Tag: holiday
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13. BEHOLD: The Author and Editor
Oh, the stories that come with Christmas! Tales of wild festivities, hilarious memories, and sentimental moments. At Christmas we also face stories we’d rather not; disappointing and painful memories are often whispering in the background. One story we also hear tells of Christ’s coming to earth to save us. This is the greatest story, and…
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11. BEHOLD: The Brave
Isn’t it silly which things require bravery? Saying “no” to a friend’s Christmas invitation seems scary because they might be offended. Choosing that particular gift can be frightening because it may not be what they wanted and it will hurt to see it rejected. Telling a co-worker about the Christmas Eve service carries risks. These…
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10. BEHOLD: The Adorner
Why do we decorate at Christmas time? Jesus was born in a manger, and yet many of us to celebrate his birth deck out our whole houses. It takes years to accumulate complete sets of decorations –from expensive pieces to enough simple lights to cover the trees, banisters, and yard. For some, it takes almost…
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8. BEHOLD: The Healer
Along with the Christmas season comes the cold season. And the flu season. And the season for strep throat, pneumonia, exhaustion, etc. Those are just the physical illnesses that plague the holidays. With Christmas, for many, comes disappointment. The heartache of loneliness and loss seems exacerbated by the twinkling lights and appearance that all is…
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7. BEHOLD: The Bearer
I have 60 people on my Christmas card list this year. There are more than 10 people to buy for. That’s just Christmas stuff. The Lord blessed me with a new job a few months ago. The more people I get to know there, the longer my prayer list grows. That’s on top of the…
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4. BEHOLD: The Victor
A downside of the Christmas season for many of us is the tensions that arise. Wars fought in families surface and emerge during holiday celebrations. Emotions are heightened as a “perfect Christmas” backdrop stands in stark contrast to what many actually face. Culture wars are waged over the different types of celebrations (and holidays) that…
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2. BEHOLD: The Promise Keeper
There’s something about December that draws up the dreams in our hearts. Maybe it’s the sappy music and the happy advertising everywhere. The nostalgia of beloved traditions, fine decorations, and lights glowing everywhere stirs up joy -and hope. In this season of dreaming, we’re apt to make promises and ask for them. “Promise you’ll come…
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1. BEHOLD: Our Comforter
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort” –2 Corinthians 1:3 As the weather gets colder and the season busier, we tend to seek out creature comforts. Big, soft blankets get piled on couches. Rooms are decorated and dimly lit to…
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25 Days of Beholding the Lord
There’s a lot to be said (and done!) in December. Comfort for the lonely during this time of constant reminders of family and togetherness. Wise reflections on the arrival of Christ and His impact on our lives. Advice for traditions, planning, and keeping up with the busy schedule. Celebrating and preparing for winter as…