OUR WEEK - JANUARY 3 TO JANUARY 9

REMINDER —
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31ST —
NEW YEARS EVEWe've been hearing that Iowa body shops are
overwhelmed with wrinkled cars this winter -
because we are not driving appropriately for
weather conditions. If you are out and about,
do be very cautious on the roadways. Wrinkled
cars are one thing but broken bones are not to
be tolerated.
NEW YEARS EVE, CELEBRATE RESPONSIBLY.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2010 —
EPIPHANY SUNDAY
“EPIPHANY” means a sudden understanding of the
essential nature or the meaning of something. In our
case, understanding what the birth of Jesus means.
Paul writes "Through Jesus, we can approach God."
How do you think people felt when they heard this
for the first time?
COLOR: WHITE OR GOLD
Today's Scripture Readings are —
ISAIAH 60:1-6
(New Living Translation) NLT
Isaiah prophesies to a people just returning from
exile that the day would come when all nations
would stream to their light. It is predicted that at a
time of darkness, the glory of the Lord will shine over
Jerusalem. The heavenly light will be a beacon to the
pagan nations and even to their kings.
1 "Arise, Jerusalem! Let your light shine for all the nations
to see! For the glory of the LORD is shining upon you.
2 Darkness as black as night will cover all the nations of
the earth, but the glory of the LORD will shine over you.
3 All nations will come to your light. Mighty kings will come
to see your radiance.
4 "Look and see, for everyone is coming home! Your
sons are coming from distant lands; your little daughters
will be carried home.
5 Your eyes will shine, and your hearts will thrill with
joy, for merchants from around the world will come to
you. They will bring you the wealth of many lands.
6 Vast caravans of camels will converge on you, the
camels of Midian and Ephah. From Sheba they will bring gold and
incense for the worship of the LORD.
—————————————————————————
PSALM 72:1-7, 10-14 (UMH 795)
(New International Reader's Version) NIRV
This psalm contains a prayer (vss. 1-2), and then
a prophecy (vss. 3-17) about a coming kingdom.
On one level, the kingdom referred to is Solomon’s;
and yet, there are passages in the Psalm which
could only refer to the coming kingdom of the
Messiah, Jesus Christ.
1 God, give the king the ability to judge fairly. He is
your royal son. Help him to do what is right.
2 Then he will rule your people in the right way. He
will be fair to those among your people who are hurting.
3 The mountains and the hills will produce rich crops,
because the people will do what is right.
4 The king will stand up for those who are hurting. He
will save the children of those who are in need. He will
crush those who beat others down.
5 He will rule as long as the sun shines and the moon
gives its light. He will rule for all time to come.
6 He will be like rain falling on the fields. He will be
like showers watering the earth.
7 Godly people will do well as long as he rules. They
will have more than they need as long as the moon lasts.
PSALM 72:10-14
10 The kings of Tarshish and of places far away will
bring him gifts. The kings of Sheba and Seba will give
him presents. 11 All kings will bow down to him. All nations will serve him. 12 People who are in need will cry out, and he will
save them. He will save those who are hurting. They
don't have anyone else who can help them.
13 He will take pity on those who are weak and in need.
He will save them from death.
14 He will save them from people who beat others
down. He will save them from people who do mean things
to them. Their lives are very special to him.
—————————————————————————
EPHESIANS 3:1-12
(New International Reader's Version) NIRV
Paul writes to the Ephesians from a jail cell. Paul says
that his imprisonments have enabled the Gentiles and
their leaders to understand the mystery. . . an epiphany.
Ephesians are invited to become fellow heirs in Jesus.
PAUL IS A MESSENGER TO NON JEWS
1 I, Paul, am a prisoner because of Christ Jesus. I am in
prison because of my work among you who are not Jews.2 I am sure you have heard that God appointed me
to share his grace with you.
3 I'm talking about the mystery God showed me.
I have already written a little about it.
4 By reading it you will be able to understand what
I know about the mystery of Christ.
5 The mystery was not made known to people of other
times. But now the Holy Spirit has made it known to
God's holy apostles and prophets.
6 Here is the mystery. Because of the good news,
God's promises are for non-Jews as well as for Jews.
Both groups are parts of one body. They share in the
promise. It belongs to them because they belong to
Christ Jesus.
7 I now serve the good news because God gave me
his grace. His power is at work in me.
8 I am by far the least important of all of God's people.
But he gave me the grace to preach to the non-Jews
about the wonderful riches that Christ gives.
9 God told me to make clear to everyone how the
mystery came about. In times past it was kept hidden in
the mind of God, who created all things.
10 He wanted the rulers and authorities in the heavenly
world to come to know his great wisdom. The church
would make it known to them.
11 That was God's plan from the beginning. He has
worked it out through Christ Jesus our Lord.
12 Through him and through faith in him we can approach
God. We can come to him freely. We can come without fear.
—————————————————————————
MATTHEW 2:1-12
(New International Reader's Version) NIRV
Matthew tells of the visit of the Magi and their
participation in God's subversion of Herod's plan.
THE WISE MEN VISIT JESUS
1 Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea. This happened
while Herod was king of Judea. After Jesus' birth, Wise
Men from the east came to Jerusalem.
2 They asked, "Where is the child who has been born
to be king of the Jews? When we were in the east, we
saw his star. Now we have come to worship him."
3 When King Herod heard about it, he was very upset.
Everyone in Jerusalem was troubled too.
4 So Herod called together all the chief priests of the
people. He also called the teachers of the law. He asked
them where the Christ was going to be born.
5 "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied. "This is what
the prophet has written. He said,
6 " 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are
certainly not the least important among the towns of Judah.
A ruler will come out of you. He will be the shepherd of
my people Israel.' " #1(Micah 5:2)#2
7 Then Herod called for the Wise Men secretly. He
found out from them exactly when the star had appeared.
8 He sent them to Bethlehem. He said, "Go! Make a
careful search for the child. As soon as you find him,
bring me a report. Then I can go and worship him too."
9 After the Wise Men had listened to the king, they
went on their way. The star they had seen when they
were in the east went ahead of them. It finally stopped
over the place where the child was.
10 When they saw the star, they were filled with joy.
11 The Wise Men went to the house. There they saw
the child with his mother Mary. They bowed down and
worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures.
They gave him gold, incense and myrrh.12 But God warned them in a dream not to go back to
Herod. So they returned to their country on a different road.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
MONDAY, JANUARY 4TH —
Pastor Lynn's and Naomi's day off.
Office will be closed.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6TH —
ABC FINANCE AND STAFF-PARISH MEETINGS - 7 P.M.
Hosted by Casey U.M.C.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
FUTURE FOCUS —
In January we will begin a new Bible Study in Adair.
We will focus on “Women of the New Testament”. We
welcome anyone who may be interested in learning,
questioning, or concluding about qualities of their lives.

JANUARY 18TH - 22ND
SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR
Talk to Sheryl Richter if you would be interested in
helping.
If you would like to purchase books for your children,
your friend's children, your grandchildren, or books for
your local library, there is a "Family Night" Thursday,
January 21st from 5:30 to 7:30 — at Adair Casey School.
I have never known a child who had too many books,
and neither have you.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
You will notice the pictures artists painted of the journey
and the adoration of the magi (kings). Some scenes are
portrayed with the Holy Family and three visitors - only!
Some scenes show three kings and an entourage of
hundreds of attendants.
I rather think most kings would travel with a large retinue
of servants - but how will they all steal away from Herod?
What do you think?

I hope you had a magical Christmas and I do hope you
have a gleeful New Years - but smile responsibly!

Thank you for making our church life hum, and didn't the
year fly by? See you all next year!

God Bless and Keep You,
Pastor Lynn

OUR WEEK - DECEMBER 27TH - JAN. 2ND

| | | REMINDERS | | | —
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24TH —
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES IN ABC PARISH
FAMILY FRIENDLY CANDLE LIGHT WORSHIP HELD— — IN ADAIR U.M.C. - 5 P.M.
CANDLE LIGHT WORSHIP IN CASEY U.M.C. AT 9 P.M.≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25TH —
CHRISTMAS DAYOFFICE CLOSED TODAY
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27TH —
FIRST SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS DAY
COLOR: WHITE
"CAROL-SING" SERVICE TODAY.CHOOSE A FAVORITE CAROL TO SING TODAY, AND
WE WILL SING AS MANY AS WE CAN.
We are in the early days of the twelve day
celebration of “Christmastide”
(Sunset December 24 through sunset January
5, the Eve of Epiphany). The church has
historically set aside these days to celebrate
and ponder the mystery of he Incarnation, of
God becoming flesh in Jesus and dwelling
among us. As United Methodists grow into our
Full Communion with the Evangelical Lutheran
Church in America and deepen our relationships
with our interim Eucharistic Sharing partner, the
Episcopal Church, we may benefit from
remembering that this first week of Christmastide
has a particularly rich history in the worship of
these churches and in Western tradition.
SCRIPTURE READINGS ARE:
1 SAMUEL 2:18-20, 26 —
This is the story of the childhood of Samuel, raised
by a priest. He would become the last judge and
the first prophet to the kingship for Israel.
WHEN SAMUEL WAS STILL VERY YOUNG,
HANNAH GAVE HIM TO THE PRIEST, ELI, AT SHILOH.1 SAMUEL 2:18-20
18 But the boy Samuel served the Lord. He wore a sacred
linen apron.
19 Each year his mother made him a little robe. Hannah
took it to him when she went up to Shiloh with her husband.
She did it when her husband went to offer the yearly sacrifice.
20 Eli would bless Elkanah and Hannah. He would say,
"May the LORD give you children by this woman. May
they take the place of the boy you prayed for and gave
to me." Then they would go home.
1 SAMUEL 2:26
26 The boy Samuel continued to grow stronger. He also
became more and more pleasing to the LORD and to people.PSALM 148 (UMH 861)
(Today's New International Version) TNIV
All creation is called to join in praising God who has
established saving leadership for all mankind.
1 Praise the Lord. Praise the LORD from the heavens;
praise him in the heights above.
2 Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his heavenly
hosts.3 Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all you shining
stars.4 Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters
above the skies.
5 Let them praise the name of the Lord, for at his
command they were created,
6 and he established them for ever and ever--
e issued a decree that will never pass away.
7 Praise the LORD from the earth, you great sea
creatures and all ocean depths,8 lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds
that do his bidding,9 you mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars,10 wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and
flying birds,
11 kings of the earth and all nations, you princes and
all rulers on earth,12 young men and women, old men and children.13 Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name
alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and
the heavens.
14 And he has raised up for his people a horn, the praise
of all his faithful servants, of Israel, the people close
to his heart. Praise the Lord.
—————————————————————————
COLOSSIANS 3:12-17
(New International Version) NIV
The tone of Paul's moral exhortation changes to
positive as he shifts his attention from pagan
vice to Christian virtue. This shift reflects conversion
out of darkness into light. In this passage Paul
defines Christian character rather than rules to obey.
Believers are transformed into people who have the
character to do God's will. Traditional virtues illustrate
the character of holiness that grace creates in us:
compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and
patience.
12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly
loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness,
humility, gentleness and patience.
13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances
you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord
forgave you.
14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds
them all together in perfect unity.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as
members of one body you were called to peace. And be
thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach
and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you
sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in
your hearts to God.
17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all
in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the
Father through him.
—————————————————————————
LUKE 2:41-52
(New International Reader's Version) NIRV
The family made the annual Passover pilgrimage
to Jerusalem. Jerusalem was eighty miles from
Nazareth, so the trip would take three days. Jesus,
now "of age," stayed behind to engage in debate
with the teachers in the temple. The final verse is
a direct reference to today's reading from I Samuel.
THE BOY JESUS IN THE TEMPLE
41 Every year Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem
for the Passover Feast.
42 When he was 12 years old, they went up to the
Feast as usual.
43 After the Feast was over, his parents left to go
back home. The boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem.
But they were not aware of it.
44 They thought he was somewhere in their group.
So they traveled on for a day. Then they began to look
for him among their relatives and friends.
45 They did not find him. So they went back to
Jerusalem to look for him.
46 After three days they found him in the temple
courtyard. He was sitting with the teachers. He was
listening to them and asking them questions.47 Everyone who heard him was amazed at how much
he understood. They also were amazed at his answers.
48 When his parents saw him, they were amazed. His
mother said to him, "Son, why have you treated us like
this? Your father and I have been worried about you. We
have been looking for you everywhere."
49 "Why were you looking for me?" he asked. "Didn't
you know I had to be in my Father's house?"
50 But they did not understand what he meant by that.
51 Then he went back to Nazareth with them, and he
obeyed them. But his mother kept all these things like
a secret treasure and pondered them in her heart.
52 Jesus became wiser and stronger. He also became
more and more pleasing to God and to people.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
MONDAY, DECEMBER 28TH —
Gospel of John Bible Study in Casey U.M.C. - 6:30 P.M.
The office is closed today.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
CONGRATULATIONS ALAN AND ADAM!
Sunday, December 20, 2009 Eagle Scout Court of Honor
awarded both Alan Beattie and Adam Beattie the rank of
Eagle Scout from Boy Scouts USA. Troop 70 from
Adair-Casey now has 5 EAGLE SCOUTS in their troop.
Please congratulate the boys when you see them
around the community. Alan's Eagle project was the new
play ground equipment in the Casey Railroad park and
Adam's project was the awning over the entrance to the
Casey Community building. GREAT JOB GUYS!FUTURE FOCUS —
JANUARY 18TH - 22ND
THE SCHOOL NEEDS HELP FOR THE
SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR
There are time slots for morning & evening.
Please contact Sheryl Richter if you are able to help.
Here are the days the classes will be going through.
So far I need 2 parents every morning from 8-10,
and Family Night only one parent per time slot.
Monday, 18th – 5th & 6th Grades
Tuesday,19th – 3rd & 4th Grades
Wednesday, 20th – 1st & 2nd Grades
Thursday, 21st – Pre-Kindergarten & K
Friday, 22nd – Pre-Kindergarten
Family Night, Thursday, 21st – 3:30-5:30, & 5:30-7:30

Curious George costume: Every hour starting at 3:30
and ending at 6:30

Assisting in this way is an excellent means of showing
our teachers how much we appreciate them. We think
we have generous contact with them, but in most cases,
we do not.
Thanks everyone, for any time you may have for this project!

God Bless and Keep You,
Pastor Lynn

OUR WEEK — DEC. 20TH - DEC. 26TH

»»» REMINDERS «««
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16TH —
ESTHER CIRCLE will meet with Ginger Spangler
at 7 P.M.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17TH —
T.T.T. #2 AT 9:30 A.M.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
◊◊◊SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19TH◊◊◊ —Because of uncooperative weather —
CHRISTMAS MALL will be held at the
CASEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCHFELLOWSHIP HALL — ALL DAY SATURDAY,
opening at 9 A.M. . .
DESIGNED ESPECIALLY FOR CHILDREN FROM 9 - 4.
EVERBODY SHOPS AFTER 4 P.M.
Cost of gifts will be around $.50 - $1.00 - $2.00.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20TH —
Fourth Sunday of Advent -- COLOR: PURPLE or BLUE
MICAH 5:2-5a
(New International Reader's Version) NIRV
Micah proclaims the coming of a "new David" whose
reign will be characterized by peace and caring for the
needs of the people rather than war.

2 The LORD says, "Bethlehem, you might not be an
important town in the nation of Judah. But out of you
will come a ruler over Israel for me. His family line goes
back to the early years of your nation. It goes all the way
back to days of long ago." Bethlehem, also called Ephrathah.
3 The LORD will hand his people over to their enemies.
That will last until the promised ruler is born. Then his
relatives in Judah will return to their land. The LORD will
rule over them and the people of Israel.
4 The promised ruler will stand firm and take care of his
flock. The LORD will give him the strength to do it. The
LORD his God will give him the authority to rule. His people
will live safely. His greatness will reach from one end of the
earth to the other.
The LORD Will Save His People From Their Enemies.
5 And he will bring them peace. The Assyrians will attack
our land. Enemies will march through our forts. But we will
raise up many shepherds against them. We'll send out
against them as many leaders as we need to.
————————————————————————
LUKE 1:46b-55 (UMH 199)
It is the Virgin Mary's joyous prayer in response to her
cousin Elizabeth's greeting. In Mary's Song, often
called "Magnificat", after its opening word in Latin,
the lowliness of Mary recapitulates the lowliness
of Bethlehem in the prophecy from Micah, and the
"strength of God's arm" acts as both defender
against oppressors (the proud, the mighty, the rich)
and provider for the lowly, the hungry). God's
strength does not underwrite, but scatters the proud,
pulls down the mighty from their seats, and lifts up
the lowly.CANTICLE OF MARY (Magnificat)
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
My Spirit rejoices in God my Saviour
For He has looked with favour on His lowly servant.

From this day all generations will call me blessed:
The Almighty has done great things for me,
And holy is His Name.

He has mercy on those who fear Him
In every generation.

He has shown the strength of His arm,
He has scattered the proud in their conceit.

He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
And has lifted up the lowly.

He has filled the hungry with good things,
And the rich He has sent away empty.

He has come to the help of His servant Israel
For He has remembered His promise of mercy,
The promise He made to our fathers,
To Abraham and his children for ever.
————————————————————————
HEBREWS 10:5-10
(New International Reader's Version) NIRV
Jesus fulfilled the prophecy of Psalm 40:4-6 by
offering his whole life in obedient service to God,
and thus ending and replacing the sacrificial system
of the Aaronic priesthood.
5 So when Christ came into the world, he said, "You
didn't want sacrifices and offerings. Instead, you prepared
a body for me.
6 You weren't pleased with burnt offerings and sin
offerings.
7 Then I said, 'Here I am. It is written about me in the scroll.
God, I have come to do what you want.' "
8 First Christ said, "You didn't want sacrifices and offerings.
You didn't want burnt offerings and sin offerings. You weren't
pleased with them." He said that even though the law
required people to bring them.
9 Then he said, "Here I am. I have come to do what you want."
He did away with the first. He did it to put the second in place.
10 We have been made holy by what God wanted. We have
been made holy because Jesus Christ offered his body once
and for all time.
————————————————————————
LUKE 1:39-45 (New International Version) NIV
Here, and in Mary's song (which follows in Luke, but
precedes in the given order of today's readings), we
see prophecy happening in "real time," as it were.
Elizabeth, priest's elderly and miraculously pregnant
wife, receives unwed Mary and her unborn child and
breaks forth in blessing and wonder. Though the
mothers of John and Jesus meet, the account is
portrayed as a meeting of the two children, since
John reacts to the meeting as Elizabeth makes clear.MARY VISITS ELIZABETH
39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town
in the hill country of Judea,
40 where she entered Zechariah's home and greeted
Elizabeth.
41 When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby
leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the
Holy Spirit.
42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: "Blessed are you
among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!
43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord
should come to me?
44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my
ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.
45 Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord
has said to her will be accomplished!"≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
MONDAY, DECEMBER 21ST —
Office Closed Today
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22ND —
T.T.T. #1 @ 3:30 P.M.
Casey U.M.C. hosting Lectionary today.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24TH — CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES IN ABC PARISH
FAMILY FRIENDLY CANDLE LIGHT WORSHIP
IN ADAIR U.M.C. - 5 P.M.
CANDLE LIGHT WORSHIP IN CASEY U.M.C. AT 9 P.M.≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25TH —
MERRY CHRISTMASAND HAPPY NEW YEAR
OFFICE CLOSED TODAY
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
FUTURE FOCUS —
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27TH WILL BE A
"CAROL-SING" SERVICE. COME ARMED WITH ALL THE CHRISTMAS CAROLS YOU WISH TO HEAR.

CAN YOU IDENTIFY THESE CAROLS?
(-1) Quadruped with crimson proboscis

(-2) 5 p.m. to 6 a.m. without noise

(-3) Miniscule hamlet in the far east

(-4) Ancient benevolent despot

(-5) Adorn the vestibule

(-6) Exuberance directed to the planet

(-7) Listen, aerial spirits harmonizing

(-8) Monarchial trio

(-9) Yonder in the haystack

(10) Assemble, everyone who believes

(11) Hallowed post meridian

(12) Fantasies of a colorless December 25th

(13) Tin tintinnabulums

(14) A dozen 24-hour yule periods

(15) Befell during the transparent bewitching hour

(16) Homo sapien of crystallized vapor

(17) I merely desire a pair of incisors

(18) I spied my maternal parent osculating a fat man in red

(19) Perambulating through a December solstice fantasy

(20) Aloft on the acme of the abode
(ANSWERS AT THE END)
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
Tens of thousands of climate activists marched in
Copenhagen as part of a worldwide “Day of Action” to
urge negotiators at UN talks to agree with action to fight
global warming. Warming caused mainly by burning fossil
fuels that the UN panel of climate scientists says will bring
deserts, floods, heatwaves and rising seas.

“There is no planet B”, read a banner waved by
demonstrators in the Danish capital. Some activists
dressed as polar bears with signs reading:
“Save the Humans!”.

South African Nobel Peace Prize winner Archbishop
Desmond Tutu told a candlelit vigil, “They marched
in Berlin, and the wall fell. They marched in Cape
Town, and the wall fell”.
“Now they are marching in Copenhagen.”

Rallies were held around the world, hoping to influence
delegates to agree on strong measures to cut greenhouse
gas emissions at the 190-nation talks in Copenhagen.

Whether this is a natural global change or a man made
event, we must consider what practices are necessary
to keep this wonderful, magnificent planet livable for
everyone.
- ANSWERS
-1) —Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer
-2) — Silent Night
-3) — O Little Town of Bethlehem
-4) — Good King Wenceslas
-5) — Deck the Halls
-6) — Joy to the World
-7) — Hark the Herald Angels Sing
-8) — We Three Kings
-9) — Away in a Manger
10) -- Come All Ye Faithful
11) -- O Holy Night
12) — I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas
13) — Silver Bells
14) — The Twelve Days of Christmas
15) — It Came Upon a Midnight Clear
16) — Frosty the Snowman
17) — All I want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth
18) — I Saw Mama Kissing Santa Claus
19) — Walking Through a Winter Wonderland
20) — Up on the Housetop

Merry Christmas and
God Bless and Keep You
Pastor Lynn

OUR WEEK — DEC. 13TH - DEC. 19TH

REMINDERS —
WE ARE HAVING A BLIZZARD at the moment.
This promises to continue through the night in to
Wednesday. CANCELLATIONS ARE ANTICIPATED.
Call ahead before leaving home.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9TH
PRAYER BREAKFAST AT HAPPY CHEF - 7 A.M.
EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
We will take a free will offering for
THE MINISTERIAL EMERGENCY FUND.
There is a short meditation and prayer, and then we
share breakfast together.
Each will pay for his own meal.
This is our chance to meet together as Christian
brothers and sisters of all our local churches.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1OTH —
T.T.T. #2 MEETS AT 9:30 A.M.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12TH —ANGEL FOOD DISTRIBUTION WILL BE
FROM 11 A.M. - NOON AT CASEY U.M.C.
§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§
CHRISTMAS MALL will be held at the
Casey Community Building
ALL DAY SATURDAY, opening at 9 A.M. . .
THIS IS DESIGNED ESPECIALLY FOR CHILDREN.
Cost of gifts will be around $.50 - $1.00 - $2.00.The kids can come and shop for presents for their
own family members.
EVERYBODY SHOP AFTER 3 PM≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13TH —
The pressure of extra services, parties, pageants,
and shopping, make it all too easy for us to lose sight
of why we prepare for and celebrate Jesus' birth.
We give thanks for church pastors, musicians,
teachers, organizers, cleaners, cooks, decorators,
generals, and mostly, the foot soldiers who insure
that the mobilization plans do achieve our
desired goal . . . . .

• Advent marks the beginning of the church year.
It begins with the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day
and ends Christmas Eve. If Christmas Day falls on a
Sunday, Advent will last four full weeks. If Christmas
Day falls on any other day of the week, Advent will
last less than four weeks.
The Third Sunday of Advent is "Joy Sunday".Color: Purple or Blue - The United Methodist Book
of Worship upholds the traditional color of purple
for Advent, signifying penitence and royalty;
but it also allows blue, the color of hope.
Look for our Mitten Tree in Casey U.M.C.Providing mittens and hats for little ones —
It is so simple, it is easy to overlook.
Children must have mittens. Bring your donation
of new hats, gloves and mittens to put on the tree.
——————————————————————
Scripture Readings are:
ZEPHANIAH 3:14-20
(New International Version) NIV
The author does establish his Hebrew lineage.
“Zephaniah son of Cushi, son of Gedaliah,
son of Amariah, son of Hezekiah, king of Judah.”
"Cushi", Zephaniah’s father, means ‘Ethiopian’.
Genealogy was considered extremely important
because of God's covenant with Abraham and his
descendants.
PROMISES OF FUTURE FAVOR AND PROSPERITY
After the promises of taking away sin, follow
promises of taking away trouble. What makes a
people holy, will make them happy. The precious
promises made to the purified people, were to have
full accomplishment in the gospel.
THE FUTURE OF JERUSALEM
14 Sing, O Daughter of Zion; shout aloud, O Israel!Be glad and rejoice with all your heart,
O Daughter of Jerusalem!
15 The LORD has taken away your punishment,
he has turned back your enemy.
The LORD, the King of Israel, is with you;
never again will you fear any harm.
16 On that day they will say to Jerusalem,
"Do not fear, O Zion;
do not let your hands hang limp.
17 The LORD your God is with you,
he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing."
18 "The sorrows for the appointed feasts
I will remove from you;
they are a burden and a reproach to you.
19 At that time I will deal
with all who oppressed you;
I will rescue the lame
and gather those who have been scattered.
I will give them praise and honor
in every land where they were put to shame.
20 At that time I will gather you;
at that time I will bring you home.
I will give you honor and praise
among all the peoples of the earth
when I restore your fortunes
before your very eyes,"
says the LORD.
——————————————————————
ISAIAH 12:2-6
(Contemporary English Version) CEV
The song of praise in this chapter is suitable for
the return of the outcasts of Israel from their long
captivity, but it is especially suitable to the case
of a sinner, when he first finds peace and joy in
believing.
2 I trust you to save me,
LORD God,
and I won't be afraid.
My power and my strength come from you,
and you have saved me."

3 With great joy, you people
will get water
from the well of victory.

4 At that time you will say,
"Our LORD, we are thankful,
and we worship only you.
We will tell the nations
how glorious you are
and what you have done.

5 Because of your wonderful deeds
we will sing your praises
everywhere on earth."

6 Sing, people of Zion!
Celebrate the greatness
of the holy LORD of Israel.
God is here to help you.
——————————————————————
PHILIPPIANS 4:4-7
(New International Version) NIV
After calling for Syzygos, to intervene, to work
at reconciling a conflict, Paul reminds the
congregation that in and through all challenges
they may face as a community, from within or
without, they can and should rejoice in Christ.
These verses give direction to all in general.
Let believers be of one mind, and ready to help
each other. As the apostle had found the benefit
of their assistance, he knew how comfortable
it would be to his fellow-laborers to have the help
of others. Let us seek to give assurance that our
names are written in the book of life. Joy in God
is of great consequence in the Christian life; and
Christians need to be again and again called to it.

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything,
by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your
requests to God.
7 And the peace of God, which transcends all
understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds
in Christ Jesus.
————————————————————————
LUKE 3:7-18
(Contemporary English Version) CEV
JOHN THE BAPTIST'S MINISTRY.
The design of John's ministry was, to bring the
people from their sins, and to their Saviour.
He came preaching, not in a sect, or a party, but
as a profession; the ceremony was washing with
water. John preached the necessity of repentance,
in order to the remission of sins, and that the
baptism of water. John the Baptist says
"One more powerful is coming!"

7 Crowds of people came out to be baptized, but
John said to them, "You bunch of snakes!Who warned you to run from the coming judgment?
8 Do something to show that you really have given
up your sins. Don't start saying that you belong to
Abraham's family. God can turn these stones into
children for Abraham.
9 An ax is ready to cut the trees down at their roots.
Any tree that doesn't produce good fruit will be
cut down and thrown into a fire."
10 The crowds asked John, "What should we do?"
11 John told them, "If you have two coats, give one
to someone who doesn't have any.
If you have food, share it with someone else."
12 When tax collectors came to be baptized, they
asked John, "Teacher, what should we do?"
13 John told them, "Don't make people pay more
than they owe."
14 Some soldiers asked him, "And what about us?
What do we have to do?"
John told them, "Don't force people to pay money
to make you leave them alone. Be satisfied with
your pay."
15 Everyone became excited and wondered,
"Could John be the Messiah?"
16 John said, "I am just baptizing with water. But
someone more powerful is going to come,
and I am not good enough even to untie his
sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit
and with fire.
17 His threshing fork is in his hand, and he is ready
to separate the wheat from the husks.
He will store the wheat in his barn and burn the
husks with a fire that never goes out."
18 In many different ways John preached the
good news to the people.BIBLE SCHOOL PROGRAM THIS EVENING —
6:30 P.M. AT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
This is for all the children of Good Shepherd Church,
Methodist Church and Presbyterian Church.
Don't forget — 6:30 P.M.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
MONDAY, DECEMBER 14TH —
The Office is Closed Today.
Gospel of John Bible Study at 6:30 - Casey U.M.C.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16TH —
ESTHER CIRCLE will meet with Ginger Spangler
at 7 P.M.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17TH —
T.T.T. #2 AT 9:30 A.M.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
FUTURE FOCUS —
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24TH —Christmas Eve Services -
5:00 P.M. in Adair and 9:00 P.M. in Casey.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
STAY INSIDE WHERE IT IS WARM!
Don't take chances out on the roads, unless you
absolutely must. The weather will quiet down, the sun
will come back, and shine like diamonds — and
then you can take on the world again.

God Bless and Keep You,
Pastor Lynn

OUR WEEK — DEC. 6TH - DECEMBER 12

REMINDERS —
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2ND —
ADAIR UNITED METHODIST WOMEN'S
CHRISTMAS PARTY – NOON AT THE CHURCH
BRING A $3 GIFT FOR EXCHANGEFESTIVAL OF TREES - ADAIR COMMUNITY CENTER
2 P.M. TO 8 P.M. FREE WILL OFFERINGAdair Casey Lions club soup supper
(free will offering - donations received for food
shelf on non perishable items).
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5TH —
CHRISTMAS BRUNCH WILL BE HELD IN
CASEY U.M.C. AT 9:30 THIS MORNINGSHARON WILL BE TAKING ANGEL FOOD ORDERS
IN CASEY U.M.C. FROM 1 P.M. TO 3 P.M.
You may also drop orders off at Casey UMC on
Tuesday morning, or Wednesday and Thursday
afternoons during office hours too.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6TH —
2ND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
COLOR: PURPLE OR BLUE
WE WILL CELEBRATE HOLY COMMUNION TODAY
ADAIR-CASEY HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR WILL BE
SINGING IN ADAIR DURING WORSHIP AT 9:20
AND IN CASEY AT 11:10
——————————————————————
OUR SCRIPTURE READINGS ARE:
MALACHI 3:1-4
(New International Reader's Version) NIRV

Here is a prophecy of the appearing of John the
Baptist. He is Christ's harbinger. He shall
prepare the way before him. A century or more
after the restoration of the city and the temple
in Jerusalem, the word of the Lord through the
prophet declares the coming of "my messenger"
(Malachi, in Hebrew).

1 The Lord who rules over all says, "I will send my
messenger. He will prepare my way for me. Then
suddenly the Lord you are looking for will come to
his temple. The messenger of the covenant will
come. He is the one you long for."
2 But who can live through the day when he comes?
Who will be left standing when he appears? He will
be like a fire that makes things pure. He will be like
soap that makes things clean.
3 He will act like one who makes silver pure. And he
will purify the Levites, just as gold and silver are
purified with fire. Then the Lord's people will bring
proper offerings.
4 And the offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will be
acceptable to him. It will be as it was in days and
years gone by.
——————————————————————
LUKE 1:68-79 (UMH 208)
(New Century Version) NCV
CANTICLE OF ZECHARIAH
Today we will read of the events surrounding
the birth of John the Baptist. Zechariah's song
identifies John the Baptist as the foretold
messenger of the Lord with a substantially
broader mission than fixing the unusual
occurrences and the broken spirituality in the
priesthood Malachi had identified.68 "Let us praise the Lord, the God of Israel,
because he has come to help his people and
has given them freedom.
69 He has given us a powerful Savior
from the family of God's servant David.
70 He said that he would do this
through his holy prophets who lived long ago:
71 He promised he would save us from our enemies
and from the power of all those who hate us.
72 He said he would give mercy to our ancestors
and that he would remember his holy promise.
73 God promised Abraham, our father,
74 that he would save us from the power of our
enemies so we could serve him without fear,
75 being good before God as long as we live.

76 "Now you, child, will be called a prophet of the
Most High God. You will go before the Lord to
prepare his way.
77 You will make his people know that they will be
saved by having their sins forgiven.
78 With the loving mercy of our God,
a new day from heaven will dawn upon us.
79 It will shine on those who live in darkness,
in the shadow of death.
It will guide us into the path of peace."
——————————————————————
PHILIPPIANS 1:3-11
(New Living Translation) NLT
Paul gives joyous thanks for his partnership
with the church in Philippi. The graciousness
and power he has experienced with them gives
him every confidence that God will finish God's
work in them to present them blameless on the
day of the return of Christ,
"having produced the harvest of righteousness"

PAUL'S THANKSGIVING AND PRAYER
3 Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.
4 Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you
with joy,
5 for you have been my partners in spreading the
Good News about Christ from the time you first
heard it until now.
6 And I am certain that God, who began the good
work within you, will continue his work until it is
finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
7 So it is right that I should feel as I do about all
of you, for you have a special place in my heart.
You share with me the special favor of God, both
in my imprisonment and in defending and
confirming the truth of the Good News.
8 God knows how much I love you and long for
you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus.
9 I pray that your love will overflow more and more,
and that you will keep on growing in knowledge
and understanding.
10 For I want you to understand what really matters,
so that you may live pure and blameless lives until
the day of Christ’s return.
11 May you always be filled with the fruit of your
salvation—the righteous character produced in your
life by Jesus Christ—
for this will bring much glory and praise to God.
——————————————————————
LUKE 3:1-6
(New Living Translation) NLT
This is the scripture we will dwell upon Sunday.
Luke locates the ministry of John the Baptist
historically within the timelines of the Roman
Empire. Theologically in the prophecy of Isaiah:
The winding and difficult pathways between
Babylon and Jerusalem were about to be turned
into a straight and level highway for returning
exiles so that all could witness God's salvation.
John announced this message in a ministry that
had taken him along the Jordan River valley. He found a remote wilderness area inhabited by
forgotten people and "little" people, away from the
rather "bright lights" of Jerusalem,
fulfilling Zechariah's song.
JOHN THE BAPTIST PREPARES THE WAY
1 It was now the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius,
the Roman emperor. Pontius Pilate was governor
over Judea; Herod Antipas was ruler over Galilee;
his brother Philip was ruler over Iturea and Traconitis;
Lysanias was ruler over Abilene.
2 Annas and Caiaphas were the high priests. At this
time a message from God came to John son of
Zechariah, who was living in the wilderness.
3 Then John went from place to place on both sides
of the Jordan River, preaching that people should be
baptized to show that they had repented of their sins
and turned to God to be forgiven.
4 Isaiah had spoken of John when he said,
“He is a voice shouting in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord’s coming!
Clear the road for him!5 The valleys will be filled,
and the mountains and hills made level.
The curves will be straightened,
and the rough places made smooth.
6 And then all people will see
the salvation sent from God.’”
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7TH —
Office will be closed today.
This is Pastor Lynn's and Naomi's day off.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8TH —
T.T.T #1 at 3:30 P.M. at Casey U.M.C.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9TH
PRAYER BREAKFAST AT HAPPY CHEF - 7 A.M.
EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
We take a free will offering for the
MINISTERIAL EMERGENCY FUND, have a short
meditation and prayer, and then share breakfast
together. Each person pays for his own meal.
This is the chance to meet together as Christian
brothers and sisters of all the churches.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1OTH —
T.T.T. #2 MEETS AT 9:30 A.M.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12TH —
ANGEL FOOD DISTRIBUTION WILL BE
FROM 11 A.M. - NOON AT CASEY U.M.C.
CHRISTMAS MALL will be held at the
Casey Community Building all day,
opening at 9 A.M..Donations of items for men's gifts are still needed.
Volunteers to help wrap gifts and make cookies and
bars for Saturday would be much appreciated.
Help is also needed to set up displays
on Friday 12/11 in the evening.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
FUTURE FOCUS —
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24TH —
Christmas Eve Services - 5:00 P.M. in Adair and
9:00 P.M. in Casey.
We are blessed with more than our share of musical
talent in this community and I would really like to see
some of you provide special music for our Christmas
Eve services. No, it won't be an arena filled with 5,000
people, but the people who attend services and your
pastor, will be delighted to have you make a musical
contribution at this special time. We would like you to let
us know by about the 20th so we can plan around your
music.The focus for Advent and Christmas this year is
"SIMPLICITY". BE KIND, BE GENTLE and
KEEP IT SIMPLE and FOCUSED ON CHRIST.

Casey UMC will have a mitten and hat tree at church
please bring your donation of new hats, golves and
mittens to put on the tree.
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
Keep Naomi and her family in your prayers. Her
husband's father, Vincent Ehrman of Anita, passed
away on Friday and the funeral was Monday. He was
suddenly ill, but was expected to make a full recovery.
Hockenberry Family Care conducted the service if you
would like further information.

Thank you tremendously for the time and energy you
devote to our church life. Hope you all had a
wonderful Thanksgiving. Did you make a note of all
that you are thankful for? The list can get quite long.

God Bless and Keep You, Pastor Lynn