Thanks For Your Understanding

God has blessed us with the opportunity to spend time with family. So, we will be away from the office until after the first of the year. Please check back on Jan 1 as we kick of the new year together.

From The Mouth Of Babes

I received the following story the other day and had to finish out the Christmas season with a winner. You just never know what kids are going to say or how they will react. But, leave it to them to do us proud when we least expect it.

In a Sunday School Christmas play, a young man with a very tender heart was asked to play the part of the innkeeper. Each rehearsal he found it difficult to play his role because he had to turn Joseph and Mary away from the inn. On the night of the performance, he was overcome by the sadness of making Jesus be born in a stable. As Joseph turned away from the inn, he yelled, “Wait! Come back here! You can have my room!” The teacher thought he had ruined the Christmas story but the pastor got up and stopped the play. With tears in his eyes, he said, “Don’t turn Jesus away tonight!” Many people accepted Jesus as their Savior that night.

I hope you have made room for Jesus in all of your holiday festivities. After all, it is His birth that we celebrate.

This Is A Day The Lord Hath Made

The Psalmist records for us, as words of encouragement that "This is the day that the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" Psa 118:24. We often misquote and misapply that verse when we say that it is "a" day, rather than "the" day that God made. We know that every day is a day made by God and He is still Sovereign and in control of all of the details of the day. But, when you think of all of the days that have come down through the corridors of time, there was never a day to compare to the day Christ was born. We acknowledge that it is probably not December 25th, so we are not talking about the day on the calendar, but rather what actually took place on that day. Just like all others, God caused this day to occur and He was there when the sun began to dawn on that special day. As Joseph began to gather what provisions that he and Mary may have had, and started off on the final day of their journey, just maybe, the Holy Spirit reminded Joseph of what David had recorded hundreds of years prior. No doubt, Joseph knew that the Christ child must be born in Bethlehem and that Mary was near the end of her nine months. Then, as they arrived and could find no suitable lodging, he might well have thought, no God, not today. Wait until I can find a room. But, God replied, with the birth of Jesus, and stating that the time had come. It was "THE DAY" that God had promised. It was "THE DAY" that God became in the likeness of man. It was "THE DAY" that God brought good tiding of great joy to a nation and a world that needed a reason to rejoice. And today, we celebrate "that day". That very special day that God hath made. That day that gives us so much reason to rejoice. That day is today. I hope you have a very Merry Christmas.

What Does Tomorrow Hold For You?

Tomorrow is Christmas. For some, it is the most wonderful time of the year. There are always great expectation in the minds of kids as they anxiously await the dawning of a new day. I remember as a small child how much I looked forward to Christmas. I knew that we were by no means rich and I knew that my dad worked 2 jobs for a while, but it never really occurred to me why he did so. Even with that I was confident, that come Christmas, we were going to get something under the tree. I never doubted my parents and never knew of their struggles, if there were any. I am quite sure that nothing has changed down through time and that even today, in this uncertain economy, kids everywhere have grand expectation for tomorrow morning. They may not have high hopes for a lot, but hopes are still high for something. Now, isn't that the way our Heavenly Father wants us to be all year round? After all, we come to Him as a little child and accept His wonderful gift of Salvation. Now, He want us to trust Him for tomorrow as well, with the same high hopes and great expectations that we have always had. Tomorrow may be Christmas, but Christmas has a tomorrow as well. So, the same question arises, "What does tomorrow hold for you?"

A Wonderful Christmas Story

I just received the following in an email and wanted to share it with you. I remembering reading it some time ago, but it is always good to get those special story back again. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

THE SIMPLE WHITE ENVELOPE

It's just a small white envelope stuck among the branches of our Christmas tree. No name, no identification, no inscription. It has peeked through the branches of our tree for the past 10 years or so. It all began because my husband Mike hated Christmas --oh, not the true meaning of Christmas, but the commercial aspects of it -- the overspending, the frantic running around at the last minute to get a tie for Uncle Harry and the dusting powder for Grandma --the gifts given in desperation because you couldn't think of anything else.
Knowing he felt this way, I decided one year to bypass the usual shirts, sweaters, ties, and so forth. I reached for something special just for Mike. The inspiration came in an unusual way. Our son Kevin, who was 12 that year, was wrestling at the junior level at the school he attended. Shortly before Christmas, there was a non-league match against another team sponsored by an inner-city church. These youngsters, dressed in sneakers so ragged that shoestrings seemed to be the only thing holding them together, presented a sharp contrast to our boys in their spiffy blue and gold uniforms and sparkling new wrestling shoes. As the match began, I was alarmed to see that the other team was wrestling without headgear, a kind of light helmet designed to protect a wrestler's ears. It was a luxury the ragtag team obviously could not afford. Well, we ended up walloping them. We took every weight class. And as each of their boys got up from the mat, he swaggered around in his tatters with false bravado, a kind of street pride that couldn't acknowledge defeat. Mike, seated beside me, shook his head sadly, "I wish just one of them could have won," he said. "They have a lot of potential, but losing like this could take the heart right out of them." Mike loved kids -- all kids -- and he knew them, having coached little league football, baseball, and lacrosse. That's when the idea for his present came. That afternoon, I went to a local sporting goods store and bought an assortment of wrestling headgear and shoes and sent them anonymously to the inner-city church. On Christmas Eve, I placed the envelope on the tree,the note inside telling Mike what I had done and that this was his gift from me. His smile was the brightest thing about Christmas that year and in succeeding years. For each Christmas, I followed the tradition --one year sending a group of mentally handicapped youngsters to a hockey game, another year a check to a pair of elderly brothers whose home had burned to the ground the week before Christmas, and on and on. The envelope became the highlight of our Christmas . It was always the last thing opened on Christmas morning, and our children, ignoring their new toys, would stand with wide-eyed anticipation as their dad lifted the envelope from the tree to reveal its contents.
As the children grew, the toys gave way to more practical presents, but the envelope never lost its allure. The story doesn't end there. You see, we lost Mike last year due to cancer. When Christmas rolled around, I was still so wrapped in grief that I barely got the tree up. But Christmas Eve found me placing an envelope on the tree, and in the morning it was joined by three more. Each of our children, unbeknownst to the others, had placed an envelope on the tree for their dad. The tradition has grown and someday will expand even further with our grandchildren standing around the tree with wide-eyed anticipation watching as their fathers take down the envelope. Mike's spirit, like the Christmas spirit, will always be with us. May we all remember Christ, who is the reason for the season, and the true Christmas spirit this year and always.

Christmas Is Coming Soon

Well, we are just a few days away from celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. As we mentioned before, we don't celebrate His birthday, since we don't know for sure when it was, but we celebrate His Birth. Approximately 4000 years before Jesus was born, when Adam sinned in the garden of Eden, God promised to send a Messiah who would be victorious of Satan, crushing his head. As I was thinking about this there were two thoughts that came to mind. One is that when Jesus came to this earth He fulfilled God's promise. As the years went by, after God's initial promise, He began to add some specifics about the coming Messiah and as we look back, we see that Jesus' coming fulfilled all of those specifics as well, proving without doubt that He was the Messiah. By looking at that, we have great confidence that because God did what He said He would do then, we know that He will do what He says He will do now and in the future. When Jesus left this earth, He did so in a rather unusual manner. As He met with His disciples outside of Jerusalem, He ascended up into Heaven right before their very eyes. There was an angel of God there that told them that just as He left, so would He come again. Another promise from God, that we know He will fulfill. Just as we don't know the date of His first coming, we have no idea when He will come again. What we do know is that the Jews were looking for His coming when He was born and you and I should be looking for His coming again even now. It is only a few days until we celebrate His first coming and it may very well be only a few days until we celebrate His coming again. Another great gift from our Father.

Being Selfish At Christmas

The true meaning of Christmas is that God unselfishly gave the most wonderful gift to the entire world. And yet, during this very special time of year, we teach our children how to be selfish. Kids are taken to the mall, where they wait in a long line of other kids, so they can sit on Santa's lap and give him a long, long list of what they want to get for Christmas. So, we educate them on the idea that Christmas is a selfish time of year - which brings disappointment when they don't get what is on their list. Wouldn't it be better if we began early to show them the joy of giving rather that getting. Give them the opportunity to share with those who are less fortunate. Allow them the chance to see the excitement on some one's face when, unexpectedly, they receive a gift. Now, there is a little selfishness involved in this as well. It won't be long until they become thrilled with the idea of giving and even though they probably haven't hear of it yet, they understand what Jesus meant when He said that it is better to give than to receive. So, they want the better of the two - giving or receiving - for themselves. But, that is a good kind of selfishness. The kind that touches the heart of another and causes them to want to enjoy it as well. So, go ahead and be a little selfish this year and spread it around.

The Spirit Of Christmas

I really enjoy the Christmas theme shows and movies that come on each year about this time. And a special thank you goes out to that person who invented a way to record them, since I would miss so many if I couldn't. I have to admit, that very few of these shows have anything to do with the real meaning of Christmas, and fewer yet share much about the birth of Jesus, but they do portray the spirit of the season in a good light. In most cases there will be someone that doesn't care about Christmas and wishes it to be over with soon. And there will also be those who are excited about what is taking place and how it has changed the hearts of people - at least for a little while. Why it is that grumpy people become bearable during Christmas? Why is it that tight wads begin to loosen up their purse strings during Christmas? Why is it that people in general seem to have a positive change in their attitudes during Christmas? Maybe it is the Christmas Spirit. Man, by his very nature, is selfish. I know there are exceptions to this, but we would have to admit that generally speaking that is the case. I think that the change that takes place is a result of one of two things. For the Christian, we now have a new nature because of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit within us. That new nature is a Divine nature that allows us and prompts us to do what God would have us to do. The interesting thing is that we also see a change take place in those who are not saved. This would be from outward influence rather that inward indwelling. People are just moved by the generosity of others and it stirs them to become that way as well. So, let's use our indwelling to have an influence on a lost world, so that they may see and feel that wonderful Christmas Spirit.

The Carols Of The Season

As I mentioned before, I really love the Christmas carols and even some of the old classics of the season like "I'm Dreaming Of A White Christmas", even though for me it would be more of a nightmare than a dream. Most of the good old Christmas Carols were written many, many years ago. It was during a time when the song writers took their message in song from scripture and their desire was to follow in the footsteps of the angels who sang on the first Christmas night.
How it must have pleased the ears and spoke to the heart, as the Heavenly Choir gloriously sang of peace on earth and good will to all men while the shepherds listened in amazement. I am sure you recall that King David was a shepherd as a boy and quite an accomplished musician and song writer in his own right. Because the shepherds had so much time for such as this, it wasn't at all uncommon for them to be musically inclined. My point is that they would be have been equally blessed by the presentation of the great song as well as they were by it's message. That is what I thinks sets the Christmas carols apart from other types of music. They are beautiful to listen to and the message truly speaks to the heart of man and the heart of the matter. So, this year, as you listen to these wonderful old tunes, enjoy their harmonious sounds and take in the wonderment of their message. And, its okay to sing along. Go ahead, help yourself.

So Far A Rather Unusual Christmas This Year

It seems that for the last several years, we have fought the "politically correct" battle at Christmas time. You know, where you say happy holidays instead of Merry Christmas. In recent years some of the major retailers have actually forbidden their employees from saying Merry Christmas and this really stirred up a lot of people. This year, most of these stores are allowing their associates to say what they please, but for some reason I haven't heard very many people say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays. It is as though the holiday season has slipped up on us this year and we don't know what to do. Or, maybe, because the economy seems to be in such bad shape that for most people the holidays are not happy and Christmas isn't very Merry. People just seem to be passing the time, waiting for the season to be over with. So, what is the problem? I am sure that if you asked a dozen people you would probably get a dozen opinions, so here is mine. I think we have put our focus on the wrong thing again this year and because of our economic situation, it makes things look that much more bleak. It appears that the we are looking at the things that we can't have rather than what we do have. We are upset about what we can't give and not happy about what has been given to us. So, let's start making things better by voicing our desire for others to be blessed during this wonderful time of year. And I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

What Is Christmas? It's Just Another Holiday!

Several years ago, we were involved in a Cantata that had a rather unusual song in it. It simply repeated the same phrase over and over - "Christmas, what is Christmas, Christmas, what is Christmas", etc.. It was towards the end, so it may have been there to wake up some people so they could hear the final song. It did get your attention. So, what is Christmas? Besides a phrase in a Christmas song, what is it to you? For some people it is just a time of year, without much fanfare or excitement. And though we know it is far more than just that, let's take that thought and pursue it for a moment. It is a time of year! A time near the end of the calendar year, so it is a time to reflect on the past. Just what have we accomplished this year? It is a time of celebration. Whether you get into the Christmas spirit or not, there are going to be those around you, who are very much aware of it's meaning and purpose, that will be having a wonderful time.
It is a time recognize the Grace and Goodness of God. He is so Gracious in sending His only begotten Son to earth, because we certainly do not deserve it. It is a time to realize just how good our God is to us. He wants to bless us and show His Love toward us. You see what I mean. It is really up to us. It can be just another holiday or it can be another holiday - just for Him.

The Greatest Gift Ever

There is a cute commercial running this year about a child, several years prior, sitting under the Christmas tree unwrapping his gift. When he realizes just what it is, he begins to explain with great detail that this is not only the best gift that he has ever received, but that nothing in the future could even begin to match it. It is the ultimate Christmas present. Then, just as he is about to utter the last word of his proclamation, it switches to the present time and he is looking at a new car sitting in his drive way and making the same statement from his childhood. Okay, I have to make a confession here, because I am not a very good shopper for Christmas - or any other time for that matter. I am entirely too practical. I have a difficult time buying something that won't last or won't be used. Everyone can use a new pair of socks, right? Just kidding! I guess that is the reason that the Tonka truck was so popular several years ago, because it was indestructible - until you gave it to a 3 year old. So, what is the greatest gift ever? I am glad you asked. It comes from the greatest giver ever and will last forever. It doesn't need batteries nor do you have to put it together. Of course you know that I am referring to God's great Gift of Salvation through His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. As you think about those special people on your list this year, make sure that they have received God's gift before you decide what you are going to give them. If they have, then your gift will pale in comparison, but then that is a good thing.

So, Just When Was Jesus Born Anyway?

There are a lot of things in Scripture that we don't understand and won't ever be able to as long as we are in this finite body with it's limitations. There are also a lot of things that we would like to know, but we just simply are not told. God, in His infinite wisdom knew that we didn't need to know them at this time. One of the often debated subjects this time of year is just when was it that Jesus was born? I will be honest with you, I haven't done a great lot of study on this issue, because, to me it just doesn't matter. There are those who hold to a winter time date, such as we celebrate now, while others say that because the shepherds were out in the open tending to the sheep, it must have been more of an early Spring time date. In some reading that I have done, I recall that even as the Church began to celebrate Christ's birth there was much disagreement and they had a couple of dates that they chose from. The fact that we don't know for sure has give a semblance of an argument to those who don't believe in Christ, saying that there are contradiction in tradition as well as God's Word. Of course, we know that is not the case and I think the one thing that we need to remember is not that we do not celebrate His "birth day", but His "birth". It is the fact that He came and not the facts about His coming that is important. If His actual birthday was really that important, don't you think that Almighty God would have preserved it for man to know? We just need to know that He came and why He came.

That Sure Is A Beautiful Tree

I really enjoy driving around during the Christmas season and looking at all of the lights and displays in the yards and on the houses. For one thing, you can get a pretty idea where their heart is by what they have put out for the world to see. Anita loves to decorate and the inside of the house always looks so beautiful. I, on the other hand, am an enjoyer and not a decorator. She would love to have lights strung all over the house, and I did put some lights on two bushes out front this year. Hey, its a start. She also has a way of making the scrawniest, bare little tree look as though it was the pick of the forest. Speaking of trees, I had a man ask me several years ago if having a Christmas tree was wrong, because it did have anything to do with the birth of Christ. I thought for a moment and mentioned to him that usually, the tree that is used is an "evergreen" tree which speaks of the Eternality of Jesus. Even though He took upon Himself temporal flesh, He is still very much Eternal God. It is also decorated or adorned with beautiful objects and in particular, lights. When Jesus came to this earth, He came as the Light of the world and even the different colored lights reminds us that He came for all races of people. He lights the hearts of all mankind. I also mentioned that it is, in fact, a tree. Even though it is Christmas, we must remember that Christ was born to die on a tree for your sins and for mine. We often put a star on the top of the tree which reminds us that Jesus said "If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto Me". There is more that could be said, but I think you get the picture. It sure is a beautiful tree when you come to think of it.

What A Song

I love music and some of my favorite song are Christmas carols. The other day we sang "The First Noel" and I keep wondering when we are ever going to sing the second Noel. Oh well. I was thinking about the words to the song that the Angels sang on that clear night just outside of Bethlehem, as the shepherds sat in amazement amidst the "Glory of the Lord" that shone round about them. The message that the Angel brought was "Peace on earth, good will toward men". It wasn't that Jesus Christ had come to the earth and that all men would now live in peace one with another. But, rather that man, who is born in sin at enmity with God, and now that the Messiah has come, reconciliation is available to all men who can now have peace with God. This provision of reconciliation is without doubt an act of good will toward mankind. Man could do nothing to provide that reconciliation of himself, but God was gracious and merciful to extend His arm of love and reach down to the depths of sin and save fallen man. The angel had previously said "I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people". The pronouncement of the person was good tidings and the proclamation of the purpose brought great joy. And then to hear a Heavenly Host begin to praise God Almighty. It is no wonder that after seeing the Christ Child, they went everywhere telling people what they had seen and heard. We have not seen all of this with our physical eyes, but through Faith in God's Word, we have seen it with our Spiritual eyes just as clearly. Have we shared the news as they did?

Where Is Everyone?

One thing that has amazed me about the birth of Christ is that it was ignored by the multitudes.
I just don't understand why there wasn't a mass of people gathered around the stable waiting to get in to see the Messiah. Today, if someone thinks they can see the face of Jesus on a piece of toast, people will come from miles around. It wasn't like they didn't know it was about to happen. They had the prophecies from the Old Testament that told them a virgin would conceive and bear a child. They had the testimony of Elizabeth, whose son John, leaped in her womb when Mary came and told her that she was with child of the Holy Spirit. They knew that the child would be born in Bethlehem and knew that Mary and Joseph would come there because of the taxation. Then we have the events that took place out on a hillside as the shepherds watched their sheep. In the quietness of the night came an Angel, a messenger from God Himself, telling that the promise had been kept and the prophecies had been fulfilled. There was singing and praising, as the Glory of God shone round about them. With so many people gathered in that tiny town, you would think that someone would have seen that glorious light and wondered what was going on. Even months later, as Joseph has settled his new family into the Bethlehem area, they were visited by the Magi from the East. Why did these Wise men need to ask directions in Jerusalem? Why was there not a constant flow of people making there way to see God incarnate? I guess the problem then is much like the problem today. People are so wrapped up in their own little world that the miss what God is trying to say to them. It isn't as though the evidence is not right before their very eyes. They simply fail to look to see what is so clearly given. Don't miss the joy of Christmas. Far too many line up to see Santa and far too few are concerned with seeing the Saviour.

Christmas Is Personal

As we consider the accounts of the birth of Christ, recorded bya the Gospel writers, one thing becomes evident. There were more people involved than just Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus. Just to mention a few, there were the Wise men from the East, Herod, who was ruling over Jerusalem when the Wise men came, and of course, the religionists who told them that Jesus had been born in Bethlehem. These were mentioned in Matthews account. Luke, on the other hand tells us of the shepherds that were tending their sheep out in the fields when they heard the voice of an Angel proclaiming the "good news of great joy". A few days later, when Jesus was taken to be circumcised, we see a man named Simeon, who had been waiting for the coming Messiah and now, having seen Him, was ready to die. There was also a widow, named Anna, that had been serving in the Temple since her husband had died, that rejoiced when she saw Jesus.
As we think of all of these, and others, one thing we notice is that each one responded differently to the news of Jesus' birth. The shepherds were frightened by the Angel, while the Wise men became curious when they saw His star in the East. Herod became concerned about the news of a rival King being born and eventually began killing innocent babies to protect himself. Simeon and Anna were near the end of their lives and were ecstatic over the opportunity to see the Messiah with their own eyes. Sadly, those in Jerusalem, who knew of the place of Jesus birth, appeared to have no interest in it at all. My point is very simple. As we consider the news of the birth of Jesus Christ, God's only begotten Son, we will react differently because we are all unique individuals. One thing that we have in common is the fact that we will all stand accountable for the message that we do hear. You see, Christmas really is personal.

What Do You Give To The Person That Has Everything?

That is a question that you occasionally hear around this time of year. Though, not at our house and probably not at yours either. One of the greatest tragedies at Christmas is that we spend so much money buying gifts for others and the One whose birth we celebrate gets nothing.
I heard an very touching story several years ago that certainly fits our subject today.
On a cold crisp December morning, a small boy made his way into the warm church down town. He had never been there before and had no idea what was about to happen, but he quietly made his way down to the very front row. As the service progressed he became more and more interested in what the man standing up on the stage had to say. It seemed as if that stranger knew him, though the little boy was sure they had never met. When the service was finished it was time to take up a special Christmas offering so the ushers came to the front for prayer. As the organist began to play the men with the plates quickly moved from row to row receiving the gifts provided there that day. The usher nearest the little lad had intentionally passed him by, because he didn't think the young boy had anything to give and did not want to embarrass him. But, while the offering was being received, the Pastor notice that the little boy began to cry. After they were finished the Pastor asked the boy if he was alright. "They passed me by" said the fellow, with tears running down his cheeks. Quickly the Pastor responded by saying that they didn't think the little boy had anything to give and asked one of the ushers to come back to the front. When the usher arrived, the small boy, with the big heart, stood to his feet. With great care he reached out and took the offering plate from the man, placed in on the floor and put his little feet in it. With words that could only come from the heart of a child he simply said "I don't have any money to give, but I do want to give myself to Jesus". Needless to say, there wasn't a dry eye in the big auditorium that morning as this small messenger of God spoke volumes with his few words. Now, if you want to know what to give to God, has does everything, just give Him your heart.

What Makes A Gift So Special?

Maybe I'm being a little picky at this time of the year, but I personally think there is a difference between a "gift" and a "present". A present is something that is often given out of obligation rather than desire. Where a gift has some special attachment or meaning to either the giver or the receiver. It provides a personal connection between the two. So, what is it that makes a gift special? I think there are a few things that will help us to understand. First, if it is beautifully wrapped. You can have some gifts that are sloppily covered in paper and some that are ornately wrapped and the latter will be taken before the former. The outside draws us before we ever know what is on the inside. Secondly, I think a gift is special if it is something that the person really wants or needs. Too many times a present is selected at the last moment out of convenience without much thought to the recipient. But, when the gift is something that the person has been wanting or truly needs, what a difference it makes. The third thing that makes a gift special is if the receiver cannot get the gift for themselves. Maybe because of it cost or its availability, it is out of reach, and then to open the beautiful wrappings and find it there is just amazing. The last thing I want to mention that makes a gift special is if it is there on time. Have you ever been anxiously awaiting Christmas because you had this feeling that what you had asked for you were going to receive, only to find out that it wasn't in stock until next week or it got lost in the mail somewhere? It just seems to take the joy out of it when it finally arrives 2 weeks after Christmas. Well, let's think about this for a moment. The gift that God gave to the world was wrapped beautifully in the form of a little baby there in that manger. It was that which everyone needed and could not get for themselves. The cost was much too high and it was completely unattainable. And, even thought Israel had long awaited it's arrival for hundreds of years, it came right on time. For God so loved the world that He gave the most special gift of Salvation just to you.

Giving and Receiving

Jesus said that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Most of us want to make sure that someone out there gets a blessing and we are willing to endure being the receiver so they can. It is a terrible job, but someone has to do it. Right? Anyway, there is obvious truth in that statement because Jesus, the very Son of God, made it and by simple practice we know it first hand. As a child growing up, we couldn't wait until Christmas morning so we could jump down under the tree and see what was under there for us. Then, as we got older, it was more difficult to please us and the joy of receiving seemed to slip away. Then, we became parents again and the real joy of Christmas began. Now, we are on the giving end of the deal and couldn't be happier. Our delight is to sit back and watch as our kids scramble to the tree and begin to devour the beautiful decorated gifts like a bunch of wild dogs fighting over a bone. And you had better not get in the way unless you life insurance is paid up. Just to hear the squeals of delight and to see the expressions on their faces is gift enough for us. Well then, if we happen to get something from them, then that is just icing on the cake. It is at this time, as we kick back and see just how much they appreciate what they have received, (though they may never say it) that we begin to understand how God must feel when we finally unwrap the Truth and see the precious gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, Who died for our sins and with great joy and delight receive it. Yes, it is more blessed to give than to receive. So give the gift of eternal life this year to someone who really needs it.

He Deserves Better Than A Manger

For centuries, the debate has been that since Jesus was to be the King of the Jews, He should have been born in a palace rather than a stable. So, why would God the Father allow His royal Son to be born in such a manner as this. After all, this added to the confusion because the Jews were, in fact, looking for someone who would come and sit on David's throne and remove them from the Roman domination. They had heard of the glory days of the past and were anxious to get back to such prestige again. But, Jesus came to this wicked world, it was to fulfill the purpose of God and not the plan of man. Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies of the ceremonial lamb that was slain on the day of Atonement each year, so it was only fitting that He should enter this world beside those sheep and be recognized first by the shepherds, who knew a perfect lamb when they saw one. Thirty years later, when his cousin John was baptizing in the river Jordan, Jesus Himself came to be baptized. When John saw Him approaching, he could easily and rightly have said there is my cousin Jesus, or even here comes the Messiah. But rather than either of those, John very simply said "Behold the Lamb of God" - signifying His purpose rather than His person. Paul speaks of the fact that Jesus humbled Himself and became a man. Yes, in the minds of man Jesus certainly deserved better than a stable. But, that straw filled manger suited the purpose of God just fine.

The Chosen Shepherds

We usually just think of Mary as having been especially chosen to bear the Christ Child and she was. But, God, in His infinite wisdom, saw several others who were specifically picked to be used of Him during this time. The first that comes to mind is John the Baptist and his parents. John was chosen by God, before he was born, to be the fore runner of the Messiah. His parents had to submit to God's divine leadership, as did John when he was older. Of all of the Magi in the East, why these particular ones? What made them so special? No doubt there were others that had studied Daniel's writings, as well as the prophecies of the Hebrew nation, who may have been just as curious. But they didn't follow "His star". And what about those shepherds out on the hillside that night? Why did God see fit to send His Angel to them with the wonderful glad tidings of great joy? Questions we will never know the answer to. But, I think that when we get to Heaven and have a moment to sit down with them, they will tell us a story that will surpass our feeble imaginations of today. These humble men of no particular worth to those who knew them, were picked by God Almighty to be a part of His master plan. They were privileged to go into Bethlehem and find "the babe lying in a manger", just as the angel had said. They were so moved by this experience that they went everywhere telling people that the Messiah had come. Now, let's bring this up to date and realize that you and I have also been privileged to receive the message that the Messiah has come. And just as the shepherds had the responsibility to pass the news along, so do we. The chosen shepherds and "the chosen US".

Mary Pondered - What Do You Ponder?

It is always interesting to hear people discuss Christmas. Some people are very excited about this special holiday while others can't wait until it is over. For some, Christmas is filled with fond memories of their childhood and that is a good thing. But, when you think about Christmas, what is it that comes to mind. I like to visualize the stories in the Bible and as I think of the passage in Luke 2 telling us of the shepherds coming to the manger to find Mary there holding the Christ child, I often wonder what must have been going through her mind. Luke uses an interesting word when he says that she pondered these things in her heart. Can't you just see this young lady who has just given birth to the very Son of God incarnate, as she caresses Him close and deeply considers what lies ahead for Him. Though we don't know for sure where her thoughts took her, we can be somewhat confident that she considered the fact that He would be thought bad of and scoffed at because His mother was not married when he was born. No mother likes the idea of her child being the target of ridicule and scorn. I am quite sure she also began to contemplate His fate. As God's only begotten Son, He came to this world with a purpose and that was to die for the sins of the whole world. We could go on and think of many other possibilities, but what is more important today is, what do you think about at Christmas time? Have you been swept up in the traditions of the season or do you allow you heart to take over and see the Truth of the Christ Child? Take a moment and allow the precious Holy Spirit to fill your heart and mind with the joys of Christmas.

Christmas Time Is Coming

It is hard to imagine that December has already arrived. Which means the Christmas season is really here. I hope you are celebrating this wonderful time of year in the proper manner. Okay, let met get it off of my chest early and say how very much I despise "Xmas". You don't know how hard it was for me to even it put it there. But, when commercialization has taken over and the focus is on a jolly old fat man rather that God's marvelous gift to mankind, it is no wonder that people leave Christ out of Christmas. I have noticed lately that it is getting more and more difficult to find good Christmas cards with a message to the world about the birth of Christ. I just read in the paper that one major retailer has completely banned the use of Christmas and gone to the less "offensive" happy holidays. Well, I guess you have to decide who you want to offend. Personally, I don't want to offend God, since He has done so much for me. But, that is a decision every person will have to make on their own. I hope that this Christmas season you will keep the emphasis where it belongs and keep Christ in Christmas. After all, Christmas just isn't Merry without Christ.

How Important Is Light To You?

I'm not real fond of darkness. When I was much younger, it was very common for us to travel at night in order for us to take advantage of the limited time we had to be with family. Now, I want to drive in the day light hours. I like being able to see what is around me. An interesting truth that I came to realize long ago is that darkness is simply the absence of light. And light dispels darkness. Jesus said "I am the Light of the world". We are also told that "the entrance of His Word giveth light". The Wisemen were given direction by what the Bible calls "His Star" and they followed that light which led them to the Messiah. If we may say it like this, it led them from darkness into light. The shepherds, on that Christmas morning, saw the light of the Glory of God, as they heard the Angel proclaim the birth of Christ. That light gave them hope and as they responded to the light and the message, they found Emmanuel, God with us. Most people will put a big lighted star on the top of their Christmas tree signifying that star that the Wisemen saw. During this Christmas season, don't miss seeing the grandest light of all, that which God shines into your heart. He wants to lead you out of darkness and into His glorious light. As Jesus was speaking to Nicodemus, He told him that men love darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil. Allow God to dispel the darkness in your life that you may enjoy the light of His presence.

We Are Coming. Should Be There Any Time Now

I really enjoy the Christmas pageants that are put on each year. Some are on a grand scale with music and actors doing a fantastic job. While my favorites are those with the little children playing the parts because you never know just what is going to happen. Regardless, one constant in all of these is that in order to get everyone involved, they must take some liberties with the time frame from Scripture. You will almost always see the shepherds and the Wisemen gathered together by the manger worshiping the baby Jesus. When in reality, it is probably about 18 months after the Christ's birth that the Wisemen finally make their way to Bethlehem. The shepherds came to the manger the night of His birth, but in Matt 2:11 we are told that the Wisemen came to a house and saw a "young child", not a baby. Though there are distinct differences in the arrival of the shepherds and the Wisemen, there are some commonalities as well. Both were led to the place where Jesus was by a messenger of God. The shepherds were told by an angel just where they were to go. The Wisemen were led by a "His star" (Matt 2:2, 10) until they found the Messiah. Both groups of men were led to God's Son in their time and both had to decide to accept this leading from God, receive the Truth and worship Him as Lord and Savior. As God takes you to the truth, in His own timing, receive it and worship Him.

A Shekel For Your Thoughts, Mary

In Luke 2:19 it says "But Mary kept all of these things and pondered them in her heart". I love picturing this in my mind. I can just see this young teenage lady that has just brought life into this world. She does not have the comfort of a hospital or even a house to take care of her little baby, but she does the best that she can with what she has. She wraps him in swaddling clothes and in that manger setting she holds him close to her bosom and contemplates all that is going on. What is going through her mind? No one knows for sure, but I believe her thoughts were coursing a path from the beginning of this young child's life all the way to the end. Just like any new parent, there were many uncertainties concerning the future. But, with this being the Messiah, the Savior, the very Son of Jehovah God, she knew His future was mapped out from miraculous birth to majestic death. We can speculate all we want about Mary's thoughts that morning, but we will never know for sure what they were. Had God wanted us to know, He would have told us. But, He did choose to tell us that she remembered this event and mulled it over in her mind. I think God told us what Mary did because it is a good thing for us to do as well. Don't get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the commercialization and miss the true meaning of Christmas. Take some time to think about what we are celebrating. Receive the gift that God has given to you.

The Christmas Season Begins

I remember as a child growing up that the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade marked the beginning of the Christmas season. Now, with all of the commercialism, the smoke from the 4th of July fireworks has barely cleared before the stores are flooded with Christmas decorations. I love celebrating Christmas and I honestly don't mind starting early, but not in the same way nor for the same reasons that the world has chosen to do so. I am not a big fan of cold weather, but when the temps begin to fall, I know that it isn't long until I can turn on my Christmas music in the office. It's playing right now. Can you hear it? Like so many other holidays, we set aside a particular day of the year to celebrate a special occasion and then from that day on it seems to be lost until it comes around again the next year. We celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ, God's only begotten Son, who came to this wicked world to save us from our sin. To celebrate the fact that He came is also a reminder that He is coming again. As we get closer and closer to His return, this Christmas season should be more meaningful to each of us. Christmas, is still 4 weeks away. In all honesty, we may not see that day arrive. If it does. this could be the last time we can use this season to tell others about the true meaning of Christmas. If you haven't already heard it let me be the first to say that I hope you have a "Very Merry Christmas".

Thanksgiving, What A Great Day

I hope you are having a blessed day today with family and friends. It would have been interesting to have been there at that first Thanksgiving Day feast as the Pilgrims and the Indians prepared to settle in for a time of feasting. Can't you just see the pilgrim ladies in their long dresses and bonnets along side the Indians in their traditional garb working feverishly around the fire outside, getting things ready, with the kids running around playing and getting in the way, while the men were in the cabin watching football. Okay, maybe they weren't watching football, but the other part is probably pretty close to accurate regardless of the time in history or the native country. Times certainly have changed and with them traditions that in some cases define our families. Regardless of how you may celebrate this wonderful day, we all have so very much for which we should be thankful. You may have had better days in the past, but at least you have today. You may be wishing for a bigger and better house to live in, but at least you have a roof over your head. You may have a turkey at the table rather than on the table, but at least you are not alone. Before you stuff your belly, empty your heart in grateful praise to God Who has provided all of that grand bounty before you. After all, it is Thanksgiving.

Hey, Is Tomorrow Turkey Day?

Very quickly, let me say a resounding "NO"! Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day. I know, some of you are thinking that I am a little nit picky with nothing more that terminology, but to me it is just another way of showing our ingratitude rather that our gratitude. When we say, turkey day, we focus on what we are getting on that particular day. Where, the idea behind Thanksgiving was to remember the bounty of the harvest for the entire year. It is a day that has been set aside to remember all that God has so graciously blessed us with. We may not have a lot and it may not be as much as we would like to have, but it is more that we deserve. I hope you have a wonderful time with family and friends and I hope you waddle away from the dinner table and barely make it to the couch before you fall asleep. And as you lay there moaning and wishing you had room for just one more bite of dressing because it was so good, just remember where it all came from and thank Him for it. Take heed to the words of Job who said, the Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Don't forget in the parable of the talents that the good master took the one talent that was hidden and gave it to the first worker that had used his talents. If we are thankful for what we do have God can find a way to allow us to have less. And if you persist in calling it Turkey day, the real turkey is you.

What Makes You Happy

I like to be happy. I like to laugh. But, one thing that I have found out over the years is that what makes me happy doesn't necessarily make someone else happy. You would think that since we are all so similar that there would be a common "something" that we could all point to and say "now, that makes me happy". Maybe it is because that, as someone once said, happiness is relevant. And if I may use the play on words, it is our relatives that often determine our happiness. When it comes to the material things in this world, I am far from being rich. But, when it comes to family, I am so blessed. You know, we may be hitting on something here. Maybe we are looking in the wrong direction for our happiness. Maybe it isn't the things of this world, but the people that God put in our lives that provides the greatest joy. Just maybe it is what we are able to do for them rather than what they are able to do for us that gives us the greatest pleasure. It is the holiday season - Thanksgiving, when we have so much to be thankful for and Christmas when we can focus on giving rather than getting. So, let's keep our focus on the right things. I think it is when we realize that the material things will someday pass away, but people are eternal, that we begin to understand what real happiness is all about. So, don't look around you and be saddened by "what" you don't have, but open your eyes to "who" you do have and rejoice. Then sing a few bars of "Don't worry, be happy". It will make you feel good.

How Do You Stay Warm?

I make no bones about it - I don't like to be cold! I can take 100 degrees easier than I can take
0 degrees. When I get cold, I am cold all over more than anywhere else. And, it is difficult for me to get warm once I have gotten chilled. I don't mean to sound like I am complaining, tho there may be some truth to that, but there is a lesson to be learned. How do you get warm and stay warm? You could add more clothing, but then that gets a little burdensome. You could just stay inside and not get out when the temperature drops. Or maybe we could take some advice from our fine feathered friends who go South for the winter. I know, you are sitting there thinking what can we learn from this. Well, there are, no doubt, times when we become a little cold in our walk with God. We realize that things just aren't what they used to be and we don't like it. So, we try adding some good works to our already busy schedule - still cold. So, we turn to hybernation, thinking that if we stay out of the world, we won't be enfluenced by the world. That doesn't work either, because it hasn't done anything for what caused us to be cold in the first place. Okay, so what about our fowl friends? Well, as the birds in the sky become uncomfortable and turn their backs on the situation, so should we. We can stay in our cold funk or we can move toward the warm love of our waiting Heavenly Father. Then we can begin to understand that the warmest place to be, even in the coldest of times, is in His presence. That is by far the best way to stay warm.

Now What?

Okay, finally, the elections are over. Now what? Well, there is that dead time when the people coming out of office begin now to do less than they did while they were in office, if that is actually possible. And there is the time when those who have been re-elected begin to party, I mean celebrate their being trusted again for another term. But, I guess the biggest challenge comes to those who have made great promises so that they could get elected in the first place. Sometimes, I think the realization of being elected hits them and they realize they are accountable for all they said they would do. Now, we know that people will say what is necessary to get the trust of the people, but, we can rejoice over the fact that God isn't that way. When God says He will do something, you can mark it down - it will be done. Man will make promises with every intention to fulfill them, but find out that they simply cannot. It is beyond their power or authority to do so. Omnipotent God has the right and the ability to do exactly what He says He will do. Which means that, when He says "whosoever will may come" He means that no one is turned away. When He promises that He will "never leave you or forsake you", then you can count on His ever presence to comfort you in times of distress. And when He says "he that believeth is not condemned and he that believeth not is condemned already", you can rest assured that if you have put your faith and trust in Him alone, you are on your way to Heaven. You can also be sure that if you have done nothing, you are born on your way to hell and only you alone can change that by accepting His sacrifice for your sin. Okay, God doesn't have to win any election, but we do have to elect to accept Him. Have you?

Finally, It Is Over

Yesterday was election day. For the last several months, we have endured the deluge of commercials for and against those running for office. It's almost becomes like an afternoon soap opera, except this is supposed to be based upon real life. I know that the biggest majority of people are far more interested in hearing what a candidate can do rather that how bad a person that he or she might be. By the end of it all I was struggling to find a good reasosn to elect anyone. But, that is all behind us not. We can move on to bigger and better things. You know, like trying to decide how we are ever going to make it now that these particular people have been elected. Well, let me make this rather short and sweet today, if I may. As I write this, a couple days in advance, I have no idea who will be placed into office by the vote of the people. But, I do know who is in control. We may elect a President, Governor or Mayor to oversee the affairs of our land. But we still serve a King. There are no term limits for our God. He is still Sovereign and regardless who is resting in the seat of political power, God reigns and rules over all the affairs of the world. So, let's be glad it is over and rejoice in who we serve.

Go Vote!

We are so privileged to live in the United States of America and to enjoy the freedoms that are ours. Freedom to choose our elected officials, from the local dog catcher to the President and all positions in between. We are also free to ignore the process and let someone else do it for us. I certainly hope that is not your choice. As is usually the case, the Presidential election seems to garner most of the attention and as usual there are those who know exactly who they are going to vote for and then there are those who have yet to make up their minds. Unfortunately, some have made their decision based up political affiliation. It doesn't matter what the person stands for, it is just a matter of what party he/she belongs to. Some have also decided that regardless of what a person believes, it is time to elect a minority into office. Once again, a bad reason for making the selection. I am not here today to tell you who to vote for, tho I have determined long ago that if a candidate is solidly against God's Word on issues such as abortion and same sex marriages, then they would not get my vote. But, let me ask you to do a couple of very important things today before and after you vote. PRAY! Ask God who you should vote for and listen to His advise. Then, once the elections are over, trust that the people of God's choosing are in office and continue to PRAY! I know that God wants to bless our nation again, but the Psalmist said "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord" and right now, that just isn't the United States of American. But, it can be, if we pray and turn back to Him. So, go today and cast your vote for God. You can't go wrong there.

Spread The Word

I want to say a special thank you to those who faithfully read this daily devotional on a regular basis. You are the ones for whom it is intended. I have but one request. Since you are enjoying it, pass it along to someone else so they can become a regular reader as well. As we are nearing the elections I have noticed one thing in particular this year. So many people are spending a great deal of time and effort in support of their candidate. I think that is a wonderful thing, because if we are in agreement with them and feel led to support them, then why not tell those that we know, just where we stand. Here is where I have a problem. Too many of those, who are professing Christians do not have the same zeal in telling people about Jesus. Let's face it, whoever is elected is limited in what they can do to fulfill their promises. I would hope that they firmly believe what they are promising is the best for our country and that they are not just being swayed by popular opinion. But, even at that, their hands are tied in so many ways that it makes it very difficult to get things done. By the way, don't fear that which man says he will do that is contrary to God's Word, because regardless of who is elected he cannot do anything that our Sovereign God does not allow. Here is my point. Let's take that zeal and commitment that we now possess and channel it toward reaching a lost world with the Gospel. It was not just coincidence that I asked you to pass along this daily devotional if you like it so much. Because the same thing is true with Jesus. Since He means so much to you, why not tell the world how wonderful it is to be a child of God? Let's spread the word about the Word.

Halloween - boo

Well, today is Halloween. A day set aside for 2 very important events. One is that little children of all ages go from house to house begging for candy. I think this is a holiday that was invented by a dentist. Anyway, the other important event is that you are suppose to scare the liver out of someone. Whether it be by decoration or costume is of no consequence. Just get them shaking in their boots. Now, that poses an interesting question. What scares you? Some people are afraid of heights, for instance, or they may be afraid of insects and bugs. Regardless, there is usually something that makes a person afraid at some point in life. Unless, of course, you are a macho man. Then you are only afraid when you are alone and no one can see you. Okay, here is my point. I think a better question would be "why are we afraid"? What is it about that particular thing or event that put us in a state of panic. I think that sometimes we are afraid because that which causes us fear is beyond our control. (Except for spiders and bugs because we can step on them) Someone once said that the only thing we need to fear is fear itself. I'm afraid he may not have faced some things that I have faced. (pardon the pun) But, I do like what one man said when his life was being threatened. Being a devout Christian and knowing full well that when he died he would be in the presence of Jesus, his Lord and Savior. The man responded by saying "you can't scare me with Heaven". So, if you are born again then what is the worst that can happen? You could have to stay around awhile.

They're Here! They're Here!

I remember as a child the anxious anticipation of someone coming to visit. Times were different then and it wasn't that uncommon for people to just drop by. But, since we lived out in the country, they had to make a special effort to come and usually called to let us know they were coming, and to make sure we were going to be at home. So, with that advance warning we would wait, usually impatiently, for their arrival. As they began to ascend the somewhat steep hill that was our driveway, you could hear someone announce their arrival. Special guests are always just that - special. I say all of this to let you know "they are coming" and will be here tonight. Who?, you ask. Why, our missionary guest, of course. They have come from various parts of the country to share their burden for lost souls in various parts of the world. These are young couples that are on deputation and seeking churches, like ours to help get them there. They have a zeal that we need to see and get a hold of. There is an excitement about the unknown future that God has for them that more than drives away any fear of that uncertainty. Why? Because they understand that the things that are yet kept from them are held by God, and in due time He will reveal them, along with His purpose. Yes, they are on their way and tonight we will be able to shout "they're here, they're here". If you are close by, I hope you will come and meet these wonderful servants of God. If you are reading this from afar, please keep us, and them, in your prayers.

It's Getting Colder

It is that time of year when the temperature begins to drop. I was surprised last week when I went outside to get in my truck, only to have to scrape off some frost. I am not ready for that yet. If I remember correctly, the reason the temperatures drop with the changing of the seasons is because of the slant of the sun rays shining down. If I am wrong, well, don't tell me because it gives me a reason for this devotion. (just kidding) My point is this. Sometimes we seem to cool of as Christians because we don't put ourselves in a position to receive the direct rays of the "Son" and the light of His Word. We think we can do just fine by staying at home and reading the Bible for ourselves. There are 2 major flaws with that theory. First, we can't do just fine doing that because God has told us in His Word to "not forsake the assembling of ourselves together". Second, if we are disobeying God by staying home we are probably going to disobey God and not read His Word either. By the way, if we were reading as we say we are, we would know that we are supposed to be in Church. Now, as in the changing of the seasons, the temperature will continue to get colder until the angle changes once again. We can't expect to warm up to God until we decide that His way is the best way. If you feel yourself getting a little cool, then quickly adjust the angle so that you can begin to warm right back up. You'll be glad that you did.

Is Your Name In The Book?

We are in the process of updating our Church directory. It has been a couple of years since we last put one out and there are several changes that need to be made. I was working today on the section that lists the birthdays and anniversaries. I noticed that several people did not give us the year that they were born, so I am guessing that they are celebrating an anniversary of their birth - you know, like the 25th anniversary of my 29th birthday, kind of thing. Anyway, one thing is for sure and that is that they were born. We see proof of it every time we see them. I have realized that having a Church directory and putting people in there helps to make them feel a real part of the Church and the ministry. And that is a very good thing. I know you aren't really interested in hearing about our Church directory, but there is a message in here I am sure. At birth, we were born into a family - not of our choosing, but by God's providence. Nothing can change our lineage, even if they wanted to. Jesus told Nicodemus, "You must be born again..." John 3:3. When we are born into the family of God, nothing can change our heritage or our lineage. And believe me, Satan sure does want to. When we were born to our physical parents, our name was placed in the records as a matter of public record for anyone to see. You can go back to your place of birth and get a copy of your birth certificate. God also has a record and it is referred to as the "Lamb's Book of Life" in which are recorded all the names of those who have been born again. My point is really very simple. As rewarding and satisfying as it may be to have your name on a church roll, it will do nothing for you in eternity. What matters is if your name is recorded by God in His record book. Is it there? If not, you will stand before God at the Great White Throne of Judgement and the search will be made, as public record, to show it is not there! That is not a good thing.

Labor Day

Ah, yes, it is Labor Day. A wonderful national holiday when people get off of work. Or, in other words, they don't labor. Maybe it should be called Rest Day. Okay, I know that many of you already have a "to do" list and will be plenty busy today, but there is just something different about doing jobs that you really enjoy. As a young man raised on a small farm we had to do what we could when we could. That meant that my dad, who also worked a full time job in the city, would spend Sunday afternoons plowing or mowing out in his field. One day, our Pastor asked him about working on Sunday - to which he replied "to me, this isn't working". He continued to say "it is relaxing and I have time to be alone with God". The point is, what is considered work to one person is very relaxing to another. You may be asking, how does that apply to the Christian life? Well, for some people, serving God is very enjoyable and quite rewarding. For others, the same experience can be drudgery because they approach it with the wrong attitude. How do you serve God?

What Is Your Business?

Last week was quite a week with all of the things that were going on. One, of which, was the local county fair. It was interesting to see the many other booths that were there and the variety of businesses that were represented. We, of course, were there to give out free bottles of cold water to those who were sweltering in the humidity and heat. Along with that we also gave them a packet of information about our Church, which included the plan of Salvation. On one occasion a young couple came by and the young lady came over and got some water while the young man stood away from the booth. As she came back carrying the water and the packet of information, I heard him say "I knew there was a catch". By no means do we force the literature on anyone, but we do offer it to all who will receive it. Beside us was a lady associated with a real estate company. I stepped across to her and mentioned that what we were doing was closely related. She seemed somewhat puzzled since she knew we were a Church, so I explained it to her. I mentioned that she sold people houses and we made mansions available for free. Then I asked here if she had a mansion being built for her in Heaven. She now understood what I was referring to and assured me that she saved. My point in all of this is that she, like others out there that are Christians, had a line of work, but they also had a ministry while working. I have often referred to "business" as "busy" ness. What is it that keeps us busy? If it is the temporal things of this world, then we are missing the mark. So, what is your business?

Election Time

What an interesting political season this year. There has been so much hoopla about the Presidential race that it has taken away from the state and local races. I don't get into politics very much, but I believe that we have a responsibility as Christians and as citizens to get out and prayerfully vote as God gives us direction. One thing I am sure of and that is that there is not one candidate out there that any of us can completely agree with. So, how do we vote. As God gives us direction through His Word. There are certain issues, such as abortion - killing of babies in the mother's womb - that we must stand against, regardless of who is running. We must remember that Sovereign God is still on the throne and as we find in Prov 21:1 "The King's heart is in the hand of the Lord". We have been instructed to pray for those who have the rule over us as they have been placed there by God. God may have designs to bless this nation, or He may have designs to chasten the rebelliousness and sin of this nation. What we do know is this, that God blesses the faithfulness of His children, regardless of what is taking place around them. All we can do is what we know to do that is right before God. The rest is up to Him.

It Is Almost Time For School

It is hard to imagine, but the summer break is almost over. For the most part, I think you will find that kids are eager in May to start the summer vacation, but just as eager in August to get back to school and spend time with their friends. Or not! Regardless, it is something that has to be done. I often wonder if maybe the break in school is something that carries over even into our adulthood. You know, the idea that since I am not in school I am not responsible for learning anything. How many kids spend time reading during the summer break? How may adults think about learning since they are not in school themselves? My point is this, that everyday there is something new we can learn - regardless of who we are. And, it is interesting to see the source of our new found knowledge. On occasion it will come from the most unlikely source. Someone once coined this phrase and I have used it often - "the more you know, the more you know you don't know". Even the brainiac doesn't know it all. So as you arise today and begin to face another challenge and another set of circumstance, ask God to teach you something. Something new and exciting about Him. Something phenomenal about His creation that just astounds you. Something that makes you step back and say "WOW!!!" Make everyday a school day.

In The Beginning

Gen 1:1 says "In the beginning, God..." Well, today is a beginning of sorts. As we update our website, we hope to be adding new things that will allow us to meet the needs of more people. The most important part of that first verse in the Bible is that the beginning started with God and by God. That is what we want for our posting - everything we do should honor God. So, how does God fit into your life? Is He there at the beginning of each new day? Do you recognize His presence with you as you encounter each task along the way? One thing that you can count on without fail is that God will always be there. We may not turn to Him, we may not speak to Him, we may not even "feel" His presence, but rest assured He is there. So, in times of crisis or need we can turn to Him in prayer. If we can be of assistance to you in your time of need, please let us know. Have a great day and don't forget to begin with God