entirely on her own. My eyes moistened up a bit when she told me of her desire to do this. She figured out how to make it happen and was so incredibly excited to give this to Katie. What an inspiration to witness this and even greater joy to share it with others. It is always quite amazing to me how God often uses our own children to teach us things and this was definitely one of those times.

Another highlight of our year was our vacation to Crater Lake and the California Redwoods. Thanks to some kind friends we had the opportunity to “camp” in style with a pop-up trailer. I am now a proud member of those who enjoy “froo froo camping”. Boy were we grateful for the little heater that kicked in at night when we hit freezing temperatures at Crater Lake. Even though there were a few bee stings and Mom had to sit in the backseat to avoid the I-am-about-to-meet-my-Maker view while driving up the side of a dormant volcano we had a marvelous time playing games, dipping our toes in a chilly Crater Lake, poking at campfires, almost getting our truck stuck in a Redwood “tunnel”, meeting Paul Bunyan, visiting the Oregon Coast, listening to sea lions and sampling “squeaky cheese” from the Tillamook Cheese Factory. Great memories J

Another year gone by…and in the year ahead our prayer for you is that you sense God’s loving presence. We are grateful for you in our lives and count you among our blessings. May God’s peace be yours in 2010!

~ Love,

Donavon, Sue, Katie and Steph

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Christmas Day 2009

Colossians 1:19-20

For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. (NIV)

So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the cross. (The Message)

God himself was pleased to live fully in his Son.

And God was pleased for him to make peace

by sacrificing his blood on the cross,

so that all beings in heaven

and on earth

would be brought back to God. (CEV)

Christmas is awe-inspiring as it begins the journey of Jesus to the Cross which in turn begins the salvation journey for us. We are given a clear understanding of who God is in Jesus – The image of the invisible God; The firstborn over all creation; The one who holds everything together; The one who is full of God!

My prayer is that this Advent Season has taken on a deeper meaning for you as we have focused on this beautiful scripture descriptive of our Savior. Many have sent me stories of what you did that was in front of you to do. Let’s make this our commitment as we go forward to the end of 2009 and begin 2010. The world is in deep darkness but we have the LIGHT! We can’t do everything, but we can do something – and often what we can do is right in front of us.

“Father, thank you for this journey You have taken us on. We’ve met Your Son who has shown us who You are. Now we commit ourselves anew to live by Your Spirit. Amen”

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Thursday, Fourth Week of Advent 2009

Colossians 1:19-20

For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. (NIV)

So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the cross. (The Message)

God himself was pleased to live fully in his Son.

And God was pleased for him to make peace

by sacrificing his blood on the cross,

so that all beings in heaven

and on earth

would be brought back to God. (CEV)

Yesterday as Randy & I were traveling we were listening to Christmas music. A phrase in one of the songs stood out, “and man will live forevermore because of Christmas day.” It was as if it were the first time Randy had heard those words. “Really? If we just had Christmas that would be enough? I don’t think so. It takes the CROSS to finish the work and give us eternal life.” My response of course, “without Christmas we wouldn’t have the CROSS.” It wasn’t a serious debate – we both knew what the other one meant – and we believe the same about it. Not necessarily how all of our theological discussions end!

This evening many of us will journey to church for Christmas Eve worship. In most of these services communion elements will be given and received. As Christians we know that as we celebrate the joy, coziness, and awe of the “birth” – looming down His road is “death.” We will celebrate that death tonight by receiving the bread and wine.

For most of us when our babies are born we aren’t looking that far ahead. We’re just hoping to live through the days and nights until we get our first “sleep through the night” experience. Then it’s time for kindergarten and we just hope they fit in and do well. We don’t know what the future holds – we place them in the hands of our Heavenly Father – and do our best to raise them in the right way. We imagine futures for them and I’m sure none of those futures holds pain, suffering, and death. We try to keep those pictures out of our minds. We try to protect our children not only from physical pain and suffering, but emotional pain and suffering as well.

But with the birth announcement of Jesus we know that the CROSS is shadowing the manger. His life will be full of acts of obedience and sacrifice that lead to the CROSS – His final act of obedience and sacrifice. And of course, we know the rest of the story! What a gift we have been given – Jesus – obedience in flesh. Our Savior! The Resurrected One who is seated now at the right-hand of the Father interceding for us – He’s big enough for all of our fears and failures.

“Father, today we rest in Your Gift to us. We will sit quietly and receive the embrace of Your grace. We will marvel anew that Your Son was willing to come and live among us so we can know YOU! Amen”

A favorite Christmas Song that says it all, Welcome to Our World:

Tears are falling, hearts are breaking

How we need to hear from God

You’ve been promised, we’ve been waiting

Welcome holy child

Welcome holy child

Hope that you don’t mind our manger
How I wish we would have known
But long awaited holy stranger
Make yourself at home
Please make yourself at home

Bring your peace into our violence
Bid our hungry souls be filled
Word now breaking heaven’s silence
Welcome to our world
Welcome to our world

Fragile finger sent to heal us
Tender brow prepared for thorn
Tiny heart whose blood will save us
Unto us is born
Unto us is born

So wrap our injured flesh around you
Breathe our air and walk our sod
Rob our sin and make us holy
Perfect son of god
Perfect son of god
Welcome to our world.

You can listen to it at:

http://www.turnbacktogod.com/welcome-to-our-world-song-michael-w-smith/

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Wednesday, Fourth Week of Advent 2009

We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God's original purpose in everything created. For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels—everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment. And when it comes to the church, he organizes and holds it together, like a head does a body.

He was supreme in the beginning and—leading the resurrection parade—he is supreme in the end. From beginning to end he's there, towering far above everything, everyone. So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the cross.

–Colossians 1:15-20 (The Message)

For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him… (NIV)

Today I want to give you the words to an old song that comes straight from this scripture. Switzerland born William Emmanuel Booth Clibborn (1893-1969) was the grandson of William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army. In 1921 he wrote the words to Down From His Glory. These powerful lyrics became even more intense when he adapted them to the tune of Edwardo Di Capua's famous O SOLE MIO. I hope it is the cry of your heart!

Down From His Glory
Down from His glory, Ever living story,
My God and Savior came, And Jesus was His Name.
Born in a manger, To His own a stranger,
A Man of sorrows, tears and agony.

O how I love Him! How I adore Him!
My breath, my sunshine, my all in all.
The great Creator became my Savior,
And all God's fullness dwelleth in Him.

What condescension, Bringing us redemption;
That in the dead of night, Not one faint hope in sight,
God, gracious, tender, Laid aside His splendor,
Stooping to woo, to win, to save my soul

O how I love Him! How I adore Him!
My breath, my sunshine, my all in all.
The great Creator became my Savior,
And all God's fullness dwelleth in Him.

Without reluctance, Flesh and blood His substance,
He took the form of man, Revealed the hidden plan,
O glorious myst'ry Sacrifice of Calv'ry,
And now I know Thou art the great 'I Am'

O how I love Him! How I adore Him!
My breath, my sunshine, my all in all.
The great Creator became my Savior,
And all God's fullness dwelleth in Him.

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Tuesday, Fourth Week of Advent 2009

We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God's original purpose in everything created. For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels—everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment. And when it comes to the church, he organizes and holds it together, like a head does a body.

He was supreme in the beginning and—leading the resurrection parade—he is supreme in the end. From beginning to end he's there, towering far above everything, everyone. So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the cross.

–Colossians 1:15-20 (The Message)

For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him… (NIV)

“Two mighty words; ‘fullness’ a substantial, comprehensive, expressive word in itself, and ‘all,’ a great little word including everything. When combined in the expression, ‘all fullness,’ we have before us a superlative wealth of meaning.” (Spurgeon)

Fullness – Jesus is so full of God’s love, mercy, compassion, grace, conviction, righteousness, and holiness – it spills out of Him onto everyone He meets. Think of His interaction with the people He meets on His journey from Bethlehem to Calvary. Each one is treated differently. He didn’t have a pack of tracks in His back pocket to hand out along the way. He didn’t have a standard question to ask that led to conversation that He controlled. He didn’t push aside the lonely, the broken, the hurting, the outcast on His was to the synagogue or temple. He took time.

Perhaps in the end, time is the greatest gift of all that we can give to people. It takes time to listen, fully listen, to someone’s heart. It takes time to “do what’s in front of you.” It takes time to go the extra mile.

Our society is in a hurry. We’re like busy, little ants, marching along with our heads down rushing from place to place. Sometimes, I think this gives us a sense of importance and accomplishment. But what are we accomplishing that could be more important than being available for Kingdom business? And Kingdom business is all about giving people time.

So a great way to give back to Jesus at this Season of celebrating His birth is to give Him time to fill us up with all His fullness and then take time to spill out His love, mercy, compassion, grace, conviction, righteousness, and holiness onto all we meet.

“Father, today we give ourselves fully to You. Mold us, make us into Your image. Speak into our lives. We give ourselves fully to Your service and whatever and whomever you place in front of us today. Amen”

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Monday, Fourth Week of Advent 2009

We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God's original purpose in everything created. For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels—everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment. And when it comes to the church, he organizes and holds it together, like a head does a body.

He was supreme in the beginning and—leading the resurrection parade—he is supreme in the end. From beginning to end he's there, towering far above everything, everyone. So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the cross.

–Colossians 1:15-20 (The Message)

We often talk about people who have “big hearts.” They’re always generous, kind, “yes” people. Sometimes we think of them as pushovers. They can’t say “no” to anyone and they give grace even when it isn’t deserved. Sometimes they seem naïve – they don’t look at people realistically. They’re always positive and go the extra-mile.

Can you even imagine how big the heart of Jesus is? It is so big that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. The Apostle Paul often used the phrase, “I have you in my heart.” So just think of all those you have in your heart, now think of the heart of Jesus. He’s holding all of us in His heart – and it isn’t even crowded there. There’s room for everyone and all of creation.

This letter that Paul wrote to the Colossians was sent to take care of some scary theological drifts in the church at Colossae. Jesus is just one of many gods. Jesus wasn’t a real person – just a phantom. Jesus didn’t exist with God prior to creation. Wow! No wonder Paul wants to make it perfectly clear that Jesus is the perfect image of God and the He is the Creator and all God’s fullness dwells in Him.

Don’t lose sight of this Big Heart. Remember you are in His heart. Sometimes Satan tries to uses the circumstances of our lives to discourage us and we lose sight of the open heart of Jesus. Wherever we find ourselves – whatever the circumstances – Jesus has us in His heart. He’s generous, kind, full of grace that we don’t deserve. He’s positive and always goes the extra-mile for us.

To prove this to us, He emptied Himself of all but love, took on flesh and walked among us. This is how big His heart is. Now He is crying out for you at the right-hand of the Father. He has you in His heart and He’s pleading for you.

“Father, thank You, for Your open-heart towards us. Thank You for the big heart of Your Son. Thank You for giving us the Spirit to live in our hearts so that we can big-hearted for Your world. Amen”

Wenatchee Nazarene Board to meet tonight

The Wenatchee Church of the Nazarene Board meets tonight at 6:30 to review several resumes they have received from our District Superintendent, Dr. Randy Craker. Please be in prayer throughout the day and as the board meets tonight that they would hear clearly from God how to proceed.

If they are in agreement as a board this meeting could lead to an interview with a candidate and the board in executive session. Meaning they would have an interview but the candidate would remain confidential at that point. Not until the board has voted to nominate the candidate as the next pastor and the candidate has accepted that nomination will the church body know the candidates name. At this time we will be given more information about the candidate and they will be invited to Wenatchee to meet the entire church family. Sometime shortly after this visit there will be a call for a vote by the members of the church on extending a call to this pastor. After the candidate is made aware of the vote tally they prayerfully consider the call to the church and accept or decline said call. As you can see, tonight is a very important night in the process. Hold our board members up in prayer and don't forget to pray for whoever the next pastor of this great church will be.

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Sunday, Fourth Week of Advent 2009

The Supremacy of Christ

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. --Colossians 1:15-20 (NIV)

Do you see the mountain we’re climbing here? Jesus Christ – Image of God, Firstborn, Creator, Sustainer – we’re climbing and climbing as we consider this Babe in the manger! He is Supreme and worthy of all our adoration. Our hearts cry out – O come let us adore Him! Think about it – all God’s fullness dwells in HIM!

David Guzik has said:

“The fullness has been put into Jesus Christ. Not into a church; not into a priesthood; not into a building; not into a sacrament; not into the saints; not into a method or a program, but in Jesus Christ Himself. It was put into Him as a “distribution point” – so that those who wanted more of God and all that He is could find it in Jesus Christ.”

And of course this fullness is wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger – humble and poor – talk about opposite world! Yet this is the gift that we desire and this is the place where we bow in humility. It is a mystery – all of heaven’s glory, power, and privilege set aside – and because of this humility and obedience – exalted! ALL of God’s FULLNESS dwells in Jesus.

“Father, once again we are amazed at Your generosity. You’ve given us Your Son, Your One and Only Son. His Spirit is alive with us. We have full access to You through His act of obedience and humility. Today, we lay ourselves down in humility and obedience so that He might be exalted in our lives. Amen”

An old favorite choir number – Come and See

Come and see the glory of the Lord,

Come behold the Lamb.

Come and see the mercy of the King,

Bowing down before Him.

Come and give thanks unto the Lord.

Come, behold the Lamb.

Come and sing the praises of the King,

Bowing down before Him.

For He is Lord above the heavens,

Lord in all the earth.

Lord of all the angels,

Worthy to be served.

Alleluia, Alleluia.

Come and give thanks unto the Lord.

Come, behold the Lamb.

Come and sing the praises of the King,

Bowing down before Him.

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Saturday, Third Week of Advent 2009

We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God's original purpose in everything created. For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels—everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment. And when it comes to the church, he organizes and holds it together, like a head does a body.

He was supreme in the beginning and—leading the resurrection parade—he is supreme in the end. From beginning to end he's there, towering far above everything, everyone. So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the cross.

–Colossians 1:15-20 (The Message)

Jesus Christ is the creator and sustainer of the universe. He spoke the worlds into existence and He speaks still. This is why we view ourselves as the temple of the Holy Spirit – we are His creation and we should care for His creation. This is why we claim people from every tongue and tribe as our brothers and sisters, treating them with dignity – they are His creation and we should care for His creation. This is why we strive to keep our water and soil and air pure and clean, polluting as little as possible – it is His creation and we should care for His creation.

Remember, He is the sustainer of the universe, but in all things He has given us a part. We are asked to participate in His redemptive work in all of His creation.

“Father, we are Your children and we love You. We want to be obedient in all things. We want You to be at home in our hearts and lives. We want to care for all of Your creation as You care for us. Amen”

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Friday, Third Week of Advent 2009

We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God's original purpose in everything created. For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels—everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment. And when it comes to the church, he organizes and holds it together, like a head does a body.

He was supreme in the beginning and—leading the resurrection parade—he is supreme in the end. From beginning to end he's there, towering far above everything, everyone. So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the cross.

–Colossians 1:15-20 (The Message)

I love theology. I don’t read much theology because my husband reads and then tells me all about it – that’s easier for me! That serves a great purpose for both us – my need to know and his need to share what he knows. Even so, I like to read theology – in fact even one of my favorite fiction series is based on the writings of real theologians (unlike me a faux-theologian). But I especially like to be in dialogue about theology – the give and take – the questions and answers – the thinking, the thinking, the thinking. But I’m also a doer. Can’t sit forever – have to get up and do something with what I’ve learned.

After all the best is “living” theology. I often say that I have to “talk things out” to gain fuller understanding – that’s why I like theological conversations. But I also have to “live things out” to make them more than just a thought or word – to me they must become deeds. This is possibly why I spend the time writing these devotionals – to help me stay focused during the season, to explore the scripture, to do something tangible with my focus and exploration.

Thank you to my theologian son-in-law, Dustin, for writing a 4 page article that helped me with the concept of “doing what is in front of me.” It has transformed my thoughts and actions this Advent Season. As we’ve been looking at the Image of God, the firstborn over all creation, the Creator who didn’t set creation in motion and let go, but who holds all things together – many of you have been “doing what is in front of you.” It is what Jesus asks of us. Here are two more stories of theology lived out.

From my Texas daughter-in-law, Veronica:

“Today I will be doing what is in front of me.

For the past week our office has been donating money to purchase two bikes for a boy and a girl for the Salvation Army. We hit our goal Monday so today I am taking our truck to Wal-Mart to buy two bikes and two helmets. The fundraising for the Salvation Army is very poor this year. The great thing about our fundraiser is the people who are donating. As you know we've had furloughs and pay cuts across the board. Since I announced via e-mail that we were doing this little project I've had a photographer give me two bucks because "that's all I have." A news reporter donated $30 even though I know he travels often and probably doesn't have a lot of money to donate. Another photographer is the sole bread winner in his family with four kids. He donated the most money and it was his idea to buy the bikes!

Anyway, I just thought it neat that the people I expected the least out of were the first ones to step forward and help out.”

From a young pastor/leader on our District:

“I am not one that normally shares these kind of stories because I don’t need it to look like I am giving myself a pat on the back. But I wanted to share this story with you because it is directly related to how your devotional impacted me. Monday night and Tuesday morning we received our first snow fall of the year. Although I love the snow, it did bring with it all of the inconveniences: late out the door because of shoveling, kids school delayed, finding a new company to plow the church since the normal guy broke his blade first thing. So the day was already starting late and hectic. I was driving down town to meet a guy from our church for coffee. As I was driving I noticed an elderly lady walking down the sidewalk, attempting to push a walker. Of course no sidewalks had been shoveled so needless to say she was having a tough time. I followed my normal impulse to maintain my busy schedule and I kept driving. As I drove it was almost like someone said, “You should give her a ride.” So I turned around and back tracked to find this lady. I found her and pulled over to offer her a ride. Of course she accepted. She was headed to Rite Aid, about 12 blocks away. I got her to the store and she insisted that she had a daughter that was supposed to meet her there. So I dropped her off and left to head to the appointment of which now I was late. But last night as I was laying in bed recapping my day I had this sense like, if I did anything right today it was giving her a ride. So thank you for your resent devotionals insisting on the idea of “doing what is in front of us.” God definitely put something in front of me yesterday…what will it be today. Thanks.”

“Father, we don’t want to know about You – we want to know You. Thank You for sending Your one and only Son to us to reveal Who You are. Thank You for giving us Your Spirit who directs us and gives us opportunity to share in Your redemptive work. Open our eyes to what is before us today. Amen”

A great theology carol: Silent Night, third verse

Silent night! Holy night!

Son of God, love’s pure light

Radiant beams from Thy holy face,

With the dawn of redeeming grace,

Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth,

Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Thursday, Third Week of Advent 2009

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant. – Colossians 1:15-23 (NIV)

Jesus Christ, the IMAGE of the INVISIBLE GOD – calls us to reflect HIS IMAGE.

I just heard today that Tiger Woods is the athlete of the decade. One writer said, “I just had to set aside all the recent issues in his personal life and look at his athletic accomplishments. Then it was a ‘no-contest’.”

This has caused me to think of IMAGE in a different light. Think of phrases like “tarnished image” – “clear image” – “mirror image” -- “poor image” – “body image” – “public image” – “self-image.”

We started these Advent Devotionals with Colossians 1:15a – He is the image of the invisible God. We talked about our longing to have Christ’s image stamped deep on our hearts. We thought about gazing into the face of Christ until we reflect His image.

This week we’ve been focusing on how we can live that out by “doing what is in front of us.” Many of you have shared stories of the ways Christ has spoken to you and you have done what He asked. This is a “clear image” of Christ to our world. Don’t let it be just a “public image” – but who you really are at all times.

Yesterday, as I was visiting with my sister, Rosemary, it was so clear to me that in her frailty she has the image of Christ stamped on her heart. I told her about your stories of kindness to those in need and we shed a few tears together. She told me about some needy children reported on in the news and how hard it was for her not to be able to do anything about it – “all I can do is pray.”

People, whatever we do and say will either reveal the Image of the Invisible God or tarnish His image. And when we live with the belief that He holds it all together we will be positive reflections of His Image. We can’t care for the needs of everyone, but we can do what is in front of us to do.

“Father, our desire is bring glory and honor to Your name as we live as reflections of Your Son. Amen”

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Wednesday, Third Week of Advent 2009

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.

For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel.

This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant. – Colossians 1:15-23 (NIV)

Today I’m visiting my 62 year old sister, Rosemary, who now lives in a nursing home in Nampa, Idaho. Recently I heard a message about Job and thought to myself, “My sister is Job.” She has lost everything – her job, her home, her car, her ministry, her retirement funds, her eyesight, and even her health. She’s confined to a small room – just big enough for a bed, television, and a small table. Three times a week she is taken to dialysis – she’s in end-stage renal failure. Three times a day she wheels herself down to the dining room for meals (she probably has to have help getting there now because her right hand isn’t working). She has physical therapy 3 days a week. She has had 3 roommates since being in the nursing home since June – 2 have died. Her new roommate is 93 years old and not long for this world.

Rosemary is not just my sister – she is my best friend. Her circumstances are painful for me. It doesn’t seem fair to me that she should be in this situation – and I can’t do anything about it.

But Rosemary soldiers on in her loss. Her comment, “What else can I do?

I can’t control any of this.” She has a sweet spirit – she’s funny too – and a little naughty. She takes an interest in all of the people in the nursing home – residents and workers. She knows their stories. In the end all she has left is her faith. She definitely can’t hold anything together. She must rest in the care of Jesus.

Today, she is what is in front of me to do. We’ll have a great time visiting. I’ve made some special goodies that I’m taking to her. She wants me to play the piano for her roommate so I’ll do that.

A goal of Rosemary’s is to be nicer and sweeter every day than she was the day before. It’s a good goal to have. We’ve often said to each other we don’t want to get cranky in our old age. Our parents both got nicer and sweeter – so that’s how we hope we’ll be. Of course, now Rosemary is there – it isn’t the future anymore – it’s now.

Jesus – he holds it all together.

“Father, we place ourselves in your hands. It’s the only safe place to be. Thank you for your Son who holds it all together. Nothing is out of place in our lives when we allow You full reign. So we submit to You. May our lives bring glory to Your name. Amen”

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Tuesday, Third Week of Advent 2009

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.

For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel.

This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant. – Colossians 1:15-23 (NIV)

For by him all things were created – and God said,”It was good.” Today it’s easy to believe in the beauty and goodness of creation – there’s just enough snow at my house to frost my dwarf Alberta spruces and cover the weeds that hadn’t been pulled. This season, through the stories of so many of you, it’s easy to believe in the beauty and goodness of creation – you’re reaching out and blessing others instead of just yourselves.

Most days, in our lives, it is easy to focus on what is wrong with everything – our government, our schools, our churches, our society, our children, our spouse, our neighbors. This doesn’t fit with who am I and I don’t think it’s healthy for us as Christians. Although we shouldn’t be “Pollyanna’s” we should be positive – Jesus Christ, the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation is with us!

I’m wondering if it would be better for us if we turned off the 24 hour news stations and gave ourselves over to doing what Christ has put in front of us to do. I’m wondering if it would be better for us to list our praises instead of our grievances. I’m wondering if it would be better for us to look for the good in others instead of the evil. I’m wondering if it would be better for us to pray for our pastors and congregations instead of complaining about them. I’m wondering if it would be better to honor our spouses instead of picking them apart. I’m wondering if it would be better to bless our children than to always scold them. I’m wondering if it would be better if we got to know our neighbors and heard their stories than driving into our garages and closing the door and hiding in our fortress homes. I’m wondering if it would be better if we spent more time in prayer for all of these relationships.

Jesus Christ set aside the rights, privileges, splendors of heaven so we could have relationship with God. He did this so all of our relationships would be healed and strengthened. Don’t miss out on that!

He created – it was good. That includes us! That includes all around us!

“Father, today may all creation speak Your name. We want our lives to speak Your name. Open our hearts and minds to the glory of all You have created and our part in restoring that creation to rightful relationship with You.”

Advent Devotional from our DS's wife Robbie Craker

Monday, Third Week of Advent

We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God's original purpose in everything created. For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels—everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment. And when it comes to the church, he organizes and holds it together, like a head does a body.

He was supreme in the beginning and—leading the resurrection parade—he is supreme in the end. From beginning to end he's there, towering far above everything, everyone. So spacious is he, so roomy, that everything of God finds its proper place in him without crowding. Not only that, but all the broken and dislocated pieces of the universe—people and things, animals and atoms—get properly fixed and fit together in vibrant harmonies, all because of his death, his blood that poured down from the cross.

–Colossians 1:15-20 (The Message)

When you read these words of Paul is your heart stirred and uplifted? Mine is. I think it’s because beauty matters so much to me. And these words of Paul paint such a beautiful picture of Jesus. Perhaps it is a part of who I am that I like uplifting, stirring things. The rise of a mountain. The towering of a tree. The surge of waves upon the shore. The fragrance of a deep-red rose. The sun dappling the water of the bay like diamonds and yellow topaz. The sweetness of a baby’s smile. The lilting perfection of a bright soprano voice. The melancholy tones of the oboe. Shakespeare. The innocent, clear, sweet notes of the flute. Poetry. Color. Order. Mystery.

Who gave us all these things? Jesus. What do they point us to? Creator. What does it mean when Creator is created? Think of it – Jesus, Creator of the universe and all that is within it, chose to live with His creation as one created – the Babe in the Manger. It is a mystery. And as the Babe grew we see He is interested in beauty. He moves among His creation – it becomes metaphor in many of His parables. He takes His broken creation – people lost in sin, blind, leprous, discarded and depraved – and makes them beautiful. What is our place in all of this? We, who are broken and made ugly by sin, are uplifted in the arms of grace and made beautiful in and through HIM! Then we are set free to be His agents bringing grace and beauty to our world. This can be accomplished in many ways – often with just a smile and a kind word. Remember, “do the thing that’s in front of you.”

I want to let you in on something that happened to my friend Stacy, who also happens to be Randy’s administrative assistant. She’s given me permission to share this with you. It’s a perfect example of doing what’s in front of her and making someone’s ugly circumstances beautiful.

In the midst of reading this, [that day’s devotional] the office phone rang. It was someone who was down and out, in desperate need. Laurie’s husband of 10 years walked out on her 4 days before Christmas [last year], emptying their bank account. She has 4 daughters to take care of. She is pounding the pavement daily looking for work, sometimes returning to where she’s already been, and nothing is happening. They have utilized the food bank and food stamps. She commented on her deep concern for her kids and yet what she’s looking for, what she really needs, is so basic. She said they are running out of cleaning products. She has a washer and dryer, but no soap. She is using water to clean the kitchen and bathroom counters because she doesn’t have anything else. Her girls are sick and she thinks it’s because she can’t clean her house. Toilet paper is a concern too – she confessed to stealing handfuls from restaurant restrooms out of desperation. Food stamps don’t cover this and food banks don’t carry such items. What should she do? I listened to her story and teared up as I realized that most people in need this time of year might pull on the “kids need gifts” heartstrings – that’s not wrong but you can’t enjoy toys if your stomach is empty or your filthy house is making you sick. It goes back to the basic human needs – food, clothing, shelter – that must be met before people can even think about anything else. The way I know Lori’s really in need is because she’s asking for one of those basic needs – shelter – or at least something related to it. She didn’t even ask for money to buy those things. I wanted to help, I wished I had a place to direct her to, but I was empty-handed at the moment. After hanging up the phone, I thought I could have done a little something. I have extra cleaning supplies from Costco at my house – bathroom cleaner, Clorox wipes – could I not have given that? I wish I’d gotten her phone number. I stopped before sending this and checked the phonebook – I think I can call her. She’d given me her last name and said she lived in Mead – I think it may have been just enough.

The rest of the story is that Stacy was able to find Laurie and call her back. And she was able to put together a box of cleaning items and other things and deliver it to her and the girls. Also, Laurie was excited because she was called back for a job interview.

Father, thank you lifting us in the arms of grace – for stamping us with the image of Christ – making us beautiful. Please give us open hearts and hands to those who need a touch of grace and beauty today. Amen.”

A favorite song of mine – Creator King

You, Who made the mountains and the sea,

Measured out the universe, and You made me

Echoes of the voice that called the worlds to be

Reach throughout the ages and now speak to me;

You’re my Creator King.

Who am I that You are mindful of me;

Who am I that You set Your love on me;

You’re my Creator King.

You, Who made the valleys and the sky,

Displayed Your love on far horizons and before my eyes;

You, Who lit the stars and set the dawn in time

Called them all by name and now You whisper mine;

You’re my Creator King.

Who am I that You are mindful of me;

Who am I that You set Your love on me;

You’re my Creator King.

You, Who made the darkness and the light,

Sun and moon to watch the day and guard the night;

The hand that stretched the heavens like a canopy

Reaches down to cover and watch over me;

You’re my Creator King.

Who am I that You are mindful of me;

Who am I that You set Your love on me;

Who am I that You are mindful of me;

Who am I that You set Your love on me;

You’re my Creator King. You’re my Creator King.

You’re my Creator King. You’re my Creator King.