MOTIVATE We are in the middle of December, the Christmas season. And while the decorations surround us with beautiful colors, shiny ornaments, and the smell of fresh evergreen and peppermint spice, there are many that just are not feeling the Christmas spirit. What do we do with these thoughts, feelings, and unfortunate realities? I think…
Tag: Nativity
Christmas Interruption (Matthew 1:18-25)
MOTIVATE I have a like/dislike view of nativity scenes. While nativities may not always be realistic, they can be relevant opportunities to discuss the historic events that have changed and engaged the world. Nativity displays interrupt our normal schedules and sights to provoke us to wonder what this season – and all of life –…
Imperfect Christmas, Imperfect Guests (Luke 2:8-20)
MOTIVATE Did you see it this week? Everyone was taking pictures of this rare phenomenon in the sky that last happened 400 years ago, and nearly 800 years ago during the nighttime. Experts called it the “Great Conjunction,” while others called it the “Christmas Star.” From the view of earth, the planets Jupiter and Saturn…
Behold, Our Coming Savior (Matthew 1:18-25)
MOTIVATE I have a like/dislike view of nativity scenes. – Little figurines in our home… are they decorations or idols? – Church nativities often inaccurate with wisemen present (they didn’t show up until 1-2 years after Jesus’ birth). – Nativities often unrealistic with perfect arrangements, but can’t you imagine the chaos? Mary looks remarkably unexhausted…
Growing Godly Generations 