There is much confusion regarding the kingdom of God. Many believe that the kingdom is wholly future, others that it is purely metaphysical, some insist that we can't understand it this side of the judgement. False views of the kingdom of God have had disastrous effects upon societies and cultures throughout history. One's view of the kingdom of God will directly impact one's view of history, progress, and the eschaton (the last event or last day). In order to understand the goal and end of a thing, it’s beginning and origin must be understood.
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We love to give gifts to each other because we are created in the image of our heavenly Father who loves to give good gifts to his children! Whether it is an expression of appreciation for a job well done or just to show gratitude for someone as a friend, the tradition of giving gifts extends throughout history. It is an expression of love that is uniquely rewarding because we vicariously experience the joy of the receiver!
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The Christmas Dinner should be a royal feast — filled with joy and mirth! On Christmas Day we are remembering what God gave to us — the offer of eternal life in Jesus Christ! It should be a day filled with love, joyfulness, thanksgiving, and remembrance for what God has done.
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Mrs. Jellyby, Mr. Skimpole, Mr. Jarndyce, Esther Summerson; if you’re familiar with Charles’ Dicken’s work you’ll recognize these characters and their incredibly fun literary names. But why did Dicken’s really write his book, Bleak House?
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We’re always busy — preparing food, planning activities, wrapping presents, making schedules. This season is a time of bustling and exhausting activities! But even amid the flurry of excitement surrounding the next few days, let’s pause from our preparations and consider the night Jesus was born.
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This year, as you remember the joyous occasion of Jesus’ birth, celebrate with songs. Proclaim the incarnation with all the festivity of a royal arrival.
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Home: That most singular of places, a sanctum where we should be best known, the residence of life at its deepest and most intimate, the outpost from which the family, that beautiful institution, reaches out like a ray of light from a window and extends the beauty and power of Christ’s dominion into every aspect of culture. …
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When I was about nine years old my family took a trip to New England. One of the most memorable moments happened while driving through an old neighborhood at night. Almost without exception all of the homes displayed candles in their windows. I'll never forget the welcome it conveyed, how it drew us in, the warm light on the streets, the glow coming from each window. …
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Stately, well-proportioned, vividly green and alive. Bedecked with warmth and light and beauty. Surrounded with the smells and imagery and memories of one of the most beloved times of year. The Christmas tree is a commonly recognized piece of Western culture in our era. All manner of symbolism and legend has been attached to its presence during the Christmas season and there are many interpretations of the story of its origin.
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