I wonder what all the key players in the first Christmas story would think about the way we celebrate. They had no idea we would be telling their story more than 2,000 years later.

Time, traditions, heritage, cultures, and families have all merged together to create our vision of Christmas through art, music, pageants, plays, and programs. All over the world, the eternal hope, “Unto us a child is born,” is being proclaimed (Isaiah 9:6).

There was an extraordinary moment in history when hope entered a weary world. In the chaos and pain of humanity, Jesus came—not to bypass our struggles, but to meet us in them. His birth is a story of love and hope.

For some, the Christmas season brings joy, togetherness, and celebration. But for others, it’s a time marked by loneliness, grief, or unmet expectations. If that’s where you find yourself this year, know you are not alone. At the heart of the Christmas story is a message of hope—a light that meets us in the darkest places and reminds us we are deeply loved.

Sometimes the goodness of God shows up in such tangible ways it’s astounding.

Efficiency is often celebrated in our world. It’s the ability to do things well, with minimal waste, and achieve success. We live in a time-bound existence where failure, defeat, and wasted moments are common. This makes efficiency a prized value. But what does it mean to be spiritually efficient? How do we live a life that reflects efficiency in our walk with God?

Anxiety can overwhelm us, but God invites us to appeal to Him. Job reminds us that we are not under this world’s economy but under heaven’s ways, which are different and higher. By appealing to God, we allow His peace to change our hearts and reset our focus. Remember, Jesus has all authority in heaven and on earth, and He is intimately involved in our lives.

This departure was not the end but the beginning of a powerful new chapter, ushering in the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us until Christ's return.

God creates intersections with people in our lives to fulfill His purposes for His kingdom. Our task is not to control or manipulate these intersections but to seek and discern what God desires to do through them.

Noah’s world was in turmoil. The Bible tells us in Genesis 7:17-20 that the waters prevailed upon the earth, rising higher and higher, swallowing up everything in their path.

I was recently reminded of some of my first encounters in Africa and how refreshing and bold the introductions of many of the people I met were. Regardless of age, gender, education, or cultural expectations, when asked to introduce themselves, a person would state their name and then boldly declare, “I am a born-again Christian saved by the blood of Jesus.”

For a brief moment, I forgot my own suffering and heartache. In that instant, I realized that my suffering was not wasted. I saw a glimpse of God’s grace in the midst of sorrow, a reminder that He is always with us, especially in our darkest hours.

Consider the wisteria. All winter long it’s dormant. But come spring, it thrives, climbing over and choking off the vegetation around it. The wisteria’s purple blossoms cascade beautifully over limbs, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. But don't be deceived by its beauty. This plant wraps its graceful tendrils around its support, completely taking control. In the same way, the desire to compete is subtle yet destructive.

As they sought rest, the multitudes followed. Jesus, moved with compassion, taught them many things and performed the miracle of feeding the 5,000. Despite the disciples' weariness, Jesus' compassion took precedence.

Nothing supersedes Holy Scripture. There is only one way to gain and grow spiritually, and that is by immersing yourself in the Word of God.

If your devices are becoming more and more demanding (that is their nature) and you’re finding your quiet time is disrupted and diminishing, it may be time to tell the world to SHUT UP and humbly ask the Lord to SPEAK UP. Remember, just because you cannot hear His voice, it doesn’t mean He’s keeping secrets from you.

Are there some situations in my life that are stormy and chaotic? I confess I feel threatened and unsure. Distractions and demands whisper doubts and fears. I’m straining to see Jesus in the middle of this unsettled place.

Wouldn't you like to declare, “Gone are the days of dragging, pushing, lugging, and heaving my burdensome problems”?

Sin may start small and occasional, but it grows bold and multiplies. Think of criticism, complaining, begrudging, resentment, worry, lying, deception, gossip (to name a few) and how they all grow and threaten to take over the thoughts and intents of your heart.

Beware the traps of the enemy, seeking to ensnare us with worldly desires. He wants to trap you here in this temporary place. This life is not permanent. It’s transitioning you.

In a culture where instant glory and overnight success splash across social media, it’s easy to forget the power of investing in people, honoring relationships, and serving others along the way.

This scene is familiar. We can all see ourselves in this situation. Martha is in charge. She’s the hostess, bearing the responsibility for presenting a welcoming atmosphere for Jesus. He is a personal friend of her family, and she is honored that He is in her home. Everyone wants to meet Jesus; they want to be associated and acquainted with Him. Mary is sitting at His feet, listening to His words.