Our time of Advent is winding down. Soon, Christmas Day will be upon us. Over two thousand years ago, our Lord and Savior was born. We wait now for the returning King to be merciful to His people just as He promised. In Mary’s Magnificat, she extols the character of the Lord, God her Savior, glorifying His humility, mercy, greatness, …
Beautiful Feet…Good News
I recently traveled to my home state for a visit with some friends. What joy to stay with them, talking late and waking early to share morning coffee. As I would go to another person’s house, the questions were almost consistently the same. “How is Dave? How are you doing? Have you found a church? What have you gotten involved …
Mary’s Song
Mary’s song of praise continues to bring to mind the many ways God has shown Himself faithful to His people. In her song, she praises the Lord for His mercy from generation to generation. Then she extols Him for performing mighty deeds with His arm…but He has lifted up the humble. That’s what she was. A humble young teenage girl. …
ADVENT
We enter the time of Advent. The time of the arrival has come. Have you ever been in a place of great expectation? Anticipating the arrival of someone or something? Last week, I was fluctuating between anticipation and excitement as I waited for my daughters and sons-in-law to arrive for a long Thanksgiving weekend. Because of our crazy schedules, we …
Look Up
In Numbers 21:4-9, the children of Israel rebelled against God and were punished for their sins by being bitten by fiery serpents. Many people died. Moses interceded on behalf of the people, and God provided a remedy, salvation, for them. He told Moses to make a brass serpent and lift it up for everyone to see. If they looked up …
Love was when God became a Man
Love Was When God Became A Man, Locked In Time And Space, Without Rank Or Place; Love Was God Born Of Jewish Kin; Just A Carpenter With Some Fishermen; Love Was When Jesus Walked In History, Lovingly He Brought A New Life That’s Free, Love Was God Nailed To Bleed And Die To Reach And Love One Such As …
Star of Wonder
The Magi (wise men) traveled a great distance, following a miraculous star that led them to Jerusalem, searching for the King born in Bethlehem. In Jerusalem, they sought counsel from King Herod (Herod the Great), where the King of the Jews was born. Herod, fearing the security of his throne because he wasn’t fully Jewish, but Idumaean (descendent of Esau) …
What’s in a Name?
I celebrated Christmas with my piano teacher organization and piano students this past week. As the designated “Games Person,” one of the activities we do is figure out our “Elf Name.” Mine is “Angelic Angel Ears”. Some of the funnier ones have been “Sprinkle Twinkle Toes,” “Sprarkle McJingles,” and “Perky Jolly Holly.” When I met my husband, Dave, I …
A Future Peace
Nothing is more peaceful than a leader who shepherds his people during a time free from conflict or war, maintaining peace and harmony for the citizens. Thinking back just a few years ago to the senseless riots and unrest in a nearby city, I’m reminded of the fear community members suffered. Tensions ran high, and there was no peace. It …
From Fear to Peace
Her circumstances should have given her anxiety, deep concern, and fear of open rejection from family and friends. She was so very young and pregnant. Facing an untenable situation, she goes to her elderly cousin, Elizabeth’s house, perhaps to hide from the cruel, hateful words of others, maybe to find support and encouragement. From the moment Mary entered the …
