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“First Steps,” by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, December 16, 2024

December 16, 2024

Advent is a season of waiting, and in that waiting, we often find ourselves longing for joy.  Yet, the angel’s proclamation to the shepherds on the night of Christ’s birth reminds us that joy is not something we must create or earn.  “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10).  The joy of Advent comes from the reality that God has already sent His Son into the world.  This good news is the foundation of our joy, a joy that is steadfast and unshaken by life’s circumstances.

In this season, we are invited to look for joy in unexpected places.  Just as Jesus was born in the humble setting of a manger, joy often reveals itself in simplicity and quiet moments.  Perhaps it’s in the laughter of loved ones gathered around a table, the beauty of a starry night, or the kindness of a stranger.  When we open our hearts and eyes, we can see how God’s joy permeates the world around us, even in difficult times.  Choosing to notice and embrace these moments helps us experience the fullness of Advent.

Celebrating joy is an active response to God’s gift of salvation. Take time this week to intentionally celebrate the good things in your life. Rejoice in the relationships, God’s provisions, and the opportunities God has placed before you.  Remember, joy is not reserved for perfect moments but is found in the grace and blessings we often overlook. This act of celebration mirrors the angels’ song of praise, â€œGlory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14).

Above all, let us embrace the ultimate source of joy: Jesus Christ.  His birth is the fulfillment of God’s promise to redeem the world.  Through Him, we have salvation, hope, and the assurance of God’s presence with us.  This good news is not only worth celebrating during Advent but is the foundation for a life filled with joy.  As we reflect on this profound gift, may our hearts overflow with gratitude and a desire to share this joy with others, proclaiming that God’s love is for everyone.

This Week’s Readings:

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are completing Numbers and beginning Deuteronomy. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.

Things to Pray About:

  • Pray for a time of preparation during this Advent Season.
  • Pray for hope, especially for those less fortunate.
  • Pray for safety and comfort for those who are hurting.
  • Pray for personal commitment during worship.
  • Pray for our absent members and those who are homebound.
  • Comfort for those who mourn.
  • Guidance and wisdom for our church, local, and world leaders.
  • Healing and forgiveness to restore families.
  • Continued strengthening of faith in our community.
  • Pray for a faith that transcends understanding.
  • Pray for spiritual maturity

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6

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“First Steps,” by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, December 9, 2024

December 9, 2024


“Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27.


Peace is a characteristic of God’s Kingdom.  Much of Jesus’ ministry was spent establishing peace.  In fact, the heavenly choir sang of peace (Luke 2).  Many mistakenly think Biblical peace is the absence of strife or trouble.  Biblical peace is not the absence of things but a profound calm in the middle of the storm.  Therefore, peace is not a removal of strife but an inner strength to endure—to rise above.


During Advent, the message of Christ draws our attention to the Prince of Peace entering the world inviting all to rest in the peace that God offers.  In the middle of the storms, God offers peace—not the absence of things—but an inner calm in the midst of it all.  This week, consider the peace of Christ.  As you are pulled in many directions by many voices competing for your attention, listen for the voice of Christ offering peace.


Give yourself to unencumbered moments, those brief flashes of communion with God.  Look for them so that God can give you peace.  O Lord, thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding. Help us to rest in Your presence this Advent and to carry Your peace with us, sharing it with a world that so desperately needs it, Amen.


This Week’s Readings:

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are completing Numbers and beginning Deuteronomy. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.

Things to Pray About:

  • Pray for a time of preparation during this Advent Season.
  • Pray for hope, especially for those less fortunate.
  • Pray for personal commitment during worship.
  • Pray for our absent members and those who are homebound.
  • Comfort for those who mourn.
  • Guidance and wisdom for our church, local, and world leaders.
  • Healing and forgiveness to restore families.
  • Continued strengthening of faith in our community.
  • Pray for a faith that transcends understanding.
  • Pray for spiritual maturity.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6

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“First Steps,” by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, December 2, 2024


“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned…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 9:2, 6-7.

I think every time a squirrel sneezes the power in my house goes out.  The last time we lost power it was before the time changed, where daylight lasted well into the evening.  I fell asleep, while still light outside, only to wake up in total darkness, for it was the middle of the night.  It was strange and disorienting.  Thankfully, I had a flashlight close and could navigate without tripping over what couldn’t be seen.  It reminded me of the power of light.  We need it to find our way.

Isaiah’s prophecy describes a hope that Jesus brings—a hope that is as certain as light breaking into darkness. God’s promise to send a Savior was fulfilled through Christ’s birth, and this gives us confidence as we wait on Him in our own lives.  We wait for the one who fully identifies with us and ushers in the peace of God.

Can you hold onto this hope today?  Allow the ‘light’ of God to break forth into your life, bringing hope and peace.  Trust in the Lord.  

Dear God, thank you for the light of hope You have given us in Jesus. As we prepare our hearts during this Advent season, help us to trust in Your promises and share Your hope with those around us.



This Week’s Readings:

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are now reading Numbers. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.

Things to Pray About:

  • Pray for a time of preparation during this Advent Season.
  • Pray for hope.
  • Pray for our absent members and those who are homebound.
  • Comfort for those who mourn.
  • Guidance and wisdom for our church, local, and world leaders.
  • Healing and forgiveness to restore families.
  • Continued strengthening of faith in our community.
  • Pray for a faith that transcends understanding.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6

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“First Steps,” by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, November 25, 2024

November 25, 2024

In between two appointments, I briefly caught part of an article that mentioned the top ten things most people are thankful for in their lives.  They were:

  1. Health – Being in good health or the ability to recover from illness is something to cherish. 
  2. Family and Friends – The support, love, and companionship of family and friends bring joy and comfort in life.
  3. A Home – Whether large or small, having a place to call home provides a sense of security and stability.
  4. Food and Water – Having access to nourishment and clean water is essential, and not everyone is fortunate enough to have it readily available.
  5. Opportunities for Growth – Be it educational, professional, or personal, opportunities to improve yourself are invaluable.
  6. Nature – The beauty of nature can bring peace and rejuvenation.
  7. Freedom – Living in a society that allows personal liberties, it’s a privilege.
  8. Learning and Knowledge – The ability to learn new things and expand your understanding of the world is a gift that enriches life.
  9. Moments of Joy – From small pleasures to big celebrations, the moments that make you smile or laugh are worth treasuring.
  10. Kindness and Compassion – Both giving and receiving kindness make the world a better place and provide a sense of connection to others.

The article was universal in nature.  Yet, for the Christian, we see these as blessings, directed by God.  We look through the lens seeing past the immediate to something greater.  Our view is on the forest and not the trees.  We see the one who gives health, friendship, shelter, sustenance, growth, freedoms, grace, compassion, and so much more.  We see the supplier of life.

How about you?  What do you see?  Better yet, what are you most grateful for this year?



This Week’s Readings:

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are now reading Numbers. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.

Things to Pray About:

  • Lift up our veterans in prayer.
  • Seek spiritual maturity for all.
  • Pray for our absent members and those who are homebound.
  • Comfort for those who mourn.
  • Guidance and wisdom for our church, local, and world leaders.
  • Healing and forgiveness to restore families.
  • Continued strengthening of faith in our community.
  • Pray for a faith that transcends understanding.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6

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“First Steps,” by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, November 18, 2024

November 18, 2024

A Thanksgiving Prayer

Dear Gracious and Blessed Lord,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude, lifting our voices in thanksgiving for Your steadfast love and abundant blessings. As Your Word says in Psalm 107:1, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” We acknowledge Your goodness and Your unchanging nature throughout the generations. From the days of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to our present time, You have been faithful, providing for Your people and guiding us with Your wisdom and grace. We thank You for the ways You have protected, provided, and sustained us, just as You sustained the Israelites in the wilderness, never leaving them in their time of need.

Lord, we are grateful for the greatest gift of all—Your Son, Jesus Christ. As the Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” We thank You for the salvation we have in Him, for the forgiveness of our sins, and for the hope of eternal life. In Christ, we are new creations, and we praise You for the work You are continually doing in our hearts and lives through the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank You, Lord, for the new mercies You grant us every morning, as we strive to live in a way that reflects Your love and grace.

Father, as we gather during this season of thanksgiving, we also remember Your command in Deuteronomy 8:10, “When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land He has given you.” Help us not only to express our gratitude with words but also with our actions. Teach us to share the blessings You have bestowed upon us with those in need, to live with open hands and generous hearts. May our thanksgiving not just be a once-a-year event but a daily posture of humble gratitude, glorifying You in all that we do. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

This Week’s Readings:

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are now reading Numbers. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.

Things to Pray About:

  • Lift up our veterans in prayer.
  • Seek spiritual maturity for all.
  • Pray for our absent members and those who are homebound.
  • Comfort for those who mourn.
  • Guidance and wisdom for our church, local, and world leaders.
  • Healing and forgiveness to restore families.
  • Continued strengthening of faith in our community.
  • Pray for a faith that transcends understanding.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6

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“First Steps”, by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, November 4, 2024

November 4, 2024

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel that small acts of kindness and generosity go unnoticed or seem insignificant.  But in God’s eyes, even the smallest gestures make a difference.  Jesus compared a mark of discipleship to a cup of cold water given to little ones.  Those generous souls will not lose their reward (Matt 10:42).  Furthermore, the Kingdom of God was compared to a small mustard seed that can yield a massive harvest.  A small and insignificant seed becomes something far more, like simple acts of generosity.  

In our church and community, we often witness the beauty of the smallest of deeds.  Perhaps a meal prepared while someone is recovering from an illness, a kind word shared during a difficult time, or a prayer uttered for someone in need are just a few examples.  I’m still energized by the small act of a few people gathered around a table to make a food bag full of ingredients.  One small bag after another until, eventually, 25,052 bags were made in a single morning.  By setting aside three single mornings over three years, 76,200 bags were made, which equates to over 460,000 meals.  On one level, small and insignificant acts became a massive harvest.

Your small acts have a ripple effect that extends far beyond our sight and understanding.  Therefore, look for ways to lend a hand to a neighbor or someone in need.  Seek to make another person’s life better.  Ask yourself, “How can I practice small acts of kindness and generosity today?”   The Hebrew writer reminds us, “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Hebrews 13:16).

 

This Week’s Readings:
Monday – Numbers 9
Tuesday – Numbers 10
Wednesday – Numbers 11
Thursday – Numbers 12
Friday – Numbers 13

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are now reading Numbers. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.

Things to Pray About:
Pray for our country and the 2024 Presidential Election
Pray for spiritual maturity.
Our unwillingly absent members and shut-ins.
Pray for comfort for those who are grieving.
Wisdom for our church leaders, local leaders, and world leaders.
Family restoration through forgiveness.
Continued growth of the faith of the people.
Pray for understanding.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6
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