Daily Advent Devotionals

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13

Think about your story. Each season is deeply personal and unique, known ahead of time by the God Who sees you and walks alongside you. Our stories are complex and layered, full of rich encounters with God mixed with dry times of confusion and doubt.

I long for more of God’s hope, peace, love, and joy in my story, don’t you? But sometimes, I remove God from that desire, looking to other things to fill me. I eat all the ice cream, I watch all the shows, and I read all the magazines. I might even sit quietly and think about the actual words—hope, peace, love, joy—or read about them, filling my head with knowledge. But where does that leave my heart and my soul?

Today’s passage is clear: if I want to experience these blessings, I need to acknowledge that it is God who fills me up by the power of the Holy Spirit. When I put my trust in Him—when I focus on Him instead of myself and my circumstances and my coping mechanisms—I create space for Him to fill me with exactly what I need.

The birth (and death and resurrection) of Jesus Christ is a gift for all of us. We can leave Him where He is—beautifully wrapped and somewhat mysterious—at church, in our unused Bible, or in the lives of other people. Or we can choose to actively receive Him and include Him in our story.

He is with us, and His Spirit abides in us when we let Him in and seek to encounter Him every day. He is ready to fill us with His hope, peace, love, and joy not just on Christmas, but every day of the year.

Next Steps

If you want to encounter God, consider:

Talking to Him with a simple prayer.
Reading about Him in the Bible.
Starting a conversation with a friend who follows Him.
Reaching out to someone at Willow Creek during one of our weekend services.

If you haven’t yet attended one of Willow’s Christmas services, please join us in person or online! Check here for service dates, times, and online links for each campus.

Written by: Jennifer Grabianski, Core Content Associate, Adult Engagement Team

We invite you to set aside time to personally encounter God. To help you get started, we will provide Scripture, music, art, and journal prompts focused on the weekly Advent theme.

Begin by finding a quiet, comfortable place. Take deep breaths, inviting God to meet you there and help you quiet your mind. As you engage with Him, explore any of the following questions:

What is happening in and around you? What feelings are you experiencing?
How are you sensing God’s presence? (There’s no right or wrong way to experience God.)
What stands out to you in the Scripture, art, music, or in your own thoughts? What does that reveal to you about the God of joy?
What do you think God is saying to you?
How can spending time with God fill you with joy?

Encounter Jesus...

…Through Scripture:

You will show me the way of life,

granting me the joy of your presence

and the pleasures of living with you forever.

Psalm 16:11 (NLT)

But let the godly rejoice.

Let them be glad in God’s presence.

Let them be filled with joy.

Psalm 68:3 (NLT)

...Through Music:

“Joy to the World,” arrangement by Central Live; performed by Becky Johnson (North Shore), Eli Moore (Huntley), and Veronica Burlock (Wheaton), Matt Lundgren, Chi Can To, & Mario Gonzalez (South Barrington), David Thompson (Chicago), Joe Freeman (Crystal Lake), Meena Cho (cello), and Daniel Murphy (guitar)

...Through Art:

“Shepherds in the Field” by Steve Puttrich

...Through Journaling:

What does joy mean to you?
If you were to draw an image representing joy, what would you draw? Why? Even if you don’t consider yourself an artist, try drawing it!

Written by: Jennifer Grabianski, Core Content Associate, Adult Engagement Team

Scripture Reference

You make known to me the path of life;

in your presence there is fullness of joy;

at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Psalm 16:11 (ESV)

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;

I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

When you pass through the waters,

I will be with you;

and when you pass through the rivers,

they will not sweep over you.

When you walk through the fire,

you will not be burned;

the flames will not set you ablaze.

For I am the Lord your God,

the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”

Isaiah 43:1–3

Joy to the world, the Lord is come!

O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant

Joyful all ye nations rise

With joyful ring, all caroling

O tidings of comfort and joy

Have you heard or sung any of these Christmas lyrics this year?

When I sing these words, I sometimes feel a bright light shining deep within my soul. Other times, though, I question my emotions. Am I truly happy? Why am I struggling with anger or disappointment? I’m supposed to be celebrating! Then my inner critic comes alive: Why aren’t you happy? It’s Christmastime! Put a smile on your face and be joyful!

This glimpse into my noisy thought life illustrates the common confusion between happiness and joy. Though they seem similar, they are actually quite different. Happiness is an inconsistent emotion that lives at the surface. It comes and goes, changing our thoughts and feelings based on outward experiences involving people, places, ideas, events, success, and failure.

Joy, on the other hand, lives deep within our hearts, coming from a place of true contentment and peace, no matter our circumstances. It is an emotion that remains and sustains us even through trials, because it is based on Who God is. If we believe that God is the source of hope, peace, and love, we can experience lasting joy in His presence.

Certainly, there are lots of reasons to feel happy at Christmas. But it’s also a time of mixed emotions. We miss people who are no longer with us; we grieve visions of the future that haven’t come true; we spend time with troublesome people.

Do you feel the need to be happy throughout the holiday season? Practice adjusting that expectation. God sees you. He knows exactly what happened to you yesterday, what that person said to you last week, what you wish to be true in your life. He’s not asking you to be happy. He is offering you joy.

Next Steps

If you’re not experiencing joy right now, consider:

Spending more time with God through meditation, reading the Bible, or prayer. Acknowledge His presence with you and in you.
Paying attention to how often you compare yourself—job, appearance, home, etc.—to others. Consider limiting your time on social media.
Starting a gratitude journal. At the end of each day, no matter how hard it was, write down at least one simple thing you’re thankful for.

Written by: Jennifer Grabianski, Core Content Associate, Adult Engagement Team

Scripture Reference

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).

Matthew 1:22–23

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

Deuteronomy 31:6, 8

Have you ever encouraged someone to take a big risk or follow their dream by saying, “I am with you”? I heard those words a lot this year as I embarked on a new job several states away from home. That phrase gives me a lot of comfort, reminding me that I’m not alone.

One of the things people fear most in life is loneliness. We all desire to be wanted, needed, and loved. It’s why this time of year is often hard. Many people are not physically or relationally close to their families, and most of us have lost loved ones. The pandemic and subsequent worldwide shutdown have added to the burden of loneliness.

That’s why God sending His Son, Jesus, to be Immanuel—God With Us—is such a pivotal part of our story as believers. We never again have to be alone. He is God With Us when we’re at our worst and at our best, when we’re trying to get up for the day, and when we’re binge-watching our favorite show at night. He is God With Us when we’re struggling with infertility, rejoicing after a new job offer, or living in the mundane.

One of the greatest images of God With Us is the traditional nativity scene. Jesus lies in that little manger as both wise men and shepherds come to praise the same God we serve today—the God Who came to dwell among us. He promises to never leave us. And He always keeps His promises.

Joy to the world, the Lord has come!

Next Steps

Pause to recognize that God is with you, right now, no matter what it is you’re doing. How does it feel to be with Him? What would you like to say to Him? What is He saying to you?
On Tuesdays during this series, we invite you to meditate on an original piece of art by congregant Marsha English. Each week, you’ll see a new layer that symbolizes that week’s traditional Advent theme.
- This week, the wise men symbolize JOY. How do you see the theme of joy represented in this week’s image?
- Marsha created versions of her artwork for each campus so that all Willow attendees can see it throughout Advent. Have you found it in the lobby at your campus?
Listen to Phil Wickham’s “Joy to the World (Joyful, Joyful)” and For King & Country’s “For God Is With Us” as you praise God for being Immanuel.

Written by: Mary Thevatheril, Admin + Project Manager, Arts & Worship Core Team

Scripture Reference

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

Luke 2:8–11

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear.

1 John 4:18

We’re almost there!

We use this joy-filled phrase often—when we go on vacation, when we’re about to finish a project, and in this season of Advent as we wait for Christmas Day.

The shepherds in today’s passage were probably afraid when the glory of God met them in their fields in the form of an angel. They could have frozen in place or even run away. But despite their fear, they chose to move out of their comfort zone, toward the shining light, leading to the best destiny of all. Later in the chapter, Luke shares with us the scene in Bethlehem when the shepherds met Jesus. When they see the manger from afar, you can imagine them saying in utter excitement, We’re almost there!

What part of the journey toward Jesus are we in? Has the light of Christ illuminated the path for us to move toward Him, shifting our perspectives in our relationships, hearts, and priorities? And once we see that path, do we become confused and stuck in fear, doubt, or uncertainty? Or are we walking toward that place of hope, peace, and love with faith? Are we almost there?

Let's put our imaginations to work. (I would tell you to close your eyes, but then you couldn't read.) Can you see the shepherds walking toward Bethlehem? Let's pause with them to look at the stable from afar, and let's breathe. (Breathe with me!)

Now keep walking toward Jesus (C’mon, keep up with me!), and let's enter the stable with the shepherds. We are all welcome just as we are. God’s presence clears our doubts, His truth cancels our fears, His light illuminates our hearts, and His breath brings peace and hope over all our circumstances. Say it out loud with me: We have arrived! He is our Savior!

Next Steps

As we get closer to celebrating the birth of our Savior, how will you pause to spend time with the beautiful hope and light in our lives called Jesus Christ?
Jesus is a fear-breaker. When we encounter Him, there is no need to be afraid. Read Isaiah 41:10, Matthew 10:31, and 2 Timothy 1:7. What fears can you place in Jesus’ hands today?

Written by: Fabian Garza, Willow Español Pastor

Scripture Reference

Each Friday, we invite you to set aside time to personally encounter God. To help you get started, we will provide Scripture, music, art, and journal prompts focused on the weekly Advent theme.

Begin by finding a quiet, comfortable place. Take deep breaths, inviting God to meet you there and help you quiet your mind. As you engage with Him, explore any of the following questions:

What is happening in and around you? What feelings are you experiencing?
How are you sensing God’s presence? (There’s no right or wrong way to experience God.)
What stands out to you in the Scripture, art, music, or in your own thoughts? What does that reveal to you about the God of love?
What do you think God is saying to you?
How can spending time with God fill you with love?

Encounter Jesus...

…Through Scripture:

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Luke 2:10–12

And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Ephesians 3:17–19

...Through Music:

“Silent Night” sung by Veronica and Sonya Burlock (Wheaton Campus Worship)

...Through Art:

“Love Incarnate” by Hannah Garrity

A Sanctified Art, LLC | sanctifiedart.org

...Through Journaling:

What does love mean to you?
If you were to draw an image representing love, what would you draw? Why? Even if you don’t consider yourself an artist, try drawing it!

Written by: Jennifer Grabianski, Core Content Associate, Adult Engagement Team

Scripture Reference

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. … We love because he first loved us.

1 John 4:11–12, 19

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

1 Corinthians 13:1–3

My mom has a collection of memorable phrases, little nuggets of wisdom she repeats, hoping they will take root in my life. Sayings such as, Take your vitamin D. Make sure to get your sleep. Invest whatever you can afford when you’re young. They all point towards grounding me in healthy practices.

More than anything, she often reminds me, It’s all about people. Our life and our faith are about our relationships with God and one another. They’re about how we love.

The Christmas story is an incredible example—and a rather unusual expression—of what love can look like. Christ, sent in love to redeem our broken relationship with God, relinquished his divine privileges to become an ordinary human. He was to be the king of everything, yet He was born into obscurity. This expression of love lacked the typical fanfare we associate with grand gestures, yet it was the most powerful, important, and lasting act of love the world has ever known.

Our first response is often praising and thanking God for His incredible love for us. Our following response should be to love people, because if we do not love each other, we have missed the point. As today’s passage says, we may have hope in Christ, and God our Father may grant us peace, but we can only fully experience His love for us when we love one another.

There are infinite ways to express love, and you can be intentional in each expression, big or small. When we love each other, we love Him. However you decide to love people this Christmas season, do so with purpose and care, because—as my mom always says—it’s all about people.

Next Steps

Using the love and gifts God has given you, get creative with expressing love to others! Learn someone’s favorite game so they don’t have to play alone. Invite all of the neighborhood kids to build a snow fort together in a local park. Listen to someone who simply needs to experience love and care. Whatever you do, commit to loving others as God loves you.

Written by: Kendra Alexander, South Barrington Communication Coordinator

Scripture Reference

“For here is the way God loved the world—he gave his only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life.

“God did not send his Son into the world to judge and condemn the world, but to be its Savior and rescue it!”

John 3:16–17 (TPT)

Do you have any childhood memories of the Christmas season that are fresh in your mind to this day?

I can still feel the excitement of one such moment. I was looking for something in the hallway closet near my bedroom. And then, I discovered it. On the top shelf, way above my reach, nestled in the back of the closet, was the hiding place. I hit the jackpot! I found the secret location where my parents put the Christmas gifts before they had time to wrap them and place them under the tree.

I remember one particular gift I discovered there. It was a giant “Transformer” toy called Metroplex, and it was the size of a small city. The crazy thing is, even though I discovered it days in advance, it didn’t take away from the joy I felt when I finally got to open it on Christmas. In fact, it was the opposite. The anticipation of opening the gift only made the joy of receiving it all the more special!

That’s what’s at the core of the Christmas story. Every Christmas, we are reminded that we have received the ultimate gift—Jesus, God’s Son—and the salvation and life that comes through Him. And when we accept Jesus as our Savior, we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. His presence not only gives us peace and joy and life for today; He fills us with anticipation for the ever-unfolding riches of life with Him—today, tomorrow, and for all eternity.

He truly is the “gift that keeps on giving.” With the Holy Spirit in our hearts, each day—not just around Christmas, but throughout the year—we can be like the kid staring up at the top shelf of that closet, filled with anticipation and wonder at what new gifts await!

Next Steps

Galatians 5:22–23 lists the fruit of the Spirit: “Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control.” These are gifts that the Holy Spirit wants to cultivate in your life.

As you think about the final 10 days heading toward Christmas, which of these fruits of the Spirit feels like the biggest gift to you?
Pause right now and boldly ask God to give you more of this gift. His Spirit is in you, and He wants to give it to you!

Enjoy this gift from Willow’s Arts & Worship Team: a delightful Christmas playlist!

Written by: Todd Katter, Huntley Campus Pastor

Scripture Reference

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”

Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”

After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Matthew 2:1–2, 7–11

What’s the best Christmas gift you ever received?

I love to ask people that question, but when I try to answer it myself, I find my memories somewhat fuzzy. I can picture myself sitting under the tree—as a child and later as a parent—squealing with delight as torn wrapping paper revealed thoughtful surprises lovingly selected just for me. Even as I type these words, I can feel the joyful emotions, but I have a hard time naming specific gifts. Though they were important to me then, their importance and usefulness have faded over time.

Today’s passage mentions three gifts that time has not forgotten. The Magi were wise men from the East—possibly Persia—who had most likely studied Old Testament prophecies about the birth of the Messiah. They traveled over 800 miles with expensive gifts for Jesus—gifts traditionally given to a king. When they arrived, they bowed down in worship, offering their gifts in love, honor, and humility.

The act of giving gifts shows others how much we love and care for them. When I want to give a memorable gift, I think carefully about the recipient, imagining what meaningful item or experience would truly delight them. When God sent us the gift of Jesus, I like to think He did the same, but from His place of great wisdom and understanding. He did it out of love, knowing exactly what we needed and deeply desired. As Pastor Jim Warren writes, “Jesus is the most expensive gift we will ever receive, and He’s the only one that lasts forever.”

What will you do with God’s gift of Jesus?

Next Steps

Meditate on the concept of Jesus as God’s gift to us:

What does it look like to unwrap this gift?
Have you consulted the “instruction manual”—God’s Word?
How will you put this gift on display?

On Tuesdays during this series, we invite you to meditate on an original piece of art by congregant Marsha English. Each week, you’ll see a new layer that symbolizes that week’s traditional Advent theme.

This week, the wise men symbolize LOVE. How do you see the theme of love represented in this week’s image?
Marsha created versions of her artwork for each campus so that all Willow attendees can see it throughout Advent. Have you found it in the lobby at your campus?

Written by: Jennifer Grabianski, Core Content Associate, Adult Engagement Team

Scripture Reference

In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”

Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.”

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.

Luke 1:26–38

Imagine this improbable scene with me: An angel named Gabriel appears to a teenage girl to deliver a message—not just any message, but one that has the potential to alter the direction of human history.

Soon, the angel says, your life will change forever. You see, you will bear a son, but not just any son. You are going to carry the Son of God. As a side benefit, your name will become a name among all names. She would soon find out that gossip and character slander would accompany her significant delivery.

And let’s not forget that Mary was betrothed to a man named Joseph, and the marriage had not yet been consummated. Everything about this situation seemed impossible. What has struck me this Advent is the tenderness of the angel’s response. He saw Mary. He saw Joseph. He listened to Mary’s concerns. And then, he answered and gave a promise.

Mary, the Holy Spirit will come upon you and overshadow you. He is your peace. He continues with a statement of faith, promising another child born out of impossibility. And he ends the statement with a declarative statement: Nothing is impossible for God!

Impossibility is God’s specialty. It is the realm of our insecurity and helplessness. It is the place where our efforts and strength are rendered useless. It is where God shows Himself strong and where He—and He alone—receives the credit.

Mary—likely no more than 15 years old—responds by reflecting on what she just heard. Troubled and nervous, she utters an amazing sentence that ends their brief exchange: I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled. Immediately, she receives the message, by faith. There is no blueprint. She doesn’t ask for a week to get her affairs in order or confide in close family and friends. Mary responds in faith and obedience to God.

How about you?

Next Steps

Today, let’s journal to the Lord together.

Where are you facing areas of impossibility in your life? Spend the next 10 minutes in silence. Bring those areas to God.
Write a prayer to God about this area of your life.

Written by: Ed Ollie, North Shore Campus Pastor

Each Friday, we invite you to set aside time to personally encounter God. To help you get started, we will provide Scripture, music, art, and journal prompts focused on the weekly Advent theme.

Begin by finding a quiet, comfortable place. Take deep breaths, inviting God to meet you there and help you quiet your mind. As you engage with Him, explore any of the following questions:

What is happening in and around you? What feelings are you experiencing?
How are you sensing God’s presence? (There’s no right or wrong way to experience God.)
What stands out to you in the Scripture, art, music, or in your own thoughts? What does that reveal to you about the God of peace?
What do you think God is saying to you?
How can spending time with God fill you with peace?

Encounter Jesus...

…Through Scripture:

God is our refuge and strength,

an ever-present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way

and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,

though its waters roar and foam

and the mountains quake with their surging.

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,

the holy place where the Most High dwells.

God is within her, she will not fall;

God will help her at break of day.

Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;

he lifts his voice, the earth melts.

The Lord Almighty is with us;

the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Come and see what the Lord has done,

the desolations he has brought on the earth.

He makes wars cease

to the ends of the earth.

He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;

he burns the shields with fire.

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth.”

The Lord Almighty is with us;

the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Psalm 46

...Through Music:

“Prince of Peace” written by Joel Houston, Matt Crocker & Dylan Thomas; performed by Becky Johnson (North Shore), Eli Moore (Huntley), and Veronica Burlock (Wheaton)

Read the lyrics here.

...Through Art:

“Mary and Elizabeth” by Rev. Lauren Wright Pittman

Rev. Pittman | lewpstudio.com
A Sanctified Art, LLC | sanctifiedart.org

...Through Journaling:

What does peace mean to you?
If you were to draw an image representing peace, what would you draw? Why? Even if you don’t consider yourself an artist, try drawing it!

Written by: Jennifer Grabianski, Core Content Associate, Adult Engagement Team

Scripture Reference

“I leave the gift of peace with you—my peace. Not the kind of fragile peace given by the world, but my perfect peace.”

John 14:27 (TPT)

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Romans 12:18

Blessed are the peacemakers,

for they will be called children of God.

Matthew 5:9

Our world is full of conflict. The good news isn’t that God has called us out of conflict—He actually calls us into it! God charges those of us who are called by His name to be peacemakers.

Being a peacemaker isn’t about just pretending everything is OK (even when you feel like you’re about to burst). As Christians, we sometimes think that if we can just “keep our cool” and not blow up, we are peacemakers. But being a peacemaker involves far more than avoiding conflict or avoiding people who think differently than you do. It means actively working with others to bring about peace. It’s about being a change agent.

The work of being a peacemaker is some of the most humbling work I’ve ever done. When conflict comes up in my family, among friends, or at work, my first instinct is often to defend myself, my opinion, or my theology. After all, it’s what I know best! But being a peacemaker means that I need to take my eyes off of myself and actively seek to understand another person’s perspective. It means admitting that I may not have all the answers, understand every point of view, or even have the correct viewpoint. It means that my goal is not to “win” an argument or make people agree with me. Instead, the goal is to honor God and—together, when possible—seek His point of view.

There will always be disagreements, even among those who love God and want to follow Him wholeheartedly. But, when we humbly seek to understand one another, look at our part in a conflict, and seek God’s perspective, it becomes an opportunity to grow as a Christ follower. It will strengthen our relationships, as well. Peacemaking is hard work, but it’s good work. And when it feels impossible, remember these words from 1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

Next Steps

Who do you currently find yourself in conflict with? How can you seek to understand their perspective without trying to convince them of yours?
Reflect and pray through James 1:19–21, 4:1–12. What do these verses reveal to you about why we sometimes experience conflict?
To learn more about navigating conflict and seeking peace, check out the helpful tips and encouragement from Peacemaker Ministries.

Written by: Julie Davis, Associate Campus Pastor, Willow Crystal Lake

Scripture Reference

You, Lord, give true peace

to those who depend on you,

because they trust you.

Isaiah 26:3 (NCV)

“Submit to God, and you will have peace.”

Job 22:21 (NLT)

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6–7 (NLT)

I can always count on certain experiences to fill me with peace—what theologian Henri Nouwen calls “the fullness of wellbeing.” Cuddling up with a blanket and a hot cup of tea. Joining a friend for rich conversation. Experiencing the majesty of God in a vibrant sunrise.

But when I’m juggling family responsibilities, attacking my never-ending task list, or vying for a parking space and the perfect gift at the mall, peace seems to go into hiding. As my stress level rises, a humorous line from the TV show Seinfeld echoes in my head: “Serenity now!”

My soul is actually crying out for an emotional and spiritual peace that this world cannot give. In the 1930s, theologian Reinhold Niebuhr wrote about this peace in “The Serenity Prayer.” You’re probably familiar with its first three lines:

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,

Courage to change the things I can,

And wisdom to know the difference.

But I believe the best part of his prayer—the less-famous second half—holds the key to living with God’s peace in every moment:

Living one day at a time,

Enjoying one moment at a time,

Accepting hardship as a pathway to peace,

Taking, as Jesus did,

This sinful world as it is,

Not as I would have it,

Trusting that You will make all things right,

If I surrender to Your will,

So that I may be reasonably happy in this life,

And supremely happy with You forever in the next.

When I can't find peace, it’s usually because I’m fighting to hold on to control. I want things my way. And that want morphs into a need, fostering an internal struggle that began the moment I unconsciously shoved God off His rightful throne.

I’ve learned to practice a daily, moment-by-moment act of surrender to His will and His ways—even the ones that lead to pain or disappointment. I’ll often hold my open hands out to God, trading my burdens for His peace. I acknowledge that He is God and I am not and that He loves me more than I can understand, and I ask Him to help me trust Him with each outcome, big or small. Then I wait for His true peace to fill my heart, mind, and soul.

Next Steps

Set aside time to meditate on the entire “Serenity Prayer.” Talk to God about what you notice, and respond to Him with a personal prayer of surrender.

Written by: Jennifer Grabianski, Core Content Associate, Adult Engagement Team

Scripture Reference

Even when we were God's enemies, He made peace with us, because His Son died for us. Yet something even greater than friendship is ours. Now that we are at peace with God, we will be saved by the life of His Son.

Romans 5:10 (CEV)

About a year ago, one of my neighbors put up a privacy fence around their yard. It wouldn’t have been a big deal, but it blocked another neighbor’s view of a pond. The tension between them became very real very quickly.

Perhaps that story has reminded you of a conflict in your life, maybe with a family member, a coworker, or a neighbor. That pit you feel in your stomach reflects the tension between you and someone else. It might be someone you love or someone you know you should be more loving toward.

What would it take to be at peace with that person? Sometimes the answer is deeply complicated, but other times it requires only a well-thought-out apology. Often, it requires work for amends to be made.

At one time, we were God’s enemies (Romans 5:10). We were children of sin—far from a perfect and holy God. We were the opposite of all He is. This distance required some work to be done—but our work kept falling short. Yet He moved and worked in order that our relationship with Him could be set at peace. His movement? God sent Jesus here, to our world, so that peace with Him could be possible. That is pretty amazing.

Now we can go to God through His son Jesus, not only to receive peace but also to provide peace to others.

Next Steps

Spend time now thanking God for the peace you have with Him. Is there a way you can reflect Christ’s peace in a tense relationship? You might not know how it will be received, but pray your way through it.
Are you looking for more moments of peace amidst the busy holiday season? Consider attending With Us: An Online Advent Retreat by CURATE Ministries, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (CST) this Saturday, December 11. Register here and add the code Willow5 to save $5.
On Tuesdays during this series, we invite you to meditate on an original piece of art by congregant Marsha English. Each week, you’ll see a new layer that symbolizes that week’s traditional Advent theme.

This week, the angel—God’s messenger—symbolizes PEACE. How do you see the theme of peace represented in this week’s image?
Marsha created versions of her artwork for each campus, so that all Willow attenders can see it throughout Advent. Have you found it in the lobby at your campus?

Written by: Scott Woods, South Lake Campus Pastor

References

Angels brought messages of peace and hope throughout the Bible. Specifically in the Christmas story, an angel appeared to Zechariah, Mary, and the shepherds, bringing them good news that may have initially filled them with fear or wonder, but eventually led to peace - if they would only believe what was promised (but still yet unseen). To really experience peace with God, you have to trust in what you cannot see, including the promise that Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection ensure that we can be at peace with God forever. When you accept Jesus, you make peace with God, believing (without seeing) that He is real, that He loves you, and that He desires good things for you.

Jesus made that peace by giving his life for his brothers and sisters. (Henry Nouwen)

Scripture Reference

Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born. He will bring back many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”

Zechariah asked the angel, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.”

The angel said to him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news.”

Luke 1:11–19

One thing my parents always taught me was, “Nothing in life is free.” That is a true statement—unless you find yourself at Costco on the weekend. Not only are their food samples free, but they’re for every Costco shopper. And they’re intended to lead you to something bigger and greater—the entire dish.

In today’s passage, the priest Zechariah is given a “sample” of God’s peace and hope through his own personal story. His wife Elizabeth was infertile, and they had most likely given up hope for a child. But God sends the angel Gabriel to bring a message of peace and hope to Zechariah. God heard their prayers, and they will indeed have a child, who will do amazing things.

Understandably, Zechariah is gripped with fear and doubt, asking Gabriel, “How can I be sure of this?” Gabriel’s response is extraordinary: “I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news.” Zechariah will soon know that everything Gabriel said was true. What he doesn’t know is that this is just a “sample” of what God is doing in his life.

There was nothing special about Zechariah. He wasn’t chosen because of how great his faith was—he was just a normal man who prayed. But he was seen and heard by God. What Zechariah experienced was just a “sample” size of God’s peace and hope. Their son will grow into the man we know as John the Baptist, who prepares the way for the ultimate peace and hope of the world: Jesus.

Next Steps

Has God ever sent you “samples” of His peace and hope in the midst of your trials? Did those samples lead you to something bigger or greater? Pause to thank God for these experiences.
Zechariah was just a normal person, yet God used his life to bring about something extraordinary. How does this thought give you peace and hope?
Next time you take a trip to Costco, take a sample of food you’ve never tried. Then, reflect on how you could take a leap of faith with the “samples” God gives you in your own spiritual life.

Written by: Daniel Yu, Wheaton Campus High School Pastor

Each Friday, we invite you to set aside time to personally encounter God. To help you get started, we will provide Scripture, music, art, and journal prompts focused on the weekly Advent theme.

Begin by finding a quiet, comfortable place. Take deep breaths, inviting God to meet you there and help you quiet your mind. As you engage with Him, explore any of the following questions:

What is happening in and around you? What feelings are you experiencing?
How are you sensing God’s presence? (There’s no right or wrong way to experience God.)
What stands out to you in the Scripture, art, music, or in your own thoughts? What does that reveal to you about the God of Hope?
What do you think God is saying to you?
How can spending time with God fill you with hope?

Encounter Jesus...

…Through Scripture:

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.

Isaiah 9:6

Luke 2:8–11

...Through Music:

“O Holy Night,” composed by Adolphe Adam, sung by Becky Johnson, North Shore Campus Worship Pastor

...Through Art:

“At Least We Have Each Other” by Joana Choumali

...Through Journaling:

What does hope mean to you?
If you were to draw an image representing hope, what would you draw? Why? Then, even if you don’t consider yourself an artist, try drawing it!

Written by: Katie Franzen, Core Strategic Initiatives Director and Jennifer Grabianski, Core Content Associate

Scripture Reference

These are the commands, decrees and laws the Lord your God directed me to teach you to observe in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess, so that you, your children and their children after them may fear the Lord your God as long as you live by keeping all his decrees and commands that I give you, and so that you may enjoy long life. Hear, Israel, and be careful to obey so that it may go well with you and that you may increase greatly in a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, promised you.

Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.

Deuteronomy 6:1–9

In the midst of our busy days and late nights, finding time to get into the Word and spend time with the Lord can be hard. With our lives starting to pick up again to the pace they were at before the pandemic, these free moments to spend with God can be sparse.

However, God urges us to love him with all our heart, soul, and strength. One way we can love him is by keeping his commandments and talking about them with those around us.

This might seem tough or even anxiety-inducing. We may not always be around believers and people we feel comfortable sharing God’s Word with. But, God calls us to talk about Him when we’re at home and when we walk along the road. We can pray for boldness and strength to help build our courage. Also, we can begin with our families and close friends before reaching out to others.

What could it look like to talk about God? Sometimes, it might involve directly quoting Scripture. For this reason, it’s important to be reading the Bible regularly so that we can get to know God and His character. As we grow in knowledge, His Spirit will bring the right verse to the tip of our tongue at just the right time.

But other times, God uniquely uses us and our own words to share his message with others. The season of Advent is a great time to do this! As you participate in old family traditions and create new ones, talk about how you’ve experienced the hope of Jesus in your life. Describe the history of the tradition, or share what this time of year means to you. As you keep holiday traditions alive, you also give life to God’s message of hope, passing it down to the next generation or to friends who can do the same.

This Advent, how will you fulfill the greatest commandment of all? How will you love God, love your neighbors, and change the world?

Next Steps

Ask God who in your life might need to hear His Word and be reminded of his hope.
Think about some of your favorite holiday traditions. Do you know their origins or what they symbolize? Do some research and share what you learn with the person God brought to mind!
Start a new tradition by serving during Willow’s Season of Hope, or find other creative ideas here.

Written by: Hannah Price, High School Ministry Student, Huntley Campus

Scripture Reference

I will exalt you, my God the King;

I will praise your name for ever and ever.

Every day I will praise you

and extol your name for ever and ever.

Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise;

his greatness no one can fathom.

One generation commends your works to another;

they tell of your mighty acts.

They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty—

and I will meditate on your wonderful works.

They tell of the power of your awesome works—

and I will proclaim your great deeds.

They celebrate your abundant goodness

and joyfully sing of your righteousness.

Psalm 145:1–7

Reflection

The book of Psalms ends with a celebration. From Psalm 145 to Psalm 150, we are prompted to praise God with energy and excitement. We are taught to “turn up” and led to “get lit” in response to God’s love, saving and healing power, and mercy that endures through all generations.

During this first week of Advent, we celebrate especially the hope Jesus brings to all generations. It’s a good time to live out Psalm 145:4 and Willow Creek’s core value of Growing Younger, sharing God’s hope with the next generation as we honor and celebrate the life and beauty they add to our world, both now and in the future.

When we reflect on the last two years and realize their impact on our lives and the lives of our children, it can be difficult to do what the rapper Tupac said and “keep ya head up.” It can feel like we are faced with a never-ending cycle of hopelessness and despair. To make matters worse, in our quest to look like “good Christians,” we sometimes keep our real feelings inside, wondering what we should do when surrounded by trials, trouble, hopelessness, and helplessness. Psalm 145 gives us a few cues.

1. Lift Him Up!

Our greatest challenges are light work to the King, whose greatness is incomprehensible to us. How cool is it that we can lay our hearts before the majestic, compassionate Lord, Who is rich in love and mercy? Like David, who had his fair share of low moments, we should practice hoping in God through praise. How do we do that? Keep reading … it’s almost party time!

2. Get Loud!

The Hebrew word for “celebrate'' in verse 7 means to “belch forth” (ew, gross, lol). To “joyfully sing” means to “shout for joy, give a ringing cry.” In other words, get loud! Blogger Rae Oliver wrote, “Scream therapy gives (us) a way to release anger and frustration or take the edge off of building feelings of anxiety.” So when life makes you “wanna holler,” as Marvin Gaye sang, Psalm 145 gives you permission to do it!

Next Steps

Find a safe place to reflect on God’s goodness, and then let out a scream of praise that can be heard in the heavens!
How are you intentionally sharing the hope of the Lord with the next generation? Learn more about volunteering with one of Willow’s Next Gen ministries here.

Written by: Ken Barry, Development Director, Compassion & Justice Core Team

References

blog Scream Therapy: 5 Reasons Why Screaming is Good For You

https://trulyexperiences.com/blog/why-screaming-good-for-you/

Blueletterbible.org

Scripture Reference

A woman who had suffered a condition of hemorrhaging for twelve years—a long succession of physicians had treated her, and treated her badly, taking all her money and leaving her worse off than before—had heard about Jesus. She slipped in from behind and touched his robe. She was thinking to herself, “If I can put a finger on his robe, I can get well.” The moment she did it, the flow of blood dried up. She could feel the change and knew her plague was over and done with.

At the same moment, Jesus felt energy discharging from him. He turned around to the crowd and asked, “Who touched my robe?”

His disciples said, “What are you talking about? With this crowd pushing and jostling you, you’re asking, ‘Who touched me?’ Dozens have touched you!”

But he went on asking, looking around to see who had done it. The woman, knowing what had happened, knowing she was the one, stepped up in fear and trembling, knelt before him, and gave him the whole story.

Jesus said to her, “Daughter, you took a risk of faith, and now you’re healed and whole. Live well, live blessed! Be healed of your plague.”

Mark 5:25–34 (MSG)

Wherever we are in life, we have choices to make. Our choices often reflect our character, and they both influence our relationship with God.

If you tend to be a hopeful person, you’ll probably be hopeful about what God can do. If you tend to be a more pessimistic person, you’ll probably have a pessimistic attitude toward God. Joyful people might experience God with joy, and worried people might feel anxious about God.

But often, our character is shaped by choices we cannot make or are forced to make as our lives are dictated by the brokenness we find in the world.

Some people’s work schedules aren’t flexible enough to spend the time they desire with their family, so their relationships suffer. Others live in areas where healthy food options are scarce, so their physical health suffers. When children are born into difficult circumstances, they may experience the brokenness that exists in a potentially pressure-filled household, so their emotional health suffers. Other people face unexpected hardships, such as sickness or losing a loved one, so their spiritual health suffers.

In today’s passage, we see a woman facing incredibly tough circumstances. She had every right to be cynical, anxious, sad, or angry—certainly without hope. But she dared to hope in the healing power of Jesus, and she experienced the goodness that God offers all of us.

How will we choose to respond to hard circumstances? Whether we are in positions of privilege or obscurity, in the midst of suffering, pain, or fear, we can choose to find hope in Jesus—our Healer, our Miracle Worker, our Powerful Protector, the Hope of the World.

Next Steps

If you want to learn about the hard choices people in tough situations make every day, join us for Willow’s Quick to Listen series, launching on December 1. During this Zoom meeting, we’ll learn about the challenges faced by immigrant youth. Register here.
On Tuesdays during this series, we invite you to meditate on an original piece of art by congregant Marsha English. Each week, you’ll see a new layer that symbolizes that week’s traditional Advent theme.

This week, the star that led people to Jesus symbolizes HOPE. How do you see the theme of hope represented in this week’s image?
Marsha created versions of her artwork for each campus, so that all Willow attenders can see it throughout Advent. Can you find it in the lobby at your campus?

Written by: Kyle Healy, C&J Pastor, South Barrington

Scripture Reference

When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him. This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones.

When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of him. He shouted at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? In God’s name don’t torture me!” For Jesus had said to him, “Come out of this man, you impure spirit!”

Then Jesus asked him, “What is your name?”

“My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.” And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area.

A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside. The demons begged Jesus, “Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them.” He gave them permission, and the impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned.

As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.

Mark 5:2–13, 18–20

“The true measure of our character is how we treat the poor, the disfavored, the accused, the incarcerated, and the condemned.”

–Bryan Stevenson, founder and executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative

“It is said that no one truly knows a nation until one has been inside its jails. A nation should not be judged by how it treats its highest citizens, but its lowest ones.”

–Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, anti-apartheid revolutionary, first president of South Africa

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.”

–Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., slain leader of the American civil rights movement

No matter where we are in our moments of crisis, those of us who proclaim to be true believers in Jesus Christ must believe that Jesus is on his way to us—not just in this season of hope called Advent, but all the time. For we have read time and again about how He traveled by foot, boat, and even mule to get to where He was needed, even to the cross. Jesus never suffered transportation or traffic issues, so we don't need to worry. He always shows up, and He's never late.

He is always in the right place, at the right time, for the right reason. If we could start viewing our crises through this hope-filled lens, we’d begin to understand that we're undergoing the process of being redeemed. The challenges we wrestle with, work through, and overcome—addictions, financial debt, relational and other issues—aren't meant to destroy us, but to set up a face-to-face meeting between us and the God of Hope. When we keep our eyes on our Redeemer, we must face Him with all of our problems as well, falling before Him and crying out, "What have I to do with You, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?”

Next Steps

As we begin the season of Advent, reflect on times when you’ve lost hope, wanting to tap out on God and the church.
Contemplate the last time your heart totally broke for another person.
Visit Prison Fellowship’s Justice Action Center to learn more and join the movement.
Sign up to fill Hope Packs for people incarcerated in Illinois.

Written by: Marquelle, an incarcerated man in DuPage County Correctional Facility, enrolled in JUST of DuPage programs; and Andrea Best, Compassion & Justice Pastor, Wheaton Campus