We were blessed to have all ten grandchildren with us to celebrate Christmas. It was noisy but full of family joy. On Christmas Eve we all went to church together–my daughters and their families, my son and his family. We listened to portions of Old Testament scripture pointing to the Messiah and New Testament scripture… Continue reading Christmas, Grandchildren and Books
Category: Christmas
The Shepherds Came
As we celebrate Christmas, the wonder of God’s plan still amazes. God sent his Son to a human family. God designed the family and He affirmed it. The angels announced the birth of a Savior to shepherds watching their flocks, and gave them a sign. The shepherds went to Bethlehem, remembering the sign. They would… Continue reading The Shepherds Came
The Importance of Story
Jesus was a teacher and storyteller. The book of Matthew records numerous stories. While speaking to a crowd he told the parable of the sower who encountered different types of soil. (Matthew 13) Speaking to his disciples he told the story of the lost sheep (Matthew 18). There are many more parables throughout the gospels.… Continue reading The Importance of Story
Who Is Listening for the Promise?
One of the Christmas cards I received had a drawing of Mary and Elizabeth. According to the book of Luke, Elizabeth was the first to learn of Mary’s pregnancy after the angel had appeared to Mary. She believed God’s plan. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And… Continue reading Who Is Listening for the Promise?
Christmas Community
Each day I look forward to the mail. It is a blessing and joy to receive Christmas cards and letters. Sometimes it is a photo card and I marvel how the children in the family have grown. Other times it is a pretty card with a letter. The cards and letters signify relationships and community.… Continue reading Christmas Community
The Best Expectation
Throughout the past year my husband and I have been reading through the Bible. Today our reading was from 1 Chronicles and Isaiah. The books we have read clearly illustrate human nature and the problem of sin in the lives of people who have gone before us. After God chose Israel to be a nation… Continue reading The Best Expectation
Twelve Owls of Christmas
Owls have always fascinated me. I received a handcrafted owl, made in Finland, as a gift. This owl will make a hooting sound when you blow on the hole at its tailfeathers. At Christmas I enjoy taking out ornaments that have been packed away. I have a number of owls and I find a place… Continue reading Twelve Owls of Christmas
Present in Advent
Last Sunday was the first Sunday in Advent. With joy we turn our attention to God’s gift of love. Jesus came as an infant to fully participate in our human experience, and then provide a sacrifice for our sins. Jesus as newborn baby and Son of God was presented at the temple in Jerusalem. And… Continue reading Present in Advent
The Birth in Bethlehem
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 God’s amazing design is before us in the birth of Jesus. Jesus did not enter our world as an adult. He came as an… Continue reading The Birth in Bethlehem
The Light of Christmas
Christmas, the day that we commemorate Jesus’ birth, is coming. Last night we attended a concert titled Night of Glory. It was good to pause from my errands, cookie baking, and card writing. I listened to the story of God’s amazing gift, told in song. The concert began with the orchestra playing Farandole (March of… Continue reading The Light of Christmas