Life This Side of Heaven

“Supply crisis: Will Christmas be cancelled?” That was a provocative newspaper headline. There are so many things that we often count on, all coming together with perfect timing, that the hope for a perfect Christmas celebration is practically unattainable when any of them is in short supply. However, Christmas itself is all about God's loving response to very real shortage.

It’s one of the most lovely images of the season of Advent. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby John leaped in her womb. Some have wondered how that's possible. The truth is, it's even more amazing to think of all the leaping for joy that's taking place now and all that's going to come as result of Jesus' saving work.

It must have had folks scratching their heads when the prophet Micah announced that the Savior of the world would be born in Bethlehem. Today, the little town of Bethlehem is famous but you can be sure that folks in Micah’s day were asking, “Bethlehem? Are you kidding?” But this tells us something important, and very comforting, of how God looks on you and me and our salvation.

Do you enjoy listing to Christmas oldies? A number of radio stations have curated lists of their favorites. Of course, when they say oldies, they’re referring to songs that came out primarily in the fifties and sixties. And many of them are actually songs that are based on earlier hits. But there’s also a favorite hymn of this Advent season that’s actually a clever remake of some much, much older music. Can you guess which one it is?

Christmas is a popular time of the year for most people – including thieves. It’s been noted that between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day, thefts, burglaries and property crimes increase significantly. So, it’s not surprising that each year local police departments release tips on how you can safeguard your home for the holidays. Another thief goes into high gear at this time of the year. It’s the adversary...

It's not surprising at this time of the year to find that the package you were expecting on your doorstep is one that was actually meant for your neighbor. So when John the Baptizer sent his disciples to Jesus with the question, “Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else,” it almost sounds like they’re asking if there was some confusion in the delivery.  But it’s a heartfelt question and one that might cross our lips as well,

What do you give to those you love? It’s the annual conundrum of Christmas. What do they like? What would bring them joy? What will my wallet allow? But the question that comes up in a popular Christmas tune asks, "What do I bring to Jesus, the newborn King?" The answer may surprise you.

You and I have good reason to sing and rejoice. The sentence for our sins is gone and through faith in our Savior, who died and rose for us, we have been reconciled to God. But did you know that God Himself sings for joy over you and this eternal reconciliation?

“Bah! Humbug!” That's the famous line from Charles Dickens 18th century story, “A Christmas Carol.”  It’s the contempt-filled reply that Scrooge gives to in response to Christmas greeting shared with him by his cheerful nephew. But have you ever wondered what this phrase means?

Someone you love may not be with you this Christmas. And that may make it feel especially difficult to be around those who are celebrating. In fact, more than once some have said, that, they don’t feel very joyful and and have even thought about skipping Christmas altogether.  You may be feeling this way as well. But I hope you’ll reconsider. The truth is that this Good News of Christmas is especially for you.