Christmas????--What?

I used to hate this time of year. It reminded me of how often the world lives in untruth. I was told by the newscasters that St. Nick was seen on the east side of town and was headed my way. I always wished for something extravagant and this St. Nick never brought it to me. When I came of age and learned the whole world was lying to me, I was a mess and than wondered if Jesus and God and the Holy Spirit were fictitious as well. I than hated the lights , the trees , the music, etc.

It seems to me that this little myth has allowed the JW's and other cults to call us deceitful to our face and to be correct in their assessment.

Yet today I realize the world is not so black and white. It is true Jesus was not born on Dec. 25th but it is also true that I can see some good in the midst of this darkness. I am no longer offended. I just tell the true story as best I can and than proceed to enjoy singing O' holy night, or silent night ,or even drummer boy without guilt or anger because I now process a Spirit of joy everyday. He is not angry at Christmas. He wants us to enjoy days off of work and to enjoy family togetherness, and good food. He wants us to think of giving to the poor at least once a year. He wants the story of Jesus to be talked about.

As Paul said, once It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.[a] 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.

This text does not directly apply but it does relay a principle. God can work in the midst of consumerism, and materialism, and yes worldly lies.
I believe the church must not condone these lies. We must be people of truth. We must be light and salt everyday. But my testimony is that God did heal me and I can rejoice always now. I pray no other child is wounded by this well meant deceit but if so; God is still large and in charge. Rejoice life is full of inconsistencies. Eat the meat and discard the bones. But try yourself to only give your love ones meat.

beating the air

Apostle Paul once said he does not fight aimlessly.He is not one who beats at the air or shadow boxes. "Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air." 1 cor. 9:26.

How often we christians seem to be aimless. We seem like we don't know that the goal of the church is to make disciples and not just consumers of religious goods.

I was once talking to a gang member who told me why they often beat those who want to join their "family". He said, the beating must last at least three minutes. If the person is knocked unconscious, the clock stops and than resumes upon their awakening. They have to do this to see if the person will punk out.

He said, when I am in a battle with you at my side, I need to know you "got my back". You won;'t run when things get tough.

It seems ill fated and wrongheaded to join these gangs but at least they try to have some rational for their initiation.


We seem to only say walk the aisle and repeat this prayer. People than live any way they see fit and may come to church sometimes.

I think we need to let them know . It is not membership but discipleship that Christ desires and discipleship is costly. Salvation is free but the results of true repentance is progressive discipleship.

otherwise your christian walk is just beating at the air aimlessly

peace.