2024 Advent Season

You are invited to join us in an all-church devotional, written by our Village pastors and lay leaders.

Select your preferred language below and click the dates to read each day's devotional.
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Day 1: December 2

Ruth Jordan, Director of Kids Ministry
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
I’ve had swing sets and polar bears on my mind this fall. Every fall, staff must present our next year’s plans, budget, and ministry vision to the Lead Pastors. As the director of kids’ ministries, it is my responsibility to decide which programs will be offered and what lessons will be taught. In my preparation for 2025, polar bears have been on my mind because this generation of children, of whom the first were born in 2013, have been named the “Polar” generation. The name comes from two certainties this generation will contend with in their lifetime - the melting ice caps and extreme political polarization. This generation is also known as Gen Alpha simply because they follow Gen Z and after Z there is nowhere to go, but back to the beginning.

Swings are on my mind because it is an illustration used by Tim Elmore in his book, Marching Off the Map, in which he outlines the role of educators today. Just like a swing moving forward, educators must look to the future to learn how they will need to adapt their methods and strategies for engaging a new generation living in a different world. At the same time, educators must also look back through history to identify the timeless truths students will need to be successful regardless of how the world changes. I believe this is true of ministry to children. We need to look forward to the life issues that are coming and reach back to what we know is unchanging truth. Both are needed to craft a discipleship plan that will prepare young people to live for Christ in the days ahead.

The apostle John looked forwards and backwards when authoring the gospel of John and the book of Revelation. In Revelation we see the future in which Jesus is crowned King of Kings and Lord of lords for whom every knee will bow. In the gospel of John, we see the past, but unlike the other gospels who begin with the birth of Christ, John takes us way back before creation when there was the Word, which John 1:1 says was with God and was God. The Word who became flesh is the One through whom everything began, and through whom Revelation says the creation of a new heaven and earth will come. The Word is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End (Rev 22:13). How then are we to live in the present and prepare for the future? John instructs us to be devoted to a life of worship and love. Worship because the Triune God who existed before creation is worthy of our worship (John 4:23-24) and a life of love because God, in whose image we are created, is love (I John 4:16).

John 1:1 tells us God’s story has a beginning and Revelation tells us the story has an end, but we know it is not yet time for the end because the Polars have important work to finish. This generation of children will be the generation to complete the translation of the Bible into all the remaining bibleless languages. Missiologists also believe, if current trends continue, that Polars will be the generation who will see the remaining unreached people groups reached with the gospel. Matthew 24:14 tells us the end will come when the gospel is preached to the whole world. In that regard, perhaps this generation will be both Gen Alpha and Gen Omega. This Advent, as we look back to celebrate the birth of Christ, let us also look forward to his coming as the King of kings and lead the children in our lives to love and worship him as such.
Lord Jesus, in this Advent season, I want to be reminded each day of your plan for the world that began at Creation. May I practice my worship to you each day through my prayers, my actions, in my relationships. In your mercy, Jesus, Amen.

Day 2: December 3

Mauricio Rivas, Pastor of Hispanic Fellowship
John 1:2 He was with God in the beginning.
It is an affirmation of the eternity and divinity of Christ. Jesus was not only present at creation, but He is the Creator, along with the Father and the Holy Spirit. This statement highlights the inseparable union between the Father and the Son.

In this reflection let's look at 3 important points:

1. The Eternity of Christ: Christ had no beginning or end. He has always existed. This gives us security in His power and sovereignty. We can trust that He is constant, unchanging, and ever present in our lives.

2. The Relationship with the Father: The fact that Christ was "with God" from the beginning shows the perfect unity and harmony between the Father and the Son. As believers, we are called to seek that same unity with God, living in communion with Him.

3. The Centrality of Christ in Creation: Nothing was created without Him. Everything we see and know was made through His power. This truth reminds us of Christ's majesty and authority over all creation.

We can apply this verse to our daily lives by recognizing that Christ has always been at the center of God's plan and must be the center of our lives as well.
Lord, thank you that you are our Word incarnated today in our lives. We are not only your creation, but today in you we are your beloved children.

Day 3: December 4

Pete DellaSantina, Associate Pastor
John 1:3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.
Consider the profound truth of John 1:3: “Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.” We confess and believe Jesus is the Messiah, our Lord and Savior, and is also the Creator of the universe. John writes everything was created through Christ, affirming His divine role in creation. He is recognized as the Creator alongside the Father and the Holy Spirit. The Father initiating creation, the Son executing it as the living Word, and the Spirit sustaining and empowering it, reflecting the unity and distinct roles within the divine Triune God. Confusing? Yes. Mysterious? You bet. Yet at the same time amazing and wonderful? 100%! Because it means one thing— Our Creator is with us!

Consider for a moment the magnitude of His creation. Every star in the sky, every chemical element of the periodic table, and every heartbeat within you—all crafted with intention and love. Because He is our Creator, He knows exactly what we need. In moments of confusion, He offers peace. In times of despair, He offers hope. In times of hardship, He can lift us with joy like nothing and nobody else! The One who understands our deepest longings is the same One who knits us together in our mother’s womb (Ps 139:13).

This Advent, I invite you to pause to consider Jesus, our Creator wrapped in flesh, came to dwell among us, demonstrating His desire to be intimately involved in your lives. Rest in the assurance that our Creator cares deeply for us and for all peoples. May this season fill you with wonder and draw you closer to our Creator.
Dear God, as we await the light of Christ this Advent season, may we embrace the truth that all things were made through Him. Illuminate our hearts to reflect His love and grace in the world around us. Amen.

Day 4: December 5

Johann Dohyun Kim, Theologian-in-Residence
John 1:4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.
John declares that life in the Word is the light of all people. To live without the Word is to live in darkness; to live without the Word is to live in death. We cannot see where we are going when we live in darkness. When we live in death, we live in vain, no matter how productive we may seem. We desperately need the light of God’s life, and this Advent season, may the light of life illuminate us all.

In fact, God’s light is always before us; we don't see it because we have our spiritual eyes closed. There is always a choice before us: the light or the darkness. If you think about it, the first thing created in Genesis 1 was light (day one and day four). And the last thing created was human, so some say the Alpha and Omega of creation are light and life. Perhaps John realized that Christ, the Word, is the creator of all.

Only those who have eternal life through the Word can live in the light God created first, defeating darkness. Light dispels darkness, but God’s light is not just light; it’s life-giving light. Just shining a light doesn’t give life. Just shining an x-ray to show the presence of cancer doesn’t cure it. If cancer is found to be present, it must be treated. The light of Jesus’ life is a light that not only reveals the presence of sin but also has the power to cut it out and give life. Darkness and death cannot overcome the life-giving power of the Word, the creator of light.
Lord God, help us to be in the light of your Son so that we may have eternal life in Him. Amen.

Day 5: December 6

Monica Ibarra, Assistant Director of Youth and Their Families
John 1:5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Village family, before getting into the devotional for today would you join me in a breath prayer exercise?

Inhale: Father, fall afresh on us
Exhale: We wait expectantly for You
Amen.

In today’s verse, John poetically reminds us that the God we serve is the light that shines in the darkness, the light that can never be extinguished or overcome. Many of us have heard this verse more than a few times and it may be easy to skim through it but the reality is that this Light was given out of pure grace– it’s undeserved. Therefore, it is this Light that was, is, and forever will be our only hope. It is this Light that illuminated the goodness and faithfulness of God, reminding the world of His never-ending, never-failing sacrificial Love. Being on the receiving end of such Love and Hope is the greatest gift of all.

However, our lives are often filled and cluttered with so many distractions and temporary pleasures that we rob ourselves from delighting in the fullness of the Gift. This time of year in particular is busy with vacation plans, budgeting for presents, and getting lost in our cultural traditions. In the midst of it all, it is easy to lose our way and forget the purpose. Jesus came to light up our dark and broken world so that our lives would be transformed as we encountered the depth of His love and be moved to live as joyful witnesses in all the earth. Our first calling and sole purpose is to be intentional reflections of His light everywhere we go. All of our lives, in every season Christ should be magnified in us.

The ministry theme for this year has been ‘Resurrection Presence: Welcoming Grace and Costly Commitment’ in which we have been challenged to live cruciform lives following Christ's example. Everything we have done as a church this year has revolved around this theme– that it is by His grace that we have become who we are and it is by our costly commitment that we live out who He is. Church family, “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it” comes with an important implication for you and me– that we would be compelled by the [light] of God to go and do the same, bringing hope, love, joy, and peace to all who surround us. Who can you reflect Jesus’ light to today? Go, shout it, tell it and live it, in the mountains and in the valleys, in the daylight and in the shadows that Jesus is the light of the world.
Lord Jesus, no words can describe our gratitude for the light that has flooded through the windows of our lives because of You. What generous grace and merciful love. Emmanuel, let your love compel us into the hidden corners of the world where people need to be reminded of your divine hope. Creator God, fix our eyes on You and let your Holy Spirit empower us to make the costly commitment to live cruciform lives daily. May we choose to live lives that your son, Jesus, would’ve chosen. May we love the people your son, Jesus, would’ve loved. May we forgive all as your son, Jesus, would have forgiven. May we live in the way of life, truth, and resurrection, not just in this season, but for the rest of our lives. In Jesus’ precious name we pray, amen.

Day 6: December 7

Insil Kang, Senior Director of Integration
John 1:6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John.
How do you relate to the Advent season? Do you anticipate the coming of Jesus, culminating the waiting process at the end of the month with Christmas Eve service and presents? Is your mind and heart pulled towards year end deadlines, or a calendar full of events? Might you even feel lost in the midst of it all?

As I sit with this passage of John, feeling the weight of the meaning of the Word of and with God, the life of Jesus that gives light to all humankind, I find another way to relate to the Advent season in today’s verse, John 1:6, “There was a man sent from God whose name was John.”

John was God’s servant instrument, who would speak and witness of this Light to the world. No, he was not the coming Jesus, but his life would witness Jesus’ arrival to mankind. He did not wait passively, he did not let his “regular” life take over until the day of Jesus’ birth. John was sent by God, to use his life to make the Word of God known.

As someone who does love this season, and thus feels the day after December 25 as bittersweet, I am reminded not to simply wait for the month end events, nor to succumb to the busyness that this world would convince me should focus my days, but to not lose the chance today, to show and be the Light of Christ in our world. To do that tomorrow, and the next day and the next. Our waiting can look like John’s; a living demonstration and sharing of the Light of the world.
Lord God, thank you that we share and show the Light of Jesus. May your Word live in me today, pointing me to the opportunities for my heart and actions to witness You in my life. I wait in active witness each day for You, Jesus. Amen.

Day 7: December 9

Jim Smith, Director of AAAF and Co-Director of DNA Group Ministry
John 1:7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe.
As a youngster growing up in my North Portland neighborhood, there was a particular phrase that was often said to kids when they were leaving their homes and headed into the community, whether to school or being with friends. It was some variation of “remember whose child you are.” It was not an admonishment to be able to recite the names of my parents. Instead, the point they were making was that my life in speech and action was a reflection of the family I was a part of. While I initially equated this with somehow diminishing my personal identity, as I continued to think through the meaning, I grew to appreciate that role. I particularly esteemed my great-grandparents, Primus and Betty Smith. Born into slavery, following the Civil War, they married and carved a life together in Culpepper, Virginia. Despite extremely difficult times, they raised six children, and their lives played a critical role in shaping our family legacy.

Although I never met them, people who had known my great-grandparents could tell I was from their lineage. I recall the story of an elderly woman who encountered my uncle during his first visit to the old Culpepper homestead. She stopped him while he was shopping at the local market. She deliberated, studying him from every angle as people of that generation frequently did. Upon completing her inspection, she confidently declared that although she did not know my uncle’s name, she knew with certainty that he was a descendant of Primus and Betty Smith. The manner of my uncle’s walk and his mannerisms were a reflection of his birthright.

As followers of Christ, regardless of our ethnicity, we inherit a new spiritual heritage. As we grow in our faith and walk in the light of our new life in Jesus, our character more and more reflects His and bears witness to Him. It is not our lives that are reflected. Instead, Christ is displayed in our walk in the world and in our habits. As we humble ourselves and diminish, others can observe Him more clearly in our lives.

When I reflect on John the Baptist’s witness to the identity of the Light, I realize that the emphasis was not on him despite his significant impact. He was merely a witness–living evidence–of the One who is the Truth and Light. Just like John, we, as Christ’s disciples, are sent into the world, and through our words and actions, we bear witness to the One in whom all are called to believe.
Our Father, may our lives testify to Your goodness, so that through our witness, others may come to believe in the One You have sent—Jesus Christ, the true Light who gives life to all.

Day 8: December 10

Tom Grey
John 1:8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
My smartphone is very handy. Its navigation function has gotten me back home many times recently. Let me explain.

This past year, finding my way around Beaverton has been quite challenging. Often, I must ask my wife for directions when I come to a traffic light. “Is this where I turn left?” I’ll ask. My loss of a sense of direction has been increasing this past year. Maybe I’ve had too many birthdays, and this is just another limitation of being a senior citizen! Fortunately, my smartphone directs me well during those times when my wife is not there, and I’m driving by myself.

Well, that is enough of my complaining. I should be talking about Christmas as it is described in John chapter 1. You see, Matthew, Mark, and Luke talk a lot about the first Christmas. But in the Gospel of John there isn’t much said about the birth of baby Jesus: nothing about Bethlehem, or the manger, or Mary, or Joseph.

When John 1:8 describes John the Baptist it says “He himself was not the light. He came only as a witness to the light.” That is, John the Baptist was a giver of directions. Later in life, John said that Jesus had to increase, and he had to decrease. So, when he had finished giving directions, John’s work on earth was done! Well, it sounds like John chapter one says more about Christmas than we thought.
Dear Lord, you really did come to earth, and John the Baptist told people who you were when you came to earth. Lord, thank you that you understand everything about us. We can pray to you, knowing that you fully understand everything that we are going through. We pray in your name. Amen.

Day 9: December 11

Delia Coker, Assistant Director of Pastoral Care
John 1:9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.
Upon reading this verse I was reminded of a time last winter when our power went out. For a moment I was scared. I found myself scrambling and asking many questions. Where are the flashlights? How do I keep the kids calm? Do we have candles in the house? What if we are out of matches? After my instant panic I realized that all I needed I had already had. We have flashlights hidden in several places on both floors of our house, we have candles, and we have matches. I just had to remember this all and then find my way there and wait out the storm.

Do you panic when adversity comes? Maybe you feel like you’re in a storm right now. Are you scared about something and not quite feeling the “jolly” others are?

John 1: 9 tells us that Jesus is our one true light. When we experience trials and tribulations, we also know what to do. We have straight access to our Creator. During those “storms” life brings us, we can remember that God has already given us everything we need, and we can turn to Him to light the way. He is our one true Light. Jesus’ return is imminent, and we can rest in Him. When might have trials but can soon remember that Jesus has overcome the world and rest in His promises. He is all we need.
Lord, thank you that even when we experience trials and tribulations, we can look to you, our one true King, our one true light and you will show us the way. God, help us acknowledge the magnitude of your gift of Jesus, to see your joy, and to see you this advent season.

Day 10: December 12

James Greenwood
John 1:10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.
How does the creator choose to be made known even though so many do not recognize the revealed person of the Trinity? The One you thought you knew is ‘perceived’ by more than just your eyes and ears. Do we just have to look harder? Like Thomas, do we have to see the scars and then put our fingers into the gnarled wound? We may have been taught to observe the world through our 5 senses. We assume, in concert with our senses and focus of effort, we ‘bump’ into the immense Creator. The danger of this thinking is that God is not tame. He is not simply ‘at our whim’ to pop up like the genie in a bottle. Over two thousand years after the manifest Christ Jesus at Christmas we want Him to ‘show us the way.’

He is.

Way. Truth. Light. Life. New life.

My ability to ‘sense’ His presence is not by my effort. It is by His Spirit. Any effort of my flesh to strain into His presence fails, apart from His Gift, The Helper. This is Christ Mass. The celebration of His gift to all of our lives.

Even the angel choir, it was said, sang at the birth of baby Jesus and yet they were confounded at this audacious plan. No wonder John makes it clear in verse ten, that the widest distance between ‘God the Creator’ and ‘God the Redeemer’ is our recognizing the audacity of His plan - that could only be afforded by an all loving God. This light that is offered is not for those that need its warmth. This light illuminates the reality of His love. Do you see what I see?
Lord, you know I love you. But, I am so busy this season and I am desperate for your presence in my life. Today, I set aside my energies to just be with You. And in this brief time, I ask that Your Holy Spirit, my Helper, would point me to your loving light and reveal your love to my needy soul. Cleanse me from my willfulness to work so hard to deserve your love. I accept your love out of my deep need. Let your light shine through me so that others might see you. Amen.

Day 11: December 13

Ben Spotts, Executive Director
John 1:11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.
There's a famous Christmas carol that says, "Christmas Eve will find me / Where the love light gleams / I'll be home for Christmas." But what if you arrived home and faced rejection?

Jesus ministered among family and friends, many of whom appeared to reject him. They spoke his language, knew his culture, and understood his preferences. But they "did not receive" his message, his actions, nor him as a person once he began his ministry as the Messiah.

If you faced rejection this year, how did you feel? What will you do if you're belittled or ignored this Christmas season? Jesus knows your pain.

But he also promises that, unlike humans, the Son of God will never reject you. "My sheep listen to my voice...No one will snatch them out of my hand." (John 10:27-29) "[Nothing] will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:35-39) "He will never leave you nor forsake you." (Deut. 31:8)

Jesus wraps us in his presence, comfort, and strength. Like an Oregon fog on a cold, winter evening. Like a pair of hands around a warm cup of coffee. Like soft sand on Cannon Beach around your toes. And if we can live in the light of the truth of his unwavering acceptance, we can love others unconditionally. We can "receive" those who God puts in our path. We can bless our own people even when they don't deserve it.
Jesus, you were rejected temporarily, but accepted by your Heavenly Father eternally. You felt the pain of rejection, but extended an undying love to people who were rejected. May I live in the promise that I will always be in your hands. Help me rest in your embrace this Advent. Help me extend your love to others.

Day 12: December 14

Dan Crawford, Co-Director of DNA Group Ministry
John 1:12 Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God
There are four key words in this verse: received, believed, right, and children.

During this Advent season, as our thoughts are occupied with Christmas and presents, nativity scenes, angels, Mary and Joseph, and the baby Jesus, what does it mean for us to receive, believe, to have the right to something, and to become children?

To receive a gift it must be offered to us. As we have been reading in the devotionals leading up to today, we have seen that God sent his Son to the world but not everyone received him. We all have the opportunity to receive the gift of Jesus that is offered to us. It is free, but we have to take it.

And once taken, we have to believe that the gift is real. Just like a child believes the toy they have received is real, we have to believe that Jesus is real. That if we believe in him, like a child believes that her or his mother and father will always be there, he will always be there.

And God says that when that happens, when we receive the gift of Jesus and believe in him, we have the right to be his children. What is a “right?” It means that we are God’s children just like Jesus is his son. When we receive his gift and believe, we become his daughters and sons, and he is very proud of us. Just as he said to Jesus: “You are my Son, chosen and marked by my love, pride of my life.”
Lord God, this Advent season, we rejoice that you sent Jesus as a gift for all mankind, that we can all receive him and trust in him and become his children. Thank you that this is the message of Christmas. Amen.

Day 13: December 16

Nancy Anderson, Director of Pastoral Care
John 1:13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.
As we come to this season where people are presented with the Christ Child as the hope of the world, the Life that brings light into the darkness, we are reminded of the choice to believe that mankind is the determiner of its destiny or are we created by a holy and righteous God who through His power and might offers regeneration and rebirth to those who believe in Jesus as we read in John 1:12.

The ”who” in v.12 refers to the many who DID receive Him and goes on to share three ways it did not happen: Not by blood or physical birth, not by natural descent - no matter how good our parents may be, our relationship to them has no effect on our salvation., and third, not by the will of man – we cannot cause ourselves to be born into the family of God. Our new origin as Christians is when we believe in Jesus’ death on the cross to pay for our sins.

What an amazing gift we are given – the opportunity to believe in Jesus – but our stubborn independence and sin nature want us to think we can do it ourselves without God. This is the eternal question each of us must face – will we trust in our human capacity, in the faith of our parents or grandparents, or in our own ability to do something only God can do? This season, we are reminded that all things came into being through Him and apart from Him we can do nothing. What a great reminder to settle into the goodness of God and the promises in His Word that Jesus has come to give us the right to be born again by His power and might. Trust Jesus. He is the source of our spiritual birth.
Lord Jesus, You are the Light of the World. You bring light into the darkness, and You make it possible for me to be fully accepted by a holy and righteous God because of what You did for me on the cross. Jesus, help me never to be so blind and obstinate to think that I could do this for myself. Help me to humbly and gratefully receive what You have done on my behalf. Thank you that because I believe, Your light is now at work in my life. I am overwhelmed by your extravagant love and offer my praise and gratitude this Christmas season. Amen.

Day 14: December 17

Paul Choi, Lead Pastor
John 1:1-14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.
As Christmas approaches, we’re reminded of the beauty and mystery of the Incarnation: God becoming human in the person of Jesus Christ. This powerful truth is what sets Christianity apart—our God didn’t remain distant or aloof, but came to dwell among us, walking in our shoes, feeling our pain, and sharing in our joys and struggles.

The Gospel of John describes Jesus as the "Word,” the divine force and wisdom through which all things were made. This Word wasn’t merely a distant deity, but God Himself, who chose to come near. In John 1:14, we read that "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us." This verse tells us that Jesus took on human form and entered our world. The God who crafted galaxies and shaped the universe became a vulnerable child, born into a world of pain and suffering, all to rescue and restore us.

This is the heart of Christmas. The Incarnation is a radical act of divine humility, revealing a God who is not bound by human expectations. Instead of coming as a conquering ruler, Jesus came as a humble servant, embracing our humanity to draw us close to Himself. Through the Incarnation, God turned earthly ideas of power and divinity upside down. He didn’t come to lord over us, but to walk beside us, sharing in the full experience of human life.

The message of Christmas invites us to embrace this humble heart of God, recognizing that He is not far away but intimately present with us. In times of joy and sorrow, in our triumphs and failures, He is Emmanuel—God with us.

This Advent, may we find comfort in the incredible reality of the Incarnation. May we marvel at the humility of a God who would leave heaven’s glory to walk alongside His creation. And may we be inspired to live with the same humility, grace, and love that God showed us through Jesus Christ.
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, who left the glory of heaven to dwell among us. In His humble birth, we see Your heart—a heart that reaches down to meet us in our weakness and need. This Advent, fill our hearts with awe and gratitude for the miracle of the Incarnation. Help us to embrace the humility and love that You demonstrated through Jesus. Teach us to walk in His footsteps, with compassion and grace for others. May we never forget that You are Emmanuel, God with us, now and always.
In Jesus' name, Amen.

Day 15: December 18

Drew Fajen, Pastor of Youth and Their Families
John 1:15 John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”
The Gospel of John begins with a cosmic introduction to Jesus as the Logos of God. After hearing from the author John, we meet another John, John the Forerunner, “a man sent from God” who “Came as a witness.” The first words we hear from him are his testimony to who Jesus is. He tells the reader that Jesus is “He who comes after me” who “ranks ahead of me because He was before me.”

Jesus’ mother Mary told John’s mother Elizabeth about Jesus’ holy conception. As a fetus in his mother’s womb, John leapt for joy! John is leaping now as he makes straight the path for Jesus who comes after him. Yes, Jesus was born a few months after his cousin John so Jesus technically arrived after John. But more than birth order, we can see that Jesus’ arrival is after the old covenant. Jesus is beginning the new covenant, welcoming in new creation!

Jesus is after John, but Jesus was also before John. In his testimony, John suggests that Jesus is co-eternal with the Father. There never was a time when Jesus did not exist. Jesus has preeminent authority. Jesus has the ultimate rank, utmost dignity, and unmatched importance.

Just as Jesus was before and after John, Jesus is before and after you. Jesus is encircling and giving meaning to the story God is writing with your life. What testimony do you have to share of Jesus’ preeminent authority in the world, in your life? What witness do you have to give for Jesus’ new work through His Spirit in your life today?
Father, as we consider the transcendence and imminence of your Advent, would you give us a testimony to share? Spirit, as you encircle our lives, giving breath and animating life, would you empower us to speak this Good News with the people around us? Jesus, You are the reason for our hope. Let us leap and live like John, paving the way for Your Kingdom as we share our testimonies.

Day 16: December 19

Ananda Bossois Moura, Director of Worship and the Arts
John 1:13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.
There is no measurement for His grace. We are prompted to think this way by meditating on how the verse begins, “from (out of) His fullness,” as well as how it concludes, “grace upon grace.”...

[pause to think of times when God supplied and multiplied providentially throughout scriptures]

The most astonishing thing is what lies in the middle of the verse: we have all received. This unlimited, unending grace was given to ALL. This gift of grace is bestowed upon the entire Earth—not just the Jews, not just those with rights to the inheritance as children of God, not just those who seek God’s face, and not just those who obey His law.

His grace is granted to those who are still learning to love their neighbors as themselves. It is given to those who make mistakes—as parents, Christians, church leaders, [fill in the blank]. This is the beauty of grace; in place of well deserved punishment, a gift of victory over sin is given through our Lord Jesus. His grace is offered time and again when we stumble. Yes, God’s grace is given throughout the whole road of sanctification.

This is not a one-time event. Through Jesus’ sacrifice (which was done once and for all), we are on salvation’s road. Without grace sin and shame could paralyze and get us stuck in the path. We need to accept our weakness to rely on His grace. His unlimited grace carries us through the way, it continually supports us, and will persist until we stand before him.

Praise God, there is nothing that will take us to a place where we will have reached the limits of His grace. So, be encouraged today, you cannot run out of God’s grace. In Jesus, there is no mistake, no sin, and no failure that is beyond the reach of His grace. From His fullness, He can supply you with grace upon grace to finally present you blameless before our Lord. Just receive and walk in God’s freedom, for it is through His grace we are set free from the bondage of sin and shame. Accept His grace upon grace already given, walk in His freedom and let the joy of The Lord fill you along the way.
“Now to him who is able to keep you from falling away, and to make you stand without blemish in the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, power, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.”
(Jude 1:24 - 25)

Day 17: December 20

Kim Bennett
John 1:17 For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
Here John appears to be drawing a contrast between “Law” and “grace and truth,” but in the context of the previous phrase, we understand the contrast to be one of degree. That is, whether “grace ἀντὶ grace” in v. 16 means “grace upon grace,” or (more likely) “one type of grace instead of another type,” we must acknowledge that the Law did indeed bring grace and truth.

Consider Moses’ admonition in Deut 4:8 – “Or what great nation is there that has statutes and judgments as righteous as this whole law which I am setting before you today?” The Law not only showed the truth about Yahweh and His nature, it graciously provided a way for anyone to draw near Him and atone for sin. More grace-laden than the laws of any other land and ahead of its time by over 3,000 years, the Law also provided hope to the poor or indentured, care for orphans and widows, relief to victims of sexual violence and capricious divorce, and anti-racist acceptance and even material inheritance for aliens living among the Jews.

Before the time of Christ, not only was the Law itself revered as the only path to the true God, Moses himself was revered as the Law-giver, the supreme voice of God among man. Yet here we see John lifting Christ above Moses – sacrilege to Jews then and now. This is echoed in Heb 3:1-6: “Jesus has been found worthy of greater honor than Moses … Moses was faithful as a servant in all God’s house, … But Christ is faithful as a son over His house.”

So while the Law did provide a measure of grace and truth, it did not have the power to transform – “it made nothing perfect.” Thus, “what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did … sending His own Son” (Rom 8:3), “bringing in a better hope, through which we draw near to God” (Heb 7:18-19).

One takeaway: while we ought marvel at the grace and truth that God provided through the Law, let us go on to embrace the greater provision afforded by the work of Christ. Since His grace has opened to us “a new and living way,” indeed “let us draw near to God” daily, and allow His truth to transform our hearts and minds (Heb 10:19-24).
Lord, I marvel at Your transforming grace; I will not be discouraged by the stubborn habits that so easily beset me, but confess that You began a good work and are bringing it to completion! “Lead me in Your truth and teach me,” I pray.

Day 18: December 21

Yoshiki Saeki, Pastor of Japanese Ministry
John 1:18 No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.
Once upon a time, God the Creator spoke to the first humans, Adam and Eve: "Where are you?"

We humans were created in God's image and form, but we wandered away from Him and became lost in God's eyes. Not only humans, but all creation has been distorted by the influence of sin and evil, and God's perfect and beautiful design has been ruined.

And so, time passed, and in the land of Bethlehem 2,000 years ago, the Bible now depicts humans searching for God. "Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews? We saw his star in the east, and have come to worship him." Now it is humans who are searching for God. ~No one has ever seen God at any time.~ As the Gospel of John tells us.

However, ever since the Garden of Eden, God has continued to search for us humans, speak to us, and reach out to us. He never gave up on us, and continued to do so through Israel and the prophets.

And finally, in the fullness of time, we will meet God the Father. This is none other than the only begotten God who was in the bosom of the Father, the incarnate Son of God, Jesus Christ, in whom the Word became flesh and dwelt.

That is why the Lord Jesus said to his disciples: But now you know the Father and have seen Him. We no longer need to search for Him blindly. In Advent 2024, we are invited together into the mystery, richness, and holy wonder of encountering Him.

conclusion: December 23

Paul Choi, Lead Pastor
1 John 1:1-4 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2 The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3 We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4 We write this to make our joy complete.
All Christians are the receivers, not the originators, of this news. None of us came to the Light; the Light of the World came to us. That is why our Triune God deserves your and my praise on this day. Glory to God, and peace on earth!

The author of the Hebrews states “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son (Heb. 1:1).” That is, Jesus is God’s Word to the world, God’s sermon to you and me. This gift of Incarnation is for us to receive, but also for us to live out. In this way, YOU ARE GOD’S SERMON to the world today.

Remember that the world Jesus came in was a world that was characterized by violence, oppression, tyranny, idolatry, exclusion and lament (Matt. 2:13-18). Not much has changed from then to today, as we continue to see and hear from today’s world. What message are you representing to the world today? What sermon are you preaching to those around you?

Even at this moment, I want to remind us that we are receivers – receivers of God’s grace and truth. We are not the originators of the good news to the world today, but witnesses to the Light. We are worshippers, who choose to sing of His joy and wonder, even in the midst of despair and depressing situations, because we have seen the Light. The Light has come. Whoever has ears and eyes, let them hear and see what God has done to the World. Things are not as they seem. The Emmanuel is here. In you. Among us. Through us. Hallelujah. Joy to the World!
Financial Report
As Pastor Paul shared this two weeks ago in Sunday worship services, we trust God to provide each year so that we break even financially. If we receive $852,000 by Dec. 31, we believe we'll cover all our ministries expenses, staff and missionary salaries, and campus upkeep. If you call Village your home church, we invite you to participate in November and December by giving about 2.3 times more than your average monthly amount. This is similar to last year's goal at the same point in the year and, if we work together again, we can carry on the vision and ministries God has given us.
Christmas Music in the Lobby
Village musicians of all ages! To mark our Advent Season, we want musicians to welcome people to the Sanctuary service with joyful Christmas music. We have four opportunities for musicians to play Christmas classics, so email to confirm today!
Join Our Christmas Eve Services!
Signs ups close November 25, don’t miss out! We invite all church members who love to sing and want to share in the joy of the season to participate in our Christmas Eve Vocal Ensemble! Your voice can be a part of a meaningful Christmas service and bless our community. If you’re interested in being part of this special celebration, please email to Worship Pastor Ananda Bossois Moura for more information. We look forward to hearing from you!
Sanctuary is Open for Prayer
Come for prayer in the Sanctuary, Monday-Saturday, anytime between 7am-10am. Keeping our ministry partners, friends, family, and those around the world in mind, the Sanctuary is now open for anyone to come and pray. Spend time with God, praying for the world and our nation, including the upcoming election. The Sanctuary will be open for morning prayer for the remainder of 2024.
Now Hiring: Custodian
Are you detail-oriented and hardworking, and do you find delight in keeping spaces clean, well-maintained, and hospitable? We're looking for a reliable and dedicated Custodian to join our team! In this part-time role, you'll be responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment. You'll handle general cleaning tasks and light maintenance, and ensure that our facilities reflect our dedication to hospitality for all who come onto our campus. If you're ready to make a real impact in a vital role, we'd love to hear from you! Please see the job description above for a detailed description and contact information for questions or to apply.
Now Hiring: Assistant Nursery Supervisor
Are you passionate about childcare and nurturing young minds in a multicultural, inclusive environment? We are seeking a dedicated Assistant Nursery Supervisor to join our vibrant team at Village where we are committed to creating a loving space in which every child feels valued and cared for. We celebrate inclusivity and foster a welcoming community for all. This part-time position includes mandatory Oregon Sick Time and a pay range starting at $16.70 dependent on level of experience. The role is budgeted for 12 hrs./wk. with some flexibility. Please send an introductory paragraph and details of your experience with childcare to
Pastor Pete DellaSantina.
Welcome to Village!
Welcome! We are so glad you're here experiencing our missional, multicultural community. Please consider stopping by the info counter or coming to the front of the stage during Sanctuary Greeting Time for your welcome gift and to meet some of our pastoral staff.

Our 8:15am Chapel Service is designed to be accessible to those who seek to know more about God and church as well as those who are long-time believers. The more intimate worship space and service rest on the timeless traditions of the global church as well as leaves open room for simplicity and creativity in our multicultural worship response. We sit at tables to worship in community and take communion weekly together as the body of Christ.

In our 10:30am Sanctuary Service, we engage with a diversity of cultures and languages as we worship and study the Word of our Diverse God together. You are welcome to make a joyful noise and join us in singing in a language other than your own! Our preaching team is made up of different cultural and language backgrounds, so we are blessed with Sundays when the preaching is in a different language than English, with live translation. Our non-native English-speaking church members do this weekly, so the larger church sharing this experience is important to to being a missional, multicultural community in Christ. 한국어 통역이 있습니다 y traducción en español. Nursery care for ages 0-3, Kids programming for ages Pre-K to 5th Grade, and Youth programming for 6th-12th Grade are also available.
Sermon Recap
Dr. Bassem Melki, "Blessed Are The Peacemakers"

The world in which we live is bitterly divided.  Polarization, sectarianism, national and international conflicts are the order of the day.  Our Christian convictions about peace, forgiveness, and hope – the gospel’s message of reconciliation, Jesus’ call to love our neighbor, and the honored role of peacemakers in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount – are being challenged.  How can we avoid being overtaken by hatred, pride, and a desire to seek revenge?

These tensions take many shapes.  What sort of challenges are you facing in your home?  In your neighborhood or workplace?  In our community as a church?  In our nation?  How do we work on preserving unity – or creating unity – in the face of polarization?

“Blessed are the peacemakers,” said Jesus, “for they will be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9).  Jesus is not telling us what to do in order to become sons of God, but rather describing God’s children, telling us that God’s children are, in fact, peacemakers, because they reflect the character of their Heavenly Father, “the God of peace” (1 Thess. 5:23) and of Jesus, the Prince of Peace.  What God loves, they love; what God desires, they desire.

The Greek word for peace is eirene.  It is derived from the word for to join or to unite – to tie together into a single whole, becoming one.  The focus is on the creation of a harmonious community rather than the individual.  Ephesians 2:15 says that, in Christ, people who were formerly alienated have become “one new person” as through Him.  The Christian ministry is, at its heart, a ministry of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:19).  In Christ, both those “who were far away” and “those who were near” now “have our access in one Spirit to the Father.”  “He Himself is our peace (eirene).” (Eph. 2:14; Heb. 7:1-3).

Eirene is a forceful word in the New Testament, an active force to transform persons, communities, relationships, and situations.  Rather than being undermined by difficult circumstances, eirene is a peace that impacts situations and circumstances for the well-being of others and of communities.  In fact, it sounds, not just active, but aggressive in a few New Testament texts:  “The God of eirene peace will shortly crush Satan under your feet” (Rom. 16:20).  God’s peace undermines the slander, enmity, and lies that Satan uses to destroy relationships and communities.

The sense of the word translated “peacemakers” in Matthew 5:9 (eirenopoios)could be highlighted by translating it “peace-workers.”  The Greek word for “maker” is poieo, meaning “to do,” “to cause,” “to produce,” or “to bear.”  So peacemakers are active agents, working at creating peace.  They are peace-doers, peace-causers, peace-producers, and peace-bearers.  They are troubled by conflict and injustice and take initiative to resolve conflict and effect justice in order to bring about harmony and well-being (shalom) in their communities.  

Peace-making is at the heart of God’s calling for His children.  While the enemy is out to destroy relationships, creating walls of hatred, hatred, and enmity, God is in the business of effecting healing and restoring relationships by building bridges.  We have no guarantees that this peacemaking work will result in peace-achieving.  But we take the initiative, and we stick with it, not because those we serve deserve it, or because we are guaranteed success, but because it is in line with our calling as the children of our “God of peace” (1 Thess. 5:23).

Discussion Questions
  1. Cite examples of conflicts or injustices that are troubling you.  How might you address them with a view to peace-making?  Does your group have any suggestions on how to do so?
  2. Dr. Melki pointed out that God’s people lack credibility if we relate to others the same way the world relates.  As Jesus observed, “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you?  Even sinners love those who love them.  And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you?  Even sinners do that” (Luke 6:32-33).  Describe your experience with respect to loving those with whom you are at odds.
  3. On a personal level:  The first step in engaging constructively with those whose worldviews or values are very different from our own is to shift from a spirit of judgment to a spirit of curiosity.  I.e., to talk with them in order to understand why they think or feel the way they do, rather than to be “right” – i.e., to ask ourselves the question, “Why are they so different?” not in frustration, but with genuine curiosity.  Is there someone with whom you can apply this principle?  (Holiday gatherings might provide opportunities to apply this principle!)

Responsive Worship

As we collectively reflect on Sunday's message, use this space as a safe place to respond to God's calling and share your reflection on the preaching. All submissions are anonymous.
Responsive Worship

Conversation Guide Archive

Looking for a past discussion guide? All Conversation Guides can be found on the Village Beaverton app. Visit the Experience Village page to download the app and stay connected.
Experience Village

Christmas Eve

You are invited to join us for candlelit, multilingual services
5pm Sanctuary Service: Live Korean Translation available for the full service. Nursery care available for ages 0-3. Livestream available on YouTube.
7pm Sanctuary Service: Live Spanish translation available for the full service.

All ages and backgrounds are welcome to join us. Come raise your voices in many heart languages and styles! Free hot chocolate will be available in the lobby for your enjoyment before and after the services. Merry Christmas!

Contact

330 SW Murray Blvd 
Beaverton, OR 97005
Phone: 503-643-6511
Email: info@villagebeaverton.com

church Office

Mon-Thurs 9am-4pm
Fri 9am-12pm
Sat-Sun closed

Worship Center

Mon-Thurs 8am-2pm
Fri & Sat closed
Sun 8am-1:30pm

Village Café

Mon-Fri 8am-2pm
Sat-Sun closed