If your life seems bleak this December, you might be tempted to believe Christmas is geared toward those whose lives are already merry. But, the true story was masterminded and birthed by the Divine Author for those in desperate need, those just like you. Many church traditions center scripture studies on…
The stages of grief (Loss, shock, Protest, Disorganization, Reorganization, Recovery) What to say--and what NOT to say-- when responding to those experiencing loss Everyone grieves differently Long term recovery goal is NOT forgetting, but remembering Give space, but don't exclude. Invite, but don't pressure Speak love, not platitudes. [bctt tweet="Silence and…
Last week, we began reflecting upon a holiday carol's legend. While the intrigue rumored to influence The Twelve Days of Christmas has been debunked by scholars, we can still benefit from meditating upon the lyrics. Reflecting upon the subject of each stanza as a faith symbol offers us an opportunity to…
Carols weave themselves into grocery aisles, department stores, and even the outdoor speakers over our gas pumps. We hear them on every commercial and the radio stations in our cars. The lyrics often fade into oblivion as our ears grow numb under the saturation with seasonal tunes. Christmas music falls short of impacting…
While carols and bright lights urge us to fill our hearts with cheer, some cannot find joy in the Christmas season. The environment demands folks to wear merry smiles, but those who grieve feel emptiness instead. The tension between social expectations and hollowness deepens sorrow for those who are experiencing loss. This…
A chill radiated from the kitchen window and prickled the hairs on Amber's arms. Her numb fingers fumbled. She managed to press a tack through the jersey sheet. As she stretched to affix her makeshift drape in the top corner, her pregnant belly bumped to a halt against the icy tile…
As promised, the links to the books mentioned in today's video are as follows: God Bless Us Every One by Eva Marie Everson Stories Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas by Ace Collins I also referenced the movie, Saving Christmas, by Kirk Cameron. Despite the low budget of this production, its…
T'was the night before Christmas and all throughout space Not an ewok was stirring, nor any other race. Helmets all hung by the teleporter with care For a fat, mystical elf who soon would beam there. Catkind kittens and children snuggled in beds While baby groot sprouts danced in their heads. Worf…
Electronics glimmer from their glossy ad space. Svelte stars insist their allure comes in spray bottles. Television families cheer while unwrapping the luxury gifts of their dreams. With marketing campaigns at full-throttle this season, your carols might warp into less festive groans. "It's the most wonderful . . . HUMPH! It's…
Ten dozen cookies with melted green topping Chipped half of my nails, but still need to go shopping Get Presents for everyone, make fudge for the masses Tame wonky-curled hair and get glitter in lashes Suck in my tummy to fit in this skirt Stiletto heels will not strut through that…