“Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the Lord, “Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.” Isaiah 1:18 (NKJV)
By Karen Ruhl
Hi, I just love to share this space with other photographers. But this month, I get to share some of my work. Craig is a big part of my photography because he is on almost every ad venture with me. He helps me change lenses, gives me helpful reminders, and is one of the best encouragers a person could ask for.
Craig and I moved to North Carolina in 2015. We were full-time RVers and loved it. In 2017, after 5.5 years of being full-timers, we purchased a home in Hudson, NC. Best decision we could have made. We live in the foothills of The Blue Ridge Mountains and are only 4-5 hours from the Atlantic Ocean beaches. Our town is beautiful. We love our neighbors, love our church and church family, and look forward to many more years of shooting photographs of North Carolina and surrounding states!
As Christmas draws near, I pray for your family. May you all have a wonderful Christmas filled with love and laughter—and maybe a new camera or lens in your future! May God Bless You All.
WOW, it is December already! 2023 is just around the corner. I hope you all had a wonderful year.
We are so excited about the number of writers we have contributing to our magazine each year. We have people from all around the world. Do you know one thing we all have in common? It is our love for Christ Jesus. As you read the magazine, you will feel their compassion and hear the stories that make them who they are today. It is always so nice to hear from you or chat with you online as you tell us how the articles have touched you.
In 2022, A Tree For Chris was published. I am so excited to have my first children’s book on Am azon. I am currently working on a second book that may make it before the end of the year! Stay tuned.
I have never been one to do New Year’s resolu tions. I tend to pray and ask God to guide me in the new year to places He wants me to be. Not necessarily physically, but doing what will bring Him glory and praise. I hope Faith On Every Cor ner Magazine brings comfort, peace, and love into your home.
Have a very blessed Christmas and remember the real reason we celebrate.
Much love - may God bless you all.
Karen Ruhl
Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com
Karen and Craig Ruhl
December Prayer by Craig and Karen Ruhl ... page 21
Quiet Time Rhymes ... by John Alexander ... page 6-7
The Importance of Sharing Christmas Dinner
... by Melissa Henderson ... page 8-9
Emotional Ties ... by Andrea Marino ... page 10-11
Author of Salvation ... by Ama Afriyie-Jenkins ... page 12-13
Morning Coffee ... by Michael E. Wells ... page 14-15
A Carol and the Gospel ... by Nicole Byrum ... page 16-17
Abide In Christ ... by Yvonne M. Morgan ... page 18-19
It Is Better To Give Than Receive ... by Karen Ruhl ... page 20
November Prayer ... by Craig and Karen Ruhl ... page 21
Finishing The Race Well ... by Dave Evans ... page 22-23
God Is Able ... by T.S. Thompson ... page 24-25
Name Dropper ... by Craig Ruhl ... page 26
God’s Redemption of Sinners ... Dr. Irene Surya ... page 27
You Never Leave ... Laurie Glass ... page 28
Anababy ... Stacy Hixon ... page 29
How Are You Spending Your Christmas?
... by Sharon K. Connell ... page 30-31
Lessons My Father’s Suffering Taught Me ... Chere Williams ... page 32-33
Road Trippin’ ... by Karen Ruhl ... page 34-37
Poems: Merry Christmas Everyone ... Alone ... Thank You For My Family ... by Rolanda Pyle ... page 38-39
Karen RuhlRoad Trippin’ ... by Karen Ruhl ... page 34-37
Poems: Merry Christmas Everyone ... Alone ... Thank You For My Family ... by Rolanda Pyle ... page 38-39
Southern Gospel In Minnesota ... by Steve Carter ... page 40-41
Bookshelf - Book Reviews ... page 42-43
The Christmas Star ... by Peter Caligiuri ... page 44
The Simplest Hearts ... by Peter Caligiuri ... page 45
Don’t Lose Heart ... by Shara Bueler-Repka ... page 46-47
Acts of Service Through The Holidays ... Paula Short ... page 48
Blessings In The Struggle ... by Gina Sewell ... page 49
Christmas In A Box: Accepting Our Rescue ... by Craig D. Lounsbrough ... page 50-51
God’s Abiding Love ... by Brenda McDaniel ... page 52
God’s Abiding Love Poem ... by Brenda McDaniel ... page 53
Challenges In Life ... by Kathleen Oden ... page 54-55
This Little Light Of Mine ... by Brianna Barrett ... page 56-57
Repentance Of The Saint ... Joseph Akinrinola ... page 58-59
A Seed, A Cocoon, And A Door ... by Pamela McCormick ... page 60-61
The Christmas Box ... by Steve Wilson ... page 62-63
Christmas Snooping ... by Dave Foucar ... page 64-65
Behold The Messaih ... by Esther M. Bandy ... page 66-67
A Subconscous Insight Into The Mind of the Spirit ...by Michael Colon ... page 68-69
Hearing God by Choosing Gratitude ... by Steve Wormer ... page 70-71
A Hero Among Us Recalled, God’s Gracious Gifts in Praise,
No Matter the Weight , Bringing Light to Cells of Darkness by Douglas Lanzo ... page 72-73
Thanksgiving and Christmas offer opportunities to fellow ship with friends and family, a time to celebrate together with those you love. Spending quality time with friends is a blessing to be shared all year long. Christmas is a good time to rekindle relationships and spark new ones. Friendships are a lifetime investment. Take time to not only read the Christ mas story in Luke 2 this year, but also read 1 Corinthians 13. Build relationships and share your love for others this year. I’ve selected a few poems about friendship to share. I pray they provide a reminder of the value of relationships.
John Alexander — www.QuietTimeRhymes.com Blessings, John Alexander
I need my friends upon this earth. They shelter me from scorching sun. More valuable than gold is worth, They sit with me when I can’t run. A friendship’s roots grow thick and deep, Tap wisdom deep beneath the ground. Their loyalty does not come cheap. In times of need, a friend’s around. Those times when life gets hot and dry, A friend provides much-needed shade. When life’s unfair, I’m asking why, It’s then I cherish friends I’ve made. Keep friendships fresh and make some new. Spend time with friends and be one too.
John Alexander lives in Frisco, Texas with his beautiful wife and his Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Perhaps you’re the one who needs comfort today, Or perhaps it’s another you help in some way. We all need each other. We all need a friend. Someone beside us to help us to mend. Those times when we’re hurting, feel helpless and lost, Our friendships are priceless, not measured by cost. We need someone beside us with whom we can share Who’ll soothe as they listen, give comfort and care. Whether you or a friend is the one who’s in need, Either give or receive a kind word or a deed.
Those times when we’re hurting, we also will learn The value of comfort that we can return.
I know that no matter what you’re going through, The Lord is a friend who’ll bring comfort to you.
Can I still enjoy roses, though pricked by a thorn? Will laughter return once life’s caused me to mourn? Although in my life I’ve had good times and bad, My peace soon returns. I don’t have to stay sad.
No matter the wind and the storms life may bring, The morning will dawn, and the birds will still sing. Life’s constantly changing each day is brand new. I give thanks for each morning. I’ve seen quite a few. I treasure the friends I have made through the years. I can share with them laughter and also the tears. Whenever I need them, I know they are there. I’m eager to help them and lift them in prayer. We’re all getting older and showing our age. Close friends are important at any life stage. I pray you are covered by friends who will pray, A blanket of love that will warm you today.
Photos by Karen RuhlWriter of inspirational messages. http://www.melissaghenderson.com
Do you share Christmas dinner with family? Perhaps friends are seated next to you at the table. Every Christmas offers an opportunity to fellowship and share the love of Christ with others. Over the years, our family Christmas dinner menu and attendees have changed and sometimes brought new expe riences.
As a young girl, Mama and Daddy enjoyed cooking a big meal for Christmas. Turkey, ham, sweet po tatoes, corn, cranberry sauce, and special desserts like sweet potato pie or pound cake were often served. Various members of the family who were able to gather with us would bring food that they had prepared to share. Nothing was coordinated or organized. Yet, there was always a variety of delec table food.
There were times when the table held so much food that family members had to ‘fix’ a plate and find a seat anywhere in the living room or den. We perched a plate on our lap and a cup of sweet tea was positioned carefully on top of a coaster on an antique end table. The delicious meal was eaten while conversations and laughter could be heard throughout the home.
Other times, we visited family in another part of the state. The scent of turkey cooking in the oven, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and homemade rolls made my taste buds water. I could hardly wait to find my place at the table.
Years passed. Children grew into adults and new family traditions began. As folks in the family moved away, sometimes sharing a meal together was not possible. We wondered how we could continue to experience the love and togetherness of Christmas dinner.
The time came when Daddy had gone on to Heav en. Mama could no longer live alone. She needed special care, so she went to live in a skilled care fa cility. She moved to different locations of assisted living and then a nursing home.
While visiting Mama, our family noticed the resi dents who had many visitors while other residents had few or no visitors. The staff at the nursing home decorated the hallways to provide a joyful at mosphere. Christmas dinner would be special. The people preparing the Christmas meal gave extra at tention to detail. A holiday feast was served. Mama remarked that the food was ‘so good.’
As our family has grown and changed over the years, we have learned that Christmas dinner may be shared with family, friends, and strangers. Chat ting with people on any day can help bring smiles and joy. Listening to the life stories of each person can enlighten and bless everyone.
Click on the book covers to purchase Melissa’s books.
Another way to share Christmas dinner is to volun teer at a local shelter or offer to take meals to shutins. God gives us many ways to give His love through our words and actions.
I will always remember the scents of Christmas din ner. Whether our family is together for the meal, or we visit a nursing home or volunteer at a local shel ter, I know that God was always with us in each mo ment and He is with us now.
Is there someone you can share Christmas dinner with and show the love of Christ?
“Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Prac tice hospitality.” (Romans 12:13 NIV)
In His Name, Melissa Henderson
Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages laced with a bit of humor. With stories in books, magazines, devotionals and more, Melissa hopes to encourage readers. Melissa is the author of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at https://www. facebook.com/melissa.henderson.9440
Read her blogs at: https://melissaghenderson.com/ It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons
“It’s just so hard,” she said; “I feel all alone.” Faced with these words, I immediately thought to address the concern with a patent answer: you are not alone; Jesus is with you. Instead, I sympathized with a cry from the heart. God doesn’t minimize any emotion; He listens and works through them, using them for our good. All of creation similarly groans under the weight of a world spinning out of control (Romans 8:22).
Life can feel like a ‘sucker-punch’ in the gut, driving a person into the hard and lonely. We can spend years trying to escape this common human experience. There are a plethora of ways to keep us busy. Name the pleasure, the world has it; and if we are not care ful, it will take us over. Even commendable endeavors can destroy a soul’s deepest longing, consuming the good life of abundance intended for us to enjoy and be fulfilled in. Since something negative has affected everyone, leaving these deeper issues unaddressed is harmful. Distractions and/or avoidance never accom plish the purpose for which God created us and that is satisfying. I believe we all come to a day of reckoning, no matter the running around we do. God loves us too much to leave us in a state of brokenness.
Disturbing feelings surface in the absence of doing when we are exhausted and sleep will not come. These are challenging times. And the devil can taunt us with the not-so-wonderful things we did, and hor rible things done to us to keep the pain going, to get us even questioning God. People are destroyed for lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6). We don’t always know why we behave as we do; it’s hard to understand the reason the sins that so easily beset us plague us as they do. (See Romans 7, Hebrews 12:1).
I seek order in my life and do my best to manage ev erything that happens on any given day. As such, the control gives me a sense of empowerment; and the feeling is great. All of our accomplishments can feel that good. I wish I could say I have this control thing under control, but there is no arrival at being fully in control of our lives on this side of heaven. I need God to show me things about myself that rev up emotions of feeling helpless, fearful, and doubtful.
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When the disciples were alone with Jesus, he ex plained all things to them (Mark 4:34). I believe His provisions for understanding life include personal and specific understanding of one’s own self. What our M/O is. It takes courage to see an inner need for healing so we are not driven to run. Jesus calls us to come away with Him. These times of soul-searching with Him will be a mind renewed by truth and release from a focal point of pain from our past and fear for our future. Psalm 42:7 (NKJV) is a prayer to God at a highly distressing time of sorrow. “Deep calls unto deep at the noise of Your waterfalls. All Your waves and billows have gone over me.” In God’s permissive will that is always loving, we can experience a won derful unveiling of the what that has been feeding the emotional tidal waves of ‘too hard and all alone.’ Only the Lord can calm storms. Only He is the chain breaker, able to cut through bars of iron, imprison ing us. His grace is sufficient; His power works best in our weakness. (Psalm 107:16, 2 Corinthians 12:9).
Andrea is mom to four great kids and Grammy to four delightful grands. Passionate about Jesus, friends, and people, Andrea loves to share all He has taught her in life. When not writing, Andrea enjoys simple things, such as music, heartwarming movies, reinventing recipes to be healthier, and cycling along one wooded road or other with the Lord.
Please visit her Facebook blog: https:// www.facebook.com/In-The-Way-Everlast ing-1770074853062907 Andrea is always ready to hear thoughts from her readers. Or you can email her at: rapture927@aol.com Email: rapture927@aol.com Facebook Blog: In the Way Everlasting
on the photo of the book to purchase from Amazon.
(Psalm 139:16 NIV)
My year of … (insert declaration)…. We habitually name each new year according to how we feel, desire, or think the year should be for us. We enter the new year full of hope and expectations—feeling the vibrancy of an exciting year! Interestingly, as the new year draws to a close, we become discouraged and conclude that our declarations were in vain because the year looked like nothing we had previously pronounced. How many of us can sorely relate to this?
In all of our fervent declarations, do we make room for God’s plans and purposes too? We did not create ourselves so know that the Lord, He is God; It is he who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are his people and the sheep of His pasture (Psalm 100:3). The Bible likens us to sheep because all of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s path to follow our own (Isaiah 53:6). We can ra tionalize it all we want and justify the path of error we have chosen, but we’ll find out in the end that we took the road to destruction (Proverbs 14:12). No matter what the world purports, we cannot handle life with our own frail strength. For this reason, Jesus is constantly calling for the weary and down-spirited to come and find rest in him alone.
Here’s an indisputable statement: Jesus is the Good Shepherd. If the Lord is our good shepherd, we shall not want in the approaching new year. We will always have everything we need. (Psalm 23:1). If we find ourselves frantic and desperate, then the trigger question is, who is leading us? Many of us have shoved God to the sidelines; we have become so bent on driving the course of life ourselves, indirectly fueling insatiability, unfulfill ment and self-destruction. In fact, if we do not allow God to lead us, we will stumble and miss our providential way. Life is complicated enough to be self-reliant and independent. Truthful ly, man needs God every second, every minute, every hour, and every day. Let’s learn to priori tize the word of God as our daily compass and He will faithfully guide us each step of the way.
Since the inception of creation, we all have sinned and need the glory of God (Romans 3:23). God had a redemption plan for mankind, and Christmas is a wonderful time to reminisce about the birth of Jesus. For here is the way God loved the world— He gave His only, unique Son as a gift. So now ev eryone who believes in Him will never perish but experience everlasting life (John 3:16). The only condition here is to just believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household (Acts 16:31) because there is no longer any condemnation for those who believe in Him (John 3:18). If He had such a great restoration plan for a hopeless world, how much more for our lives?
“Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”
The Greek word for author is archegos, which is translated variously as ‘captain, author, pioneer, trailblazer, or founder.’ An archegos is someone who begins something so that others may enter into it. Jesus is the archegos of our salvation, meaning He blazed the trail and entered into God’s family so that we can all follow. And this is the secret: Christ lives in you, so this assures you of sharing His glory (Co lossians 1:27)—the same glory that our trailblazer, pioneer, author, and captain has! Comparatively, He is also the captain of our destiny. We can be con fident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in us will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6). God has begun the good work of salvation in us, wholly trust that He will complete it in directing our paths for His glory!
Our lives are God’s novel. Let’s allow Him to write it because He already knows the end from the be ginning and His purpose will stand (Isaiah 46:10). Be rest assured that He has already figured out the thoughts that keep us awake at night. Nothing can ever catch Him by surprise. Do you know that with out God, all our ceaseless striving here on earth is futile? Do something different this time around. Be fore you do anything in 2023, put your trust total ly in God and not in yourself. Then every plan you make will succeed (Proverbs 16:3), for no one will succeed by strength alone (1 Samuel 2:9). And here is one of God’s reassuring promises to us in 2023— never doubt God’s mighty power to work in us and accomplish all this. He will achieve infinitely more than our greatest request, our most unbelievable dream, and exceed our wildest imagination! He will outdo them all, for His miraculous power constantly energizes us (Ephesians 3:20).
He has the script for any direction you need in the coming year. If you need supernatural peace, He has the script already! If you need unspeakable joy, He has the script already! He has the script for mira cles in the coming year. Whatever dire need is on your plate for the coming year, know that He has the script already, so do not be afraid or discour aged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will never fail or abandon you (Deuteronomy 31:8). Commit the new year into the sovereign hands of God. He has the whole world in it—including you!
Ama Afriyie-Jenkins remembers loving to write from an early age, and she is a voracious read er. She and her husband live in Accra, Ghana with their children and they shepherd a non-denom inational Christian fellowship, Inspirational Hour Ministries. She is a lover of languages and has a heart for gender and development economics in Ghana.
You can connect with her via email: ammajenkins@gmail.com on Facebook and LinkedIn (@Ama Afriyie-Jenkins).
Michael E. Wells has a passion for writing letters of Christian encour agement. With poetic style and moving messages, the reader is often comforted and consoled, inspired, and refreshed. Since his retirement from Federal Service in 2006, most mornings are spent penning letters of the heart. Tucked away in the foothills of Pennsylvania, he leads an idyllic lifestyle in a pastoral set ting. This backdrop helps to set both mood and message for his many writings. You can find his book, “Morning Coffee with Words For The Day” at Amazon.com.
One plants, another waters, but it is God who gives the in crease. We provide seeds, many of us water along the way, but God births it in the spirit of those who receive.
Santa comes this time every year Giving gifts that bring good cheer Dressed in that suit, some think him aloof And the jolly HO HO HO we hold so dear
But I think of another who came just once Laid in a manger with blanket ensconced A message was said by those who were led The gift of a Savoir did the angels announce
Was the night before Jesus and all through the land angels made ready in their announcement to man The birth of a savior we’ll declare to them this night so upon instruction, they descend and take to flight
In a field, shepherds tend to their bleating sheep tired from their labors and just wanting to sleep But a voice is heard and a light shines so bright saying fear not, a savior is born to you this night
Traveling to see... if such a thing could be They came to the place...and were so amazed
It was as the angel had spoken back then there the babe was as mentioned to them So declaring a savior is now born unto us we celebrate again this night before Jesus
The joy of laughter what a thing to be had not a time for sorrow or faces to be sad Though you suffer loss and times of despair there is now Someone who keeps you in their care Yes, the babe born on that Holy night has become our Savior and we His sole delight So let out that laugh no matter your state for when this life ends, the joys of heaven await
Luke and Matthew tell us the stories of these encoun ters. One group was not aware and one group was. One had no clue of what God was doing among them, the other did. One was not seeking, one was. But both were about to have an encounter that would forever change their lives. It is much like us today. We know of those who seek God from childhood, while for others it comes upon them suddenly.
But one thing they have in common, they both have had encounters. As the shepherds and wise men of old, may you too have an encounter during this time of celebration that will forever change your life. If you are unaware, may He be made known to you. If you are seeking, may you find Him.
It is in the encounter that we are changed. Hope is renewed and faith strengthened. Where there was loneliness comes companionship, where there was no direction, comes purpose. He is the Babe in the man ger, the Child in the temple, the Healer in the streets, the Prophet on the hillside, the Savior on the cross, and now the Presence in the believer. Seek and you shall find.
He who dies with the most toys wins! It was a popular saying in the 1980s. It showed the shal lowness of the culture of that day. Fast-forward 40 years and all that our toys have brought us is the need for more toys. We will never find satisfaction in inanimate objects. Our joy cannot come from a present under the tree but from a Presence that supplies our needs. When all is taken away, what remains is all you need. The apostle Paul said, “We came into this world with nothing and it is certain that we can carry nothing out. So with food and clothing we shall be content.”
Yes, I know, hard to do in our culture of consum ing. In fact, we are no longer called citizens; we are referred to as consumers. Most of us in the US have lived as residents of Disneyland, where all is provided for and at nominal costs. Well, we’ve recently got a dose of sticker shock at our most basic needs, never mind our toys. This Christmas should be a reality check for America. When mak ing your list, take into account wants and needs. Practical should be this year’s hot ticket item. The sounds at this season should be conversation and laughter, not bells and whistles. Moderation is the new normal, compassion the new expression, and love the new gift.
After all, it is what we celebrate, what we com memorate, and what we extend. Yes, for all of our striving to possess and to give, our greatest pos session to obtain and greatest gift to give was an nounced by the angels, found by the wise men, and followed by the millions for almost two mil lennia. It was the gift of a Savior from a loving God. And though the bills still come in the mail and you usually have too much month and not enough money, this truth still remains... “God will make a way where there seems to be no way.” And when it’s all said and done, that’s all you need.
by Nicole Byrum
In December 2018, I was a year and a half into what has now become an avid reading habit. At the time, it only seemed appropriate that I should read Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol. I’m sure I had read it at some point in my life, perhaps in middle school or high school, but I wanted to read it anew through the eyes of a late thir ty-something. It did not disappoint. In fact, I loved it so much that I decided to make a tradition out of reading this wonderful story in December of every ‘even’ year. And so, with December 2022 upon us, I am anxiously awaiting my third journey with this beloved tale.
Of course, the well-known theme of the book is the redemption of old Ebenezer Scrooge; how this awful, hard-hearted man is transformed upon coming faceto-face with the reality of who he truly is. Through the intervention of the ghosts of Christmases past, present, and future, he sees the need to change—and seizes the opportunity to do so. At the story’s conclusion, we see him as a kind, thoughtful, generous human being, far removed from the man of stone he once was.
These are the stories we love so much. A beauti ful story of transformation in which the villain is re deemed is one we never grow weary of reading. It’s for this reason I also love Les Miserables. The way the compassion and generosity of the priest forever changed Jean Valjean, is to me, one of the greatest storylines in classic fiction literature.
Why is this? Why do we love the Scrooges and Jeans of this world so much? Perhaps because they remind us so much of ourselves. We know we are people in need of rescue—in need of a transformation that is only possible through something outside of our selves. We love these stories because whether they intend to or not; they reflect the gospel.
During this season, as we fix our minds on the com ing of the Savior into the world, we remember the reason why he came. The Apostle Paul described this reason perfectly when he wrote, “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost,” (1 Timothy 1:15, ESV). Yet, this was not a new message. Jesus himself told us for what purpose he had come: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost,” (Luke 19:10, ESV).
Nicole is a licensed marriage and family thera pist with over 14 years of experience in commu nity mental health. She is the author of Remade: Living Free a book written for women in recovery from substance abuse and unhealthy relationships. Nicole also maintains a blog at nicolebyrum.com as well as a podcast, 5 Minute Word. Both focus on topics related to faith and relationships. She lives in Northwest Ohio with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, running, or cooking.
I love that the same book which begins so famously with the birth of Jesus makes no mystery regarding his purpose. He came for us, to save us from our sins so that we might be reconciled to a holy God. But the saving of Jesus is so complete, so thor ough, that it includes even more! For not only are we spared from God’s wrath, but through Christ, we are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). As part of our saving, we are transformed into something entirely different from what we were: where once we were dead, through Christ, we are now alive; where once we were enemies of God, hostile to Him and all His ways, now we are brought near to Him, with hearts full of love and adoration.
While I look forward to reuniting with the charac ters of A Christmas Carol, even more, I look for ward to reading, again and again, the life-chang ing truth of the gospel.
Truly, Christ our Savior, whose birth we celebrate this month, has come to save us from sin and to sanctify us through and through (1 Thessalonians 5:23). This transformation is so radical, so glorious, that the transformation of Ebeneezer Scrooge ut terly pales in comparison.
May God bless you as you celebrate the transform ing love of our Savior this season!
https://yvonne-morgan.com
Blog at Turningmountainsintomolehills.org Twitter: @ymmauthor Website: Yvonne-Morgan.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YMMauthor/ Turning Mountains into Molehills (2017)
What will you do in the New Year? Do you make res olutions or pick out a word to guide you? For me, I like to look at a word or phrase that can guide me throughout the year. This year, considering COVID and all the unexpected challenges of the last few years, I focused on staying “in Christ.” So, for the year 2023, I want to align my life and thoughts with God, so I feel prepared for whatever comes my way.
What does the phrase “in Christ” mean to our faith? I found these words on the C. S. Lewis website:
“To be ‘in Christ’ does not mean to be inside Christ, as tools are in a box or our clothes in a closet, but to be organically united to Christ, as a limb is in the body or a branch is in the tree. It is this personal rela tionship with Christ that is the distinctive mark of his authentic followers.”
We also find this phrase used by Paul throughout his letters in the New Testament. Paul used the term over seventy-five times to express his thoughts. If Paul thought these words were so important, then maybe I need to explore his ideas on them.
To start this study of the phrase, we should begin with the central theme of the statement found in the verse below;
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NASB)
We become new creations when we unite with Christ. Our old way of living goes away. We no longer want things from our past that pull us away from God. We surrender our former lives to Him, and God exchang es them for something better. But what do we get?
Let’s dig into some of Paul’s Bible verses to see how a life in Christ brings us a better way of living. We will look at six key themes.
In Christ, we become blessed. We find one example of this in Ephesians 1:3 (ESV); “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heav enly places.”
We receive forgiveness. Paul shows us this in Ephe sians 4:32 (NIV); “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
We become redeemed, righteous, and holy. We find these benefits in 1 Corinthians 1:30 (NIV); “It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God–that is, our righ teousness, holiness and redemption.”
We become united. Once again, Paul offers us this reflection in Galatians 3:23 (NIV); “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
We receive grace. We turn to 2 Timothy 1:9 (NIV) for this gift; “He has saved us and called us to a holy lifenot because of anything we have done, but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,”
We will go to heaven. Paul shows us the ultimate re ward for a life lived in Christ in 1 Thessalonians 4:16 (NIV); “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.”
When we are in Christ, we lose the things that weigh us down in life and gain blessings, forgiveness, re demption, unity, grace, and heaven. Sounds good to me. I want to use this year and become organical ly connected to Christ and deepen my relationship with Him. I want to follow the examples set by the Apostle Paul and be “In Christ.”
Abba, Father. Thank You, Father, that I am a branch united to you, my Lord Jesus Christ. May Your life flow through me as the sap flows through the limbs connected to the source. Fill me with Your fullness so that I may live and move and grow and bear fruit as I abide more and more in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38 NKJV)
This article will not be easy to write, because I believe giving should be done quietly and without the expec tation of receiving anything in return. I have a heart for those who are homeless and hungry. Perhaps part of this is from growing up in a home where my dad worked overtime just to put food on the table for our family of eight. While I remember one week when we ate oatmeal for our meals, I never remember going hungry. My earthly father provided. Another year, I remember when our Heavenly Father provided through a church group that brought the meaning of Christmas to our home when my dad had a bad injury and could not work. Our home was filled with food and toys and gifts for each family member.
My first true awakening to the homeless population was when I visited Washington, D.C. as a young adult. As we walked down the streets, we saw people sitting on the sidewalk grates keeping warm with the steam from the grates. They had newspaper stuffed in their clothing to insulate them against the cold. My heart hurt so badly, and the image is still embedded in my mind. I wept as I sat in my warm hotel room. How could this be? It changed my heart forever.
As an adult, I looked for ways to volunteer and serve those who were in need. There are so many ways we can all be involved:
1. Volunteer at a soup kitchen (small groups can volunteer together.
2. Take food to the food banks (every donation helps).
3. Give a tract with a few dollars to those homeless people you encounter on the street.
4. Keep a few blankets, socks, and gloves in your car to hand out during the winter.
5. Give at church. Most churches have programs to help those in need.
And one thing that we can all do that doesn’t cost anything is to pray. Please don’t judge those you see and think you are better than they are. It would surprise you to learn the reasons someone is in that position. They are just like us; they need to feel wanted and loved. I recently heard someone use the word ‘useless’ when describing someone. It hurt me to the core. No one is useless, no one is above another.
Don’t think of giving as a Thanksgiving or Christmas thing to do. There are hungry people every day in the United States and around the world. Take a few minutes to look around you and see where you can make a difference. There is so much more to be done.
“Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matthew 10:8 NKJV)
We praise you and thank you for giving us Christ Jesus as our Savior. Since the time of the human birth of your only Son, you began a work of redemption in us. Father, please keep us firm in our faith and help us live the life you chose for us.
Lord, let us love everyone, our families and friends. Help us repent of our sins and look to you for complete guidance. Give us wisdom and discernment as we make decisions in our lives.
During this season, let us remember what Jesus taught when He was among us.
Let us read and understand the Beatitudes:
The text of St. Matthew reads as follows:
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Verse 3)
Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land. (Verse 4)
Blessed are they who mourn: for they shall be comforted. (Verse 5)
Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill. (Verse 6)
Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. (Verse 7)
Blessed are the clean of heart: for they shall see God. (Verse 8)
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. (Verse 9)
Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Verse 10)
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, (one) God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Dave Evans recently retired from his career as an estimator for an electrical contractor, but still works part-time. He recently served as Body Care Pastor for a small church and previously taught at a local Bible College for several years. God led him to found and serve in several out reach ministries—a pet therapy ministry, visiting several skilled nursing facilities and retirement homes: a prayer booth on a local street corner to allow people in the community to stop by for prayer needs and an evangelism table, typically set up once a month at various malls or stores, which made Bibles, tracts, DVDs, and other Christian materials available free of charge to interested shoppers. Dave has a bachelor’s degree in business adminis tration/management. As a writer, he has had many poems and articles published in various periodicals and books. And he’s been privileged to do volunteer work for a local police department.
In the Chinese province of Gansu, one hundred seven ty-two runners eagerly lined up, waiting for the starting signal to begin the grueling, sixty-mile marathon, which would lead them through mountainous terrain reaching 9,800 feet in elevation. None of their training and expe rience could have prepared them for what was in store that day, and their normal running attire was certainly no protection from the extreme weather that unexpectedly assaulted them. Many battled on through the hail, freez ing rain, and strong winds in the high altitude. Tragically, though, twenty-one runners did not finish the race, and rescue workers later recovered their bodies.
The New Testament uses the analogy of a race to de scribe the Christian life. The moment we are born again, the race begins. And since it is a marathon, we must de termine to persevere in order to finish the race well. So, the apostle urges—“… let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1 NKJV).
This was Paul’s goal—to run with endurance and to fin ish the race well while completing the ministry God had given him. “But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus…” (Acts 20:24a NKJV).
The Christians in the church at Galatia were run ning their race well. They were exerting themselves while they ran, but they were being hindered or taken off-course. Paul observed this and ques tioned them, saying, “You ran well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth?” (Galatians 5:7 NKJV). “Who hindered you?” The word ‘hindered’ — “was used of impeding persons by breaking up the road, or by placing an obstacle sharply in the path.” So, his question could be expressed, “Who broke up the road along which you were traveling so well?” In their case, it was the Judaizers who were con vincing them to believe that while they were jus tified by faith, the law sanctified them, and in so doing, they were getting off course.
Sometimes runners don’t finish races because of a wrong mindset. This happens when they haven’t prepared themselves mentally to push through the pain and difficulties and consequently, their de termination to finish is jeopardized. The key is to determine to press on, to reach forward towards the goal and the prize which waits in store. As Paul wrote, “Not that I have already attained, or am al ready perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have appre hended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:12-14 NKJV).
Later, as he approached the end of his life, Paul summed up his testimony with these words: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7, 8 NKJV). The end was in sight, with the crown of righteousness as his prize. He finished well.
Let’s stay in the race and on course, running and pressing onward with our eyes on the goal, so we, too, will finish the race well!
“And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:” (2 Corin thians 9:8 (KJV)
Have you ever longed to have all sufficiency in all things, not just sometimes, but always? Have you ever thought about what some of those things could be? God is willing and waiting to move in your life to help you abound to every good work He calls you to do.
I said to myself, “If I can get this one verse to come alive in my life, then it will be okay.” This one verse I knew had the key to living and opening up the promises of God.
I meditated on the verse 2 Corinthians 9:8 for two years, reading it, pondering it, and seeking God for understanding. I marveled at the eye-opening rev elations He revealed to me in this verse. Believing that God is able and willing changed how I see God and my relationship with Him. The inspiration for my book, God is Able: A Study of 2 Corinthians 9:8, came from that journey into a deeper understand ing of this life-changing verse.
What does the Bible mean in this verse when it says God is able? I honestly think God’s ability to abound His grace towards us has a lot to do with the faith we place in Him. Yes, God is almighty and powerful and spoke the entire world into creation. He does not need my faith in Him to do global miracles. But He requires my faith to some degree to move in my life.
God being able to make all grace abound toward me is a result that happens when I place my faith in Him. Faith activates the Word of God. It means believing that if God calls me to do a good work, He will also enable me with the means to do it.
Let’s look at this again.
“And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:”
One could look at this verse from a skeptical view point, wondering how they could always possess enough to always give generously to every good work when they can hardly keep up with their bills. They would conclude they would need to be a mil lionaire to always give that way. But that is not what this verse is saying.
What God has spoken to me in this verse is, “Tam my, when I call you to do a good work, have faith in Me. I will enable you and equip you to do that good work. If you can believe Me for that promise, then I am able to make all grace abound toward you; that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work that I call you to do.”
God will never call us to do something and not sup ply us with the means to do it. God used the phrase good work, not the word needs. A good work is our charity work, something we do in response to a need. There is no way we can always give to all needs as the world is always in need of things. But we can always give to every good work because God calls us to that work. I’m called for certain good works and God calls you to other good works. If I just focus on what God has called me to do, I will be able.
Let’s take a look at how Jesus explained what a life of good works looks like.
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.” (John 14:12 KJV)
Isn’t that amazing? When we believe in Him, we are able to do those works He did and greater works, because He went to the Father and sent us the Holy Spirit.
Jesus is saying, “Look at my life and the works I have done; these were good.” He healed the sick, raised the dead, calmed a storm, walked on water, and mi raculously fed thousands of people.
So believe in Him and believe in God, that He is able to abide in you to equip you to do all the good works He calls you to do. The best is yet to come.
I hope this verse comes alive in your life so you can always have all sufficiency in all things and abound in every good work God calls you to do.
Award-winning author T. S. Thompson is the mother of two sons currently living in Pennsylvania. She has a deep desire to move readers with her books and share the light of God through them. Thompson has been blessed with the gift of storytelling and believes the world is in need of good family-friendly books everyone can enjoy.
Thompson enjoys writing both Christian fiction and nonfiction. Her nonfiction books focus on how to live a Christian life through the Word of God. She also has a few journal books out to help with dayto-day living. The Land of Good Dreams is her young adult seven-book series. Thompson has sev eral new books in the works and plans to write as many books as she can in her lifetime.
“… that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:10-11 NKJV)
Another way of appropriately mentioning our Sav ior’s name is when praying. When we ask the Father to answer our prayers, it is proper to ask in Jesus’ name. We are told in the Bible, “And I will do what ever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” (John 14:13-14 NIV)
In the spring of 1978, a business associate invited me to play a round of golf at his father’s fairly exclu sive country club in Los Angeles. After we finished playing the front nine, we walked off the course and over to the outdoor patio café to have a bite of lunch. As the hostess seated us, the fellow I was with smiled and said to me, “Would you like to meet Farrah Fawcett?” I looked around us past the other tables, and sure enough, there she was, dressed in a white tennis outfit, walking towards us. She was with a young fellow who turned out to be the club tennis pro, also dressed in tennis whites and carrying two rackets.
My stammered response was, “Sure, uh, yes… uh, sure!” My friend waved Ms. Fawcett over, evidently a friend of hers, and he introduced us. She was as nice and gracious as she was beautiful. After what seemed like an eternity, but was surely only a min ute or two, she excused herself, but not before ask ing for my business card. I was so nervous I didn’t even think to ask for an autograph.
That evening, I was visiting my parents for dinner at their house, and I recounted my experience. After listening quietly, my father said to me, “Craig, don’t become a name-dropper. It isn’t necessary and peo ple dislike that.” Wow! I was a bit stunned, and the advice had a sting to it. Over the years, whenever I realize I have dropped a name in a conversation, my father’s words come back. Sometimes I heed his sage advice, but too frequently, I don’t.
Of course, there are exceptions to rules, and I think the following verse is a perfect example of a name we should drop on every appropriate occasion.
A word of caution here. It is very possible to invoke the name of Jesus for the wrong purposes. “You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions” (James 4:3 NIV) We of ten see this in so-called ‘prosperity preaching’ and in requests that are not under God’s instructions and will. Here’s one more verse: “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will re ceive, and your joy will be complete.” (John 16:24 NIV)
There is a popular saying that people don’t care what or who you know until they know how much you care. When we tell others about Jesus and our relationship with Him, we must show we care about them and their eternity. It isn’t enough just to preach Christianity; it is necessary to show it by the way we act, speak, and live.
Now, here is the rest of the story I began. About a week after the meeting at the country club, I re ceived a large cardboard tube in the mail at my office. Inside was a rolled-up poster of Farrah Faw cett, complete with an original autograph in magic marker—right next to the one printed on the poster. Yes, it was the now-famous swimsuit poster. Includ ed was a handwritten note from her saying it was nice to meet me and since I had forgotten to ask for an autograph, would I kindly accept her poster and note?
I confess that I have told my celebrity story too many times over the years, and in doing so, have ignored my earthy father’s advice. I am a work in progress and am trying to be more obedient to my heavenly Father.
Dr. Irene Surya has published a book of poems, In Solitude with God. Her poems have been published in various magazines. She has a pas sion for writing for the Lord and glorifying the Lord through her writings. She loves and serves the Lord with her husband. Click on book to purchase on Amazon.
As the mesmerizing hues of eventide Transform to a dark tapestry of twinkling stars, I look unto the Lord, To the author of my redemption.
The authors of the Bible Inspired by the Lord Have woven a beautiful tapestry Of God’s redemption of His people.
After the fall in the garden of Eden, From God’s first promise to the last God has helmed in His plan Of redemption in His Word.
Every book in the Bible Interlaces with each other To accentuate the story of redemption Through the Son of God, Jesus Christ.
Through His sacrifice on the cross Christ has redeemed His people Embellishing their life with hope To live for His glory.
Bought by the precious blood of Christ We are threaded to Him with love. Set free for freedom To keep our minds on things above.
Knitting together our life with Christ, Growing in the knowledge of God, The magnificent tapestry of God’s word Shows us the way to eternal life.
Laurie Glass has a heart for encouraging others through her writing. She has had many poems and articles published in both print and online publications. Laurie is a contributing writer for Chronic Joy, a ministry for those affected by chronic ill ness and other health issues. In addition, she won the Open Medicine Foundation poetry contest in 2019.
As I travel along this road of life, I know you’re always by my side. Even when I veer, you never leave, you’re always near.
When I question the curves along the road, your love for me is still bestowed. That’s love in motion, you never leave, such devotion.
When I’m hopeless, I come around the bend, and all I see is a dead end. You help me cope, you never leave, you give me hope.
When I’m weary, don’t know which way to turn, you show me it’s a time to learn. Such faithfulness, you never leave, and I am blessed.
By Stacy Ann Hixon
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Wanna know what’s absolutely tragic? Not stepping into your magic.
Your heart knows what your mind can’t understand! Take off your comfortable shoes and embrace God’s plan!
Each and every day spend time alone. There, you’ll discover the dreams of your own.
A walk in nature will help to find... MAGICAL thoughts that go from your HEART to your mind.
Listen closely and feel, the gentle nudges from your heart, that are oh so real!
Little Anababy in the Shoe ........XOXO ........ Only do what your heart tells you. ~ Princess Diana
Most of us have an abundance of plans during the Christmas holiday. We run around like crazy people until we’re exhausted. At that point, we can hardly say we enjoy the season. Is this what our Lord wants us to do?
Not too many people believe December 25th was our Lord’s birthday anymore, but the majority of us Christians celebrate the day to give honor to His birth. The actual birthdate of our Lord is not men tioned in the Bible. There are indications from what is written that the date was probably more in the fall because of the mention of the shepherds keeping their sheep.
“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.” (Luke 2:8)
It’s true winter in Israel can be mild, but it’s also re ported that it can get quite cold. Shepherds gen erally keep their flocks in a shelter during the win ter months. Therefore, they would not be out in the field at night. This has been debated, but is it that important?
If God wanted us to know exactly when Jesus Christ was born, wouldn’t it be in the Bible?
The important thing to me is that I recognize the fact Jesus Christ became a man. Born of a virgin. Had Mary never sinned? No, it doesn’t mean that. Mary needed to atone for her sins, just like everyone else. Being a virgin meant she had not been with a man. The Bible says in Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” Mary was a sinner, the same as you and me.
After Jesus was born, she went to the temple for purifi cation. “… to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” (Luke 2:24)
Back to the birthdate of Jesus. Although the date is not given in the Bible, the importance of Jesus being born of flesh and blood is just as important as His death on the cross and His resurrection.
“And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.” (Hebrews 9:22)
If Jesus hadn’t come down from glory as a man and shed His Blood, there would be no remission of our sins. He had to be born into our sinful world as a manchild, grow up and live a perfect life… for us, because we cannot live a perfect life, no matter how hard we try, or how good we try to be.
Click on photo to order Sharon’s books.
Website www.authorsharonkconnell.com
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Jesus Christ grew up and lived a perfect life. He was our perfect lamb, sacrificed for our sakes.
“For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)
He endured everything any human on earth has had to endure, and yet without sin. Then He suffered and died the most horrible, painful death there was, for us.
Some will not celebrate Christmas, and that’s between them and God. I didn’t for a long time. The more I think about Christmas, the more I feel it’s important to honor what our Lord left in glory and endured on this earth to open the gates of heaven to all those who would accept His gift of salvation.
He has given us the gift. Not the other way around. “Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righ teousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.” (Romans 5:18)
Jesus Christ offers His Gift of salvation to all. Have you accepted it? Like any gift, you must accept it for it to become yours. He will not force it on anyone. There is no other way to be saved from hell.
Now, I ask again. How are you spending your Christ mas? Will it be as a saved, born-again Christian, or like so many others who will never see the Kingdom of God?
Christian, if you’re already saved, will you fall into the commercial side of Christmas, or will you show your Christianity by serving others who are less fortunate, lonely, or in need? There are so many who have no joy at this time of year, for various reasons. Many lost loved ones during the holiday. If you can do something for someone else, help them forget the sadness. It’s a way to honor our Lord, after all He’s done for us.
Works do not save anyone. The Bible makes it clear in Ephesians 2:8-9:
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
Also in Titus 3:5:
“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;”
The good works a Christian does show his love for the Savior. It doesn’t wash away one sin. It makes your heart lighter, and it pleases God.
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;” (Colossians 3:23)
So… how are you spending your Christmas? Make it a joyful one, for you, for your family, and for everyone you can. For those who need it the most.
*All Scripture is taken from the King James Authorized Bible
(Nativity photo Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay 1010749_640)
My dad is dying. My brain refused to accept or con nect those words. With each step I took in the early morning on the paved trail, my feet felt like heavy blocks of cement as the unimaginable thought of my father’s presence gone from this earth resonated in my body. A steady stream of tears rolled down my face, and I silently screamed to God, why my dad, Lord, why? I know that was a selfish question; I had several friends who lost their parents, and I was not unique. Even my dad wasn’t asking God why and he was the one battling T-cell Lymphoma. But I was an gry with God; it all seemed so unfair. I wasn’t ready for my dad to be gone at age 72. He had more life to live, more vegetables to grow in his garden, my daughter’s graduation to attend, more holidays to celebrate, more memories to make, more of every thing, and the bottom line was I didn’t want to be in a world without my dad.
I prayed and asked God, how would I bear the un bearable? I felt God speak the words in my heart, trust me. I was stirring in my thoughts and pushed those words away, but they kept interrupting me. As I was walking through an underpass, I looked to the left, and in graffiti, standing alone was the word— trust. When God wants your attention, he knows how to get it! It stopped me in my tracks, and like every one else in this day and age, I took a photo with my cell phone. It wasn’t an Instagram-ready picture; it wasn’t pretty, but it reminded me that trusting God isn’t always pretty; it can be complicated and messy. I was like the bare wall, and in the middle of my bar ren state was the trust in God that had to permeate my life.
My dad trusted God. He firmly believed in God’s will and relied on the power of the Lord. He trusted him on February 8, 2022, when he should have died by med ical standards when his body crashed, and he was in ICU. He trusted him through the many rounds of ardu ous chemotherapy that kept his doctors marveling at how well he could withstand the treatments. He trust ed the Lord when he went into remission and when the tremors started, which indicated in addition to T-Cell Lymphoma, he also had Central Nervous System Lym phoma. He trusted God when they found the T-Cell came back with a vengeance, and he trusted that God would have him released from the hospital to return to our home. My dad understood the course before him was not easy, but he trusted God to bring him to the finish line. My dad trusted that his suffering was not in vain and had a purpose. So how could I not trust what God was doing, even if I didn’t understand it?
Romans 5:3-5 (ESV), says “Not only that, but we re joice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produc es endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” I have read this verse multiple times, but never has it had more significance to me than it does now in this season of loss and grief.
Surprisingly, I discovered exquisite rejoicing in suf fering that is almost indescribable. From a human perspective, it doesn’t make sense. How can there be rejoicing in pain? When I viewed my dad’s suffering from a spiritual perspective, I couldn’t help but re joice when I saw the power of God’s work through his mercy and grace every day. I had the privilege of witnessing my big, strong dad in his most vulnera ble state, carrying his cross hand in hand with Jesus. Through his suffering, my father had a glimpse into his relationship with our heavenly Father. I had a front seat to seeing faith in action.
My dad was an inspiration to my family because of his endurance. As my mother painfully watched the love of her life running the race, she ran beside him, tirelessly and lovingly, helping him lift his cross when it was too heavy to bear. Through suffering, we expe rience the brutal and the beautiful. We see each oth er at our strongest and at our weakest. We hold tight to one another on the darkest of nights and push further one more step every day. On a heartbreaking level, we are slapped with the brevity of life, and the love we share becomes deeper, and more profound, with a sense of urgency to leave nothing unsaid.
Through my dad’s endurance, his character was a shining example of what it means to be a follower of Christ. He never complained; he rose to the occasion and was a soldier. When I got discouraged, he would say, you’re a Williams; keep your head up. You’re from good stock. I could see the very best of what my dad was made of through his suffering. He always had grit and determination; he used to be a Marine. But as his physicality became less, I could see Christ’s strength through him increase. God was refining his character for the road ahead to be an example for us to draw on when he was gone. My dad was our gentle giant, but I never saw him as stronger than I did in those days of suffering.
Throughout my dad’s race and at the last leg of it, I saw his hope. His hope wasn’t dependent on getting well; it was in the promises of Jesus. He was assured of his salvation, and his trust in the Lord left him unafraid to cross the finish line.
On October 9, 2022, my dad passed on to glory at our home. I was with him when he took his last breath, and I am eternally grateful that I was there for him like he had always been for me. I trust God, even though the outcome is not what I wanted; it was God’s will. My dad gave us a gift. He showed us how to live and showed us how to die by trusting in the everlasting Lord. His final text to me said, “don’t you worry about me; I am in God’s hands.” I know that is where he is and has al ways been.
Chere Williams lives in Takoma Park, MD with her amaz ing 16-year-old daughter. She loves Jesus and is pas sionate about encouraging women to live on purpose and open their hearts to the big, beautiful life God has in store for them. She takes great joy in writing her blog and hosting her podcast, Faith, Coffee, & a Kid. Chere has a heart for single moms and is the creator of the Single Moms of Faith, Burning Bright, Not Burning Out Conference. She loves to travel, spend time with friends and family, and volunteer.
Blog: Faith, Coffee, & a Kid
2022 has been one of those years where just about everything is challenging. But God....He has been with us each step of the way. No road trippin’ in November, but so many memories we can share. Enjoy.
Photos: ©KarenRuhlIf you like to take photos, go out and get someone to blow bubbles while you try to capture the bubble and the reflection. I guarantee laughter on this outting!
While driving through an abandoned business district here in North Caroli na, this door caught my eye. Without anything we could see around it that was open, this nativity scene was definitely being well taken care of.
Taking one of our random turns, we ended up at Caesar’s Head Park. Once on top of the mountain, the views were amazing. Some of the area around it going up the hill is run down. Of course, that just gets me excited to shoot old buildings!
The photo to the left is a National Geodetic Survey Marker for Caesar’s Head Park.
I love shooting old buildings. This gas station is in North Carolina, the Bath House/Hotel is in Califor nia, and the Old house is in Ohio.
I hope you enjoy our road trippin’ photos from around the country. Have a blessed Christmastell Santa you want a new camera or lens and get out and shoot!
Top: I was on a photo shoot for a musician when I spotted this car in the field. His father was so kind and let me take some photos. Do you name your cars? We do!
Get your camera out and go for a drive. Go to a lake and find a harbor to shoot. Look for abandonded buildings - be sure not to cross no trespassing signs. And experiement with Black and White photography.
Roland T. Pyle is a licensed social worker and works in the field of aging with seniors, caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren. Rolanda is the author of Grandma’s Hands, a children’s storybook, Finally, a collection of inspi rational poems; and the compiler of and contributor to Be neath His Everlasting Wings, a collection of devotionals. Her work has been published in religious and community news papers, anthologies, collections, and journals. In April 2004, New York’s Daily News named her one of the “100 Women Who Shape Our City.” Her website is www.rorosrainbowcommunications.com
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Such a very special time when… We celebrate the birth of Christ, by giving gifts, having fun, and doing everything nice.
It is a time for sharing, And it is also a time for caring. Time for family, friends, and those we love. Time to reflect on Jesus and His Father above!
Hustle and bustle as folks shop in the store, Holiday parties at work on each and every floor, Store windows are decorated and looking great, It’s the time to love everyone and not to hate.
Christmas songs playing everywhere you go, Bitter cold weather and hopefully lots of snow, Kids are off from school and having fun, Adults shopping, decorating, cooking — can’t wait till it’s done!
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, Such a very special time when, We focus on Jesus’ birth, which is the reason, For this special, wonderful time and season!
During these difficult and trying times, you may feel all alone It may be difficult for you if you have to stay at home Because day after day, you know all you will hear… Is that stinging quiet that fills the air.
It can be very hard when there’s no one to talk to And you just wish you had someone there with you. The silence speaks loudly, letting you know you are alone To drown it out, you put on the television, music or get on the phone.
But here is a question, does alone have to mean lonely? And just because you are isolated at home, and it’s you only… Does it mean that you have to feel bad Or get depressed, down, or even feel sad?
Can we consider this time alone to be a good thing? Or look at it as a season or time that brings… An opportunity to work on things we always wanted to do Fulfilling our plans, dreams, and our goals, too.
We may also have to try to change our views Concentrate on good things and turn off the news! And be wise and use this “pause” as a time to get things in line While we believe this will all end in due time.
Even so, we are human and will feel some kind of ways I know and can relate, I’ve experienced it also on some days But one thing I know is that God said He will never leave or forsake us So we just have to believe His word and in Him put our trust.
We will get through this and come out on top We can’t give up and we can’t stop… Fulfilling our purpose, we will stand tall. Let’s keep on praying. God bless us all!
I always felt alone, but now I feel a part Because you invited me into your home and your heart I always felt so lost, but now I’m found I was bent for destruction but you turned me around I was misused and unwanted, abused, and felt haunted
You took me from distress so now I can rest You took me away from the strife and gave me a new life All I ever had was so much shame and blame But that all changed when you gave me a home and your name. Thank you for adopting me!
My life was incomplete, and I felt alone Bored, unfilled, and always on my own. I would look, search, and always pray Until I saw your beautiful face that day. Now my life is filled with caring, sharing, and everything that is so endearing
After a long search, sometimes filled with tears, God has finally answered my prayers. Instead of everything being just about me, Now It’s us, it’s we, our FAMILY! Thank you for letting me adopt you!
may be contacted by email at: Msroadkill@bellsouth.net
During my early years of ministry, my primary skill set centered on music. Having never been confused with a singer, I utilized my skills as a drummer.
Despite all the negativity that inherently went with drums in church, such as ‘too loud’, or ‘drums have no place in a church’, at every opportunity I would be found rolling, dragging, or carrying drums down the center aisle of the host church. After setting my ‘tubs’ up, I would climb behind them, pick up my sticks and proceed to set toes tapping and hands clapping.
However, there were times, despite my best efforts, I didn’t keep it down’, well enough! In the middle of a song, I would notice a head snapping up to ward the back of the congregation. I immediately started playing softer, so maybe they would never know who woke them up! Sometimes that worked, sometimes, not so much, and this usually earned me an ugly glare!
Besides playing in my local church, I worked in sev eral groups and traveled around a bit. Several years into my quartet days, I found myself riding on a 1952 vintage bus heading to Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota to put on a program in each city. Getting there involved heading north after work and driv ing 1,000 miles. By swapping drivers and keeping at least one person awake (whose job was to keep the driver awake), we made it with nothing terrible happening.
We rolled up to the church in Minneapolis by mid-af ternoon Saturday and lugged equipment from un der the bus and into the sanctuary for setting up. The quartet was introduced and started belting out Southern Gospel at 7:00 pm. By 7:03 pm, The Holy Spirit went to work, and blessings from on high commenced. Shouts of adulation, hand clapping, arms lifted in praise, and upturned faces filled the small church. Spiritual victory was in the air and ev eryone soon found themselves enjoying the show ers of blessings pouring down from heaven!
After about two hours of anointed music, I didn’t think things could get any better. As happens more often than I like to admit, I am through before God is. Suddenly, over the steady din of the rejoicing congregation, I heard additional praises to the Lord being shouted to the rafters. I looked over my crash cymbal and glimpsed a woman who had long since seen the better side of seventy running down the center aisle of the church. All the singers watched with me as she sprinted toward the quartet, hung a left, and went back up the far side of the pews to the rear of the congregation where she blended into the crowd. It had been a few years since I witnessed anyone caught up in the Spirit enough to ‘run the aisles’, and I found it to be beautiful, indeed.
At the program’s end, much handshaking, neck-hug ging, and well-wishes went on as the congregation filtered out. After sharing in the joy of that night’s victorious meeting, we set our sights on getting all things ready for the next morning’s program. After the last waves and well wishes, we quickly stowed our equipment back into the bus and located a mo tel to get some sleep.
We conducted the Sunday morning service in a more traditional church. While I believe the congregation enjoyed the quartet, assurance of His approval of our efforts had to be taken on faith. The 1000-mile drive home loomed large while we tossed our gear into the bus, and just as we pulled away, the rain started to fall!
Following a quick lunch, we pointed our old leaky bus south into the now pouring rain. The windshield quickly fogged over and trying to keep it clear with paper towels proved futile. One guy had a hair blow er, so we taped it to the visor, pointed it forward, and put it on wide open. So, there we were, squish ing every step we took in wet carpet, back to bunks while a blow dryer steadily screamed.
At around 3:00 A.M., my turn rolled around, so I pulled up a five-gallon bucket to sit on while I talk ed to Perry, one of our drivers. With everyone else in fitful sleep, the sounds of victory rang in our ears as we plowed through the rain and headed home. De spite our travel arrangements, no one complained. We had seen God work mightily, and any inconve nience we faced paled in comparison.
Back at work, Monday morning found myself telling those interested about the trip. One man, whom I had been witnessing to for a couple of years, had remained skeptical about Christianity and quick ly pointed out flaws in those trying to serve Jesus. It flabbergasted him we had driven ‘all the way up there for nothing.’ I explained about the blessings the congregations had received and what a joy it was for us to be a part of it. Not being able to com prehend things of the Spirit, he couldn’t grasp the concept of us answering our calling with no mone tary gain. After letting me know how stupid we were to do that for free, he walked away, shaking his head.
I don’t know if he ever accepted Jesus before he died a short time later………
Click on book covers to learn more and purchase.
This is a touching story about a child born with a congenital heart defect. The story tells how brave the child is and how he remained filled with love.
This is a good book to read to every young child. It will help them understand more when they see kids who need extra help. It will open their minds and hearts.
I loved this book and proudly add it to our family bookshelf.
We are looking for testimonials, acts of service, devotions, and articles of how you have witnessed God working in your life or the life of family and friends. Email for submission guidelines.
Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com
by Carli Valentine Reviewed by: KarenThe subject of grief is difficult to discuss, and even harder when you have had to deal with it on a personal level. Pa tricia Cameron shares not only her personal experiences with grief but also goes further, helping others deal with theirs. Grief Unwrapped is a wonderful mixture of encour agement, helpful insights, shared experiences, and hope. Patricia Cameron relies on her Christian faith to see her through the highs and lows of grief recovery. Each chapter of this book offers the reader opportunities to learn and apply life-affirming habits and attitudes that are reinforced through prayer. The author provides several questions at the end of each chapter to aid in further introspection and growth.
This is a well-written book that is comforting to read and is a supportive resource. I recommend Grief Unwrapped to those who grief has touched. It makes a thoughtful gift for loved ones as well. It pleased us to place a copy on the Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf.
My wife Nancy and I are getting ready to cel ebrate 50 wonderful and crazy years together. We have two sons, six lively grandsons, and one wonderful granddaughter! I love to write about nursing home ministry, as well as devotionals, poetry, and even a few songs.
By Peter Caligiuri
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and wor shipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh.” (Matthew 2:10-11 KJV)
The story of the wise men does not begin with who they are—it starts with a star. The Bible explains that, while they were still far away, they saw a star. Now, we don’t know if God spoke directly to them, or if they learned about it by reading the Hebrew scriptures, but they be lieved that this star signaled the birth of a miraculous king. Then they made the biggest deci sion of their lives. They left everything behind to follow the star. Though where the wise men came from is a mystery, who they were going to see was most important of all. The same is true for us. Some of us have grown up in broken homes with difficult or even dangerous circumstances. Others have been born into families with every need provided and are eager about our future. But whatever circumstances we are from don’t matter to God. He sends a star that anyone can follow if we choose.
Last, the wise men came with a purpose for which they were not ashamed. “We have come to worship Him.” When they arrived in Bethlehem, they weren’t bothered by their surround ings or asking about why there was no palace for this king. Instead, they humbly offered their gifts, bowed before the King of Kings, and worshipped at His feet. Today, though the wise men have returned home, the Christmas star remains and still shines for all to see. That Christmas star can still lead anyone to Jesus and He welcomes both wise men and wise wom en who have come to worship Him!
by Peter Caligiuri
God has chosen us to show His mystery of long ago When He was born Where shepherds bow And cattle fed And roosters crowed To simplest hearts His glory know!
“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”
(Galatians 6:9 NKJV)
Analogies of life are everywhere, popping up inconspicu ously in the norm of everyday doings. But if we’re watchful, we catch that encouragement of God’s ‘still small voice’ as He helps us along our trail. Here’s an encouraging one that revealed itself as we helped a friend work her family’s cattle in the hills of California:
Bruce rode down to the flat, and I rode up into the hills. Branding and vaccinating were the order of the day as we worked with other volunteers to help gather cattle for a friend. Sometimes we rode fast and hard to head off mav ericks that didn’t have a hankerin’ to get corralled. But eventually, we got them herded in the right direction. As Bruce and I calmly drove all the cows, calves, and the bull into the holding pen, the others worked the gates and stood ready by the chute. Riding nice and slow, we then helped our friend sort the cows, moving them one by one into the alleyway that led toward the chute.
But an ole bossy-cow had other ideas. One min ute we thought we had her convinced, the next minute she’d wheel around and plow through us like a freight train and scatter the other cows. She knew no fear, nor mercy. But we regrouped and tried again.
With a fair amount of patience, we finally got her moving toward the alleyway—and we smelled vic tory. Suddenly the air exploded with shouts and mayhem—the gate guy left his post to play ‘cow boy.’ Wild arms waved through the air as shouts of, “Hey, Hey, Hey!” and “Aaaaaah!” (along with various and sundry other animated communica tion) ripped through the air like fireworks. Instant ly, a sea of swirling cows surrounded us.
With jaws dropped, we watched all our work circle the drain. Our friend (the boss) quickly stepped in and quenched the fireworks, sending the gate guy with tucked tail back to his post.
We had to start all over with that cow, along with quieting the herd. To say we were a bit annoyed would be putting it mildly. We took a deep breath, however, and swung our horses around, deter mined not to give up and lose sight of our goal.
It took some time, but every cow was finally vacci nated and branded. We cut them loose into their world of pastures and freedom, in health and se curity.
Shara Bueler-Repka is enjoying life as a singer/songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, and award-winning author. She and her husband, Bruce, live in their living quarters horse trailer and call “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mail-base, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. She loves sharing God’s Word through music with her husband, riding their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry, and writing about God’s grace in their various adventures on the trail less traveled.
As I relaxed on my horse, watching happy cows, I grinned at the analogy that played out that day. We live in dangerous and discouraging times, no question. Distractions in every way, shape, and form are lurking everywhere, ready to ambush our peace and purpose. But no matter what, we must never lose our focus on what Jesus has called us to do, and the grace that He gives. There are those in desperate need of the care and security only He can bring. And He has commissioned us, His peo ple, to help bring them home to Him.
“The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me
To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD.” (Luke 4:18-19 NKJV)
Paula considers herself an ordinary Christian woman traversing through the wilderness of an everyday mess. She is a retired So cial Worker with a BSW who lives in Western Pennsylvania with her emotional support dog, a spoiled rotten amusing beagle named Little Girl. She has two adult daughters off doing their own thing. Please visit her blog at: https://simplycoffeeandjesus.com/
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have re ceived to serve others as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10 NIV)
You may have heard someone say there are not enough hours in a day to get done what we need to get done, or you may have said something similar yourself. I’m not the only one who says I want to do or get done or serve... [insert what you want to do here], am I right? Life gets busy, and there isn’t always time to serve.
The Christmas season is upon us, and it’s one of the best times to serve God by serving others and offer ing your time (and talents, too).
Still trying to figure out where to start? Begin with re sources within your community. Like a nursing home, the Salvation Army, a homeless shelter, a soup kitchen, or look right in your neighborhood.
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 NIV)
Visiting Elderly/Nursing Homes—Christmas can be a lonely time for some, especially an older person living alone. Or someone who lives in a nursing home or is homebound. So why not put a smile on their face this year? And they love visitors. You can show the same love to an elderly neighbor. Take a hot meal or a cook ie plate to them.
Donate food, or your time to a soup kitchen—Do nate food to a food pantry. Or volunteer at your local food kitchen. They are always looking for donations and volunteers during the holidays. It’s a great learn ing experience for kids and teens.
Offer to babysit—Sit for kids in a young family so the parents can do their Christmas shopping or get an evening alone.
Take small Christmas treats—or simple gifts along while running errands to pass out to cashiers, servers, or other employees you encounter. And don’t forget to drop some off for your local first responders.
Donate—‘most needed’ items (diapers, feminine hy giene products, wipes, formula, body wash, socks, blankets) to a shelter or other organization. You could reach out to a local church and ask about a family in need and ‘adopt’ them for Christmas.
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45 NASB)
Whatever you decide, the Holiday season is the per fect time to serve others. And an excellent opportuni ty for parents to teach their young children the joy of serving and helping those less fortunate.
Gina Sewell is a mom and grandma who lives in the Dallas, Texas area, where she enjoys cooking and spending time with her family. She loves to write about Jesus and encourage others. Gina shares her journey on her website: http://www.ginabartonsewell.wordpress.com
Finally, I’m feeling like myself again. Or, maybe I should say I feel like a new person because pain and fatigue are an everyday part of my life, so I guess that’s the real me... the one who suffers. I’ve been down for 2 weeks, but for the last 2 days, I have felt great. At least as great as someone with fibromyal gia, chronic fatigue, SVT, COPD, and migraines can feel. And that’s just some of it. Geez, I’m a mess.
These things are so unpredictable, especially the first two I mentioned. It’s almost impossible to plan any thing because you do not know what each day is go ing to bring.
I hate complaining about it because even though my physical health is not the best, which drags my men tal health down with it, I do feel very blessed. I be lieve everyone has a ‘thorn in their side’, but God also gives you wonderful gifts and brings you joy, even through the toughest of circumstances.
My family is the best. Oh well, I’m sure everyone says that. Everyone feels that way about their family. But I feel very blessed to be a mom to my 4 boys and mimigina/granny to my grandchildren. I have step children that I dearly love and an amazing husband. Oh, and we have our Sounder. He’s our dog, and he is a very good boy. Yes, I feel pretty blessed.
I try to talk to God about everything. Sometimes life gets so busy that our conversations become fewer and farther between, but it doesn’t take long until I feel it in my soul. I feel the need for Him.
God wants us to come to Him about anything and everything. He longs for that open dialog with us and sometimes if I listen very closely, I can hear Him. Not always a voice, sometimes just a random thought telling me what I should do and I know in my heart it is our Lord. Also, sometimes I just feel surrounded by an overwhelming peace. It’s glorious. When we listen for the Lord, we must not only listen with our ears, but we should listen with our hearts.
“I love the Lord, for he heard my voice, he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.” (Psalm 116:1-2 NIV)
“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” (Jeremiah 33:3 NIV)
Craig’s background includes over thirty years of experience as a counselor in a variety of treatment settings, including psychiat ric hospitals, schools for the blind, organizations for the physically handicapped, churches, and outpatient settings. He also possesses ten years of experience in pastoral ministry. Craig spent two years broadcasting on Christian radio and has published both nationally and internationally.
To date, he has published six books and has had many other works published in a wide variety of magazines. Craig founded an out patient practice that provides counseling, coaching, and consult ing services to individuals, marriages, families, various businesses, and church and ministry organizations. Craig may be reached at: craiglpc4@gmail.com
As the snow began to quietly début winter’s ar rival, I made my yearly descent to the basement. Rummaging through the backwaters of the musty root cellar, I spied the dusty stack of aged boxes with the word ‘Christmas’ hastily scrawled across their cardboard sides. Inside of them lay the wonder of Christmas embodied in carefully crafted decorations and precious mementos of all sizes and sorts and types. Staring at the boxes, I suddenly found myself entirely engulfed by the horrifying fact that we spend much of our lives boxing up wonder.
Indeed, we put things in boxes. The function of a box is to provide a set of distinct parameters designed to effectively contain whatever needs to be contained. A box imposes restrictions. It sets a limit as to how far something can go. Things are assigned a defined space where they are on hold, typically because we have no use for them in the active part of our daily existence. Therefore, they’re stored away until our existence grants them whatever tiny bit of space they are granted for however long our existence grants it. We put things in boxes.
But the majority of our boxes are not made of cardboard, or plastic, or metal, or any other such rudimentary substances. Our boxes are not those things stored in the shadowy corners of our damp basements, or shoved into the tight confines of our suffocating attics, or crammed into the fiveby-ten of some self-storage on the other side of town. These do not represent the vast majority of our boxes… at all.
The majority of our boxes won’t be found in base ments, or attics, or some self-storage facility. They are, in fact, within us. Deep within us. And we have made them. We’ve tediously constructed them to protect ourselves from painful histories or shut down truths that don’t sit well with us or eliminate the people in our lives whom we find distasteful. In whatever way we feel we need to build them to shield ourselves from ourselves, we build them. We build them to keep ourselves from the guilt of do ing or being what we shouldn’t be doing or being. We build boxes so that we contain those things that we would otherwise be running from, or we build them to give us a ready excuse not to run ‘to’ the things that maybe we should be running to. We put things in boxes.
Some boxes might make sense. “But why,” I asked, “do we put great things in boxes?” Pow erful things? Things that can handily rescue us from the tangled messes that we make with such tedious perfection? Why do we box up that which can heal our deepest wounds, wrestle our worst addictions into submission, and grant us a sustainable hope that will stand against the most sustained darkness of a world gone dark? What in the world would behoove us to box up the very things that can handily reign in all the destructive things that we’ve cut loose that are constantly cutting us up? What sort of insanity compels us to box up the very things that we spend the en tirety of our lives searching for?
We are a stubborn bunch of people. But that’s the message of Christmas that’s tough to swal low, and that’s the very thing that prompted the delivery of that message. That we are stubborn to our own demise. That we would be ‘the death of us’ unless God was willing to come and give ‘life to us.’ That the enemy is not necessarily some thing that’s prowling around in the shifting shad ows that constantly circle us in some stealthy manner. Rather, we are the enemy, and it is from ourselves that we need to be saved. That is the message embodied in the boxes tucked away in the musty confines of the root cellar with the word ‘Christmas’ errantly scrawled across them. That is the intent of Christmas. That God decided to initiate the greatest rescue mission in all of hu man history at the greatest cost that any mission would ever demand… the death of His own Son.
Despite the sour rhetoric of our times and the efforts of so many to massage us into compla cent ignorance, this is the message that we as a culture have placed, pressed, and imprisoned in boxes built by self-serving philosophies, special interest groups gone rogue, and platforms born of greed and power. This is the message that we find so aversive and chafing. It is our single sal vation, but we box it up, anyway. It is the only light in the darkness that we have foolishly come to call light. It is the only thing big enough to be able to course the turbulent seas of our times and throw us the lifeline that we refuse as we wait for other promised lifelines that never come. This is what we box up. And such an action is ignorance of the greatest sort that will insure a death of the most painful sort.
We must take Christmas out of the cultural boxes into which we have thoughtlessly crammed it. We must free it of the confines of our stupidity, we must release it from the filthy hands of our greed that shaped each box, and we must free it of the bane of special interests that attempt to seal these box es tight. And once we’ve done all of that, we must burn every box to ash and cinders.
Yet, the oddity of it all is that we really can’t keep Christmas in a box, anyway. We might ignorantly presume such power, but it is only an assumption and nothing more. Despite our most robust efforts to ignore it, deny it, render it a fairy tale, play it off as the invention of misty-eyed dreamers, and press it far off of the edges of a blind culture, Christmas remains what it is. It will forever remain the only rescue mission that set out with enough power to actually rescue us. No matter the propaganda and hype that we grant them, all other missions will fail… miserably. And I would hate to meet my death realizing that I was ignorant enough to box up the only thing that could have saved me.
When Christmas has concluded and the celebra tions have stilled, when the songs have fallen silent and the parties have ceased, leave Christmas out of the box that you can’t put it in any way. Let it be what nothing else can be. Let it rescue you, your family, your children, your marriage, your commu nity, and your world. And I don’t believe that any of us want to put in any box anything that has the power to do that.
Our world was a hurting, sinful, and lost planet. The Lord loved His creation! And gave His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins. He suffered and died on the cruel cross. He defeated sin, death, and the devil. We humans are no longer doomed to hell, death, and the devil. Our dear Lord Jesus Christ gave us forgiveness for sin (if we only believe in him). He gave us eternal life in Heaven if we repent of our sins and follow Him. This is truly God’s Abiding Love. When He first made man, He loved us. And when Jesus died for our sins, God loved us. There is no greater love than to give up your life for another. This is truly God’s Abiding Love!
Our Dear Jesus was born in Bethlehem, a beautiful, sweet child. He was born to show mankind the true depth of God’s Abiding Love! He lived His life showing others how to live. He healed the diseased and hurting. Whether it was mental, physical, or spiritual healing, Jesus gave His all for us. And that is truly what God’s Abiding Love is all about!
This Christmas we must remember the true meaning of the holiday. Not presents, celebrations, or fam ily. Although these are a part of the holiday. The true meaning of Christmas was to show God’s Abiding Love to a hurting, sinful and lost world. There is no greater love than God’s Love! So celebrate His love for us. And show it daily to others. And this world needs it badly. For Christmas is Christ!! And Jesus Christ is our Savior and God’s Abiding Love!!!
“For God so Loved the World, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16 KJV)
I was a young child, And ran a little wild! Mom set me down. And with a frown. Said, “child you are God’s!” You know you are Love! He and I love you! You are one who, Will be blessed. And win the test!
The test of Life! That’s full of strife! God’s Abiding Love never Ceases! It daily increases!!
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” (John 14-1 KJV)
Brenda McDaniel is the author of My Angel My Hero with two more books soon to be published. She is from Roanoke, VA. She holds a B.S in Psy chology and M.A. in Counseling. She has enjoyed writing poetry and short stories, even as a small child. Brenda says she is now living her dream come true!
To purchase, click on the book cover.
Dr. Kathleen B. Oden is an author, missionary, and Bible teach er. She has been the Administrator of God’s House of Refuge Church & School of Evangelism, for 25 years. Dr. Oden attained a Doctorate degree in Christian Theology in 2000. After a bad fall in 2014, she realized that she had to start eating healthy, in order to fully recover. She became a Certified Health Min ister and a Certified Essential Oil Coach. She loves ministering to people and God gave her a health ministry called, Create AnewU Health Ministry. Her health ministry has opened the door for her to share what the WORD OF GOD has to say about eating healthy. Dr. Oden has published over 20 books through Amazon.com and several of them are about health and wellness. https://createanewuhealthministry.com
How time flies! December is my anniversary month, and it has been two years since my first article was published in Faith On Every Corner magazine owned by two dear friends, Craig and Karen Ruhl! Their friendship and prayers have made some of the challenges of life that happened to me in 2022 easier to bear.
They are true Christian friends! Two precious gifts from the Lord! I really appreciate them for believ ing in me and giving me a platform to not only share information about health and wellness but also about our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Thanks be to God, He gave us His only begotten Son! And now we are all more blessed than we deserve.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
(John 3:16 KJV)
Apostle Paul tells us just how to get more blessed. There is always someone we know that needs our help and support. But, are we willing to give up time? Time is so precious to most people today. And some people are just not willing to give it up!
I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said,
It is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35 KJV)
No matter what challenges of life we may face, we all have Jesus, our Lord and Savior, to help us go through it. He is always there and willing to help. He never turns us down! This is a PROMISE from God! Apostle Paul said it best in Hebrews 13:5d (KJV): “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”
As we approach what some call the ‘season of giving’ let us be mindful to remember those in our country and around the world, that have lost homes and/or loved ones. Let us pray that our country, family, and friends continue to be safe. There is no guarantee! Only by the grace of God are we safe because the world is in survival mode! I wrote a poem about that last year. You can listen to it here on my podcast Teaching By The Spirit Ministries Podcast…
https://anchor.fm/dr-kathleen-oden/episodes/ THE-WORLD-IS-IN-SURVIVAL-MODE-e164mkk t
Let’s all do something now, this month, this year, in the name of Jesus to help those that are facing the challenges of life. Most of us have needed help at some point in our life. Let’s pay it forward! Look around and find someone that needs your help. Don’t allow the season of giving to pass by without showing someone the true love of Jesus.
As I write this article, I stand in great need of a mir acle from the Lord. Sometimes we have to give our way out of a situation because giving gets God’s at tention. When we are willing to be a giver during our own challenges in life, God takes notice! He is looking for people that are willing to take their eyes off their problems and push forward past their per sonal challenges of life!
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This little light of mine
I’m going to let it shine
Oh, this little light of mine I’m going to let it shine
This little light of mine I’m going to let it shine
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine
All around the neighborhood I’m going to let it shine
All around the neighborhood I’m going to let it shine
All around the neighborhood I’m going to let it shine
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine. Hide it under a bushel? No! I’m going to let it shine Hide it under a bushel? No! I’m going to let it shine Hide it under a bushel? No!
I’m going to let it shine
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine. Don’t let Satan [blow] it out!
I’m going to let it shine
Don’t let Satan [blow] it out!
I’m going to let it shine
Don’t let Satan [blow] it out!
I’m going to let it shine
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine
Lyrics by Harry Dixon Loes. https://allnursery rhymes.com/this-little-light-of-mine/ Lyrics are public domain.
How this song takes me back. I can still see myself standing at the front of our church, belting out these lyrics as a preschooler at Vacation Bible School. You can hear the enthusiasm of this song as the singing becomes almost a shout by the fourth stanza. Harry Dixon Loes wrote this beloved children’s song in the 1920s, and many of us still sing it today with our own children. This song made me think about that light, the one that lives in me. Have I let the world dim my light lately?
In Mark 5:21–22 (NLT), Jesus tells a parable about a lamp, “Then Jesus asked them, ‘Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine. For everything that is hid den will eventually be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to light. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.’”
As the Christmas season approaches and decora tions start to appear, I begin to see a lot more light outside. Not sunshine, but lights at night. The lights from stars, icicles, Christmas bulbs, and spotlights adorn people’s homes and yards. It truly is one of my favorite things to take a ride or a walk to look at Christmas lights near our home. We make a point every year to take time to admire the lights and ap preciate the hard work that goes into decorating for the season. We all work so hard to put these deco rations up and make them just perfect. As my family begins to decorate, I reflect on the light within me, the light of Christ. Have I allowed the world to dim it?
My family and I have recently gone through a sea son of loss and healing. We’ve also experienced good times and made lots of memories. But as I reflect on the loss and grief we experienced, I ques tion whether I did it with grace or if I did it more in the world. Have I allowed my eyes to look more toward worthless things and less toward where I should be turning?
Psalm 119:37 reminds me of my morning prayer, “Turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through your word” (NLT). This morning as I read this verse I saw a note scribbled by this verse in my Bible with dates that I had prayed this prayer, “Lord turn my eyes away from the world and mate rial things and turn me towards your word.” Today, as I prayed this again, I wrote the date, my way of documenting my prayers and life.
Jesus is the light of the world. He overcame the world and the darkness in it. He will return to do that for us once again. We just have to be patient, and while we are waiting on His return, we had better be preparing and making sure that our own lights are shining brightly for others to see. Matthew reminds us of Jesus’ teaching about light in Chapter 6 start ing in verse 22, “your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light. But when your eye is unhealthy, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually dark ness, how deep that darkness is!” (Matthew 6:22-23 NLT). We must make sure that our light is renewed by being in the Word daily and by being obedient to God!
Light is referenced more than 220 times in the Bi ble. The exact number depends on the translation. Light is a significant theme throughout the New Testament with Jesus, but it is most often refer enced in the Old Testament. Two of the most mem orable moments of light in the Bible are when Jesus explains that He is the light of the world and the Star of Bethlehem.
Jesus is addressing the Jews during the Feast of Shelters in John 8:12 when He speaks of Himself, saying, “... I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life” (NLT). The Star of Bethlehem announced the birth of Jesus to the Magi and guided them to Him. Can you imag ine how bright that light must have been to notice it and follow it? You can read the whole encounter in Matthew 2:1-12. My favorite part is “the star that they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem and stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy!” (Matthew 2:9b-10 NLT). God will guide us along the right path if we allow Him to. He leads us along, bringing honor to His name (Psalm 23:3) and He led the Magi right to baby Jesus! He will lead you too if you follow Him and are obedient to His will.
Light is all around us, and Jesus is always with us, but we have to follow the lyrics of the childhood song and let our light shine for others to see. How can you let your light shine for Jesus this Christ mas season? Today I’m stepping out in faith, show ing my light to others, and turning to my Savior to guide me along the right paths. Will you join me?
Lord Jesus, turn my eyes away from the world and material things, especially as we enter into this Christmas season. Help me to turn towards you and rest in the light that you provide through your word. Thank you, Lord, for allowing others to shine your light with me through hard seasons and for never leaving me. Thank you, Lord, for your grace and love. In Jesus’ name, I pray Amen.
Brianna is a wife to her sweetheart, who stole her heart long ago. They have a car enthusiast teenage son who keeps them on their toes. When she’s not cooking or gardening, she’s cap turing memories and God’s masterpieces with her camera. She resides in North Carolina. Catch up with her on Instagram @sunriseoceanwave.
I am Joseph, an author, blogger, and content writer from Nigeria. In the field of writing, I deliver unique, grammatically correct, and plagia rism-free content. Currently, I work with three online firms specializing in motivation, human capacity development, lifestyle, relationship, and spiritual writings.
You can find Joseph on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/2228667160717043
The message of repentance is scarce on our altars today. Instead, healing, deliverance, and prosperity have taken the center stage.
If we passively accommodate the repentance of sin ners, that of the Saint sounds weird. Today, a large crowd is a mark of a growing Church. Making altar calls has given way to testimonies of healing, bless ing, and deliverance. While the latter is the benefit of the children of God, the former is the reason for the coming of Jesus and the Church.
In this message, we shall look at the repentance of the saint. By the way, what is repentance?
Repentance means changing direction, mind, or ac tion. Often, it is associated with a sense of remorse for a wrong a person has committed. This repentance is followed by the right thought, actions, and attitudes.
However, the book of Ezekiel 18:21-24 reveals two kinds of repentance. One is repentance from evil to good. And, the second repentance is from good to bad. Therefore, the saint can return to his vomit. Do l hear you say, “God forbid?” Then read 2 Peter 2:2022 (NIV): “If they have escaped the corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and are again entangled in it and are overcome, they are worse off at the end than they were at the begin ning.”
That is why we are looking at the repentance of the saint. What leads to repentance? The following scrip tures affirm what leads to the repentance of the saint.
“After I strayed, I repented; after I came to under stand, I beat my breast. I was ashamed and humiliat ed because I bore the disgrace of my youth.” Jeremi ah 31:19 (NIV).
“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salva tion and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” (2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV).
A comparison of the repentance of apostle Peter and Judas Iscariot shows the distinction. My clarion call is for us as believers to check ourselves daily and see if we have missed our steps. This was the admonition of the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 13:5.
What is the repentance of the saint? Who should repent? The answer would be personal. Again, we look at the word of God: “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?” (2 Corinthians 13:5 NIV).
Repentance of the saint means the believer daily checks his or her life to ensure he or she is eternity ready. For a better understanding, the advice of Jesus would help us (Revelation 2: 2-5, 3: 1-3).
It is clear from the above scriptures Jesus was not talking to the sinners, but to the saints, the redeemed. From the warning of Jesus, it was clear the concerned Churches missed it somewhere. Repentance of the saint will require him to fall back in line while there is hope. Though the letters sent to seven churches in the Asian minor were a picture of the body of Christ then, I believe it is more relevant now than then.
Now, who needs to repent? A simple test of knowing where we are on the scale is to check our commitment to God, His work, and spiritual issues.
Our value system will show whether we need to repent or not. To begin, what takes the best of our time, en ergy, money, thought, and other resources will be the pointer to our value system.
Let’s do a simple check, though not in a particular or der.
1. Does your life match what you profess, preach, or teach as a Christian?
2. How easy is it to part with your money when it con cerns God’s business.
3. Do you find it easy to invest for the sake of love and eternity in people and places that will not yield appre ciation and rewards?
4. Is your devotional time with God the main thing dai ly or in your spare time?
5. Is your prayer life centered around you or interces sory?
6. Are you adapting the word of God to suit your life style, or adapting your life to suit the word of God?
7. Are you concerned about lost souls like before?
8. Is your education, exposure, and understanding of the scriptures making you fall into heresies and com promises?
You can add more to the checklist to find out where you are.
I don’t know if your score is similar to mine. I fell short of the parameters I listed above. Then, if you are on the same page as me, let us follow the advice of Jesus to His church.
“Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.” (Reve lation 3:3 NIV).
“Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.” (Revelation 2:5 NIV).
Joseph Akinrinola lives in Lagos, Nigeria, with his wife and four adorable children. He served with the Gospel Faith Mission International for over three decades. Besides, he is a Sunday school coach, an author, a blogger, and a freelance. He has served in Sunday school for over three decades. His friends and students call him “Mr. Sunday school”. Joseph has published five books with two classics titled “Effective Sunday School Management Made Sim ple” and “Effective Sunday School Teacher.”
While with the Gospel Faith Mission Internation al, he was a regional coordinator. He oversees the activities of the Sunday school in over a hundred and twenty churches. Then, he sat on the extend ed board of his Sunday school writing the weekly and daily devotionals read by over 2 million read ers globally. Currently, he is the pastor of a new church, the Levites Chapel International, Lagos, Nigeria.
“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonder fully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well..” (Psalms 139:14 NIV)
A tiny seed, given plenty of water, sunshine, and the right amount of time, can turn into a tiny green sprout rising up through the cold, dark dirt that envelopes it. The tiny sprout can become a crop to feed one. The crop, if allowed to blow in the wind, will make even more seeds, more sprouts, and even more crops, all given time. Many will be fed and live, and it all started with the smallest seed.
A cocoon holds a tiny worm inside its bound aries tightly woven, but the worm, not satisfied with being just a worm, bites a small hole in the cocoon to escape to the outside where the sun, the rain, and the wind will beat down. The worm squeezes through the tiniest of openings, never choosing to make the hole bigger by taking a few more bites here and there, but willingly choos ing to allow the hurt to happen, as instinctually it knows a greater plan awaits it, and in so doing, becomes the most beautiful butterfly soaring to wards the heavens. It is said that if anyone tried to make the hole larger on the side of the cocoon, the butterfly that was to be would die and never break through to the life it was intended to have.
A door is open, or a door is closed. If a door is closed, nothing can get in, but if that same door is opened, the possibilities are endless. Eyes hidden in the deep recesses of one’s soul speak passion that no one sees, because like the worm in the co coon and the seed in the ground, the passion lies buried, fearing that the pain would be too great, the way would be too difficult, and yet having a peace born inside that, despite all the unknowns, I have Someone who loves me more than I can imagine and has plans for my life, that I cannot fathom.
If I stay dormant, like a seed buried and cold in the ground, I would never see the potential for feeding many that each seed could have. If I stay tightly wrapped in my cocoon and never venture out to see how beautiful life really can be, I will die inside, never realizing what was available to me, because I lacked the faith to believe. And, just as a door can be closed to hold all pain within, an open door can provide healing from some one who desperately desires to help me, so I can move forward and find peace within myself and in the comfort of friends that understand, some times without ever uttering a single word.
Something beautiful, something good, is waiting on the other side of the seed, the cocoon, and the door. Am I willing to find out what it is, even if it’s not according to my timetable or my agenda, but is in God’s Hands to do?
It is my heart’s desire to be who I was created to be, and although others have defined me and tried to tell me who I am, I grasp wholeheartedly who Christ says I am. I am me.
However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”— the things God has prepared for those who love him— these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God (1 Corinthians 2:9-10 NIV)
Pam McCormick is a writer and retired from teaching in the public school and community college setting. Pam had a story, “The End,” published in Isothermal’s magazine, The Mentor, in December, 2014. Pam was also published in December 2016 in collaboration with eight other authors to write a devotional book, Ancient Stones Timeless Encouragement. Pam is a member of the Encouragers’ Christian Writers’ Group that meets monthly. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and tent camping with her husband, watching old time westerns, doing crossword puzzles and spending time with her daughter in Kentucky and her son, his wife and granddaughters, in Fuquay-Varina.
Pam has a new book coming out in early 2023. You can contact her at pjmc411@gmail.com.
A healthcare Business Analyst by trade, Steve Wilson is a retired husband, father, and grandfather who loves to see and write about finding God in the everyday. Originally from Ohio, he and his wife Jenny now live in Granite Falls, North Carolina. In his spare time, Steve enjoys reflective writing, dabbling in stained glass, and, of course, spending time with their daughter and her family. www.lifesimplyspoken.com
The holidays are once again upon us and all the old memories come flooding back as we place precious moments, cleverly disguised as Christ mas ornaments, so very carefully on the twin kling, light-laden evergreen. Some memories bring a smile to the face as you reflect on a dif ferent time, perhaps a long-forgotten place; the memory, once lying dormant, nestled deep in the recesses of the mind until a sight, smell or event once again revives the remembrance in vivid de tails. Thus is the case when I see a candy orange slice or old-fashioned hard candy.
I grew up in the sleepy town of Nelsonville, Ohio, tucked in the Hocking Hills of Zaleski State Forest. My family went to the Church of the Nazarene on Adams Street, where my spiritual foundation was birthed. The church itself was a blonde block split-level building with stairs both leading up to the sanctuary and downward to the Sunday school classrooms. The windows in the sanctu ary were all made of stained glass, with names of those who donated to the building of the church etched in the bottom of each window. Back be hind the pulpit and the choir loft was a very large, round stained-glass window with what appeared to be curious and perhaps mischievous cherubim peeking out from and around puffy white and gray clouds. Those same angelic faces also gave many a child an impressive fright, as they seemed to stare and follow your gaze if you dared to look too long.
Our family mostly went to Sunday school and sel dom attended church unless there was a special speaker or possibly a visiting missionary. The ex ception came during the Christmas season. Every year, I would be involved in the children’s Christ mas program in some way, whether it be a small Bible verse to say or, as I got a little older, a speak ing part in the Christmas pageant. And every year I would fuss and fret over my insignificant part, not wanting to go up in front of ‘those people’; the congregation which looked to me as scary as the angels in the windows.
There was only one thing that kept my eye on getting through this hideous, inescapable ordeal; the Christmas box. You see, on the Sunday before Christmas after the pageant was over and every one was dismissed from the service, everyone re ceived a treat box. I know Mary and Joseph had the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh pre sented to them by the Magi but we had the treat box and piece of fruit, which seemed of equal val ue, given to us by the big guys, men from the church that seemed to tower over us kids and would many times have to stoop down to hand us our treasures.
Steve and Jenny WilsonUnable to curb our enthusiasm and curiosity, as soon as we clambered into the back of the car, my siblings and I removed the scotch tape that bound the box and carefully opened the lid, like a treasure hunter investigating his discovery. Aside from the choice of a Red Delicious apple or navel orange, the box contained an assortment of in credible edibles that would surely satisfy the taste buds for days to come. Coconut bonbons, peanut clusters, chocolate drops, sugar-coated orange slices would greet you as you opened the box as well as an assortment of old-fashioned hard can dies which made up most of the candied treasure chest. My favorite was the raspberry hard candy that was filled with a juicy center and would burst in your mouth as you clamped down.
I would always choose the Red Delicious apple, which I could quickly devour and toss the core. My sister Jennifer, however, always chose the na vel orange as we headed down the church steps and to the awaiting car. Jennifer didn’t just eat the orange; it seemed she held a ceremony for it as she celebrated the citrus in her hands. Jennifer would carefully lay out a paper towel and peel the orange rind, piece by piece, until her orb resem bled a raggedy softball. Then she would separate the orange segments and isolate just one, where she would slowly and painstakingly remove all the membrane until the orange nectar was exposed. She would then stick half of the orange segment into her mouth, close her eyes and bite down, or ange juice running out of her mouth and down her chin. At times, there would be a soft moan of gratification and the process would repeat itself until the fruit was completely gone; it was as ex citing to watch as watching paint dry.
As I look back on those times and reminisce, I have to smile and shake my head, for something as small and insignificant as a treat box in an adult’s mind was so special and anticipated in a child’s. But I also have to shake my head at us adults, who constantly need to be reminded of what the true meaning of Christmas actually is; that Hope was born on Christmas Day and we now can live eter nally with and for the One who gave His life, so we may never truly die. Like the child of my past, anxiously waiting for that treat box, we need to daily wait with great excitement and anticipation about what blessings our Lord has for us as well as what service, task, and/or ministry He needs for us to carry out.
As I entered adulthood with all the different re sponsibilities it entails, I could take part in order ing the contents and filling the treat boxes for that same local church. I learned that we had far fewer chocolates in the box as opposed to hard candies because of cost and that it really was a financial struggle for the church to continue providing the fruit for the congregation. But I also knew that everyone involved felt it was well worth sacrific ing from another line item area to ensure every one had a special treat in their hand. And nothing else felt more rewarding at the time than bending down and handing a special treasure, the Christ mas box, to a child who had just performed their heart out for a very gracious loving congregation.
When you were a child, did you try to find the Christ mas gifts your parents had hidden? Most children probably have. At least that’s what I’ve heard.
Of course, most of us have seen that this kind of snooping often leads to trouble. I heard the story of one family who had all of their Christmas gifts thrown away in an attempt to hide them from a snooper. It seems one mother, thinking she’d outsmart her snooping teenage son, hid Christmas gifts in the re cycle bin, after all, who would think to look for gifts in the trash? Operating on the ‘I’d better be on my best behavior’ principle as Christmas approached, this particular son took out the trash without even being asked. Goodbye Christmas gifts.
As for me, I wasn’t much of a snooper as a kid. Still, I wasn’t above investigating if I happened to stumble across what I thought might be a Christmas gift in tended for me. Such was the case when I was in eighth grade. I found myself in the garage a couple of weeks before Christmas and I noticed a large box stashed away in the corner. Aha! A gift for me, I thought. Why you wonder, would I jump to that conclusion? Well, this particular box was the right size and shape for what I’d been asking for: a new ten-speed bike. Not to mention there was a picture of a bike on the outside of the box.
As I said, I’d been asking my parents for a new bike. Repeatedly! Never mind that I knew my fami ly couldn’t afford such an expensive gift. I put that little fact conveniently out of my mind. Naturally, I couldn’t contain my excitement and let it slip that I’d seen the box. My dad reiterated again, and again, that the box wasn’t for me. In fact, it was for my mom. Besides, he reminded me, “we can’t afford to buy you a bike.” Oh, that sneaky father of mine! Was he really going to keep up this charade?
So, Christmas day arrives and, though it is now wrapped in Christmas paper, I see THE box leaning against the wall behind the tree. I wait with antici pation while each gift is handed out until the last, and biggest, is distributed. The moment comes and my dad slides the big box across the carpet. By now, you’ve probably guessed that the box really was for my mother. My dad wasn’t carrying out the greatest Christmas hoax of all time, after all. He slid that box right past me to my mother, while I stared in disap pointment.
You may think that my story is funny. Or maybe you just think it’s sad. Really, though, what I remember most about this story isn’t the disappointment of not getting what I wanted. Instead, I remember what happened afterward. You see, my dad saw my disap pointment and immediately set about getting a bike for me.
Dave Foucar has spent his career as a financial professional, but his heart has always been in ministry. He has spent decades in lay leadership teaching Sunday School, Bible Studies, and Small Groups for all ages. He has been a lead speaker and seminar leader at Couples Retreats, Men’s Retreats, and Family and Youth Camps. Dave has been married for thirty-five years to the love of his life, Debbie. They have three beautiful daughters. Each of them brings immeasurable joy as they expand their families and ca reers.
Dave’s first book, “What Do I Say When Asked About Jesus?” is a conversational approach to helping people answer questions about Jesus. Christians want to share their faith, or at least they should, but it is not always an easy task.
As I mentioned, my parents really couldn’t afford to buy me a bike. But my dad happened to work in a store that sold bikes, and as customers returned bikes that were broken or defective, he collect ed parts from those that had been returned. The frame, the forks, the seat, the tires, and everything else, were gathered in separate pieces that he col lected. Over the next few weeks, he assembled all those separate pieces and presented me with a ten-speed bike.
I wish I could say that I responded with gratitude for my father’s effort and generosity. Instead, I noticed the forks were a different color than the frame and wondered if my friends would notice that the bike was pieced together. Such is the mind of an eighth-grader. Still, that bike got lots of use over the next several years.
I realize now, of course, the depth of my father’s gift. I certainly hadn’t shown that I deserved his kindness. Yet, he extended it just the same. As fa thers, with rare exceptions, that’s how we are. We want to give to our children. We want the best for them.
This, of course, is why Jesus uses earthly fathers to help us understand the depth of our Heavenly Father’s love for us. Jesus teaches, “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Mathew 7:9-11 NIV) And God shows the truth of this example by demonstrating His great love for us in this, “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8 NIV)
Maybe you’ll be a Christmas snooper this year. Or maybe you know one of those snoopers. Ei ther way, as we approach Christmas, shouldn’t we be looking for, and remembering, the great est gift God has given us? After all, “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 NIV) Born in a manger, dy ing on a cross, rising to give us life. Jesus, as so many have said, is the Reason for the Season
As my husband and I eagerly waited for the birth of our baby, we watched for signs of his imminent arrival and longed for that day to come. Have you ever wait ed for the arrival of someone so important to you?
The Israelites waited a very long time for the arrival of the Messiah God promised them. As they waited, God gave them even more promises. Some foretold His virgin birth while others spoke of His death, burial, and resurrection. Other Messianic prophecies are still to be fulfilled. Some scholars consider the following the most important ones regarding Jesus’ birth.
“Therefore, the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Be hold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14 KJV)
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6 KJV)
“But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from ev erlasting.” (Micah 5:2 KJV)
Jesus’ genealogy is given in three of the gospels: Matthew 1, Luke 3:23-38, and John 1:1-14. Matthew traces this genealogy from Abraham, Luke traces it from Adam, and John shows that Jesus is the Son of God. Why are these genealogies so different?
Some people point to the differences as evidence of errors in the Bible. However, the Jews were meticulous record keepers, and it’s ridiculous to think the gospel writers wrote these different genealogies by mistake.
Many Bible scholars believe the different genealogies give a more complete picture of the Messiah. They believe Luke is recording Mary’s genealogy while Matthew is recording Joseph’s. Matthew follows the line of Joseph (Jesus’ legal father) from David’s son Solomon, while Luke follows the line of Mary (Jesus’ mother) from David’s son Nathan. Since there was no specific Greek word for ‘son-in-law’, Joseph was called the ‘son of Heli’ by marriage. Through Mary’s line, Jesus is a blood descendant of King David and is therefore eligible to be the Messiah. Tracing a gene alogy through the mother is unusual, but so was the virgin birth. Luke’s explanation is seen in Luke 3:23. “And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph…”
Matthew wrote to a Hebrew audience. He wanted to show from Jesus’ genealogy and fulfillment of proph ecies that Jesus was the Messiah, the promised King or ‘Son of David’ who would sit upon the throne of Israel (Matthew 9:27; 21:9).
Mark, an eyewitness to the life of Christ and a friend of the apostle Peter, wrote for a Gentile audience. He shows Christ as the suffering Servant who came to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Mark doesn’t include a genealogy, since that wasn’t im portant for a servant.
Luke, Paul’s physician and companion, wrote the gos pel of Luke and the Acts of the apostles. Luke is a dili gent historian and the only Gentile author of the New Testament. He states he intends to write an orderly ac count of the life of Christ based on eyewitness reports (Luke 1:1-4). He wants to show that the Christian faith is based on reliable historical events. Luke refers to Christ as the ‘Son of Man’.
The gospel of John, written by John the apostle, dif fers from the other Gospels. It contains theology about Christ and the meaning of faith. Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the ‘Synoptic Gospels’ because they give a synopsis of the life of Christ. The gospel of John begins with the Son of God before He became man (John 1:14). It emphasizes the deity of Christ. In John’s gospel, Jesus affirms His deity with several ‘I Am’ state ments. In John 8:58, Jesus states that “... before Abra ham was, I am.” John also emphasizes Jesus’ humanity to show the error of a religious sect, the Gnostics, who didn’t believe in Christ’s humanity.
John’s gospel explains his purpose for writing. “But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.” (John 20:31 KJV)
It’s important to remember these facts.
1. Jesus is the Son of God. He’s a blood descendant of Mary, but not of Joseph.
2. Genesis 3:15 says the Messiah would come from the seed of the woman.
3. In Jeremiah chapter 22, God pronounced a blood curse on Jeconiah. Jeconiah’s blood descendants could not become king. Joseph is Jeconiah’s descendant. Jo seph’s biological descendants could not become king.
By having distinct yet accurate accounts of the Lord Jesus, we see different aspects of who Jesus is. He’s the Son of God and the Son of Man. He’s the Messiah.
Simon Greenleaf, a well-known authority on what con stitutes reliable evidence in a court of law, examined the four Gospels from a legal perspective. He noted that the type of eyewitness accounts given in the Gos pels is typical of reliable, independent sources that would be accepted in a court of law as strong evidence. The independent nature of the Gospels, agreeing in information but differing in perspective, details, and which events were recorded, indicates that the record of Christ’s life and ministry as presented in the Gospels is factual and reliable.
The Messiah was born just as the Scriptures promised. As we prepare our hearts and homes to commemorate His first coming, remember that He’s coming again. Are you ready? If you’re saved, are you living for Him? If you’ve never trusted in Christ as your Savior, it’s not too late. You can do that today!
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only be gotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”
(John 3:16-17 KJV)
When Esther Bandy was five, a neighbor taught a Good News Club. She head the gospel there, and she received the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior. That was the most important day in her life. She later worked as a nurse, a missionary, a director with Child Evangelism Fellowship, and a Spanish teacher at a Christian school. Now, she’s an author. She has been published in two anthologies; Treasures of a Woman’s Heart and Triumph from Tragedy. Her debut middle grade novel, Under the Tangerine Tree, was published in 2022.
“Don’t Ask Why, Ask What” was previously published in “Triumph from Tragedy”. esthermbandy.com https://www.facebook.com/EstherMBandy @EstherMBandy
The struggle with sin is like mental warfare that can tear a person down to a life of chaos. The reason for this is while yes, God does want us to do our part and fight, we have to rely on His power because if not, we will be in an endless loop of beatdowns from the pain and sorrow that life will come at us with. Life may seem too big to handle, but God is bigger than life and loves us; how wonderful is that? The mental fight against sin takes more effort and courage than any other fight. It’s the fight against self, which is un natural because we are prone to think of ourselves as right and fight against others to say they’re wrong. Although there will always be trials and tribulations in life, how we view them and use them in a way that glorifies God leads to happiness and freedom.
Mental health is considered a medical condition where drugs, more often than not, are the immediate answer. Science and medicine have their place, but there has to be spiritual growth and healing. Most of what this world offers are temporary fixes that may even trick us into believing we are free, but that could not be further from the truth. I believe the truth lies in having faith and letting go of what goes against the Lord. The truth can set us free.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 NIV)
There is so much about the mind that we haven’t discovered yet. We presume our thoughts to be the end-all and be-all of the truth. Our thoughts are a construct of information we take in over some time. What a person defines as reality and fable are what makes sense based on a sensory perspective and limited understanding of a particular subject. Ev eryone perceives the world differently through their eyes. Even if many agree on a topic, it is seen differ ently. This process of perception is based on what the person is feeling at the time and how they piece thoughts together based on habitual mental tenden cies. As beautiful and complex as our mind is because sin has infected it, we must give our heart and soul to God. It requires going counterclockwise against our logic to unite with the mind of God, which is centered in the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit in us, sent by the Father and the Son to be our paraclete, is the essence of God’s mind and how we connect with life on a scale beyond our initial understanding of reality. As long as we remain faith ful to the blood covenant with Jesus, we can renew our minds. Renewing our minds to grow spiritually is to dive deep into His word, pray, and practice disci pleships. There is so much clutter in our minds that renders us from hearing the voice of God through our spirit. This clutter is outside noise that goes against his word, adding to the endless garbage landfill. Too much of this garbage won’t allow us to properly dis cern the voice of God in our Spirit, which is also our subconscious.
Michael Colon was born and raised in New York City. He is a technical/copywriter for various platforms and loves writing short stories. Michael is as dedicated to polishing his craft as he is to his faith. His mission is for his writing to reach the lives of many in a beneficial way.
“Therefore, with minds alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.” (Peter 1:13 NIV)
The subconscious, or unconscious mind, makes de cisions without us being aware or having to think about them first. Our subconscious mind is like a bank full of memories, skills, beliefs, previous ex periences, and everything that has ever happened to us. The capacity of our subconscious is prac tically unlimited. The unconscious mind affects our fears, what motivates us, our temperaments and attitudes, and our autonomic nervous system, which maintains balance in the billions of cells in our body. Since our subconscious is in charge of 90 percent of our decision-making, tapping into and renewing the subconscious with the Holy Spirit will permit transformation. That process is how we live this life the way God wants and move past the old life and into the new.
Our ability to analyze and create a plan for change is one thing. This is on the conscious surface, but that’s only 10 percent of our thought process. There is an entire ocean of emotions and experi ences that needs to be reached. The power of the Holy Spirit can keep His light shining in the deep, dark, cold abyss of the soul. The objective is for God’s light of grace to brighten up the deepest parts of our soulful ocean and turn it into a con stant overflow of His enlightened qualities. Sure, we can tweak and conquer certain obstacles, but inevitably God has to influence us with His super natural touch.
We must address what we know we are wrong ful of and humble ourselves for God to work. This first step is often the hardest because of pride. It’s our responsibility to confess these negative im prints from the past and allow the Holy Spirit to steer us out of old ways and into the new fron tier where freedom can be found. The harsh truth is most people don’t want to change because it takes emptying ourselves at God’s feet. Our hab its are so strong the devil will use logic to cov er up the truth. The truth is that no matter if we are outnumbered by our fears, sorrows, anxieties, pride, and depressions on all sides of the battle field, we have the ability, after giving ourselves to Jesus, to call for God and use His power of faith to be victorious. True mental fortitude is to believe in God’s word without any preconceived evidence of it happening.
We don’t have the same thoughts as God, but His will and power can be activated from within. That is the very definition of being happy. The mind of our creator goes beyond our comprehension. The only way to have the slightest idea of what it’s like is through having a relationship with Jesus Christ. When we are saved, our spirit activates deeper and stronger from the center when we live for Jesus during our physical experience here. We can live with freedom. No, this doesn’t mean life will be all rainbows and sunshine, but with a renewed mind, in a way, it can be.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2 NIV).
There is a vital component to hearing God, and that component is gratitude. There are many daily road blocks to having a heart of gratitude that may prevent you from hearing God more clearly. Here are five such roadblocks:
1. Anxiety: Remember that Paul told us to not be anx ious about anything (Philippians 4:6). If he can model that for us from a prison cell, then we can probably do better at giving our anxiety over to God.
2. Unprocessed Emotion: This is pain that has been collected in our hearts over a lifetime. Losses, disap pointments, grief, unforgiveness, bitterness, strained relationships, the list goes on and on. Most people don’t have the tools in their toolbox to know how to process those unprocessed emotions to get on the road to healing. We want Jesus to heal our hearts when they are broken.
3. Entitlement mentality: This is a saying that has stuck with me and that we should all remember, “I am not entitled to my blessings. They all come from His mer cy, love, and generosity.”
4. Daily distractions: We can be easily distracted these days. Are we too focused on phone calls, texts, emails, cable news, social media, etc.? Are they controlling us or are we controlling them?
5. Greed and discontent: Most of us have all our needs met. It is our wants that get us in trouble. There is nev er enough of what the world offers to satisfy us.
I have seen many good folks, including myself, strug gle with gratitude. Along my journey, I have found that Jesus truly wants us to have a heart of gratitude. It is worth fighting for. After all that Jesus has done for us, how could we not live with a grateful heart for him?
Let’s look at the parable of the ten lepers found in Luke 17:11-19. Jesus healed all ten lepers, but only one returned to thank him. It is possible to receive God’s gifts with an ungrateful heart—nine of the ten men did so in our story. Only the thankful man learned that his faith had played a role in his healing, and only grateful Christians grow in understanding God’s grace. God is most certainly pleased when we thank Him, just like a parent is pleased when their child displays a grateful heart.
Gratitude changes our perspective. It is nearly im possible to be grateful and critical at the same time. It is nearly impossible to be grateful and worried at the same time. One will push the other away. So, we have a choice to make. Will we choose to be grateful or be something else?
Having a heart of gratitude helped sustain me through some wilderness periods of my life. Trust me, I did not always choose gratitude, but after be coming a disciple of Jesus, how could I not choose it more often? Yet still, I fell short. Thank God for His indescribable grace! Gratitude can benefit us in many ways. It can benefit us by giving us a proper perspec tive. When we are going through a trial or season of dryness, it is hard to have the Godly perspective that we need during a time like that.
Steve Wormer is an author, speaker, minister, and coach. He is the author of Rivers of Hope. He serves as the Executive Director of Caring Resources, Inc. and its well-known transformational program called Hurt to Hope. https://hurt2hope.org/ Steve has served in the ministry for eleven years, including be ing a church leader for three different churches. He lives in Memphis, TN with his wife, Rebecca, and their three children. Steve can be contacted at steve.wormer5@gmail.com.
“For although they knew God, they neither glori fied him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile, and their foolish hearts were darkened.” (Romans 1:21 NIV)
We want to see life the way God sees life. We want to acknowledge God and thank Him for His bless ings, and we want to have peace in our hearts whatever season we are going through. Of course, it is much easier to have peace when things are going great, right? But having true peace is trust ing in God even when things are not going the way we would prefer them. We should acknowl edge that some things oppose our peace. Things like discontentment, regret, drama, bitterness, un forgiveness, and worry.
The psalmist instructs us, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” (Psalm 100:4 NIV)
When I give thanks to God, to others, and myself, it brings value and honor. We have a choice to make, regarding if we will be grateful. Yes, it is indeed a choice. We choose if we will be obedient. Obedi ence is not one of our favorite words these days, but when we love God with all of our hearts, I find I want to obey his commands.
“In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome.”
(1 John 5:3 NIV)
Gratitude grows. As I sow gratitude, my joy in creases as well. The more specific we get with our gratitude, the more effective our joy will be. Grat itude eventually will become a feeling. We reap what we sow, right? So, my emotions will reflect what I am thinking about.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8 NIV)
We can only have one dominant thought at a time. When I am thinking about the things I am grateful for, I speak of gratitude. At that moment in time, I am not focused on what was wrong, what could go wrong, or what was broken. I am focusing now on what is working, what is good, what is right, and how blessed I truly am.
I say let’s make gratitude a habit. How can we do that? I have discovered proven ways to overcome specific roadblocks and start living with daily grat itude:
• Take nothing for granted.
• Start a gratitude journal. It will amaze you how cumulative things become once you name some simple things you are grateful for.
• Thank God first thing in the morning for an other day. Praise Him for the start of another day and what He has in store for you.
• Thank God for the wonderful opportunities to grow in your trust in Him through the trials He brings your way. He is stretching your faith and trust in Him.
• Ask God every day to let you see His wonders. Ask Him to increase your capacity for awe and appreciation.
• Express appreciation to everyone you can.
Gratitude is contagious and worth catching.
May God, as in ancient days when He poured out special gifts upon appointed temple craftsmen bestow His grace upon the gifts offered within His body, the Church, and fill it with His Spirit, enriching the timbre of our voices, perfecting the plucking of each string, and strengthening our breaths, as we sound joyful trumpets, soulful saxophones and resounding horns, announcing to all the glory of His Presence, among us, exceeding our talents, defying explanation — made perfect in His name.
An award-winning poet and novelist, 274 of Doug’s poems have found homes in 49 literary journals and 6 antholo gies across the US, Canada, the Caribbean, England, Wales, Austria, Mauritius, India, Japan, and Australia. Doug’s New York Times Bestselling Author-endorsed novel, The Year of the Bear, has been released internationally by publisher Am bassador International and is being nominated for the John Newbery Medal. Doug lives in Chevy Chase, Maryland with his wife and twin sons, and fellow internationally published poets, enjoying nature, tennis, fishing, and chess. His au thor’s website is located at www.douglaslanzo.com.
No matter the weight or the pain that we bear an unshakable faith rescues us from despair; Poetry by Douglas J. Lanzo Faith that our brothers will lessen our weight with untold acts of kindness while politicians debate; Faith that our sisters with compassion will give gifts from their heart so that others may live; Faith that our Father watching us from above, will heal shattered souls with forgiveness and love.
Dedicated to the beloved memory of Charles McGee
An elite fighter pilot — pioneer reaching the stars, doing tours, with great honor earning each ribbon and bar;
With famed skill, he escorted bombers through the last World War — four hundred nine combat missions, testament to his valor.
For the love of his country, shattering each racial wall as a Tuskegee pilot, each time answering his call.
Through three wars, without failure, completing each of his tours, at an age of one hundred… his plane and spirit did soar.
With the highest gold medal that the Congress could bestow, recognizing his service, long due accolades did flow;
Made a Brigadier General by President and Congress, this inspiring hero lately did come to his rest;
His voice strong in our choir, now sings with angels above — thirty years a Church member, full of honor and God’s love.
Dedicated to an exemplary cousin and ambassador of Christ, Sue Fazzini
Ministering to thousands of inmates suffering from ravages of addiction, bringing the healing of Christ’s love to lives filled with pain and dereliction, a nun uses empathy and warmth to overcome drug and alcohol abuse, treating them as brothers and sisters, showing God’s mercy is no ruse;
Rekindling gentleness and kindness dimmed to embers long ago, sharing puppy dogs with convicts contagious with affection that does bestow: a new window of hope and joy for wholesome goodness in life, its wonder equipped to conquer adversity, suffering and strife;
She is one of a kind, a rare and dear breed, a selfless, cherished cousin, extolling Christ in every deed.
Available on Amazon, click book cover.
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