Advent Devotional for December 23

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary

Advent Devotional for Sunday, December 23

Zephaniah 3:14-20

It is day ten of the Bastrop County (Texas) wildfires. Two major fire areas have contributed to the destruction of over 35,000 acres of wooded land and nearly 1500 homes. Being a pastor in a community devastated by fire disaster is a new experience for me.

On one hand, it is so gratifying to be a part of the local community. My wife and I were evacuated along with many, but came back to find the church and parsonage without damage. We give thanks for the valiant effort of firefighters and first responders. While grateful to be a part of this community, I am also overwhelmed by the generous response of neighbors from around the state who are giving from generous hearts. On the other hand, walking with folks to inspect the remains of their burned-out homes is sobering. It is gut-wrenching. I pray for them to have the capacity to experience grace in the ashes. I pray for them that loss of home can be transformed by the hospitality of the gathered community.

In thinking ahead to a better time on a new day, the advent of hope is a message the community longs to hear. Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV) says, “The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.”

Even though I do not attribute the lack of rain and the hottest summer on record to any act of disobedience of the people of our county, the words of hope given after the prophet’s announcement of judgment can be a source of good news to those displaced and scattered by the fire. There is a day of renewal in the midst of this disaster, and the community that grows from this and out of this experience will be stronger in the Lord.

Where the pathways of hospitality and hope intersect, there you will find the Lord. May each day bring new opportunities to walk these paths and discover renewal. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Paul E. Harris (MDiv’10)
Pastor, Cedar Creek United Methodist Church
Cedar Creek, Texas
 

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For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

In the News ... "Christmas Church Services - Midland"

"Nativity Silhouette" from That Artist Woman

By Joan Huff
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS -Midland churches are busy this Christmas season with special music events, plays and additional services. Several congregations are working on month-long service projects in the community. In addition to helping church members, these projects make an impact on other people as well.

This year, Christmas Day falls on a Sunday. Most churches that normally have several worship services are combining them in to one on Christmas Day, although a few are keeping their same schedules.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 22, 2011

SYRIA - I often think about the future of our Christian presence in a region driven by extremism, religious conflicts, and forced evacuation of Christians who have witnessed to their faith since the early days of Christianity. It is difficult to find absolute answers to those challenges because in most cases we humans think and act without attempting to discern the will and wisdom of God in every moment of our lives. But it is easier to find those answers if we live in faith and exercise a renewable spiritual life.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Advent Devotional for December 22

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary

Advent Devotional for Sunday, December 22

Psalm 96

As we make our final plans to celebrate Jesus’ birth in a few short days and prepare for God’s coming, the psalmist insistently encourages us to be grateful. It is an attitude of gratitude that will prepare our minds and hearts during this season of hopeful anticipation.

How do we put ourselves in a grateful space to prepare for that coming? The psalmist has some good advice, telling us to sing to the Lord, bless God’s name, tell of God’s salvation, and declare God’s glory, strength, and marvelous works. The psalmist exhorts us to authentically worship God. Each of these acts is a way for us to humble ourselves and show our gratitude toward God and the way that God is working in our lives, in our families, in our community, and in the world.

If we do all of this, we are told that the earth itself and everything in it will sing for joy at God’s coming. It is through our gratitude that we can honor God and prepare ourselves today and every day.

Creator God, who designed us to be able to see your love and glory and give thanks, help us prepare ourselves by opening our eyes and hearts to your blessings and giving us an attitude of gratitude in this season and all year. Amen.

Greg Allen-Pickett
MDiv Student

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For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Did Christmas Really Happen?

To view the full text of the accompanying essay or to download the script for the video, visit: www.denisonforum.org/why-christmas

In the News ... "Nurturing Student Faith"

By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Just say the word “college” to anyone, and you’ll get a mix of emotions, notions and memories about what the years of higher education are supposed to entail. Aside from the more rigorous academic obligations, for many young adults the college experience means a period of change, discovery and newly formed independence. But as students progress through college, research shows that they’re trading in traditional religious values for more independent spirituality.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 21, 2011

EGYPT - My husband and I serve with Christian Action in Orient, a mission agency of the French, Swiss, and Dutch Reformed churches, in collaboration with PC(USA). Here we work beside Egyptians to build the kingdom of God by living with and serving people in need. My husband teaches French in a school of the Synod of the Nile. I work with the synod in a Fowler orphanage, which houses almost eighty girls. A Catholic nun who heads this house teaches them that God loves them and that they have value in God's sight. To the girls, she is a parent, a role model, a director, and a spiritual mother.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Advent Devotional for December 21

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary

Advent Devotional for Sunday, December 21

Mark 11:1-11

Such a familiar story! It’s one of those stories that brings comfort to me because I’ve heard it since I was a small child. But knowing this story so well doesn’t prevent me from reading it with fresh eyes and feeling a “newness” in my heart reading it again.

All four Gospels make mention of Jesus riding a young donkey (or a colt) into Jerusalem. I’ve watched many pageants and heard many choirs sing of the wondrous, “Hosanna in the highest.” (Some of those pageants actually used live donkeys!) What I had not considered before was the “unbroken-ness” of the donkey that is mentioned in two Gospels. The unbroken donkey has never been saddled, never been straddled, never been fully harnessed. But “brokenness” will surely be in the donkey’s future.

I was also reminded of the “unbroken-ness” of Jesus riding into Jerusalem. He has spent three years teaching, healing, preaching sermons, gathering faithful followers, and struggling with the religious leaders of the synagogues. And as he rides into Jerusalem on a donkey (the sign of coming in peace) he surely knows that “brokenness” awaits his future, just on the other side of the city walls.

And he rides into Jerusalem knowing.

Gracious God, I’m thankful for the familiarity of our faith stories that bring us comfort and joy. I’m also grateful for the new discoveries that are provided by reading and re-reading these biblical favorites. Amen.

Lori Gainer
MDiv Student

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For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Christmas 2.0

For your Christmas pleasure, from the folks at Presbyterian Church USA Reasearch Services ...

http://youtu.be/vZrf0PbAGSk

ENJOY!

ChinaAid: Chinese Officials Shut Down Outdoor Christmas Party

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Chinese Officials Shut Down Outdoor Christmas Party
Distributed by ChinaAid, December, 2011 ...

"BEIJING, CHINA – Chinese police and government officials scuffled with Christians and smashed sound equipment for a public Christmas celebration in an eastern village known for unofficial house churches and producing ornaments
CLICK HERE for more on this story from China Aid

Traveling Mission

Happy Holidays from ECPAT-USA!

We're now in the full swing of the holiday season, and ECPAT-USA has some great gift ideas for your shopping list. Whether for someone you love (or for yourself!), you can give knowing that your gift is making a positive difference in the lives of children

A TassaTag is a 4” x 6” bright, heavy, hand-woven cotton luggage tag that helps you spot your luggage more easily while reclaiming children's lives. It is practical, environmentally sensitive, fair trade, and with it you can make a difference.

With a TassaTag you support ECPAT-USA. This is a non-profit children's rights organization whose mission is to protect all children from commercial sexual exploitation, and is the US Chapter of Thailand-based ECPAT (End Child Prostitution and Trafficking) International, working at the community, national and international levels.

With a TassaTag you support The Regina Center in Nong Khai, Thailand, which provides education and income generating skills and opportunities for women. All proceeds from sales are returned to the producers. The project enables women to stay in their villages and keep their children in school, which are two major strategies in reducing sex trafficking.
CLICK HERE to learn more about this project CLICK HERE to learn more about sex slavery and trafficking CLICK HERE to order TassaTags

With a TassaTag you will be part of the ECPAT project by increasing the recognition of the TassaTag logo as a symbol against the sexual slavery and trafficking of children, raising greater awareness of this major illegal trade around the world, and being a voice positively addressing a serious children's rights issue.

In the News ... "Jesus House provides gifts, wrapping paper for some"

By Nathaniel Miller
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Walking into Jesus House of Odessa on Friday morning, one might have mistaken it for a shopping center instead of a church.

Setting up about 600 toys on several tables and categorizing them by sex and age range, the organization at 1335 E. Sixth St. gave the parents at the La Promesa South apartments a chance to Christmas shop for their children.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 20, 2011

INTRODUCTION TO THE MIDDLE EAST - Jeremiah the prophet decries the hypocrisy and lies of false prophets who deceive their people. They say "peace, peace'' when there is no peace. In our modern experience of the sinful world in which we live, we know that there are politicians, bankers, advertisers, propagandists, and others who deceive. Those prophesy "a lying vision'' and promise security when in reality they render their people vulnerable.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Advent Devotional for December 20

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary

Advent Devotional for Sunday, December 20

1 Samuel 1:1-8

They are a devout family; Elkanah, Hannah, the barren wife, and Peninnah plus her sons and daughters. “Year after year” they journey to Shiloh for the festival to worship and sacrifice. Hannah would be regarded a family failure and incomplete due to her childlessness. This annual going to church exacerbated her plight because the rival wife used this time “year after year to provoke her—to irritate her!” As the family savored the food, Hannah did not eat but wept as the taunts assaulted her. So it was year after year.

Could we not be mindful of those who dread the festivities of this season when their lives are anything but festive, and those for whom worship is not a time for refreshment but of remorse and guilt?

But this year Hannah does not finish the family meal. In response to Elkanah’s clumsy affirmation of affection in “bitterness of soul,” she goes to the Temple to pray and “weep in anguish.” Eli, the priest, observes her rocking back and forth, lips moving in prayer. Wrongly he accuses her of being drunk. But far from pouring herself too many drinks she testifies she has been “pouring out her soul to God” and declares boldly, “I am no daughter of worthlessness.” Satisfied with her explanation and her prayerful desire for a son, he tells her to “go in peace” and declares “May God grant what you have asked.”

Is her’s not the kind of truth telling called for in our own prayers: Truth about our lives, our brokenness, our unfulfilled dreams, a reminder that “a broken and contrite heart God will not despise”?

With Eli’s words “her face was no longer sorrowful.” His words created in her hope. I have seen people experience transformation brought by hope. In the days ahead may you experience that transformative power of hope which does not disappoint and surely is also the “evidence of things not seen.”

Mighty, Eternal God, “our hope is in no other save in Thee: Our faith is built upon Thy promise free” and in these days “make us calm and sure.” In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Louis Zbinden
Trustee Emeritus

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For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

ChinaAid: Christmas in China ... a SILENCED Night for Tina Tian

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Christmas in China ... a SILENCED Night for Tina Tian

Released by ChinaAid, December, 2011 ...

"This Christmas, we invite you to walk with the persecuted faithful by providing a Christmas gift that will go to family members of prisoners like Tina Tian."
- Bob Fu

"MIDLAND, TEXAS – Across China this Christmas, some Christian families will not be exchanging gifts and singing joyous carols with family members and friends. Instead of “Silent Night, Holy Night, All is calm, All is bright,” for these families, Christmas Eve will be a SILENCED night because a mother or father or other family member is missing – either serving a prison sentence or in police custody for their faith.

A young mother sitting in a prison 175 miles southwest of Beijing will think of her two young sons – one just a year-old, the other 8-years-old – and wonder if they have watched the Christmas video message she left for them and her husband last year, just before she had to return to prison after the birth of her second child to finish serving a three-year sentence for printing Bibles and Christian books.
CLICK HERE for video from ChinaAid, and information on how YOU can help

'Tina' is not the only Christian in China whose Christmas will be SILENCED.

The whereabouts of Christian human rights lawyer Gao Zhisheng remains a mystery nearly three years after he disappeared into police custody in February 2009. Is he still alive to celebrate Christmas this year?

And Uyghur Christian Alimujiang remains imprisoned, serving a 15-year prison sentence. How will his wife and two little boys celebrate this fourth Christmas without him?

You can help break the SILENCE of this Christmas by sending a Christmas card to 'Tina' in prison:"

Ms. Hongxia Tian
No. 4 Section of the Women’s Prison
P. O. Box 55
Lu-quan city, Hebei Province
P. R. China
Zip:050222

Invitation to Prayer

Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Our mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, we seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).

Forever
The one who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! Revelation 22:20

“In the sending of your Son, O God, I see the depth, the height, the breadth of your love for me. Not only as I peer into his manger…nor as I ponder his cross. I need to gaze into the open tomb as well. It is there I see that this relationship you have so painstakingly pursued with me will last forever! It changes me. It alters my living. Because it makes me eternal and eternally beloved. That cannot help but change the way I treat every person I ever meet. That cannot help but encourage me to invite them into relationship with you. As I leave your manger, point me toward your cross…and beyond! Make me eager to share your ever-living love!”

Stirring up Advent: Daily Prayers for the Season, by Peter Mead

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

As I glanced at the calendar to make sure I’d typed the correct date, I noted with a bit of apprehension that we are ten days away from Christmas. This devotion by Peter Mead has been helpful in redirecting my focus. It’s helped me shift from worry about what still isn’t done for the holiday to celebration about the very best gifts available to us all—a newborn in a manger, an empty cross, an open tomb, a love that is unconditional and unending. Thanks be to God!

May your Christmas be full of the celebration of these gifts and the knowledge that you are eternally beloved!

Please join us in prayer for children on Wednesday, December 21, 2011, at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride's room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland. The kitchen will be closed that day, so we will not be having lunch at the church.

If you have requests about children, those who care for them, those who have authority over them, or those who harm them (the really hard prayers to say sometimes), please send them to me at at claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call. Thank you for your faithfulness in prayer for the children of our world.

Christ’s peace and joy to you and yours,

Chris

In the News ... "Lifehouse Fellowship Church grows from living room to old Crestview Baptist building in three years"

By Meagan Lea
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS -When Jeremy Sutton invited Midlanders into his home for a Bible study in October 2008, he had no idea he would be pastoring a church of 140 members three years later.

"We started with three families and within three months we had grown to over 40 people in our living room. It went from a Bible study to a full-fledged church," he said.

Sutton founded Lifehouse Fellowship Church where he now serves as pastor. Earlier this year, the church moved into the building on Thomas Avenue formerly occupied by Crestview Baptist Church.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 19, 2011

PRESBYTERY OF SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA - The Presbytery of Santa Barbara, the mission agency of the churches of Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo counties, supports Christians in Albania in establishing a Protestant Reformed witness. Since 1991, the Rev. Art Beals has been the lead worker in both Albania and Turkey. In recent years the presbytery has partnered with a church in Tirana to support strategic work with university students, Bible interpretation and study, and church planting. In 2010, the presbytery ordained the first two Albanian nationals, Zefjan Nikolla and Altin Hysi, as PC(USA) pastors. They and their elders and deacons lead the Emanuel Reformed Church of Tirana, reaching out in Albania for Jesus.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Advent Devotional for December 19

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary

Advent Devotional for Sunday, December 19

Luke 1:46b-55

We see the stars and say What lights!
We hear the lark and say What song!
But Mary heeds the angel’s word,
Becomes the mother of our God.

O great is the spark that gave us life
And great is the hand that guides our ways.
But greater the life in Mary’s womb,
the child who comes to save his people.
Yes, greater the power that remembers the poor,
the God who sends us Jesus Christ.

O sisters, brothers, all: Amen!
Now magnify the Lord: Amen!
Sing Mary’s song of praise: Amen!

Lord God, to knit earth and heaven together your servant Mary became the mother of our Lord. With Mary and all the saints we thank and praise you for your saving presence in Jesus Christ. Amen.

Timothy D. Lincoln
Director of the Stitt Library
Associate Dean for Institutional Effectiveness

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For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 18, 2011

MINUTE FOR MISSION: CHRISTMAS JOY OFFERING - "What Child Is This?" How many times have we heard or sung this lovely Christmas carol and felt the enveloping warmth of the old English air known as "Greensleeves''? Something about familiarity, though, all too often lets us hear it without really listening or sing the words without really allowing their meaning to sink in.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Advent Devotional for December 18

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary

Advent Devotional for Sunday, December 18
Luke 1:26-38

I have a friend whose given name is a derivative of Mary. For that and other reasons she collects portrayals of the annunciation of Mary: Fra Angelico’s 15th-century fresco, Henry Ossawa Tanner’s The Annunciation. She says that she collects the works because the angel says“Do not be afraid” (Luke 1:31). My friend thinks about all the things in keeping with God’s reign she has not done because of fear.

The heavenly being says, “do not be afraid” and stands before Mary to announce Jesus and his reign that will have no end. Mary responds by questioning how such a thing could be.

We live in that space. Today, once again, this text is the great announcement of grace in our midst. Today joy comes to us: God’s reign will have no end. And we are told not to fear. We live in that space between the announcement of God’s saving ways which are beyond our ways and God’s ways coming to us, among us, for us. How can it be? Our puny lives, our making a mess of things, our meanness. Yet the Unapproachable One does not stay far off but comes to enlighten the world: God’s salvation, God’s shalom, God’s reign. Do not be afraid.

In your righteousness, Holy God, renew the face of the earth and make us fearless servants for the needs of the world. Amen.

Jennifer Lord
The Dorothy B. Vickery Associate Professor of
Homiletics and Liturgical Studies

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For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

In the News ... "Two churches to host 'A Night in Bethlehem'"

By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - A journey through a busy marketplace transports visitors far back in time as they take in the sights, sounds and smells of the nearby businesses. The newcomers are on a search for a baby who has been rumored to be the son of God.

Two churches will welcome crowds this weekend to experience first-hand the Christmas story through "A Night in Bethlehem" activities. First Christian Church will host its event 6-8 p.m. Sunday, and First United Methodist Church will have performances 5-7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ. Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 17, 2011 PRESBYTERY OF SAN GABRIEL, CALIFORNIA - The Presbytery of San Gabriel affirmed its commitment to be a presence of resurrection hope in the world by adopting a presbytery-wide mission initiative. With Living Waters for the World as a focused mission effort, these Presbyterians are bringing together churches of different sizes, cultures, and theological understanding in a unified effort to bring clean water to places near and far. The first of these mission endeavors will be in Peru. They hope to establish sustainable partnerships with Peruvian churches so these relationships will bear fruit far beyond individual trips. As part of raising funds for this project, the presbytery held an auction that raised more than $3,500. This is just the beginning of what they believe will bring new life to their churches as they grow Christ's church deeper and wider. CLICK HERE to read more.

Advent Devotional for December 17

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary

Advent Devotional for Sunday, December 17
John 7:40-52

In John’s text we find Jesus at the center of a great deal of controversy. Jesus has just finished making a statement that seems to have opened up a wellspring of controversy. In the midst of the discussion as to what Jesus has just proclaimed, many questions begin to arise. It is in the answer to these questions where we find division among the people.
Isn’t it interesting that Jesus has such an astonishing ability to create division? From his birth to his death to the present day people still remain divided. As John gives account, his words forge dividing walls between believers and non-believers, authorities and commoners, even hostility and peace. His words create within us questions that we so frantically search for answers to. Is he a prophet? Is he a blasphemer? Is he the Messiah? To paraphrase C.S. Lewis in Mere Christianity, Jesus is either a liar, a lunatic, or Lord. These are the questions the people were attempting to answer in John’s account. They are the same questions we are left with today.
As we wait during this time of advent, we wait upon the arrival of Jesus. Simultaneously we await Christ’s second coming. It is in this time of waiting that we have the opportunity to look beyond the questions and grapple with the impact of the answer.

God, who dwells among us, open our eyes to see you. Open our ears to hear you and our hearts to trust you. In doing so, may we rest securely in the new reality of Jesus Christ who was, and is, and is to come. Amen.

P. Doug Cartwright (MDiv’11)
Pastoral Intern, First Presbyterian Church,
Wichita Falls, Texas

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For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

In the News ... "'Miracle on Tyler Street' in its fourth year of blessing community"

By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - The 23-foot tree is lit bright at night, beckoning families to visit the wintry village that surrounds it. The lights sparkle in children's eyes as they take in the structures that make up Greater Ideal Family Life Center's fourth annual Miracle on Tyler Street.

More than 200 volunteers and friends of Greater Ideal have worked for months to make the village a reality so all area families can receive a Christmas blessing.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ. Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 16, 2011 PRESBYTERY OF SAN FERNANDO, CALIFORNIA - On Sunday, October 25, 2009, a crowd of more than one hundred people gathered to celebrate the birth of a new church in the Presbytery of San Fernando. Northland Village Church received forty members and will serve the Silverlake/Atwater area of Northeast Los Angeles, while focusing on a ministry of reconciliation. These members will serve as a “launch team” to develop the congregation’s vision. CLICK HERE to read more.

Teichert Prayer Letter for December

Karl and Jenny Teichert are serving the Lord as missionaries with OC Africa, in South Africa. They moved to Johannesburg in November, 1997 with their four children; Ann, Scott, Stephen and John. Karl serves as the Southern Africa Director of the Southern Africa Regional Team. Their vision is to see a healthy, Bible-based church established in every un-reached village and community in South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia and beyond. Their strategy is to partner with key African church leaders to research, train, and mobilize the body of Christ to complete the Great Commission. They are striving to equip local leaders in Southern Africa to reach their nations for Christ and send missionaries into other countries as well.

December Letter ...

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called Wonderful Counselor,
     Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the greatness of his government
     and peace there will be no end.
He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and
     upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.”

~ Isaiah 9:6-7 

Dear Family and Friends,

May you have a blessed celebration of our Savior’s birth during this holiday season. Trusting that Christ’s righteousness, justice, and peace are revived in your life.

Thank you for your faithful prayers and generous support for us in the Lord’s mission to Southern Africa. We are deeply grateful for your enduring partnership and friendship.

For His Kingdom and Glory,

The Teicherts

OC Africa is an interdenominational ministry committed to developing, equipping, and mobilizing church leaders to multiply healthy, Bible-based churches in every community in Southern Africa and the world. OC is a faith-based mission who depends on the Lord to provide committed, financial supporters and partners. The contributions from these individuals help generate ministry opportunities around the world, impact missionaries and their global work, and provide a means for the International Mobilization Center to function. CLICK HERE to learn how YOU can be a part of mobilizing church leaders around the world by donating to OC.

Partners 2012 Calendar now available

Partners' 2012 calendar is now available for pre-order to be shipped in December. The pictures in this year's calendar were taken by Partners Relief & Development staff and friends who have engaged with the people of Burma. These photos are part of Partners' story. As they endeavor to bring free, full lives to the children of Burma, they catch these sublime moments to remember and share.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to order.


Steve and Oddny Gumaer started Partners Relief & Development in response to the needs of refugees and displaced people from Burma. Partners Relief & Development is a registered charity in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and the United States. Their mission is to, through holistic action, demonstrate God’s love to children and communities made vulnerable by war in Burma.

Word from Uganda: "Goat Roasting ..."

Missionary teacher Natalie Rolfe writes, "'When He calls me, I will answer ... I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.' My call was Mbale, Uganda and that is where I have returned to serve for another year. Specifically, I am teaching phonics at Lulwanda Children's Home, an orphanage and school for 90 kids." Natalie also keeps an online journal of her service at the weblog, When He calls me, I will answer ...

Goat Roasting ...

Many little eyes, 338 to be exact, stare intently following the sound of the goats' screams. The Headmaster presents the head boy and head girl each with a big goat with a string tied to its foot like a leash. The excitement grows as the uncles lead the goats to the side of the school. Definite squeals of thrill and disgust as the children have closely huddled around to see the goats being slaughtered and skinned.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of Natalie's post

If you are interested in supporting LCH by sponsoring one of the 90 children, go to ugandaorphans.org/ If you are interested in financially supporting Natalie in her mission, you can send checks (with "Natalie Rolfe" in memo) to: Midland Bible Church, 2800 North A Street, Midland, TX 79705

Advent Devotional for December 4

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."

CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary

Advent Devotional for Sunday, December 4

Mark 1:1-8

It bothers me that John the Baptist thinks he is unworthy even to untie Jesus’ sandals. Who could be more worthy than John? Talk about committed. He devotes everything he is and has to “preparing the way” for the One who is to come. He proclaims a message that will surely make him more enemies than friends. He even crafts his own clothes and scavenges his own food so he won’t be distracted in his ministry by the things of this world.

In our time and culture we tend to associate feelings of unworthiness with having a poor self-image. As Christians, we often try to encourage those who say they are unworthy by reminding them they are valuable because God made them and loves them.

John the Baptist offers stellar service to God and knows he is beloved. But still he says he is not worthy.

I imagine myself standing with John by the River Jordan, trying to convince him to think more highly of himself. I bet he would listen quietly and then point his finger off ahead of us both. “Just watch for the One who is coming,” he would say, “and then you’ll understand.”

When the Christ child comes, I will remember, again, that I am worthwhile. The Word will become flesh, and I will be made whole, again, in him. But am I open, with John, to for now recognizing my unworthiness? To pointing my finger away from myself and toward the One who is yet to come, the One who is all-worthy, the one who will give all things worth?

Coming God, baptize us with your Spirit. Break us out of the selves to which we cling that we might await, and then receive, our hope and our healing. Amen.

Cindy Rigby
The W. C. Brown Professor of Theology

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For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Advent Devotional for December 3

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary

Advent Devotional for Saturday, December 3

Mark 11:27-33

Some of us who are following paths of leadership in ministry or who are already in roles of ministry may have been asked by others, both acquaintances or those who dislike us, this question numerous times. The reason we are asked? Well, inquiring minds just need to know! The question may be asked directly to us, but more than likely inquiries are made behind our backs. But we don’t have to worry or bow down to pressure, especially when we see how Jesus handles the probing.

Jesus, in being asked this question by the chief priests, teachers of the law, and the elders stood firm. When confronted with, “And who gave you authority to do this?” Jesus challenges the intellect of his confronters by responding, “John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin?”

When those who “knew” everything about the Torah and the laws and proper customs of how religious folk should act and behave couldn’t answer Jesus, well, Jesus maintained a boundary. He did not placate those who were pushing for an answer. In fact, he refused to tell them by what authority he was permitted to continue doing his ministry.

It is refreshing to see that we do not have to feel duty-bound to answer questions about the authority given to us by God, when others are demanding that information.

God of steadfastness, please remind me that there are boundaries to help shelter my heart and personal space when others may be pressuring me into giving them what they want, when they want it. Amen.

Eric Gates
MDiv Student

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For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Advent Devotional for December 2

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary

Advent Devotional for Friday, December 2

Jeremiah 1:4-10

It would be nice if God would keep a proper distance.

If you have traveled much in the Middle East, you know that people tend to intrude upon your personal space, at least as it is defined here in America. They don’t spread out over the bus, but tend to bunch—right next to you. They don’t stand two feet away in conversation. It is right in your face. God is right in Jeremiah’s face.

Other than Jeremiah’s weak objection in v. 6, we don’t get much of an insight about what Jeremiah thinks of this new arrangement (which is not actually new at all —surprise!). I imagine he is squirming.

Francis Thompson wrote “The Hound of Heaven” in 1893 describing God’s relentless pursuit of the writer through “the arches of the years” and “labyrinthine ways,” with “deliberate speed, majestic instancy.” “The Voice” does hound us, make demands of us, knows what we are capable of, and expects us to use our gifts to build and to plant. God will not keep a respectful distance, but sit right next to us on the bus, no matter how much room there is elsewhere.

O Heavenly Voice, near and far, round me “like the bursting sea,” forgive my deafness, my turned head, my glazed eyes, my reluctant steps, always checking for email rather than my Lord’s whispers. Persist, that I may desist, and return to what has never left me. Amen.

Whit Bodman
Associate Professor of Comparative Religion

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For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Advent Devotional for December 1

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary

Advent Devotional for Thursday, December 1

Psalm 82:1-2, 8-13

Every translation is an interpretation … a commentary of sorts. Were we in a Diaspora synagogue of—let’s say—Corinth on a day when an apostle like Paul was preaching and debating (=midrash) on the meaning of our Psalm (number 84 in the text I have translated), the Greek translation would likely have played a role. Yes, to translate holy writ is to restate it and to restate it is to re-envision its subject matter! Even in the Hebrew original, the opening triad of creation, inheritance, and God’s forgiveness is restated prayerfully in the antiphon. In contrast to “land” we have “earth”; for “restored fortunes” we have “turned away treachery”; for “forgave iniquity … pardoned” we read “forgave lawless acts committed … covered”; the Greek version also weaves carefully the imagery of “turning away” and “turning (for both God and for mortals) toward” … “salvation,” “life,” “peace,” and “God’s glory.” Then restatement continues with the “tender embrace” (“passionate kiss”?) of righteousness and peace as past tense (not a future) following upon the conjoining that took place between mercy and truth, a truth that “rose up” (as from the dead?) out of the earth just as righteousness “leaned down” out of heaven. Promised are both the “lordly” provision of practical blessing and the “earthly” yield of fruit that will surround a future whose path is “crossover-marked” by God’s own footprints.

This translational restatement and re-envisioning of the Psalm reminds me of the apostolic declaration of that translator/preacher Paul, who wrote: “For God is at work in you all both to will and to energize on behalf of (salvation’s) good-pleasure” (Phil. 2:13).

O God, for the gift of translation and the re-envisioning of our encounter with both your glorious mercy and truth and your tender embrace of righteousness and peace, we give you thanks and praise. Give us eyes to see the markers of the path Christ blazed for us. Amen.

John Alsup
The First Presbyterian Church, Shreveport,
D. Thomason Professor of New Testament Studies

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For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.