A Child With Four Divine Names

Isaiah 9:6, "For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

In this glorious prophecy, Isaiah lifts the veil of history and gives us a glimpse of the unspeakable gift that God would send to this sinful and hopeless world: a Child born, a Son given. Yet this is no ordinary child. In His birth, He is human. In His names and essence, He is divine. Every title reveals a facet of His infinite majesty and gracious mission. 

Wonderful Counselor. In a world drowning in confusion and moral blindness, Jesus comes as the infallible guide for His redeemed people. He needs no teacher, for He is wisdom incarnate. His counsel is never shallow, never mistaken, never misleading. He discerns the thoughts and intents of the heart. To the weary, He gives rest. To the broken, He gives hope. To the perplexed, He gives direction.  Jesus is the great Counselor who can unravel all mysteries, solve all difficulties, and advise us in all dilemmas. Have you gone to Him for counsel? Have you sat at His feet and let His Word guide your steps? 

Mighty God. Though born as a helpless infant, He is none other than the omnipotent One! This is the staggering mystery of the Incarnation: The Almighty nursing at the bosom of a young virgin. He is not a mere man with divine power; He is God incarnate. With a word, He calmed the storm. With a touch, He healed the sick. With His death, He crushed Satan. And with His resurrection, He conquered the grave.  This Mighty God makes all things work together for the good of His people. He who hung upon the cross, was the God who made the heavens and the earth. How great is the love that made Him stoop to such humiliation! 

Everlasting Father. Not in the sense of replacing God the Father, but in His paternal care for His own blood-bought people. He is fatherly in His goodness and compassion. He never abandons His people, never forgets them, and never grows weary of them. He is a faithful Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep. He loves His people with a Father's heart. His compassion never fails. He provides, protects, and disciplines us as a loving Father does. Do you rest in His unchanging love? 

Prince of Peace. He does not merely bring peace; He is peace. At the cross, He reconciled guilty sinners to the holy God, making peace through His sin-atoning blood. Now he gives peace to the troubled heart, to the sin-burdened conscience, to the fearful soul. The world offers fleeting distractions, but Jesus gives a peace that surpasses understanding. Are you looking to Him alone for peace in your soul? These are not mere names. They are divine realities. This is the Christ we worship: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. He is wise in counsel, strong to save, tender in care, and perfect in peace. 

[Charles H. Spurgeon]

Revelation 5:12 ... Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.

✫❤•°*”˜˜”*°•❤✫...•°*”˜˜”*°•.❤✫...•°*”˜˜”*°•.❤✫

Mystery, Wonder and Love of Christ's Incarnation

He who was eternally in the bosom of His Father, chose to be born in a foul stable. He who hung the stars in the sky, chose to be nailed and die upon the accursed tree. This is love immeasurable, love incomprehensible!

[William Gurnall]

Consider Christ's condescension: He who made man, was made man. He who is the eternal Word, was pleased to be an infant who could not speak. Oh, the depth of this mystery! 

[Isaac Ambrose]

The Eternal God was pleased to wrap Himself in flesh, in order to come down from the height of His glory to the depths of our misery. Here is a love that surpasses comprehension. Here is the greatest wonder that heaven and earth have ever seen!

[John Flavel]

He came not as a fierce lion to devour, but as a spotless lamb to be sacrificed, that we might be reconciled to God. Marvel at this: the King of glory chose a cradle over a crown, and a cross over a throne.

[John Bunyan]

The Son of God left His glorious throne, to become a servant; in order that we who were rebels, might become children of God. The incarnation is the key to all our hope and joy.

[John Cotton]

The Creator became the creature. The infinite was clothed in flesh. The Son of God, became the Son of Man. Such is the divine wisdom and love that it staggers the comprehension of angels and men alike.

[William Perkins] 

What greater wonder is there, than that the infinite God should clothe Himself in finite flesh in order to save wretched and rebellious men? This is the bottomless ocean of mercy.

[Jeremiah Burroughs]

Behold the marvelous mystery! He who was rich, became poor; that we who were poor, might become rich. The Son of God entered the misery of the world that we might enter the glory of Heaven.

[Christopher Love]

The infinite became an infant. Incomprehensibility was made man. Eternal, and yet born of a woman. Almighty, and yet hanging on a woman's bosom. Supporting the universe and yet needing to be carried in a mother's arms. Oh the wonder of wonders. Oh, the mystery of mercy. Oh, the profoundness of His matchless grace.

[Charles Spurgeon]

✫❤•°*”˜˜”*°•❤✫...•°*”˜˜”*°•.❤✫...•°*”˜˜”*°•.❤✫

The True Meaning ...

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.  And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.  And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.  And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:9-14

Merry Christmas!

O Holy Night

O Holy night, 

the stars are brightly shining 

It is the night of our dear Savior's birth 

Long lay the world in sin and error, pining 

'Til He appeared, and the soul felt its worth 

A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices 

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn 

Fall on your knees O hear the angel voices 

O night divine O night when Christ was born 

O night divine O night, O night divine 

Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother 

And in His name all oppression shall cease 

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we 

Let all within us praise His holy name 

Christ is the Lord Let ever, ever praise Thee 

Noel, Noel

O night divine

Noel, Noel

O night divine

 

Christ ~ The Incarnate Word

The Lord Jesus Christ assumed our nature, that He might sympathize with us in our sorrows; obtain our everlasting deliverance from sin, Satan, and Hell; and supply all our needs according to His glorious riches. (Philippians 4:19) He was rich yet for our sakes He became poor that we, through His poverty, might be rich. Unparalleled benevolence! (2 Corinthians 8:9) Unexampled love! Savior Jesus! fill us with wonder, gratitude, and love! He was made flesh; He wrapped His Godhead in a human form; He became one with us, and one of us that we might be one with Him, and one with the Father and the Holy Spirit through Him. 

He dwelt among His disciples, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14) Full of truth to inform their judgments; full of grace to sanctify their hearts. He had truth to delight them, and grace to supply them. He is still full of grace and truth. He has grace to pardon all sin; grace to sanctify your polluted heart; grace to conquer your powerful corruptions; grace to subdue your rebellious will, and to bring every thought into subjection to His own blessed will. He gives freely without money and without price; He gives cheerfully without upbraiding; He gives frequently without complaining. 

Have you been thinking that your attainments are but small, that your evidence are but weak, that your spirituality is questionable? Jesus is full of grace! He is a fountain ever flowing a fountain to which you are welcome, for He says, "If any man thirsts let him come, and take of the fountain of life freely." (John 7:37)

The promises He has made are truth, they flowed from his heart; they express His mind at present; and He will make them good to every seeking soul. The supplies He sends us; the answers He gives us are confirmations of the truth of His word; they are the overflowing's of the grace that is in Him. He delights to bestow; He rejoices to impart; He cannot deny what He has promised. He will consult your welfare, and perhaps make you wait; but He will not falsify His word and leave you to want. Look at Jesus then, as full of grace, full of truth. You never read of His being full of wrath, full of vengeance, full of indignation; but you do read that He is full of grace, rich in mercy, plenteous in compassion, and waiting to be gracious! 

He wears your nature in Heaven. He is still as kind, as tender, as loving as when He had compassion on the widow of Nain, wept at the grave of Lazarus, or prayed for His cruel murderers. He is Jesus still the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) changes not, and therefore we are not consumed. He still says, "Look unto me, and be saved, all you end of the earth, for I am God, and there is none else." (Isaiah 45:22)

As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so is the Son of man lifted up; that whoever believes on Him should not perish but have everlasting life. All things are delivered unto Him by His Father and He will use all to protect your person, supply your needs, and carry you safely to the realms of peace. Lord, we adore your boundless grace, The heights and depths unknown, Of pardon, life, and joy, and peace, In your beloved Son! 

Oh, wondrous gift of love divine, Oh source of every good! Jesus, in You what glories shine, how rich your flowing blood! Come, all you are pining, hungry poor, The Savior's bounty taste; Behold a never-failing store for every willing guest. Here shall our every need receive A free and full supply; He has unmeasured bliss to give, and joys that never die! 

[James Smith]

 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞

Christmas ~ A Personal Promise

Jesus fulfilled Messianic prophecy when He came to earth, and that’s the reason we can trust Him in everything.

If someone’s birth was predicted thousands of years ahead of time and then announced by a heavenly host on the night of his arrival, wouldn’t you consider this event extremely significant in human history? Yet for too many people, Christmas is simply a time for festive parties, decorated trees, and wrapped presents. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with these expressions unless they replace the real significance of the celebration. The truth is, Christmas is more than an event; it’s a promise offered to mankind, and it originated long before that first Christmas night. In fact, God planned this entire event before the foundation of the world. He foreknew the coming child and all the details of His birth, life, and death.

[Charles Stanley]

 Read more here: Christmas: A Personal Promise

1 Peter: 19-21 ... But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. ❤

Memories of Christmas!!

 One day years from now,

your Christmas tree won’t be graced with the same handmade decorations. You won’t be trying to find the time to book in Santa photos, and the only squeals of excitement are the echo of a memory you didn’t know would be your last.

You won’t be leaving milk and cookies out or gnawing on the end of carrots. You won’t be sending letters off to Santa, hiding presents, or stroking their head as they fight sleep hoping to catch that elf, or hear sleigh bells make music in the sky.

You won’t miss the exhaustion, but you will miss rising early and smiling behind a mug at the scene before you.

There will be Christmas movies, just without little limbs curled around you.

There will be Christmas lights, just not reflected in their eyes.

There will be magic, just less wonderment.

One day years from now, they will be older, wrapping presents of their own, their memories of Christmas wrapped up in you.

And you will talk of sleigh bells and reindeer once again, because if you are lucky, you get to relive the tired magic through rested eyes,

and you will realize,

these really are the days.

[Unknown]

🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄 

"The Word Became Flesh"

And this is why Christians celebrate. God sent His only begotten son to dwell among men and deliver them from their sin.

Rejoice!!

Matthew 1:21 ... And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. ❤

From Above ...

The perfect gift.

www.ChristianPhotoshops.com

James 1:17 ... Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. ❤

Happy New Year 2024 

This Christmas ...

 May you never forget!!

Merry Christmas!! 

John 1:14 ... And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Matthew 1:23 ... Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

Luke 2:10-11 ... And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞ 🕊 ✞

5 Ways to Rekindle Your Relationship with Christ this Holiday Season

Christmas is the perfect time of year to rekindle your relationship with Christ – but you’ll have to be intentional about it. The more effort you put into focusing on your relationship with Christ, the more you’ll experience his love. That great love of his is what made the first Christmas happen!

1. Deepen your prayer life. Since prayer is the main way you communicate with God, and frequent communication is vital to build any kind of close relationship, make prayer a high priority every day during this holiday season. Evaluate your life in fresh ways that Christmas brings to mind, such as how much compassion you have in your heart and how well you’re dealing with stress. Ask God to show you specific attitudes and behaviors in your life that are interfering with your intimacy with him. Then confess those sins and receive God’s forgiveness. Pray for God to empower you, through his Holy Spirit, to grow to become more like the person he wants you to become. Pray for guidance about how to cultivate more of the fruit of the Holy Spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – in your life during this Christmas season.

2. Seek to learn more about God’s different names through every Christmas activity you include on your schedule. Before committing your time and energy to a Christmas season activity, ask “How will this help me move closer to Christ?” If you don’t see a clear, specific way that a certain activity will do so, don’t give it a place on your holiday season schedule. Invest only in activities that will truly help you get to know God better. Focusing on activities that help you reflect on God’s names mentioned in the Bible will rekindle your love for Christ in fresh ways. Just as dating couples love to learn more about each other’s qualities, you can passionately get to know more about your first love, Christ, by learning the qualities that his names express. While you’re eating Christmas cookies, for instance, you can reflect on how Christ is the “Bread of Life.” (John 6:35) As you drive around enjoying Christmas lights, you can celebrate that Christ is the “Light of the World.” (John 8:12) If you’re feeling sad about dysfunction in your family at holiday events, you can consider how Christ is your “everlasting father” and “prince of peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

3. Practice the presence of God. Since the essence of Christmas is God’s incarnation with humanity, the Christmas season is the perfect time to practice connecting with God – who is constantly present with you – throughout each day. The habit of tuning into God’s presence in mundane moments comes from a classic Christian book called The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence, who worked in the kitchens of a monastery in 1600s Paris and wrote about how God is always with people in the work of their daily lives. In his book, Brother Lawrence advised about relating to Christ: “Lift up your heart to him during your meals and in company; the least little remembrance will always be the most pleasing to him. One need not cry out very loudly; he is nearer to us than we think.” Remind yourself often of Christ’s presence with you as Immanuel (which means “God is with us”) – thanks to Christmas! Whenever you think of that reality, take a few moments to communicate with Christ in prayer, wherever you happen to be at the time.

4. Simplify your lifestyle amid Christmas commercialism. The original Christmas in Bethlehem was distinguished by simplicity. Rather than coming to Earth into a family of wealth and status, Christ chose to come into a family of poor and humble – yet devoutly faithful – people: Joseph and Mary. Christ clearly valued spiritual riches over material riches, so it’s ironic that his birthday has become so full of commercialism. This year, resist cultural pressures to buy and experience as much as possible. Scale back to make room in your lifestyle to enjoy simple pleasures this holiday season, like drinking a cup of hot cocoa while listening to Christmas carols or taking a walk around your neighborhood to look at Christmas lights. When friends and family members come to visit you, don’t worry about trying to impress them with elaborate hospitality. Instead, relax and simply enjoy each other’s company however works best for you.

5. Give to the poor and get to know some of them. Christ made it clear in Matthew 25:40 how closely he identifies with poor people: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” When you obey his call to help poor people, you can’t help but grow closer to him, because you’re doing what’s close to his heart. During the holiday season, you’ll probably be deluged by opportunities to reach out to the poor, either by donating your time through volunteer work or contributing your money to a worthy charity. Pray for guidance on which specific ways would be best for you to focus on, and when you get some clarity about that, don’t hesitate to follow through. If possible, try to get to know some of the poor people you’re helping personally. Spend some time with them, listen to their stories, and develop friendships. That way you can continue to be a blessing to them – and them to you – beyond the Christmas season. Ask God to teach you more about his heart through the experiences you have given this season. Pray for the ability to become a more generous person because Christ has been so generous with you, giving you the ultimate gift: salvation.

Grow in Faith with Daily Christian Living Articles (crosswalk.com)

His and Hers

HIS APOLOGY: 

Hi Sweetheart, I am sorry about getting into an argument about putting up the Christmas lights. I guess that sometimes I feel like you are pushing me too hard when you want something. I realize that I was wrong, and I am apologizing for being such a hard-headed guy. All I want is for you to be happy and be able to enjoy the holiday season. Nothing brightens the Christmas spirit like Christmas lights! I took the time to hang the lights for you today; and now I will be off to the hockey rink.

HER REPONSE: 

Hi Honey, Thank you for the heart-felt apology. I don't often get an apology from you, and I truly appreciate it. I too felt bad about the argument and wanted to apologize. I realize that I can sometimes be a little pushy. I will try to respect your feelings from now on. Thank you for taking the time to hang the Christmas lights for me. It really means a lot. In the spirit of giving, I washed your truck for you; and now I'm off to the mall. I love you too!

ツ ツ ツ ツ ツ ツ ツ ツ 

Why Joseph?

To fulfill God’s plan, God needed a carpenter. He needed a man who was sturdy, stable, and practical, yet sensitive to the voice of God. He needed one who would stand quietly with a young virgin who might have seemed an object of ridicule, yet who carried in her womb the hope of the world. Joseph was strong but compassionate; he was able to lead the tiring expedition to Bethlehem and to the stable, to love and encourage the mother of Christ. Joseph, as the man of the house, was the teacher to give Jesus His first lessons in the law of God. 

And in Jerusalem, when the boy was twelve and it became evident that his first allegiance must be to another Father, Joseph was the man to humbly and silently step back and let God step forward. Amazingly, Joseph never spoke a word in the Christmas story. But what he did, speaks volumes to us all. 

[Dr. David Jeremiah]

Matthew 1:18-25 ... Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.  Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. 

But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. 

Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:  And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus. ❤

Why Mary?

Mary must have wondered, why am I a “favored women”? Why me? Indeed, the reasons she was chosen are known only to God. But it is clear that she was no random selection. Though an ordinary, small-town girl, she must be obedient and courageous, and she was. 

From her song, we know that she was a woman of Scripture, and a woman of faith. She must be a virgin so that the glory of God might be miraculously demonstrated. She must be a peasant, in keeping with the humble nature of the Lord’s birth. Mary was all these things. She honored and obeyed the will of her Father, providing His only son a home from which he would emerge to launch the work that would define all of human history. 

The child toddled behind her in his infancy. Then, in time, she followed behind Him all the way to the cross and the tomb. Mary was favored by God for a task that would finally allow each of us to be favored. Gabriel said, “The Lord is with you,” and as a result, the Lord is with us all. In that way, God sent the ultimate Christmas gift not just to Mary, but to all of us and it was Mary who delivered the package.

[Dr. David Jeremiah]

Luke 1:30 ... And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.

Luke 1:46-49 ... And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.  For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name.

Matthew 1:23 ... Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. ❤

How Should A Parent Handle The Subject of Santa Claus?

Theology aside, when it comes to Christmas and the holiday season, the topic always concerns parents about Santa Claus and how best to advise children about this mythical person. 

Should parents be concerned that children tend to believe in Santa? No. They should encourage it. Children are born with a natural inclination for the magical. Children are imaginative, and throughout their early developmental stages, their concepts and beliefs, especially in the area of the Christmas season, it's only natural for them to escape into the mythical realm of Santa Claus. 

Should parents tell children the truth about Santa? It's a complex problem, for sure. But there is a balance that can be achieved that helps parents deal with the subject of this fascinating character, which aligns with one's faith and does not hinder a child's imagination. I do not believe that telling a child at an early age there is no such thing as Santa is beneficial to a small child under the age of 6 because it can hinder a child's ability to be creative and imaginative at an early age. 

Children need to build their imagination, not stifle it. Data supports this as children need these functions later in life. Pretend play, auto-symbolic schemes, sequencing pretend acts, and constructive play all play a significant role in the healthy development of a small child. Stripping away a child's early development block when it comes to constructive imagination can do great harm in the long term. These concepts build confidence; they help the child express feelings about subjects they might care deeply about. They (in this case, Santa) allow the child to explore their imagination and ask questions. Eventually, a child will slowly mature and grow from believing in the "real" Santa and instead develop a more fundamental concept of the mythical Santa. 

How does faith resolve the issue of Santa and the true meaning of Christmas? Can the two co-exist? Yes, they can, and they should! My theology states that Christ was born of a virgin, a star shown where the son of God was resting, and angels heralded his birth. That is a fact. However, my theology does NOT include December 25th as that time frame. 

Historically, the church took this time to incorporate early Christian customs into established pagan ones. Centuries later, we have a union of both pagan and Christian cultures; the world and the church survived. Because of this historical account, I can celebrate Christmas, understanding that Christ is rooted in its origins while embracing a mythical Santa Claus who represents the holiday season. It doesn't distract from the truth. Nor was it designed to. 

Children should be allowed to capture the magic of the season, embrace their childhood imaginative spirit, and still be given the fundamental tools needed to understand the world that they live in. It shouldn't have to be done at the expense of their imagination regarding Santa Claus. It should be done with proper balance. Enjoy this time of the season. Sing about the baby in the manger. But don't be afraid to leave out the cookies and milk on Christmas Eve, either. 

With all the trouble in the world, let's not make the man in the red suit one of them. 

[Christopher Gregory]

1 Corinthians 10:31 ... Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. ❤

Hard Christmas ~

If Christmas is hard, if you’ve lost someone dear. 

 Just look in your heart, and you’ll know they’re still here. 

 The star in the sky, the light falling snow. 

 The robin outside, it seems like they know. 

If this is a time, when you’re struggling through. 

 Just do what you can, for what matters, is you. 

 There’s no need to be merry, there’s no need to be bright. 

 Just do what you can, it will all be alright. 

[Source: @Toots Design]

Deuteronomy 31:8 ...  And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.

John 16:33 ... These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Proverbs 3:5 ... Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. ❤

10 Questions to Ask at a Christmas Gathering

Many of us struggle to make conversation at Christmas gatherings, whether church events, work-related parties, neighborhood drop-ins, or annual family occasions. Sometimes our difficulty lies in having to chat with people we rarely see or have never met.

At other times we simply don't know what to say to those with whom we feel little in common. Moreover, as Christians we want to take advantage of the special opportunities provided by the Christmas season to share our faith but are often unsure how to begin.

Here's a list of questions designed not only to kindle a conversation in almost any Christmas situation, but also to take the dialog gradually to a deeper level. Use them in a private conversation or as a group exercise, with believers or unbelievers, with strangers or with family.

1.  What's the best thing that's happened to you since last Christmas?
2.  When was your best Christmas ever? Why?
3.  What's the most meaningful Christmas gift you've ever received?
4.  What was the most appreciated Christmas gift you've ever given?
5.  What was your favorite Christmas tradition as a child?
6.  What is your favorite Christmas tradition now?
7.  What do you do to try to keep Christ in Christmas?
8.  Why do you think people started celebrating the birth of Jesus?
9.  Do you think the birth of Jesus deserves such a worldwide celebration?
10. Why do you think Jesus came to earth?

Of course, remember to pray before your Christmas gatherings.  Ask the Lord to grant you "divine appointments," to guide your conversations, and to open doors for the gospel. May He use you to bring glory to Christ this Christmas.

[Don Whitney]

Philippians 1:27 ... Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; ❤

A Cowboys Christmas Prayer

 I ain't much good at prayin', and You may not know me, Lord,

I ain't much seen in churches where they preach Thy Holy Word.

But You may have observed me out here on the lonely plains,

A-lookin' after cattle, feelin' thankful when it rains.

Admirin' Thy great handiwork, the miracle of grass,

Aware of Thy kind Spirit in the way it comes to pass.

That hired men on horseback and the livestock that we tend,

Can look up at the stars at night and know we've got a Friend.

So here's ol' Christmas comin' on, remindin' us again,

Of Him whose comin' brought goodwill into the hearts of men.

A cowboy ain't no preacher, Lord, but if You'll hear my prayer,

I'll ask as good as we have got for all men everywhere.

Don't let no hearts be bitter, Lord; don't let no child be cold,

Make easy beds for them that's sick, and them that's weak and old.

Let kindness bless the trail we ride, no matter what we're after,

And sorta keep us on Your side, in tears as well as laughter.

I've seen old cows a-starvin', and it ain't no pretty sight:

Please don't leave no one hungry, Lord, On Thy good Christmas night.

No man, no child, no woman, and no critter on four feet,

I'll aim to do my best to help You find 'em chuck to eat.

I'm just a sinful cowpoke, Lord, ain't got no business prayin',

But still I hope You'll ketch a word or two of what I'm a-sayin'.

We speak of Merry Christmas, Lord I reckon You'll agree,

There ain't no Merry Christmas for nobody that ain't free.

So one thing more I'll ask You, Lord: just help us what You can

To save some seeds of freedom for the future sons of man!

[S. Omar Barker]

Luke 2:14 ...  Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

John 8:36 ...  If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. ❤

New Christmas Tradition

 The book of Luke has 24 chapters and tells the story of Jesus' life.

Read one chapter per night in December and wake up Christmas morning knowing why we celebrate the King of Kings!

The Gospel of Luke

Pine Cones

 1. Go to the woods. Bring a pinecone home.

2. Put the cone in a pot with some soil - so that most of it stands out.

3. Everyday water it with a small amount of water, as excess water makes the cones rot.

4. After some time, a tiny tree will appear.

5. Congratulations! You just started oxygen production and you have a piece of forest in your own home.

[from the Internet]