
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.
Continue readingFor 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.
Continue reading“O Holy Night” is perhaps the most sung holiday carol every Christmas season. Its origin is French, dating from 1843, then translated to English in 1855.
Each stanza brings to life the wondrous event, the miraculous birth of our savior on one holy night; Jesus, the savior of the world. An event so glorious that earth knew to rejoice for sin no longer would bind us, for souls no longer would feel contempt.
Continue readingThrough the years, it’s sad to say, my Christmas celebratory group has grown smaller. However, my expansion of understanding the true meaning of Christmas has been a blessing. Don’t get me wrong, all the partying and gifts are a welcome part of this year’s celebration. It’s more that over the years I’ve grown in Christ, studying and believing more of what Jesus, our Gift from God, means to me.
What a blessing to spend this holiday with those I love…my husband, pregnant daughter, son-in-law, their 8 month old daughter, and family in-laws. As much as I’d like, it doesn’t always happen this way.
Continue readingThe Christmas season has arrived!
Radio stations are playing joyful Christmas carols. Families are addressing beautiful Christmas cards. Preparations for Christmas cookies are being made as grandma’s recipes are pulled from kitchen drawers. And Christmas trees stand tall in the house, soon to be decorated in anticipation of Christmas presents that will surround them.
These events are not the reason for Christmas, but they have transitioned through the years into festive activities Christians enjoy as we celebrate the season. A season when school children and employees alike are excused from their expected duties to acknowledge one extraordinary day – Christmas!
Sadly, there are folks out there trying to snuff our seasonal festivities. Festivities Christians enjoy as part of the Christmas celebration.
Continue readingThe prophet Isaiah foretold of the birth of a child; a child like none ever to be born. Isaiah was speaking of the birth of our Savior, our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace – baby Jesus.
Isaiah 9:6-7 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. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
His prophesy came true as told in Luke 2:1-20, where we find the true story of Christ’s birth, the reason we celebrate Christmas:
Continue readingJesus Christ did not come into the world to condemn. Jesus came as a gift, a precious gift desiring to be given to all who will receive Him.
Revelation 3:20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.
Picture a friend standing just outside your door holding a beautifully wrapped large box! Wouldn’t you be eager to invite him in and receive his gift?
Now picture Jesus, desiring to be your best friend, offering you a more beautiful gift, one that will last a lifetime!
Continue readingThe word “Christ” comes from christos, a Greek word meaning “anointed.” It is equal to the word mashiach, or Messiah, in Hebrew. Jesus the Christ means Jesus is “the anointed one of God.” To be the anointed One of God, one would have distinct qualities unto oneself. It is only Jesus who possesses the many distinct qualities identifying our Savior, beginning with His virgin birth.
Jesus’ virgin birth took place two thousand years ago, as foretold over seven hundred years prior by the the prophet Isaiah. How very distinct–having a virgin as His mother and prophets foretelling His conception!
Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.
Continue readingJesus Christ did not come into the world to condemn. Jesus came to be a friend to all that are willing to receive Him.
Revelation 3:20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.
Like a friend tapping on your door waiting for you to answer; Jesus taps at your heart, waiting for you to receive His gift. Picture your friend standing there holding a large box just for you! Now picture Jesus, who desires to be your best friend, offering you a free gift that will last a lifetime.
Jesus offers you salvation.
Continue readingWhat a blessing to be spending the holidays with my husband, mother, daughter and son-in-law!
Holiday’s past included a wider field of family, but over the years that has changed. Beloved members have passed, some moved out of state, and sadly, we have lost touch with others for various reasons.
However, though our party group has gotten smaller, I have found I have expanded my understanding of the meaning of Christmas. Continue reading