abide: Christmas journey
This abide series focuses on seeking the guiding light of Christ throughout some of the darkest days of winter. The series provides two devotions for participants. Each includes a practice that can be done over the course of a week. The devotion is designed to fill the space between Christmas and Epiphany with a growing awareness of God’s love for you and the world.
The aim of this journey is to till the soil and plant seeds that foster spiritual growth. As we journey together we will be doing soul work. It’s simple and difficult. The good news is that the most important thing is showing up. You already have all the tools you will need for this journey. Our focus will be on becoming more loving toward ourselves and others.
Each day will be an exploration of how God is connected and present. If abide is being used as a group study, the small group should seek to nurture community and a personal connection to God. Each participant should be opening to the transformational work that they may notice on this journey. When we show up, we are more likely to notice what God is doing.
Participants need nothing more than this devotion book to participate in abide. A candle can help invite the light and center the mind while practicing each devotion. You can keep a journal to record your observations, insights, or significant faith experiences. The most important piece is showing up with an open heart, so find a time every day you can set aside to walk together with God.
In the heading for each section a larger scripture passage may be listed. Participants are invited to read this larger passage to better understand the context of the selected verses. All the scripture readings that are included will come from the Common English Bible translation. If the reader has a preferred translation that differs from the CEB, they are invited to read the passages in that translation. Of greatest benefit is to work with a personal bible and make notes in the margins and highlight verses of particular importance.
All of the headings are in lowercase letters as a reminder that on this journey we will likely find more questions than answers. Practicing faith requires us to dwell in mystery and paradox. Just as the magi traveled from far away lands to seek the light of Christ, you are invited on the journey. Participants needn’t be as scholarly as magi, but open to the possibility of learning, changing, and growing. Abide in the light of Christ this season as you journey toward the manger through the darkest nights of winter. Come follow the star and abide in the light!
The aim of this journey is to till the soil and plant seeds that foster spiritual growth. As we journey together we will be doing soul work. It’s simple and difficult. The good news is that the most important thing is showing up. You already have all the tools you will need for this journey. Our focus will be on becoming more loving toward ourselves and others.
Each day will be an exploration of how God is connected and present. If abide is being used as a group study, the small group should seek to nurture community and a personal connection to God. Each participant should be opening to the transformational work that they may notice on this journey. When we show up, we are more likely to notice what God is doing.
Participants need nothing more than this devotion book to participate in abide. A candle can help invite the light and center the mind while practicing each devotion. You can keep a journal to record your observations, insights, or significant faith experiences. The most important piece is showing up with an open heart, so find a time every day you can set aside to walk together with God.
In the heading for each section a larger scripture passage may be listed. Participants are invited to read this larger passage to better understand the context of the selected verses. All the scripture readings that are included will come from the Common English Bible translation. If the reader has a preferred translation that differs from the CEB, they are invited to read the passages in that translation. Of greatest benefit is to work with a personal bible and make notes in the margins and highlight verses of particular importance.
All of the headings are in lowercase letters as a reminder that on this journey we will likely find more questions than answers. Practicing faith requires us to dwell in mystery and paradox. Just as the magi traveled from far away lands to seek the light of Christ, you are invited on the journey. Participants needn’t be as scholarly as magi, but open to the possibility of learning, changing, and growing. Abide in the light of Christ this season as you journey toward the manger through the darkest nights of winter. Come follow the star and abide in the light!
ponder
Christmas Week 1
Luke 2:1-20
Christmas Week 1
Luke 2:1-20
approach
Find a stone that you can slip into your pocket and easily carry with you.
bible
Luke 2:1-20
Jesus’ birth
2 In those days Caesar Augustus declared that everyone throughout the empire should be enrolled in the tax lists. 2 This first enrollment occurred when Quirinius governed Syria. 3 Everyone went to their own cities to be enrolled. 4 Since Joseph belonged to David’s house and family line, he went up from the city of Nazareth in Galilee to David’s city, called Bethlehem, in Judea. 5 He went to be enrolled together with Mary, who was promised to him in marriage and who was pregnant. 6 While they were there, the time came for Mary to have her baby. 7 She gave birth to her firstborn child, a son, wrapped him snugly, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the guestroom.
Announcement to shepherds
8 Nearby shepherds were living in the fields, guarding their sheep at night. 9 The Lord’s angel stood before them, the Lord’s glory shone around them, and they were terrified.
10 The angel said, “Don’t be afraid! Look! I bring good news to you—wonderful, joyous news for all people. 11 Your savior is born today in David’s city. He is Christ the Lord. 12 This is a sign for you: you will find a newborn baby wrapped snugly and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great assembly of the heavenly forces was with the angel praising God. They said,14 “Glory to God in heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors.”
15 When the angels returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go right now to Bethlehem and see what’s happened. Let’s confirm what the Lord has revealed to us.” 16 They went quickly and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. 17 When they saw this, they reported what they had been told about this child. 18 Everyone who heard it was amazed at what the shepherds told them. 19 Mary committed these things to memory and considered them carefully. 20 The shepherds returned home, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. Everything happened just as they had been told.
inspect
The shepherds are overwhelmed by angels who proclaim the good news of Christ’s birth. They follow the instructions they have been given and go to Bethlehem to see the baby. It is Christ, not the star, who is the sign for the shepherds.
Upon their arrival, the shepherds tell Mary of all they have been told. Mary ponders what they tell her. God provides the invitation without providing the plan. How could Mary have known all that would come to pass?
Imagine yourself as Mary. You have survived your first labor and birth and are exhausted. Now visitors arrive and overwhelm you with their presence and stories. There will be little rest this night as the baby cries and visitors persist. Yet Mary creates space to think about and ponder all that has happened, all that is happening, and all that will happen.
discern
Listen to the song, “Mary did you know?” while praying and pondering over the lyrics. Wonder, “What has God done for me?”
“What is God inviting me to say ‘yes!’ to?”
“What is God revealing to me?”
explore
Look back on the previous year. What things changed between today and last Christmas Eve? Who are the loved ones who will not be gathered around your table this year? What were the surprise blessings you were given? What are grateful for? How did your body change? How did you change? What did you learn? Notice the ways God has blessed and loved you throughout this year.
For the next week, carry your stone with you in your pocket. Take it wherever you go. Whenever you touch the stone remind yourself God loves you and ponder what this means. Then think about how you love yourself as you are loved by God. May this week be full of reminders about how deeply and fully you are loved.
Find a stone that you can slip into your pocket and easily carry with you.
bible
Luke 2:1-20
Jesus’ birth
2 In those days Caesar Augustus declared that everyone throughout the empire should be enrolled in the tax lists. 2 This first enrollment occurred when Quirinius governed Syria. 3 Everyone went to their own cities to be enrolled. 4 Since Joseph belonged to David’s house and family line, he went up from the city of Nazareth in Galilee to David’s city, called Bethlehem, in Judea. 5 He went to be enrolled together with Mary, who was promised to him in marriage and who was pregnant. 6 While they were there, the time came for Mary to have her baby. 7 She gave birth to her firstborn child, a son, wrapped him snugly, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the guestroom.
Announcement to shepherds
8 Nearby shepherds were living in the fields, guarding their sheep at night. 9 The Lord’s angel stood before them, the Lord’s glory shone around them, and they were terrified.
10 The angel said, “Don’t be afraid! Look! I bring good news to you—wonderful, joyous news for all people. 11 Your savior is born today in David’s city. He is Christ the Lord. 12 This is a sign for you: you will find a newborn baby wrapped snugly and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great assembly of the heavenly forces was with the angel praising God. They said,14 “Glory to God in heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors.”
15 When the angels returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go right now to Bethlehem and see what’s happened. Let’s confirm what the Lord has revealed to us.” 16 They went quickly and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. 17 When they saw this, they reported what they had been told about this child. 18 Everyone who heard it was amazed at what the shepherds told them. 19 Mary committed these things to memory and considered them carefully. 20 The shepherds returned home, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. Everything happened just as they had been told.
inspect
The shepherds are overwhelmed by angels who proclaim the good news of Christ’s birth. They follow the instructions they have been given and go to Bethlehem to see the baby. It is Christ, not the star, who is the sign for the shepherds.
Upon their arrival, the shepherds tell Mary of all they have been told. Mary ponders what they tell her. God provides the invitation without providing the plan. How could Mary have known all that would come to pass?
Imagine yourself as Mary. You have survived your first labor and birth and are exhausted. Now visitors arrive and overwhelm you with their presence and stories. There will be little rest this night as the baby cries and visitors persist. Yet Mary creates space to think about and ponder all that has happened, all that is happening, and all that will happen.
discern
Listen to the song, “Mary did you know?” while praying and pondering over the lyrics. Wonder, “What has God done for me?”
“What is God inviting me to say ‘yes!’ to?”
“What is God revealing to me?”
explore
Look back on the previous year. What things changed between today and last Christmas Eve? Who are the loved ones who will not be gathered around your table this year? What were the surprise blessings you were given? What are grateful for? How did your body change? How did you change? What did you learn? Notice the ways God has blessed and loved you throughout this year.
For the next week, carry your stone with you in your pocket. Take it wherever you go. Whenever you touch the stone remind yourself God loves you and ponder what this means. Then think about how you love yourself as you are loved by God. May this week be full of reminders about how deeply and fully you are loved.
light
Christmas week 2
Isaiah 9:2-7
Christmas week 2
Isaiah 9:2-7
approach
Find an old photo book or flip through your phone history. Notice the pictures of all the people. Find a person in the photos you haven’t thought about for a while and pray for that person.
bible
Isaiah 9:2-7
2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.
On those living in a pitch-dark land, light has dawned.
3 You have made the nation great;
you have increased its joy.
They rejoiced before you as with joy at the harvest,
as those who divide plunder rejoice.
4 As on the day of Midian, you’ve shattered the yoke that burdened them,
the staff on their shoulders,
and the rod of their oppressor.
5 Because every boot of the thundering warriors,
and every garment rolled in blood
will be burned, fuel for the fire.
6 A child is born to us, a son is given to us,
and authority will be on his shoulders.
He will be named
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
7 There will be vast authority and endless peace
for David’s throne and for his kingdom,
establishing and sustaining it
with justice and righteousness
now and forever.
The zeal of the Lord of heavenly forces will do this.
inspect
The people move from walking in darkness to walking in the light. As the poet, Robert Frost wrote, “the best way forward is through.” The best way to walk into the light is to walk through and amid the darkness. Wherever we go, God is with us. However, we do not always notice the light.
Notice the light in the space where you are. What can you see? What is revealed by it? Think about the metaphorical nature of light. As you have lived through your life, where has looking back shed light on areas of your life and helped you to see with greater clarity? Noticing and remembering God is present in all situations can help us to live into the light of God’s call.
discern
What are some of the hidden or dark things in your life that you avoid? How are you being called to walk through the darkness in order to live in the light?
Often it is easy to be caught up in things that are not God’s. We can become fascinated by distractions, mired in shame, or enticed by temptations. All of these are examples of dark areas in life.
We turn on lights to reveal paths in darkness. At night and on stormy days, headlights help us see where we are going. Flashlights can illuminate our way through deep forests. Lighthouses draw alert seafarers of hidden dangers. Light reveals the way. How is the light of Christ guiding you on your journey?
explore
Throughout the week, notice the light. When you walk into an illuminated space, pause and remember how God is calling you to walk into the light. Notice how living with this intentionality influences the choices you make. Be kind and full of grace with yourself and others. Walking into the light is a long journey walking through the darkness. This week practice noticing God and sharing God’s love with others every time you notice the light. Happy Christmas!
Find an old photo book or flip through your phone history. Notice the pictures of all the people. Find a person in the photos you haven’t thought about for a while and pray for that person.
bible
Isaiah 9:2-7
2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.
On those living in a pitch-dark land, light has dawned.
3 You have made the nation great;
you have increased its joy.
They rejoiced before you as with joy at the harvest,
as those who divide plunder rejoice.
4 As on the day of Midian, you’ve shattered the yoke that burdened them,
the staff on their shoulders,
and the rod of their oppressor.
5 Because every boot of the thundering warriors,
and every garment rolled in blood
will be burned, fuel for the fire.
6 A child is born to us, a son is given to us,
and authority will be on his shoulders.
He will be named
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
7 There will be vast authority and endless peace
for David’s throne and for his kingdom,
establishing and sustaining it
with justice and righteousness
now and forever.
The zeal of the Lord of heavenly forces will do this.
inspect
The people move from walking in darkness to walking in the light. As the poet, Robert Frost wrote, “the best way forward is through.” The best way to walk into the light is to walk through and amid the darkness. Wherever we go, God is with us. However, we do not always notice the light.
Notice the light in the space where you are. What can you see? What is revealed by it? Think about the metaphorical nature of light. As you have lived through your life, where has looking back shed light on areas of your life and helped you to see with greater clarity? Noticing and remembering God is present in all situations can help us to live into the light of God’s call.
discern
What are some of the hidden or dark things in your life that you avoid? How are you being called to walk through the darkness in order to live in the light?
Often it is easy to be caught up in things that are not God’s. We can become fascinated by distractions, mired in shame, or enticed by temptations. All of these are examples of dark areas in life.
We turn on lights to reveal paths in darkness. At night and on stormy days, headlights help us see where we are going. Flashlights can illuminate our way through deep forests. Lighthouses draw alert seafarers of hidden dangers. Light reveals the way. How is the light of Christ guiding you on your journey?
explore
Throughout the week, notice the light. When you walk into an illuminated space, pause and remember how God is calling you to walk into the light. Notice how living with this intentionality influences the choices you make. Be kind and full of grace with yourself and others. Walking into the light is a long journey walking through the darkness. This week practice noticing God and sharing God’s love with others every time you notice the light. Happy Christmas!
