A miracle is a “an event that so overrides what observers understand of natural law that it creates wonder and serves as evidence of God’s active intervention in this universe.” * Jesus didn’t do miracles to draw large crowds. Through the miracles, he presented his credentials: he revealed his identity and what he’d come to do. John, in his …
Extend the Joy of Christmas
What Did You Expect? When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” Matthew 11:2-3 Did Christmas disappoint you? Did your loved ones neglect to give you the present you wanted? Did squabbling siblings get …
God’s Christmas Message
A Christmas Card from God? “For I am a great king,” says the Lord Almighty, “and my name is to be feared among the nations.” Malachi 1:14 Bills, advertisements, and credit card offers—the contents of my mailbox on most days. But during December, I receive the welcomed addition of cards and newsy letters from friends and family. Their updates let …
Christmas Joy
Restore the Joy of Christmas “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. Luke 1:38 Feeling overwhelmed by all you need to do before Christmas Day? Is it even possible to have a busy yet peaceful Christmas season—to move from hectic and stressful to calm and joyful? Yes … if we follow Mary’s example. She could have characterized the days leading …
Gratitude Series
Cultivate Gratitude A thread of thankfulness runs through the Bible from Adam’s gratitude for Eve in Genesis 2 through the twenty-four elders’ song of thanksgiving in Revelation 11. I know God calls me to be thankful, and yet I struggle with a verse such as 1 Thessalonians 5:18—“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in …