The angels came from glory to announce the birth of Christ, but why did they appear to shepherds? Their testimony did not even count in a court of law. What would it have been like to hear the shepherds tell their story? Though we do not know what they said precisely, it might have sounded … Continue reading A Shepherd’s Encounter with Glory
The Magnificat, when Mary praises God after Gabriel tells her that she will be the mother of the Messiah, is a beautiful picture of the grace of God towards fallen humanity (Luke 1:46-56). But there is another side to the Magnificat ignored by many. Just as God is merciful to his children, he is righteous … Continue reading The Two Sides of the Magnificat
Too many of us celebrate the birth of Jesus while neglecting Christ himself. This negligence is because, though many of us would like to experience the joy of our salvation, our indulgence in worldliness cuts us off from it. We have lost the reason to celebrate. Many of us also desire the Lord to use … Continue reading Celebrating Christmas with Jesus Himself
Hope shone forth from an infant child,in the manger that cold dark night.In humility, God himself appeared mild,yet His plan moved forth in all its might. Salvation to humanity was born;the angels could not help but sing.This Infant Child would bear our scorn;the newborn Sovereign King. Helpless was mankind in sinuntil the star shone forth … Continue reading Hope Shone Forth From An Infant Child: A Christmas Poem
The lights glow softly, the Christmas music plays, and wondrous thoughts of the birth of our Savior fill our minds. What a blessing it is for the believer who still finds childlike joy at this time of year. Being “grown-up” is a bit over-rated because being “grown-up,” according to the world, usually entails a constant stiff upper lip … Continue reading Sin, Sorrow, and the Joy of Christmas
It is that time again. Thanksgiving has come and gone, and many have already frantically begun to prepare for Christmas. The sales are plentiful, the shoppers are swarming, and the decorations and music add warmth everywhere you visit. However, even with all of these things, we can still miss Christmas. To help prepare our hearts, please take … Continue reading Preparing Our Hearts for Christmas
This Christmas will be difficult for many people. Not only will we have to deal with COVID restrictions, but many have lost jobs, businesses, homes, have had relationships severed, and, most grievous, have lost loved ones. I have heard many people say—when times are tough—they choose not to celebrate. How can they get into holiday … Continue reading Christmas in a Minor Key
The Fight of Faith 