In the often-retold story of Christmas, we hear quite a bit about Mary, but what about the man God chose to raise His only Son? Joseph—a figure sometimes overlooked in our nativity scenes—deserves our careful attention and reflection. Joseph is described in Scripture as a "righteous man," a descendant of David through Abraham, and a …
In the quiet, humble town of Nazareth, something profound unfolded—a celestial messenger, the angel Gabriel, visited a young girl named Mary. Gabriel, who had delivered important messages to the prophet Daniel (Daniel 8:16) and the aging priest Zechariah to foretell the miraculous birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:19). Now, he is standing before Mary. …
Continue reading Christmas: The Encounter Between Mary and the Angel Gabriel
Every year our family watches the classic movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life”, made 74 years ago. We see George Bailey coming to the end of his rope, his world is encapsulated with no solutions, no hope. He wishes he had never been born; the world would be better off without him. Suddenly, his guardian angel, …
We have all messed up during our lifetime; I have messed up far more times than I’d like to admit. I used to do what I wanted, when I wanted. Mainly because in America I can. I remember someone asked me once, “what is sin?” I was surprised by the question, but they honestly …
I grew up in a single parent household, we didn’t have much money and my expectation of getting nice Christmas presents was low. My father neglected my brother and me, rarely giving us anything. Living in sunny southern California, we never lived in a house with a fireplace so there was no way Santa was …
The fragrance of a freshly cut Christmas tree wafts through the air of home; it’s a smell I wait for all year. The grandchildren help me decorate the tree, this year adorned with vivid red and white lights, creating a wonderful aura throughout the room. The fireplace mantle is carefully garnished with cherished keepsakes. Stockings …