Luke 2:7

 

 Luke 2:7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

“The magic of Christmas is not in the presents but in His presence.”

The Most Breathtaking Version of "Mary, Did You Know?" by Nathan Pacheco

 I love the beauty of His voice – the faith he has in the words he is singing - the beauty of the dance.

“Christmas is most truly Christmas when we celebrate it by giving the light of love to those who need it most.” – R. A. L. G. G. A. Krishnan

Let us remember to dedicate time this year towards helping those in need and sharing our blessings with others. 

A little girl named Anna wanted to give Jesus a present for Christmas. She had no money, so she wrote a note that said, “I give You my heart.” She placed it under the church’s nativity scene. Weeks later, her father—who had been distant and bitter—found the note while helping clean the church. Touched, he began attending services again. Anna never knew her small act had given her father the greatest gift: faith restored.

“A Christmas candle is a lovely thing; it makes no noise at all but softly gives itself away.” – Eva K. Logue 

This Christmas, let’s embody the gentle spirit of a candle, shining our light through acts of kindness and love. 

On a snowy Christmas Eve, a small-town pastor noticed a single candle glowing in the window of an old, abandoned farmhouse. Curious, he knocked on the door and found a weary traveler inside, shivering. The man had been walking for days, searching for work and shelter. The pastor invited him to the church’s midnight service, where the congregation welcomed him warmly. That night, the traveler said, “I thought I was lost, but your light led me home.” The candle became a yearly tradition—a beacon for anyone in need.

“Christmas Eve is a night filled with magic and love. It reminds us of the importance of togetherness and the joy we can share with one another."

Christmas reminds us that God is near and that his love is real.

Every Christmas, Mrs. Thompson set an extra chair at her table, saying it was “for Jesus.” Her neighbors thought it was just a sweet tradition—until one year, a young man knocked on her door, cold and hungry. She invited him in, seating him in the empty chair. Over dinner, he shared that he had been praying for a sign that God still cared. Mrs. Thompson smiled and said, “This chair has been waiting for you.”

 When I was a child, our family did a lot of traveling by car. Mom and Dad rode in the front seat, with Dennis between them while Lee, Suzy and I sat in the backseat.  I was the youngest of the 3 of us backseaters, so I would start out in the middle.  I did a lot of grumbling.  I moaned. I groaned. When that did no good, I demanded a window seat because I felt sick.  I almost always got moved to the window when I pulled out the car sickness card because the truth of the matter was that I DID get car sick.  No one wanted to be between me and the window when that happened.  (Suzy got her revenge at night by kicking me in bed.)  One morning, Dad woke us up in what I thought was the middle of the night insisting we get an early start because it was going to be 120 degrees in Barstow that day and he wanted to get through there before we cooked to death. This was back in the days before air conditioning was standard in cars.  I grumbled.  I moaned.  I groaned.  None of it did any good.  I stuck out my lower lip and I pouted!  Then I looked out the hotel window and saw the most glorious sight I’d ever seen.  I saw the sun rise in the sky.  The colors were so beautiful that I asked my parents if that was where God lived, if we had found Heaven.  They laughed at me, but in my heart I believed that I had seen Heaven and that it was beautiful.   I was so good all that day!  All of my life I have longed to see Heaven again.  In 1 Corinthians 2:9 we read “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”  What a glorious place it must be, even more beautiful than my sunrise.  And just think, it’s all made possible through the love of Our Savior, Jesus Christ who entered this world as a tiny innocent child and grew to be the trail blazer, the path setter, the guide for all of us who wish to find our way to Heaven.  One night I sat at my grandson’s bedside reading him stories and singing songs to him.  Many of them were Christmas songs.  I sang "Away in a Manger", "Candlelight Carol", and "Shine for Me Again: Star of Bethlehem".  The song tells the story of a young shepherd boy who saw the Savior lying in the manger.  He saw a friend a King.  As the shepherd ages, trials enter his life.  The 3rd verse says:

"as I stumble and fall,

I can hear someone call,

do not despair,

your star is still there.

The final verse:

that Christmas night so long ago

has filled my life with light because I know

that He lives now,

as He did then,

a King in Bethlehem,

whose love never ends,

shine for me again, star of Bethlehem"

As we celebrate this special night, let’s remember to express gratitude for the child born that night, for the man He became and for the Savior and God that he is. The spirit of Christmas can extend beyond this “one” night and tomorrow’s glorious day if we carry it in our hearts all year long. That is my hope and my prayer. My 25th year of Christmas messages is now complete. The scriptures, quotes, poems and stories we’ve shared this year can help us find peace even in difficult times. Peace comes, as well as joy and love, as we strengthen our faith in Our Savior. Thank you for allowing me to share my love of, and faith in Jesus Christ with you.  If I could leave you with one message, it would be that “God lives. Jesus is the Christ. Eternal salvation is ours through Him.” Merry Christmas, ~~Marilee

These poems were found at 9 Christmas Poems About the Nativity: The Birth of Christ in Poetry - Poems Please no authors names were listed.

Angel’s Proclamation

Angels proclaim with voices clear,
A message sweet for all to hear.
“Rejoice!” they sing, “the Savior’s born,
In humble dawn, a new hope’s sworn.”

The heavens dance with joyous light,
As glory shines through the darkest night.
The hearts of men beat soft and low,
For in this child, love’s river flows.

And

Gifts of the Magi

From distant lands with stars as guide,

The Magi traveled, hearts filled with pride.
Each gift they bore, a treasure to share,
Anointed king, the world’s true care.

Gold, frankincense, and myrrh they bring,

For in this child, eternal spring.

Their journey long, their faith was bright,

In seeking Him, they found their light.

John 17:3

 

John 17:3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

Faith allows us to see the star; hope allows us to hear the music

 

Casting Crowns - Make Room (Official Music Video) ft. Matt Maher

This video shows the band gathered round a piano, singing this song.  They ask the question:

Is there room in your heart?

Is there room in your heart?

Is there room in your heart

For God to write His story?

Pizza monkey bread

1/3 cup olive oil 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 garlic clove, minced

  1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

  2 cans (16.3 ounces each) large refrigerated flaky biscuits (8 count)

  2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

  1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  20 slices pepperoni, halved

  1/2 cup marinara sauce plus additional marinara sauce, warmed

  Torn fresh basil leaves, optional

  Preheat oven to 350°. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine first 4 ingredients; microwave, covered, on high for 30 seconds. Cool slightly.

  Cut each biscuit into 4 pieces; add to oil mixture and toss to coat. Add cheeses and pepperoni; toss to combine. In a heavy 10-in. fluted tube pan coated with cooking spray, layer half the biscuit mixture; drizzle with 1/4 cup marinara sauce. Repeat layers

  Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown. Cool in pan 10 minutes.

  Run a knife around side and center tube of pan. Invert onto a serving plate. Serve with additional marinara sauce. If desired, top with torn fresh basil, and additional grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes.

Most of us are familiar with this story. I love reading it at Christmas time and applying it to my life. Accepting Christ into OUR lives brings riches unfathomable into our worlds. It brings peace, and hope and Joy ~~Marilee

Whoever Takes the Son Gets It All

Years ago, there was a very wealthy man who, with his devoted young son, shared a passion for art collecting. Together they traveled around the world, adding only the finest art treasures to their collection. Priceless works by Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet and many others adorned the walls of the family estate. The widowed, elder man looked on with satisfaction as his only child became an experienced art collector. The son’s trained eye and sharp business mind caused his father to beam with pride as they dealt with art collectors around the world.

As winter approached, war engulfed the nation, and the young man left to serve his country. After only a few short weeks, his father received a telegram. His beloved son was missing in action. The art collector anxiously awaited more news, fearing he would never see his son again. Within days, his fears were confirmed. The young man had died while rushing a fellow soldier to a medic.

Distraught and lonely, the old man faced the upcoming Christmas holidays with anguish and sadness. The joy of the season, a season that he and his son had so looked forward to, would visit his house no longer. On Christmas morning, a knock on the door awakened the depressed old man. As he walked to the door, the masterpieces of art on the walls only reminded him that his son was not coming home.

As he opened the door, he was greeted by a soldier with a large package in his hand. He introduced himself to the man by saying, “I was a friend of your son. I was the one he was rescuing when he died. May I come in for a few moments? I have something to show you.” As the two began to talk, the soldier told of how the man’s son had told everyone of his, not to mention his father’s, love of fine art. “I’m an artist,” said the soldier, “and I want to give you this.” As the old man unwrapped the package, the paper gave way to reveal a portrait of the son.

Though the world would never consider it the work of a genius, the painting featured the young man’s face in striking detail. Overcome with emotion, the man thanked the soldier, promising to hang the picture over the fireplace. A few hours later, after the soldier had departed, the old man set about his task.

True to his word, the painting went well above the fireplace, pushing aside thousands of dollars of paintings. And then the man sat in his chair and spent Christmas gazing at the gift he had been given. During the days and weeks that followed, the man realized that even though his son was no longer with him, the boy’s life would live on because of those he had touched. He would soon learn that his son had rescued dozens of wounded soldiers before a bullet stilled his caring heart.

As the stories of his son’s gallantry continued to reach him, fatherly pride and satisfaction began to ease the grief. The painting of his son soon became his most prized possession, far eclipsing any interest in the pieces for which museums around the world clamored. He told his neighbors it was the greatest gift he had ever received.

The following spring, the old man became ill and passed away. The art world was in anticipation!

Unmindful of the story of the man’s only son, but in his honor, those paintings would be sold at an auction. According to the will of the old man, all of the art works would be auctioned on Christmas day, the day he had received his greatest gift. The day soon arrived and art collectors from around the world gathered to bid on some of the world’s most spectacular paintings. Dreams would be fulfilled this day; greatness would be achieved as many claim “I have the greatest collection.” The auction began with a painting that was not on any museum’s list. It was the painting of the man’s son. The auctioneer asked for an opening bid. The room was silent.

“Who will open the bidding with $100?” he asked. Minutes passed. No one spoke. From the back of the room came, “Who cares about that painting? It’s just a picture of his son. Let’s forget it and go on to the good stuff.”

More voices echoed in agreement. “No, we have to sell this one first,” replied the auctioneer. “Now, who will take the son?” Finally, a friend of the old man spoke, “Will you take ten dollars for the painting? That’s all I have. I knew the boy, so I’d like to have it.”

“I have ten dollars. Will anyone go higher?” called the auctioneer. After more silence, the auctioneer said, “Going once, going twice. Gone.” The gavel fell, cheers filled the room and someone exclaimed, “Now we can get on with it and we can bid on these treasures!”

The auctioneer looked at the audience and announced the auction was over. Stunned disbelief quieted the room. Someone spoke up and asked, “What do you mean it’s over? We didn’t come here for a picture of some old guy’s son. What about all of these paintings? There are millions of dollars of art here! I demand that you explain what’s going on here!” The auctioneer replied, “It’s very simple. According to the will of the father, whoever takes the son…gets it all.”

Puts things into perspective doesn’t it? Just as those art collectors discovered on that Christmas Day, the message is still the same: the love of a Father, a Father whose greatest joy came from His Son, who went away and gave His life rescuing others. And because of that Father’s love, whoever takes the Son, gets it all.

Proverbs 3:5-6

 Proverbs 3:5-6

5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 

James Loynes has a tender, loving voice which is perfect for this song. You can feel his adoration of the Savior. The pictures are beautiful. Enjoy

"And His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful"

Unto us on this holy night

Unto us beneath a new star's light

Unto us where the lambs have fed

Gently laid in a manger bed

Unto us a child is born

Unto us a son is given

I have used more of my poetry this year than any other.  I wrote this poem over the last 2 days.  It reflects my hope in Christ. 

Hope in Swaddling Clothes

The world was tired, hearts were worn,

Waiting, longing for hope to be born.

Through quiet birth, God made a way,

To change the darkness of night into the brightness of day.

A newborn child in swaddling bands,

Lay in His mother's arms – the hope of all lands.

There was no trumpet sound, no royal sign,

Heaven acknowledged His birth divine.

Christ met each broken soul,

Mended all wounds, restored all whole.

Across our lands tonight,

Hope still glows in Christmas light.

In whispered prayers and humble tears,

Christ draws close, removes our fears.

Swaddled hope still speaks so clear,

God is near, God is here.

Through every loss and victory won,

Hope remains in Christ the Son.

Baking powder donut holes

Step 1: Mix dry ingredients together:

2 cups all-purpose flour  
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 T baking powder
1/2 t salt
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, optional

Step 2: In separate bowl Whisk together

1 large egg
1 cup whole milk  
1/2 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup melted butter

Step 3:  Combine wet and dry ingredients until blended.  Do not overbeat.

*Vegetable oil is the best oil for frying as it doesn’t flavor the donuts.

Line a baking sheet with a few layers of paper towels, then top with a wire cooling rack. Set aside. Pour oil into a heavy bottomed pan until oil is about 2” deep. Heat over medium heat until oil reaches 350 degrees. Adjust heat as necessary to maintain that temp. Use a cookie scoop to scoop up the batter. Drop the dough into the oil from just above the oil to minimize splashing. Hot oil burns! Be careful. Fry 1- 2 minutes per side. Remove to cooling rack.

I see reminders of Him everywhere.  We can move closer to Him each day as we reflect upon the symbols of his birth and life which surround us.  Ever(eternally)green(the color of life) Christmas trees represent eternal life.  The Christmas Star represents hope and the guiding light of Christ.  Candles reflect the light of Christ and symbolize hope and the warmth of the season. The wreath’s shape represents God's unending love. The Angels on top of our tree represent the holy messengers of God.  They symbolize peace and goodwill. The Poinsettia’s red leaves remind us of the blood of Christ, while its green leaves symbolize life.  Holly’s prickly leaves symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Jesus; the red berries represent His blood.  The gifts we give and receive represent generosity and the spirit of giving.  Bells symbolize joy and celebration.  Snowflakes are unique and beautiful, they symbolize the beauty of creation and the purity of the season. Tinsel represents the light of Christ in our lives. Nativity scenes remind us of the birth of Jesus Christ.  They’re a reminder of the humble beginnings of the Savior, our Lord, our King.  Remember Him.  ~~ Marilee

Bailey’s Jesus

(by Ginger LaGrone Tucker) found at the these internet sites

Bailey's Jesus - Kenneth Cope

The sun is shining: Bailey's Jesus (chondima.blogspot.com)

Do You Know Bailey's Jesus? - Ginger Tucker (beulahfoundationforchrist.blogspot.com)

God recently allowed me to see Jesus through the eyes of someone seeing Him for the first time. Having the advantage of knowing how the story ends, we can easily forget the cost of our redemption and the love of our Savior.

Every year we attend a local church pageant at Christmas time, which tells the story of Jesus from His birth through His resurrection. It is a spectacular event, with live animals and hundreds of cast members in realistic costumes. The magi enter the huge auditorium on llamas from the rear, descending the steps in pomp and majesty. Roman soldiers look huge and menacing in their costumes and makeup.

Of all the years we have attended, one stands out indelibly in my heart. It was the year we took our then three-year-old granddaughter, Bailey, who loves Jesus. She was mesmerized throughout the entire play, not just watching, but involved as if she were a player. She watched as Joseph and Mary traveled to the Inn and was thrilled when she saw the baby Jesus in His mother’s arms.

When Jesus, on a young donkey, descended the steps from the back of the auditorium, depicting His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, Bailey was ecstatic. As he neared our aisle, Bailey began jumping up and down, screaming, “Jesus, Jesus! There’s Jesus!” Not just saying the words but exclaiming them with every fiber of her being. She alternated between screaming his name and hugging us. “It’s Jesus. Look!” I thought she might actually pass out.

Tears filled my eyes as I looked at Jesus through the eyes of a child in love with Him, seeing Him for the first time. How like the blind beggar screaming out in reckless abandon, “Jesus, Jesus!”, afraid he might miss Him, not caring what others thought. This was so much fun.

Then came the arrest scene. On stage, the soldiers shoved and slapped Jesus as they moved Him from the Garden of Gethsemane to Pilate. Bailey responded as if she were in the crowd of women, with terror and anger. “Stop it!” she screamed. “Bad soldiers, stop it!” As I watched her reaction, I wished we had talked to her before the play. “Bailey it’s OK. They are just pretending.” “They are hurting Jesus! Stop it!”

She stood in her seat reacting to each and every move. People around us at first smiled at her reaction, thinking “How cute!” Then they quit smiling and began watching her watch Him. In a most powerful scene, the soldiers led Jesus carrying the cross down the steps of the auditorium from the back. They were yelling, whipping, and cursing at Jesus, who was bloodied and beaten. Bailey was now hysterical. “Stop it! Soldiers! Stop it,” she screamed. She must have been wondering why all these people did nothing. She then began to cry instead of scream. “Jesus, Oh, Jesus!” People all around us began to weep as we all watched this devoted little disciple see her Jesus beaten and killed as those first century disciples had.

Going back and forth between her mother’s lap and mine for comfort, she was distraught. I kept saying, “Bailey, it’s OK. Jesus is going to be OK. These are just people pretending to be soldiers.” She looked at me like I was crazy. In my lap, we talked through the cross and burial. “Watch, Bailey, watch for Jesus!”

The tomb began to tremble and lightning flashed as the stone rolled away. A super bowl touchdown cheer couldn’t come close to matching this little one’s reaction to the resurrection. “Jesus! He’s OK. Mommy, it’s Jesus!”

I prayed that she wasn’t going to be traumatized by this event, but that she would remember it. I shall never forget it. I shall never forget seeing Jesus’ suffering, crucifixion, and resurrection.

 

Ephesians 4:32

 

Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.  

We cannot cure the world of sorrows, but we can choose to live in joy. Joseph Campbell

 The Shepherd - You Were Not There in Bethlehem Michael McLean  

The video with this is beautiful.  It is not a clip from the play “The Forgotten Carols.  It is the same song, but a beautiful and impressive video.

Good Sabbath, everyone! Have a peaceful almost-Christmas day.

Marilee’s Shoemaker Story

Any resemblance to the well-known fairy tale is completely intentional. Thank you, Brothers Grimm

When my children were small, I loved to tell them about the shoemaker and the good deed-doers.

There was once an elderly shoemaker, who lived with his wife above his tiny shop. He worked hard, very hard; but his gnarled, arthritic fingers just couldn’t make enough shoes. He couldn’t pay his bills. One night, he realized that he only had enough leather to make one more pair of shoes, then it was done. Where would they go? What would they do? How could they live?? Maybe, just maybe if he worked super carefully, he could sell that last pair. He shaped the leather, making sure that every cut was precise and laid the pieces on his workbench where he could put them together in the morning. He went to bed after saying his night time prayers, and slept deeply.

He rose early the next morning and knelt by the side of his bed to say his morning prayers, then headed to his workbench. On the table was what appeared to be a pair of shoes! How did this happen? Did he make them in his sleep? Did his wife make them? No, she sewed, she didn’t cobble. He must have done it somehow. Gratitude filled his heart. The shoes were perfect!

A customer came in, took one look at the shoes and absolutely HAD to have them. He gave the cobbler a fortune for them. It was enough that the cobbler could buy leather for two pairs of shoes! He bought the leather, cut it and placed it carefully on his bench, just like he had the night before. He said his prayers and went to bed. He was so excited for the morning to come that he woke early, went downstairs and there were 2 beautiful pairs of shoes on his table. Again, the workmanship was perfect! How had he done this? Why couldn’t he remember? Why didn’t his hands hurt?

Friends of his first customer came in and were thrilled to see those fabulous boots on his counter. They bought them and took off chortling with glee. (Believe me, that’s pretty happy). They paid him enough to make 4 pairs of shoes!

He didn’t know what to tell his wife, so he went and bought more leather. His next stop was at the doctor’s office. The doctor gave him some sleeping pills to help him sleep through the night. Relieved that he was ok, he cut the leather, put it on his bench, took his pills, said his prayers and went to bed.

He came down the stairs the next morning, groggy from the pills, but ready to work. There on his bench were 4 pairs of stylish shoes. And so it went. Every night he cut out shoes and found them sewn together the next morning. No matter how many pairs he cut, they were always done. Soon new styles started appearing. There were boots and sandals, slip-ons and heels! All kinds of shoes! People lined up outside his shop every morning breathlessly waiting to buy his shoes!

Night after night, he knelt and prayed for whoever was doing this kind deed for them. Every morning, he found the shoes made. He paid off his bills. He bought warm new clothes for him and his wife, he stored food and gave to the poor.

As December approached, he and his wife sat in front of their cozy fire, and talked about the “miracle of the shoes”. He told his wife that he wanted to stay up and find out once and for all who was doing this for them. She thought it was a great idea and joined him. They left a light on, hid behind a curtain and waited.

As soon as the clock struck midnight, 2 little figures entered the shop. They were tiny and clothed in rags. Their dirt-smudged faces looked so sad. Then they saw the bench with the leather and smiled. They started sewing pieces together, stitching and forming the different shoes so fast that the shoemaker’s jaw dropped. He knew who they were. They were the legendary deed-doers! Good-deed-doers! Long before the first rays of morning light broke the horizon, they finished their work and slipped away.

The shoemaker and his wife talked together about the situation and the wife said, “These little deed-doers have made us rich. We need to tell them thank you. We need to tell them that they are the answer to our prayers. I’m going to make them clothes. I’ll make them pants, shirts and gloves, even coats to keep them warm.” The shoemaker responded in kind, “I’ll make them shoes!”

They worked during the day while the deed-doers worked at night. Finally, on Christmas Eve, everything was done. They set out platters of cookies, and mugs of milk. They put the new clothes on the table along with the new boots and hid once again behind the curtain. About midnight the good deed-doers came in, hopped around the room, and went to the bench. When they saw the clothes and the cookies, they laughed and chuckled. They put the clothes on and ate the cookies with milk and danced around the room. Then they saw the boots. In the twinkling of an eye, the boots were on their feet. The room filled with their joy. They ran from the shop, chortling with glee (and yes, that means they were super happy).

The shoemaker and his wife never saw them again, but they remembered them always, and served those in need, at Christmas time and always.

Matt 25:40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

NIV Isaiah 40:31

 

NIV Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not be faint. 

“Christmas Eve was a night of song that wrapped itself about you like a shawl. But it warmed more than your body. It warmed your heart … filled it, too, with melody that would last forever. Even though you grew up and found you could never quite bring back the magic feeling of this night, the melody would stay in your heart always—a song for all the years.” —Bess Streeter Aldrich

Love Knows No Borders

I love this song. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. The video contains beautiful pictures filled with light.

His love knows no borders

Nor color nor creed

No rich and no poor,

Neither bondsman nor free

And we who receive Him

Must love without end

And carry His tidings

Of peace and good will

To all men.

A CHRISTMAS PRAYER

by Robert Lewis Stevenson

Loving Father, help us remember the birth of Jesus, that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and the worship of the wise men.

Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world.

Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting.

Deliver us from the evil by the blessing which Christ brings and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.

May the Christmas morning make us happy to be Thy children, and the Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus sake. Amen!

Herb Biscuit Loaf

1/4 cup butter, melted

1/2 teaspoon dried minced onion

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds

1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

2 tubes (12 ounces each) buttermilk biscuits

Shop Recipe

Directions

In a shallow bowl, combine the first 5 ingredients. Dip biscuits into butter mixture; fold in half and place in rows in a greased 8-in. square baking pan. Drizzle with the remaining butter mixture. Bake at 350° until golden brown, 27-30 minutes.

12 bacon strips, diced

1 loaf (1 pound) frozen bread dough, thawed

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

1 envelope (1 ounce) ranch salad dressing mix

Faith, hope and charity define Christmas joy for me.  Free agency does as well.  In the beginning God chose to give us the freedom to make our own decisions.  He did not want us to be slaves or mindless zombies.  He wanted us to ‘choose’ to believe in Him, to love Him.  He sent us a Savior to show us the way back to Him and to atone for our sins.  Our Savior, Jesus Christ, has brought us hope of good things to come eternally.  We develop charity – the pure love of Christ- through our service to Him.  Our minds have great control over the choices we make and there will come a time when we can choose to follow the Savior.   We can acknowledge where we hurt but still choose joy. That moment might be when you see a beautiful sunset and thank God for the beauty in this world.  It might be when you are alone, facing trials and you see kindness in the eyes of a friend.  It can come when you listen to an inspiring Christmas Carol or in something as simple as a cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter day.   Remember those moments.  Savor them.  Choose joy.  ~~ Marilee

Gold, Common Sense and Fur

Linda C Stafford

This story has been shared by many people.  I’m sure it’s been used in many Christmas programs is a great story whether you have children or not. Enjoy!

 My husband and I had been happily (most of the time) married for five years, but hadn't been blessed with a baby. I decided to do some serious praying and promised God that if He would give us a child, I would be a perfect mother, love it with all my heart and raise it with His word as my guide. God answered my prayers and blessed us with a son. The next  year God blessed us with another son. The following year, he blessed us with yet another son. The year after that we were blessed with a daughter.

 My husband thought we'd been blessed right into poverty. We now  had four children, and the oldest was only four years old. I learned never to ask God for anything unless I meant it. As a minister once told me, "If you pray for rain, make sure you carry an umbrella."

 I began reading a few verses of the Bible to the children each day as they lay in their cribs. I was off to a good start. God had entrusted me with four children and I didn't want to disappoint Him.

I tried to be patient the day the children smashed two dozen eggs on the kitchen floor searching for baby chicks. I tried to be understanding when they started a hotel for homeless frogs in the spare bedroom, although it took me nearly two hours to catch all twenty-three frogs.

When my daughter poured ketchup all over herself and rolled up in a blanket to see how it felt to be a hot dog, I tried to see the humor rather than the mess.  In spite of changing over twenty-five thousand diapers, never eating a hot meal and never sleeping for more than thirty minutes at a time, I still thank God daily for my children.

While I couldn't keep my promise to be a perfect mother. I didn't even come close. I did keep my promise to raise them in the Word of God.  I knew I was missing the mark just a little when I told my daughter we were going to church to worship God, and she wanted to bring a bar of soap along to "wash up" Jesus, too.

 Something was lost in the translation when I explained that God gave us everlasting life, and my son thought it was generous of God to give us his "last wife."

My proudest moment came during the children's Christmas pageant. My daughter was playing Mary, two of my sons were shepherds and my youngest son was a wise man. This was their moment to shine. My five-year-old shepherd had practiced his line, "We found the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes."But he was nervous and said, "The baby was wrapped in wrinkled clothes."

My four-year-old "Mary" said, "That's not 'wrinkled clothes,' silly.  That's dirty, rotten clothes." A wrestling match broke out between Mary and the shepherd and was stopped by an angel, who bent her halo and lost her left wing.

 I slouched a little lower in my seat when Mary dropped the doll representing Baby Jesus, and it bounced down the aisle crying,  "Mama-mama." Mary grabbed the doll, wrapped it back up and held it tightly as the wise men arrived. My other son stepped forward wearing a bathrobe and a paper crown, knelt at the manger and announced, "We are the three wise men, and we are bringing gifts of gold, common sense and fur."

The congregation dissolved into laughter, and the pageant got a standing ovation. "I've never enjoyed a Christmas program as much as this one," Pastor Brian laughed, wiping tears from his eyes. "For the rest of my life, I'll never hear the Christmas story without thinking of gold, common sense and fur."

"My children are my pride and my joy and my greatest blessing," I said as I dug through my purse for an aspirin.

Choose joy

Matthew 22:37-39

Matthew 22:37-39

37 Jesus said unto him, though shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

38 This is the first and great commandment.

39 And the second is like unto it, thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Faith makes all things possible,

Hope makes all things work,

Love makes all things beautiful,

Light of the World by Lauren Daigle with The Chosen Christmas

For all who hunger

For all who've prayed

For all who wander

Behold your King

Behold Messiah

Emmanuel

Emmanuel

 2 Ingredient Christmas Star Bread - It's Always Autumn

I found this recipe online.  There is a full video included in this link.  

3 tubes Crescent dough sheets

½ c. nutella

Powdered sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Open and unroll the first crescent dough sheet on a piece of parchment paper. Fold it in half to create a square. Gently roll out and tug the dough until you can cut a 9-inch circle from it. Repeat with the other two sheets of crescent dough so you have 3 dough circles, each on a piece of parchment paper.

Microwave the Nutella for 7 seconds to loosen it up. Spread half of it on one dough circle, stopping half an inch before the edge. Top with a second dough circle. Spread the remaining Nutella, then top with the third dough circle.

Press a small cup into the center of the top dough to create an indent. Starting at the indent, cut outward to divide the dough into 4 pieces, connected in the middle. Cut each quarter into 4 again, so you have 16 wedges

Pick up two adjacent pieces and twist them away from each other twice, then pinch the edges together. Move to the next two pieces and repeat, continuing all the way around. Slide the parchment paper onto a baking sheet. Bake for approximately 24 minutes until top is golden brown and crescent dough seems cooked through. Cool 30 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve immediately. Bread tastes best the same day. Leftovers can be stored at room temperature.

The Christmas season ideally is filled with wonderful memories of music, lights, love and laughter - the moments we look forward to all year.  It is a time of hope; a perfect time to remember the incredible gifts of Jesus Christ.  He knew hard times.  He knew messy times.  He knew pain and suffering.  He knew loss.  But through it all, He lived a life filled with hope.  We can follow His example and fill our own lives with hope by studying the scriptures and applying His teachings in our lives.  He is Our Shepherd.

Robert Alter, professor of Hebrew and comparative literature at the University of California has translated the 23rd Psalm.  I love it. 

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

In grass meadows He makes me lie down, by quiet waters guides me.

My life He brings back.

...

Psalms 23: Robert Alter's Brilliant Translation 

“My life He brings back.” The Psalms in our bible are sacred poems or prayers used for worship.  They are often set to music.  The Psalms were written by Moses, David, Solomon and others. We are all poets - each one of us carries psalms in our own hearts.  I wrote down my own personal Christmas Psalm yesterday.

O Savior, 

My heart is drawn to Thee. 

To Thee I come on bended knee. 

No gift of gold, no jewel’s fire

Can match the works thy hands inspire. 

So let my life, my word and deed,

Proclaim Thy birth, Thy truth, Thy creed;

Christmas shines throughout the year

When we hold Christ, our Lord, most dear.

Write your thoughts down about the Savior. Read them when you need strength. Create your own psalms, songs of YOUR heart. They don’t have to be perfect poems or prose. They just need to reflect your thoughts. ~~ Marilee

Today’s story "God's Shepherd," is a short story about one of the original Bethlehem shepherd boys who meets Jesus later in life.

It is found online at God's Shepherd — a Christmas Story of the Bethlehem shepherds

There is an audio link there as well.  It is well worth the read.  Dr. Wilson's site is filled with wonderful Christmas messages.  He does not allow his work to be posted on other sites.

1 John 4:19

 

1 John 4:19 We love because he first loved us.

 Christmas lights shine brighter when we remember the courage and love of those who serve — and the families who keep the home fires glowing.

The following video clip is an excerpt from the movie “The Genesis Code.”  The song starts at 42 seconds.  It’s performed by C J Lewis and is SO beautiful.

A Soldier's King

Some are born to greatness, some are born to fall

Some are bound to be forgotten like they never lived at all

But we're all born to know him and stand before his light

Like the soldier who found his king tonight

Frybread from frozen dough

Remove loaf of frozen bread from the freezer and cut it into desired shapes (e.g., slices, cubes). Do not thaw the bread.  Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.  Carefully drop the frozen bread pieces into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan.  Fry the bread for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.  Adjust frying time depending on the thickness of the bread.

Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried bread from the oil and drain it on paper towels. Season with salt and pepper to taste.  Serve immediately

Supporting our troops and military families is especially important during Christmas.  It is a powerful gesture of gratitude and empathy. Soldiers, separated from their families and friends, often find themselves in desolate and dangerous situations. During Christmas their sacrifices are even more pronounced. Where do they find faith, peace, or charity?  They feel it in the messages of love and support they receive during this time.  Every soldier needs a reminder that their efforts and sacrifices are acknowledged and appreciated by those they serve and protect. Military families are the silent heroes of the holiday season.  They are a tangible reminder that heroes walk among us.  We should pray for them and plead for the protection of heaven to be upon them that they may return to their loved ones in safety. If possible, send them and their families a message in whatever format you can.  Remember them, support them and show them the love and respect they deserve.  ~~ Marilee

Christmas Day 1776

Gen. George Washington's Continental Army had a rough start to the winter of 1776. They had been driven from New York and New Jersey into Pennsylvania and had suffered numerous setbacks in the early months of the American Revolution. Morale was low among the troops. Washington chose to surprise the British-hired German Soldiers known as the Hessians, who were based in Trenton, New Jersey, in order to restore confidence in the fight for independence. Since a horrible winter storm was approaching, he reasoned that if he did this after the enemy had celebrated Christmas, they would be sleepy and would be caught off-guard for battle.

Christmas Day 1896

John Philip Sousa, who grew up during the Civil War, was a talented musician who became a long-time director of the U.S. Marine Band. Known as the "March King," he was a rock star of his time, eventually starting his own band in 1892. On Christmas Day 1896, while crossing the Atlantic on his way home from a European vacation, Sousa's lasting legacy came to him. He said the notes for "Stars and Stripes Forever" were born out of homesickness and fond memories of his time as the Marine Band's leader.

The iconic song officially became America's national march in 1987.

The Christmas Carol

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - When World War I erupted in 1914 launching the first great European war of the 20th century, soldiers on both sides were assured they would be home by Christmas to celebrate victory. That prediction proved to be false.

The men on the fronts did not get home for Christmas as the war dragged on for four years. During that time 8.5 million men were killed, with hundreds of thousands more injured. The "war to end all wars" took a horrific human toll and transformed Europe.  However, on Christmas Eve in December 1914 one of the most unusual events in military history took place on the Western front.

On the night of Dec. 24, the weather abruptly became cold, freezing the water and slush of the trenches in which the men bunkered. On the German side, soldiers began lighting candles. British sentries reported to commanding officers there seemed to be small lights raised on poles or bayonets.

Although these lanterns clearly illuminated German troops, making them vulnerable to being shot, the British held their fire. Even more amazing, British officers saw through their binoculars that some enemy troops were holding Christmas trees over their heads with lighted candles in their branches. The message was clear: Germans, who celebrated Christmas on the eve of Dec. 24, were extending holiday greetings to their enemies.

Within moments of that sighting, the British began hearing a few German soldiers singing a Christmas carol. It was soon picked up all along the German line as other soldiers joined in harmonizing.

The words heard were these: "Stille nacht, heilige nacht." British troops immediately recognized the melody as "Silent Night" quickly neutralized all hostilities on both sides. One by one, British and German soldiers began laying down their weapons to venture into no- man's-land, a small patch of bombed-out earth between the two sides.

So many soldiers on both sides ventured out that superior officers were prevented from objecting. There was an undeclared truce, and peace had broken out.

Frank Richards was an eyewitness of this unofficial truce. In his wartime diary he wrote: "We stuck up a board with 'Merry Christmas' on it. The enemy stuck up a similar one. Two of our men threw off their equipment and jumped on the parapet with their hands above their heads as two of the Germans did the same, our two going to meet them.

"They shook hands and then we all got out of the trench and so did the Germans," Richards said.  Richards also explained that some German soldiers spoke perfect English with one saying how fed up he was with the war and how he would be glad when it was all over. His British counterpart agreed.

That night, former enemy soldiers sat around a common campfire. They exchanged small gifts from their meager belongings - chocolate bars, buttons, badges and small tins of processed beef. Men who only hours earlier had been shooting to kill were now sharing Christmas festivities and showing each other family snapshots. The truce ended just as it had begun, by mutual agreement.

Captain C.I. Stockwell of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers recalled how, after a truly "Silent Night," he fired three shots into the air at 8:30 a.m. December 26 and then stepped up onto the trench bank. A German officer who had exchanged gifts with Captain Stockwell the previous night also appeared on a trench bank. They bowed, saluted and climbed back into their trenches. A few minutes later, Captain Stockwell heard the German officer fire two shots into the air.

The war was on again.