"Always winter, but never Christmas"

     Last week I did some shopping in our local mall (formerly the largest in the nation, at a time when malls were a new concept.) I, of course, expected to see the typical Santa scene, with lines of tots waiting to sit on the lap of this fatherly figure to share their most wanted wish list.

     But what I found was the "Ice Palace". Hmmmmm. That's unusual. I thought. Where's Santa? And who will be inside to greet the children when they reach the interior of the palace?

And then a chill came over me. And thoughts of the White Witch in The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe. She had placed a spell on Narnia, so it was "Always winter, but never Christmas". A harsh environment with no hope of joy, peace and celebration.

     Edmund encounters the White Witch riding on a sleigh pulled by white reindeer. He has stolen away from his brother and sisters, curious of this "witch" spoken of by Mr. Beaver. And, because of his rebellious spirit, is intimidated when Aslan, the true King of Narnia's name is spoken. Queen Jadis is aware of a prophecy that will foil her plan, and bring Christmas back to Narnia. Four human children, or Sons of Adam and Daughters of Eve, will have a part to play in the return Aslan who will save Narnia from the harsh, cold spell it is under.

So, she is thrilled when she finds Edmund on the road. The White Witch entices him into her sleigh, and proceeds to fill him with his favorite treat: Turkish Delight. (When you have tried this rose-flavored delicacy, you will understand why!) She distracts him, so he indulges himself with more and more candy, until that is all he can think about. This greed causes Edmund to betray his siblings to the Queen of Narnia. Secretly, she plans to destroy them, and thus prevent Aslan from bringing back Christmas.

And that's when it hit me. Those of us who celebrate the birth of Christ at this time of year are being distracted by the goodies of this world. Stuff. Celebration. Santa. Food. And more stuff.

But what about Christmas? Have we forgotten about the Christ Child? The one who came to earth to save it from Satan's power? To bring freedom, joy, light and forgiveness?

I think so. 

In Matthew 2: 9-11we read:

"After hearing the king, they (the Magi) went their way; and the star, which they had seen in the east, went on before them until it came and stood over the place where the Child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh."

What gift will we bring to the feet of the Christ Child? How will we worship Him today?

I hope I will give Him my heart, and not a wish list. I want to worship the God of the Universe. Not the god of pleasure and possessions. I want to worship the King.

What Will Your Eulogy Reveal?

Epiphany: a sudden, intuitive perception of or insight into the reality or essential meaning of something, usually initiated by some simple, homely, or commonplace occurrence or experience.

It occurred to me today that Christian funerals are, in some strange way, like Heaven.  We see folks we haven't seen for years, and reconnect.  A eulogy is given, relating all the good things a person has done in the name of Christ.  Beautiful music, most likely the deceased's favorite, is played and sung. Likewise, when we reach heaven's shores we will be reunited with loved ones who have gone before.  We will hear from Christ's lips, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." And we will sing with the angels.

Although we are mourning the physical loss of a loved one, funerals provide us with a benefit.  It causes us to revisit our present and past.  We can ask ourselves, "Do I spend my energy on things that will last for eternity?  Only two things will last forever. . . people and God's Word.

At times, when I see a hearse on the road, trailing a line of vehicles with family and friends paying their last respects, I try to remember to say a prayer for them.  That God would impress upon them the briefness of life.  And the importance of making that life count.

Have you had an epiphany lately? How can you make your life count for eternity?

A HOLY DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY: BEDLAM IN BETHLEHEM: THE MASSACRE

This is the last day I will share my "Christmas Musings," inspired by "The Miracle of the Christmas Child."  Today I continue to flesh out the characters in this beloved account of the birth of Christ, breathing life into a small portion of the story. 

This is a gruesome scene, but none-the-less, one that is an important part of the story.  As we morn for those lost in the Sandy Hook killings, let's be mindful that throughout history, many horrible things have been done by evil men for selfish desires.  There is only one who is perfect.  His name is JESUS!

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Herod was livid. The wise men had promised to return from Bethlehem and report their findings, but God had warned them in a dream to journey home another way. The Magi never returned to Jerusalem. They did not trust Herod, nor his desire to "worship the young child." Truly, the sages were relieved.

But not Herod. This lit a fire in his being which began a horrendous event that would be remembered by Jewish mothers throughout the ages. "Brutus, gather the army IMMEDIATELY," ordered the king. "Make haste; search for this threat to my kingdom and destroy it! If you cannot find him, kill every male child in the village from two years and younger. He must not live. Go...NOW!"

Brutus obeyed. It was this very army Joseph caught sight of on their way out of Bethlehem. The thundering sound of hooves awakened the townspeople. Little did they know, although it was prophesied, that soon their young sons would be ripped from their arms and slaughtered.

Screaming. Chaos. Moaning. Confusion. Sobbing. The night was full of sounds and turbulence. Of bedlam. There was no mercy, no time for contesting. Doors were broken down, torches swung into the still dark rooms of sleepy households. Babes grabbed unmercifully from mother's arms. Grabbed from the place where they laid asleep just minutes ago, dreaming in peace. Woe to the male child, who was identified as such, dragged screaming from the abode, and slaughtered in the street.

The blood ran first with a trickle, and then with what seemed to be a stream. It flowed down towards the valley, where the sheep lay quietly grazing, unaware of the turmoil above them. Then the words of the prophet Jeremiah came to be: "In Ramah was there were voices of lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning. Rachel was weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they had perished."

Many years from now, blood from a lamb, the precious "Lamb of God" would trickle down a wooden cross. But this time, the flow would signify salvation and not death.  Fathers lost their only sons this night, but one day, God will not only lose, but offer up, His son for the salvation of the entire world.

But this Son did not lie in the grave forever.  No!  He rose from the dead, and in fact, conquered death, so we someday, could live together with Jesus Christ in Heaven.  Death on this earth is not the end.  We all will live forever. Either with Jesus Christ our Saviour and King of Kings, or in utter darkness far from any hope or comfort.

The decision is yours...

John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life."

A HOLY DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY: THE FLIGHT INTO EGYPT

For two more days, I will share my "Christmas Musings," inspired by "The Miracle of the Christmas Child."  Today I continue to flesh out the characters in this beloved account of the birth of Christ, breathing life into a small portion of the story. 

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The family was exhausted after the unexpected visit of the Magi. They slept soundly that night, reliving the day's event in their dreams. But the night would be cut short, for a voice penetrated Joseph's dream. "Arise, Joseph. Quickly!" 

Joseph stirred in his sleep. He was accustomed to being awakened by the Child some nights. But his dream was invaded by a figure in white. It seemed to be speaking to him. It was insistent. "Joseph, arise...quickly!" Even dreaming he was at attention. "Take Mary and Jesus," the stranger ordered, "and flee to Egypt. Stay there until I bring you further word. Herod is even now on his way to destroy the Child."

Joseph rose with a start. This was no dream...it was a word from God! Immediately he began to awaken Mary. Shaking her, he urged, "Mary, quickly, you must get up!"

"Joseph, what is it? Is it the Child?" She rubbed her eyes and sat up.

"An angel, Mary...an angel appeared to me in my dreams with a warning. We must flee immediately to Egypt..."

"E-gypt??" Mary interrupted, raising her voice. She sat up, wide awake. "Why..what..."

"Herod is seeking to destroy our Son, Mary. He is threatened by his mere existence. Herod wants no other king, present or future, to ruin his reign."

By now, Mary was up, hastily gathering what few provisions they had to sustain them on their long journey. Jesus began to stir. Joseph gazed at him, his brows furrowed with worry. "Father God, protect your Son. Lead us to your chosen place. Reveal your plan." A smile began to form on the earthly father's face as he watched his son in peaceful sleep. It was then he realized. "Yes, you will be with us, won't you, Father? You ARE with us...Emmanuel!

"The gifts, Joseph. We can't forget the gifts. They will provide what we need for the journey." Mary lifted them from a high shelf where they had placed them the night before, so young fingers could not play with the precious contents. 'How could the Magi have known..." She pondered the providence of her heavenly Abba.

The donkey packed, Mary was quickly seated on the burdened beast, and the Child, still sleeping, was placed in his mother's arms. Almost too big to be held, Mary adjusted her position to accommodate the growing boy.

Joseph, with a rapid pace, lead the tiny family through the dark winding streets, and out into the open fields. His eyes scanned the countryside, looking for anything or anyone that might be a threat. He spotted a small army advancing from between the northern hills, bearing their torches.

His pace quickened, and soon they were headed south, down towards En-Gedi, the arid land where King David hid from Saul. He pondered the irony of the situation. Another future king, in another century, fleeing from the present king who wished to kill him. 'History does repeat,' thought Joseph, "just as King David was saved from his enemies, God will protect Jesus from his adversaries.

TOMORROW, THE FINALE: 

BEDLAM IN BETHLEHEM...THE MASSACRE

A HOLY DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY: SIMEON

For a few more days, I will share my "Christmas Musings," inspired by "The Miracle of the Christmas Child."  Today I continue to flesh out the characters in this beloved account of the birth of Christ, breathing life into a small portion of the story. 

SOURCE

Not only would the shepherds experience the awe and wonder of the new arrival. For years, Simeon had know about the coming of the Christ child.

And he had waited...for years. Years of faithfully serving His Lord, believing in the Holy Spirit's promise that he would not see death until his eyes beheld the Savior of the world. But this devout man was aging. His body was worn out, his eyes dim. He wondered if he would survive to see this long anticipated event. How would the child Christ appear? As a normal infant, brown and bellowing? Or would a glow surround His body to reveal His identity? Surely He would be born of a wealthy family... These thoughts lingered in his mind, rising again each time a young family would come to dedicate their precious offspring to the Lord.

The day dawned as usual, and Simeon headed to the temple to pray. This day, he felt a certain urgency. Instead of stopping to talk with the Teachers of the Law, as was his habit, Simeon's feet propelled him forward, as though they had a mission.

As he entered the Temple, Simeon noticed a young couple, dressed in ragged clothing, conversing with the priest. The babe in arms, and two caged turtle doves in hand revealed their purpose: to dedicate their firstborn to the Lord. It was a familiar scene, but this time, something was different. Simeon drew closer. A celestial force, a spirit too strong to resist urged him onward.

In an instant, the words of the prophets came to him: "...and His name shall be called, Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." What did he know of the child's future, other than the voices of the prophets of old?

Simeon was now standing alongside the mother, who gazed up at him with questioning eyes. The old man couldn't resist. He reached down to touch the babe, sleeping peacefully in his mother's protective arms. She, in response, raised Jesus to Simeon's hands. In one motion, this tiny being made in God's image, was lifted to Heaven. Words spilled from Simeon's lips as he blessed the most High God. "Now let me depart in peace, Lord, for my eyes have seen your Salvation, which you have prepared for all mankind. A light for the Gentiles, and the glory of your people, Israel."

In wonder, Joseph and his wife, Mary took in the words. What could this mean? Simeon continued the blessing; this time, for the couple, "This child is appointed to be the rise and fall of many in Israel." He stopped, and looked directly at Mary. "Yes, a sword will pierce your own soul, and this will all happen so the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed."

The family of three left the Temple, bathed in the glow of Simeon's blessing. For many years afterwards, Mary in particular, would ponder his words. Simeon beamed as well, with the knowledge that he, Simeon, had held and beheld the precious, foretold Son of God. He was not sure he wished to see the words fulfilled.

Weary, but peaceful, Simeon, trudged home, his pace heavy, but his heart light. He laid his aching body down, never to rise again in this world.

TOMORROW: THE FLIGHT INTO EGYPT...

A HOLY DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY: THE MAGI

For a few more days, I will share my "Christmas Musings," inspired by "The Miracle of the Christmas Child."  Today I continue to flesh out the characters in this beloved account of the birth of Christ, breathing life into a small portion of the story. 

source

Galumph galumph, galumph...the Magi had been traveling for weeks. Nothing but sand under their feet, and stars in the sky above.  Though the heavens were scattered with twinkling stars, one stood out amongst them all.  THE star.  The largest and brightest in the sky.  The one leading them to the King of the Jews.  The Magi had done their work, pouring over the ancient manuscripts, studying the astronomical charts, surveying and exploring the night sky.  And their work lead to one conclusion...follow the star.  They must find the prophesied one.

And when they did, they must bring gifts.  He, the writings revealed, was destined to be a great leader.  What gifts would befit a king?  "Gold, of course," confirmed one.  "We must pay the homage due him," suggested another. "Frankincense would honor his purity." A third observed, "Great power brings great responsibility...and suffering.  It is troublesome to be a ruler.  Myrrh would sweeten his reign."

So, it was settled.  The Magi were on their way, pursuing the mysterious star that had appeared many months before.  Soon, it lead them to Jerusalem.  They stopped to inquire. "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews?  We have seen His star in the East, and have come to worship Him." These strange men on camels, packed with treasures, dressed in fine silks and jewels...who were they?

Word came quickly to Herod and his court.  Another King?  Of the Jews?  This was trouble....trouble indeed. Immediately he gathered the chief priests and scribes to question them. "Where do the ancient writings say this CHILD is to be born?" A sneer formed on his face as he said the word.  The Jewish religious leaders answered immediately, "In Bethlehem of Judea! The prophets foretold, 'And out of you, Bethlehem, of Judah, the smallest of towns, will come a Governor, who will rule my people, Israel.'"

A servant was summoned to bring the Magi to the palace.  By this time, their bellies were crying for food. Herod's offer of exotic delicacies pleased them, but his ingratiating tone did not. "You have come a long way.  Please, sit down...take your fill of our fine food," pressed Herod politely.  He went on to another subject.  "Tell me, at what time did you first see the star?"

The oldest Magi spoke first, "It was many months ago when we first laid eyes on this wonder in the Heavens.  We followed, and it faithfully lead us here.

"I wish to see this child who was prophesied long ago, but my duties are many.  Go to Bethlehem and search for the babe, and when you have found Him, come back to report.  I, too, desire to worship this King of the Jews."

The Magi glanced at each other, not sure of Herod's intentions, but they bowed politely, and quickly went on their way.

By now the sky had darkened, and the guiding star, brighter in contrast, directed them south and west.  Slowly they advanced, until the rays focused on a humble abode on the outskirts of the town.  Cautiously, they alighted from their camels, and taking their costly cargo, made their way to the entrance. Joseph, hearing the commotion, went to investigate.  His visage change from concern to puzzlement, and finally, to wonder, as he invited them inside. 

The child, asleep on his mother's shoulders, soon awakened, and with a wide-eyed expression, watched the Magi humbly bow before Him.  They  presented their gifts: Myrrh, the panacea for human suffering; gold, identifying the "worth" of the child; and frankincense, the High Priest's fragrant offering to the Most High God.

Mary and Joseph were poor folk.  They had never seen such an array of fine gifts.  The awe and reverence of the wise men were just as astonishing as their offerings.  By why should the couple be amazed?  Did not the Messenger of God come to Mary, announcing the fulfillment of the long awaited prophecy? "...He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest...and of his kingdom there shall be no end."  The wonder surrounding the event was still present.  Truly, Mary and Joseph would be in awe for the remainder of their lives, as they watched God's promises unfold for this young child.

For a few minutes, the room was filled with an unmistakeable radiance.  All present felt the power of this scene.  Slowly, the Magi rose from their knees, bowed to the Christ child, nodded in gratitude to his parents, and stepped quietly out the door and into the night.

Tomorrow: Simeon...

A HOLY DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY: THE SHEPHERDS

For a few more days, I will share my "Christmas Musings," inspired by "The Miracle of the Christmas Child."  Today I continue to flesh out the characters in this beloved account of the birth of Christ, breathing life into a small portion of the story. 

http://www.freebibleimages.org/photos/shepherds-angels/

While Mary was in wonder over this miracle of God, the shepherds were in the fields below Bethlehem, watching their flocks that night. Nothing extraordinary happened to shepherds.  Nothing.  Day after day, night after night, the same old routine.  Out to pasture.  In to the folds for safety at night.  Listening for the cry of a lost or wounded sheep, or a wolf on the prowl.  No matter the day or season, their job was predictable and unremarkable.  But, not this night...no, not tonight.

Gazing at the night sky, as they were wont to do, the shepherds noticed a dot of light growing in size and brilliance.  They called out to one another as it soon became apparent that this was no ordinary celestial body.  Spending the time they did outdoors, they knew the sky as they did their sheep.  This star was like no other!  "FEAR NOT!" A voice suddenly filled the air.  "For Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all the people," the invisible voice announced.  "For unto YOU is born this day, in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord!  

The proclamation echoed throughout the evening heavens, as the shepherds stood in wonder at this awesome news.  Here, right in their own town?  Could it be?  Even a lonely shepherd had heard the prophecy telling of a Messiah who would come to bring peace into this uncertain world. Just as they were pondering this most amazing announcement, the sky became alive with a host of heavenly beings thundering their praise. "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, goodwill to men!"

We must go!  We MUST go and see this baby.  And they did, leaving their sheep behind them.  The star had spread its rays, leading the way towards Bethlehem town.  And, just as the sheep would follow their shepherds, tonight, the shepherds followed the star.  With full trust, and without wavering.  They recognized the voice of God...and they followed.

Tomorrow: The Magi...

A HOLY DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY: THE BIRTH

This week, I am sharing my "Christmas Musings," inspired by "The Miracle of the Christmas Child."  Today I continue to flesh out the characters in this beloved account of the birth of Christ, breathing life into a small portion of the story. 

image.net

The weary travelers settled in to the stable with the cows, sheep, goats and chickens. Thankfully, most we're asleep. Mary wished she could sleep, but it evaded her tonight. Joseph hung the lamp from a wooden beam above, and made a fresh bed of hay for Mary so she could rest.

"Joooseph!"

"What is it Mary?" In an instant, he was at her side.

"The pain...ooooh...the pain. It is too much for me to bear!"

For the next few hours, Mary labored to give birth to this holy child, prophesied by Isaiah and others. Blood, pain, cries, bearing down: it seemed the child was being ripped from her womb.

By morning, the blessed event had occurred. Mary held baby Jesus in her arms, with Joseph embracing them both. A miracle...could it be? The new father had cut the umbilical cord, separating life from the life source. Jesus cut off from Mary's life giving womb. Jesus the Son of God, leaving Heaven to come to humble and sinful earth. For us...for mankind!

Tomorrow: The Shepherds

A HOLY DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY: THE JOURNEY

This week, I am sharing my "Christmas Musings," inspired by "The Miracle of the Christmas Child."  Today I continue to flesh out the characters in this beloved account of the birth of Christ, breathing life into a small portion of the story. 

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Joseph and Mary began their long journey to Bethlehem with a old donkey, a basket of bread and a flask of water.  And, yes, a small bag of coins.  Joseph hoped there would be enough to pay the taxes Rome required, with a small amount remaining for necessities along the way.  The way was long and arduous; over hills and across the river Jordan.  Mary, being close to delivering her baby, found travel difficult, bouncing and joggling along on an aging and boney donkey.  But, walking would have been out of the question.

They arrived in Bethlehem late at night, hoping to find lodging.  The stars above were as numerous, it seemed, as the masses journeying to their ancestral home.  Something told Joseph that it would be nigh to impossible to find a place for Mary to rest.  The birth pangs were closer together now.  

"Father, help us!  Open up a room, a stable, SOME place for my love."  The odd couple trudged into town, Mary sitting on the donkey, head bowed, exhausted and ready to close her eyes in sleep.  Joseph, many years her elder, showed himself tall, straight and strong.  Door after wooden door closed in their faces.  Innkeeper after unbending innkeeper saying the same thing, "No room".  How could there be no room for the Son of God?  

Incredible. Unthinkable.

But, haven't we left Elohim out in the cold?  Going our own stubborn way? Saying, "There is no room in my heart today!" Yes, sadly, it's true...

Tomorrow: The Birth

A HOLY DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY: JOSEPH

This week, I am sharing my "Christmas Musings," inspired by "The Miracle of the Christmas Child."  Today I continue to flesh out the characters in this beloved account of the birth of Christ, breathing life into a small portion of the story. 

photo info

While Mary and Elizabeth shared their hopes and dreams, Joseph was musing over these changes in events; of his life and future. What would it be like to raise the Son of God? Could he teach Him anything at all? Carpentry, maybe; but the Holy Scriptures? Unbelievable! Would Jesus need fatherly discipline? Guidance in daily life? Or, would He instinctively know what to do and say?

Joseph was a carpenter, a builder and carver of wood. He loved to smooth rough edges and smell the fragrance of cedar and sandalwood. To make something useful from a simple plank. "Would God be able to use me in the training of my son?" he asked himself. "I am here, Lord...use me as You will. Mold me and make me into your man...your humble servant."

Tomorrow:  The journey...

A HOLY DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY: ELIZABETH

For the next week, I will share my "Christmas Musings," inspired by "The Miracle of the Christmas Child."  Today I continue to flesh out the characters in this beloved account of the birth of Christ, breathing life into a small portion of the story. 

www.bible-people.info

     That same confirmation would come from her cousin Elizabeth who herself, was holding miracle in her womb. Well past childbearing years, Elizabeth and Zacharias were to give birth to a man child. "His name shall be John", the angel Gabriel announced to Zacharias in the temple. His wife was now in her sixth month, and soon to be visited by a young girl from Nazareth.

     "Greetings, cousin! Peace be with you!", Mary had said. At the sound of her voice, the child within Elizabeth leaped for joy. "Why am I so privileged to have the mother of my Lord come to me?" Elizabeth questioned with wonder. How could she have known? Only God could have revealed that to her. 

     So, it was true. Finally, all the pieces flew together in one beautiful picture. Mary's heart could no longer hold it's joy. She burst forth in song, "My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. For he hath regarded the humble state of his handmaiden. From now on, all generations will call me blessed!" The words overflowed from her spirit as water in a fast flowing rocky stream. She praised God for His power and providence and yes, protection, in this troubled world.

Tomorrow....Joseph's story

A HOLY DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY: MARY

I will be taking time off from my usual weekly posts to share my "Christmas Musings."  Two years ago, I was inspired by a small book by Penelope J. Stokes entitled, "The Miracle of the Christmas Child."  What follows is a fleshing out of the characters in this beloved account of the birth of Christ.  Each day for a week, I will breathe life into a small portion of the story on which we can meditate.

God has chosen the weak things to confound the strong. 1 Corinthians 1:27

Mary was so young, so inexperienced. Who could have guessed that God the Almighty would send His messenger, the angel Gabriel, down to Nazareth and announce to Mary that she would bear God's Son?

What good has ever come from that town? Every female child born since Sarah, and indeed, since Eve, was hoped to be the one to carry the seed of the One who would crush the head of Satan. Why would the young girls of Nazareth hope for less? The very meaning of it's name meant "branch" or "preservation".  Of what? The seed of the Savior, of course!

And now, Mary struggled to tell her mother of last night's encounter. Would she believe her daughter? Or, would she assume, as most would, that she had broken her betrothal vow, to follow her passions? And what about Joseph? Would he put her away, or stone her, as was allowed by law? Mary hoped that he would remember that the Messiah was to be born someday to a woman of Jewish blood...why couldn't it be Mary? Would he trust in her proven good character?

If Joseph questioned Mary's story, any hesitancy to take her as his bride was put to rest. The angel Gabriel's appearance to him in a dream confirmed Mary's report. She was truly carrying the Son of God!

Tomorrow:  Elizabeth's Good News!