For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one
and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility.
Ephesians 2:14

While this season of Advent and Christmas can seem to bring out the best in people, we know that what truly brings people together is the Peace sent from God. Not only has He paid the price for our sins, thereby allowing us to be reconciled to God, but He who is called Peace truly takes away the divisions among us. We are one body, and He is our Head. We are His people, together, and we worship Him…together!

You are our Peace; draw us ever nearer to You, and to one another, that we may live closer to harmony together in You, serving and worshipping You always. Amen.

Devotions by Heidi Goehman and Sarah Baughman

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God
our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope.
1 Timothy 1:1

In this world, hope appears to have one major problem…the expectations attached to it. So often in this life, our expectations are met with devastation, disappointment, or disillusionment. We tend to apply the same level of confidence we would with people, in our relationship with God. We ask, seek, and expect so little from Him, for fear that our expectation will be met with disappointment. But Christ Jesus gives more. He, Himself, is our Hope, our confidence. He was prophesied from the beginning. He came as a baby boy. He died and rose to save you. What He says, He does, and what He does, He says in His Word. At the very sound of His name, we are filled with Hope.

Devotions by Heidi Goehman and Sarah Baughman

Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith,
who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame,
and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2

When the world came into being, Jesus was there. Even before darkness became light, God had a plan. When evil entered and sin took its first bite in our world, Jesus still reigned. God in Trinity founded the foundations of the world, but also founded the faith in your soul. The words author and perfecter go hand-in-hand. An author completes something – a poem, a novel, an essay, a book – whatever it is, it’s a finished work, completed. Jesus completes the plan the Trinity had long before the beginning of this world. And He is writing your story, completing you this day, for eternity.

Devotions by Heidi Goehman and Sarah Baughman

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world.
Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12

It seems that in recent years, the tradition of putting candles in a house windows at Christmastime has fallen by the wayside. Years ago, this practice had a practical, as well as beautiful purpose. Before electricity and flashlights, and cellphones with flashlights, people would put candles in their windows to guide weary travelers to a place of warmth and comfort. During Advent, this is an especially appropriate tradition, as it reminds us of the true Light of the world. The Light that welcomes and guides, the Light that breaks the darkness of death and scatters the shadows of sin. In the same tradition of welcoming weary travelers, invite someone over for coffee or a treat, and a chance to rest in Christ together. Come, O Light, and shine Your love into our hearts.

Devotions by Heidi Goehman and Sarah Baughman

[Jesus said,] “I am the good shepherd.
The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
John 10:11

So much is wrapped up in this Name for our Lord – Good Shepherd – from Isaiah’s lament that all we like sheep have gone astray, to David’s likening God to a Shepherd guiding him, to Jesus’ definitive statement, “I am the Good Shepherd.” Yet in a manger, witnessed by shepherds, we see the One whose life personifies what makes a shepherd a Good One: constant care, vigilance, seeking strays, and ultimately the sacrifice of Himself for the sheep, who love to wander. May He always lead us in His ways of life and love.

Devotions by Heidi Goehman and Sarah Baughman

And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead,
Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.
1 Thessalonians 1:10

What an incredible start to our Advent devotions – Our Lord, our Deliverer! The Thessalonians knew firsthand what it is to be delivered from seeking after empty things. Don’t we know it, too? The stresses of the Christmas season build, the pressures of the “get it all done and get it done well” oppress, and the worries of life don’t fade entirely just because we’re in the middle of a time made for cheer and goodwill, according to card companies. This Advent Season, let us find rest in our Deliverer, and allow His good gifts to bring peace and joy to our souls.