All Articles 2011 Archives

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A Manger, A Cross, and an Empty Tomb

How could it happen like this?

Bill Sherrill reminds us that the manger and the promises given to Mary would make the Cross seem impossible to understand until the empty tomb and the resurrection brought back the praise the angels gave on the day he was born.

The Futility of Resolutions

You know you can't change, right?

There is a certain futility in making resolutions. Only God can truly change us.

In a Dream

What do you do with your shattered dreams?

Phil Ware talks about the recurring phrase in Matthew 1 and 2, in a dream, and how God fills the empty spaces left behind by our broken dreams.

Let Christmas Deny the World?

Christmas deny the world?

Rubel Shelly reminds us that the world can deny us of many things, especially love and joy and peace and so let's use Christmas as our opportunity to deny the world it's hold on our heart.

What Do You Do with Jesus at Christmas?

We all have to decide what to do with Jesus during Christmas.

There are a number of different ways to handle the Jesus question during Christmas. But you have to choose one.

You Don't Have to Do a House Cleaning for this Christmas Guest

You don't have to pretend things aren't a mess!

Rick Brown reminds us of a messy Christmas long ago and the messy time in which Jesus was born.

Not Quite as We Have Told It

It's not the road you think, but it's the destination you seek!

Phil Ware goes over a number of inaccuracies that have crept in to our telling of the story of Jesus at Christmas, but reminds us that the main thing is that Jesus came for everyone and the more we know the story, the more we know it is true.

Yes, Virginia There Really Is ...

Where does Jesus fit into all the make believe?

Rubel Shelly helps clarify that Jesus is a historical figure and real, not something imaginary like the Easter Bunny, tooth fairy, and Santa Claus.

Extravagance

What's the most extravagant gift you ever got?

While people may think they are giving truly remarkable gifts, no gift can match that of God's own Son.

Merry Christmas?

Isn't happy holidays just too bland?

Rubel Shelly shares very respectfully the reason he wants to say Merry Christmas.

The One Born in Bethlehem Can be Born in You

When was your last pause to reflect, rest, and renew?

Rick Brown gives some statistical data on Christmas shopping, historical data on the birth of Jesus, and some spiritual insight on how to keep from going under during the busy time we call Christmas.

A Child Will Lead Them

What in the world does this mean?

Phil Ware redoes an older article focused on Jesus being the child that leads us.

A Temporary Dwelling

Everything happens so quickly!

Tom Norvell reminds us that life is temporary and should mean so much so let's grasp what is good and godly while we are here.

Stray Dogs and Jesus

How rescuing stray dogs makes me think of Jesus.

We are like stray dogs: unwanted, not clean, wounded. Jesus brings us home to His family.

When You're an Old Coot

Some negative descriptions actually may be good!

Russ Lawson takes a gag gift he received from his kids and reminds us that it is OK to be an old coot if this means being different from the world.

Why Shepherds?

Of all the people to announce the coming of heaven's glory, why did God choose this bunch?

Phil Ware looks at the birth of Jesus and asks the very simple question: why did God reveal the birth of his Son to shepherds first?

Lists

He's making a list and checking it twice ...

Rubel Shelly talks about living by lists and emphasizes the importance of moving things from your worry list to your prayer list.

What Do You Say?

It's not Thanksgiving, but not yet Christmas

In the midst of the Christmas frenzy time, we need to remember the reason for the season. Thank God for Jesus

Beyond Fixing Bicycles

Have you stopped lately to share the journey with another?

Russ Lawson reminds us to share the journey with others whether they are rejoicing or crying, we can help in many ways, sometimes by just being with them.

The Gift of Influence: Teach to Obey

What are you doing with yours?

Phil Ware continues his series on last words and first priority, and emphasizes the power of our influence to help others know, follow, and obey Jesus.

Thankful for the Mercies

Here's something you don't want to forget at the table of thanks today!

Rick Brown reminds us to be thankful for God's mercies.

As Far as the East Is from the West

Take time to be thankful

There are lots of reasons to give thanks. It doesn't always seem that way, but if we put our mind to it, we can usually think of more reasons for being thankful than for complaining.

Amazing Things Are Happening Here!

You have no idea how amazing!

Tom Norvell talks about his first grandchild, a granddaughter, being born in New York.

Line in the Sand: Baptize!

What is your line in the sand in your faith walk with Jesus?

Phil Ware continues his series called Last Words, First Priority and emphasizes the line in the sand moment we call baptism.

A Sure-Fire Investment

What are you going to do with today's opportunities?

Rubel Shelly reminds us to invest each day in simple acts of service to others.