July 27, 2023

Hello Advent Family,

Have you been around someone who was singularly focused? I am currently in downtown Louisville and it feels like the area I am in is singularly focused on bourbon. Every restarting, bar, and even hotel has a bourbon focus. When you walk the street there are signs everywhere that say Louisville the birthplace of bourbonism. I’m sure much of this is playing into the tourism that is associated with people going on the bourbon trail. It got me thinking however about this passage of scripture from. Colossians 3. Let’s look at it together today. 

“If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.”

What might it look like if we all had a more singular focus on things above. If we avoided some of the sidetracks that life can send us down and devoted more time and attention to God. I suspect it might be like my experience here. Everything in our lives would point people to God just like Louisville seems to be pointing everyone to bourbon. Imagine how impactful that would be in our communities, families, and even our church. I pray that we might all be a people who set our minds on things above and see how God uses that in and through our lives. 

In His Grip, 

Pastor Dave


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July 26, 2023

Hello Advent Family,

This morning I got up early to head out on a trip with some good friends.  I recently did the TSA pre check process because I hate lines.  I do not like to wait at all.  I went through the TSA pre check line and was smiling as I watched my friend, Kevin go through the regular line.  I got up to the front only to be told that they had not put my TSA pre check status on my boarding pass.  That meant I now had to go all the way back through the regular line.  One advantage of arriving at the airport at 5:30 AM is that the lines are not too bad so it wasn’t a huge deal but it made me think about how sometimes we need to wait.  Sometimes we even need to wait on God.  It reminded me of this passage from Isaiah 40.

Do you not know?
    Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
    the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
    and his understanding no one can fathom.

29 

He gives strength to the weary
    and increases the power of the weak.

30 

Even youths grow tired and weary,
    and young men stumble and fall;

31 

but those who wait on the Lord
    will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
    they will run and not grow weary,
    they will walk and not be faint.

When we wait on God good things happen in our lives.  He gives us the strength that we need to accomplish the things that He has for us to get done.  He gives us strength when we feel like we have reached the end of our rope.  I know that I am going to make sure my TSA pre check status is entered before I fly back this weekend but I was also reminded that sometimes waiting isn’t a bad thing.  Especially when it comes to waiting on God.

In His Grip,

Pastor Dave


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July 25, 2023

Hello Advent Family,

Have you ever had one of those rough night’s sleep?  I leave my phone on at night because every once in a while I will get a late night call from someone who needs to talk to a Pastor.  Those calls never bother me and after I hung up around 12:30 I prayed for the person and I think fell quickly to sleep.  After that however I got three more robo calls last night that woke me up between 1:00am-3:30am.  After that it was tossing and turning and not much rest.  I finally gave up around 5:30 and decided to head to the beach for the sunrise and some time with God.  It was a good decision.  I was reminded of this passage from Lamentations 3.

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
    for his compassions never fail.

23 

They are new every morning;
    great is your faithfulness.

24 

I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion;
    therefore I will wait for him.”

25 

The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him,
    to the one who seeks him;

26 

it is good to wait quietly
    for the salvation of the Lord.

27 

It is good for a man to bear the yoke
    while he is young.

God’s compassion and love never falls short in our lives.  When we seek Him we always find Him.  This morning the sunrise, the ocean, and some time with God was exactly what I needed to reset.  I was grumpy and irritable after the night I had and left the beach totally refreshed and happy.  God has a way of meeting us where we are and giving us a fresh dose of His love. Whether you had a night like mine or a great, restful night’s sleep seek to be filled with a fresh dose of God’s amazing love today. 

In His Grip,

Pastor Dave


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July 24, 2023

Hello Advent Family,

This morning I witnessed an interaction in the parking lot that encouraged me.  At first, I thought I was going to have to break up a fight.  Two people were vying for the same parking spot and one person whipped in while the other person, who was there first was waiting.  He jumped out quickly and the other person parked a few spots away.  While they were both headed to the store the first man, who stole the spot began yelling something at the second man.  I couldn’t quite understand what he was saying but as I got closer I realized he was taunting the man.  It was like he was trying to pick a fight.  The second man simply listened.  He was a good bit larger and appeared to be significantly more fit than the angry man who was yelling but he simply listened.  I was getting upset on his behalf and asked if everything was ok as I walked over.  He said to me that his God says to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.  I introduced myself and thanked him for being such a good example and living out his faith.  I think his actions are enough of a devotional for us all but here is the text from James 1 that he was referring to. 

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. 21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. 26 Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. 27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

Talking to him further he said, that he used to be a very angry person and God has been working on that in his life and seems to give him lots of opportunities such as this morning to work on this.  We are constantly faced with opportunities each day to encourage others and share the love of Christ simply by how we live.  I pray that our lives might all minister to others like this man ministered to me today. 

In His Grip,
Pastor Dave


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July 21, 2023

Hello Advent Family,

Do you have a morning routine?  Something that you always begin your day with to get started.  For some it is the gym or exercise.  Others lay in bed and hit snooze 3-4 times.  Some have to start with their morning coffee.  Others maybe it’s sitting down and thinking about the day ahead.  One thing that I am grateful for is that since I started writing this daily devo in March 2020.  This has been my mourning routine.  Even if there is something I must do immediately, I am thinking about this first thing when I wake up.  I find that it has greatly helped me to start the day well.  Let’s look at what David says about the refreshing impact of starting the day in the Word.

The law of the Lord is perfect,
    refreshing the soul.
The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy,
    making wise the simple.

The precepts of the Lord are right,
    giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the Lord are radiant,
    giving light to the eyes.

The fear of the Lord is pure,
    enduring forever.
The decrees of the Lord are firm,
    and all of them are righteous.

They are more precious than gold,
    than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
    than honey from the honeycomb. 

By them your servant is warned;
    in keeping them there is great reward.

This exact passage of scripture is repeated three separate times in the Psalms.  This indicates to me that not only was it important to David but that also he needed a reminder about it.  Many people over the years have asked me if I write these ahead of time or “borrow” other material but the reality is that this helps me to do this every morning probably more than it helps anyone else.  It is a chance to reflect on what God is doing and has done in my life.  It is a chance to encourage others which in turn does build me up as well.  I’m not trying to pursue anyone to read God’s word for the selfish benefits it provides, but I am giving us all a reminder of the power of God’s word in our lives when we start our day right.  I pray that you all have a great day.  I know that I am off to a good start.

In His Grip,

Pastor Dave


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July 20, 2023

Hello Advent Family,

I think we can learn a lot from dogs.  Especially when it comes to how to treat others.  Dogs are ridiculously loyal.  They get so excited to see you or to see other dogs.  When they go into “new” situations they immediately go low and humble themselves in submission.  As humans we often exhibit the opposite of these behaviors.  Instead of unwavering loyalty we look out for ourselves.  Instead of humbling ourselves we boast and seek to impress others.  We certainly don’t show as much excitement to greet others.  Paul’s instructions in Romans 12 suggest that we could learn a lot from dogs.  Let’s look at it together today.  

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.  Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 

I don’t know about you but I think that often dogs do a better job with this list than we do.  Why is that?  Perhaps we are caught in the trap of looking out for our own interests and needs instead of the needs of others.  Maybe it’s because we have been treated poorly and are trying to “protect” ourselves.  Whatever the reason we need to strive to live a dogs life a little bit better.  Yesterday I was trying to relax and one of my dogs, Willow, wanted attention.  She kept nuzzling up next to me and wagging her tail and wanting to simply be next to me.  I gave her a few pets and told her to go away.  She was unfazed and kept coming back.  Eventually she won the “power struggle” and was content to just lay her head next to me while I watched tv.  I got to thinking about this topic and how often times we treat others like I did Willow.  We give them the minimum and tell them to go away with our words or body language.  Today look for someone you can love well simply by your presence.  Sometime sitting next to someone else is all that they need.

In His Grip,

Pastor Dave


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July 19, 2023

Hello Advent Family,

Have you ever been facing a difficult situation but you were not afraid because of who was with you? I remember when I was a younger kid going away to sleep away camp.  I thought the coolest guy at the whole camp was the lifeguard named Bo.  He was always surrounded by girls, was the football star at his high school and he played the guitar and led our music time.  I found out that we could become junior lifeguards and i was all in the only problem is to qualify you had to swim all the way across the dark scary lake.  I was very nervous until I found out that Bo was going to swim right next to me and keep away the snakes, alligators and lake monsters that were for sure waiting under that dark scary water.  With Bo next to me I was no longer afraid.  Life can be scary and daunting at times as well but let’s look at this promise from the book of Isaiah about who is “swimming” by our side.

“But you, Israel, my servant,
    Jacob, whom I have chosen,
    you descendants of Abraham my friend,

I took you from the ends of the earth,
    from its farthest corners I called you.
I said, ‘You are my servant’;
    I have chosen you and have not rejected you.

So do not fear, for I am with you;
    do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

“All who rage against you
    will surely be ashamed and disgraced;
those who oppose you
    will be as nothing and perish.

Though you search for your enemies,
    you will not find them.
Those who wage war against you
    will be as nothing at all. 

For I am the Lord your God
    who takes hold of your right hand
and says to you, Do not fear;
    I will help you.

Do not be afraid, you worm Jacob,
    little Israel, do not fear,
for I myself will help you,” declares the Lord,
    your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.

I love the ending, “I, myself will help you declares the Lord”.  When we know that no matter what difficulties life throws at us God is by our side and will help us, life just seems a little bit easier.  Today as you walk through life remind yourself of this passage and imagine God taking hold of your right hand and saying do not fear I will help you.  He will do just that!
 
In His Grip,
Pastor Dave

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July 18, 2023

Hello Advent Family,

Have you gotten to the age (which I am at now) where you just wake up sometimes with aches and pains and feeling tired before your day has begun?  Some days it is just hard to get started.  Usually a little exercise in the morning will put some pep in your step but sometimes the weary feeling remains.  Jesus talks about what to do when we feel weary in Matthew 11.  Let’s look at His words together today. 

At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. 26 Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do. 27 “All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. 28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

I don’t believe that Jesus is speaking so much about physical weariness as He is emotional and spiritual and even mental weariness.  We all feel weary and burdened sometimes.  Too often I know that I have a tendency to just try and push or fight through it.  It is so important that we take the time to stop and rest in the arms of Jesus.  He is there for us and makes our burdens light.  He walks with us and often carries us through the challenges we face.  I know in my experience, spending time with Jesus also resets my mind and gives me a better perspective.  The challenges in front of me don’t seem quite as big or daunting.  So today and everyday if you feel weary take some time and rest with Jesus.  You just may find that things improve from there.  I know they will!

In His Grip,
Pastor Dave


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July 17, 2023

Hello Advent Family,

This morning I walked on the beach.  The ocean was as still as a lake and the walk was incredibly peaceful.  That was a contrast to last night as I walked my dogs.  A storm rolled in when we were a ways from home the rain and thunder picked up quickly and a nice walk turned to a jog and then quickly to a run.  My oldest dog, Stella is terrified of thunder.  She usually likes to stroll leisurely on the evening walk but not when a storm rolls in.  She quickly switches to greyhound mode and pulls to get home.  One time it started raining and storming so badly that we looked for cover instead of trying to make it home.  Stella couldn’t go to her normal “hiding spot” that she has in the house so she got as close to me as she could.  She would have loved for me to pick her up and hold her but she is about 90 lbs so she settled for hiding between my legs.  She was still afraid but she felt a little bit better knowing I was with her.  The storms of life can be frightening and we all look for security when they arrive.  Let’s look at how the disciples responded when a storm came their way in Mark 4.

That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”41 They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”

The disciples knew that Jesus was the person to turn to when the storms of life hit.  They just didn’t have the faith that he would keep them safe through the storms.  One guarantee we can all count on is that we will face storms in life.  Jesus may not immediately calm the storm like he did for the disciples (and I failed miserably to do so for Stella), but He will be there with us every step of the way.  The next time you face one of life’s storms, thank Jesus for weathering the storm with you.  I think you will find comfort knowing that the One who can calm the storm is there right beside you.

In His Grip,
Pastor Dave


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July 14, 2023

Hello Advent Family,

Have you experienced the loss of a close friend or loved one?  I suspect we all have experienced grief at some point in our lives.  There is also a time of reflecting on the life of our loved one.  My friend, Ron Tobias, passed away late Wednesday night.  I have been reflecting on his well lived life for the last day.  He was a good friend and mentor for me and for so many.  My Facebook feed is littered with testimonials about him.  I have been thinking about the words found in 2Timothy 4.  Let’s look at them together today. 

For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

These verses were certainly true in the life of my friend, Ron.  My prayer is that they will be true for all of us as well.  That we would fight the good fight.  I pray that we would all work and even fight to use our gifts to share the love of Christ.  I pray that we might all finish the race.  Whether we are toward the end of our earthly race or just getting started we need to be sure to finish well.  The author of Hebrews reminds us to throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles and run with perseverance the race marked out for us.  The way we do that is to fix our eyes on Jesus. Ron did that well and I pray that we would also.  I also pray that we would keep the faith.  Life has a way of beating and battering our faith at times but we are called to hold fast to our faith despite the storms of life.  I know that for all of us a crown of righteousness awaits us as heirs and children of the king.  While I miss my friend, I smile knowing that Ron has that crown on right now and he sits with his friend, his king Jesus.

In His Grip,
Pastor Dave


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