Some churches creatively ‘Deck the Halls’ for Advent
On the first Sunday of Advent, First Baptist Church of Lee’s Summit, Mo., experiences what Randy Buffington calls “controlled chaos.”
Prepare for Christmas with Advent devotions
Over the past 10 years, Word & Way recruited writers annually from churches and Baptist organizations — both ministers and laypeople — and produced multi-page
Advent a make-or-break chance for churches, visitors
Deck the halls and cue the pageant! The weeks before Christmas mark a time in American churches when the lapsed and the curious who seldom darken the door just might drop by for a taste of the season's spirit.
Devotions for Advent meaning
Celebrate Joy! Word&Way's Advent guide features devotional writers from a cross-section of Baptist life. Remember and celebrate the joy Jesus brings to your life.
Advent 2005 devotional: Our joy is made complete
December 25, I John 1:1-4 By Nodell Dennis, Director of Missions, Blue River-Kansas City Baptist Association In closing his introductory statement John uses this phrase, "
Advent 2005 devotional: Don’t miss Christmas this year
December 24, John 1:10-14 By Judith R. González, Hand in Hand Ministries, Springfield "He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did
Advent 2005 devotional: Be sensitive to God’s Word
December 23, Matthew 2:19-23 Be sensitive to God's Word By Bill Miller, Pastor, First Baptist Church, Farmington My late Dad and Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, were carpenters. I have two sons. One is also in the construction industry. The
Advent 2005 devotional: Christmas also is a messy story
December 22, Matthew 2:13-18 By Alton Lacey, Missouri Baptist University President Much of what we cherish about Christmas is in the many stories of how it evokes the best in human nature. Music, movies, television and newspapers are full of happy stories
Advent 2005 devotional: Consider Christmas contradictions
December 21, Matthew 2:1-12 By Bob Johnston, Pastor, First Baptist Church, Rolla I have always been fascinated with the contradictions so apparent at Christmas. We speak of the joy of this season, and yet some lonely souls experience this as the most depressing time
Advent 2005 devotional: Jesus helps us through dark days
December 20, Isaiah 9:2, 6-7 By Don Wideman, Former MBC Executive Director An old adage states, "It is always darkest just before dawn." Israel was going through dark days because of continued disobedience of God's laws and disregard for the covenant He