Where Is The Manger?

 

And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death- even death on a cross! Philippians 2:8

Recently as I walked my town park track there amidst the Christmas decorations on the grassy area inside the track, I noted there was nothing to make it be called a ‘Christmas’ scene. Elves, reindeer, toy soldiers, helicopter, tractor, Santa, merry go round, candy canes, but no Christ child. Now this park had him last year but this year so far there is no manger.

What have we become as a country founded on Christian principles and the word when we ignore His existence? After all, whose birthday is it? It certainly is not Santa’s! Jesus is indeed the reason for this season but why do so many people forget him?

The Christ child was born into the world to save us from our sins. Why is it so many have ignored him or even played the church or religious game but then pay homage to Santa instead? I urge you as this season is upon us to make sure you do the right thing and envelope yourself and your family in the true meaning of this special day.

PRAYER: Father it is fun for children at Christmas but help parents to realize that teaching about the babe in the manger far overshadows anything else. I pray for those who do not understand and for those cities and towns that won’t acknowledge him on his birthday. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Update: This park finally added the baby. (:

Feeling So Lonely

For his anger lasts only a moment,but his favor lasts a lifetime;weeping may stay for the night,but rejoicing comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5

This the time of year that people can start to feel lonely. The expectations of having a 'perfect family Christmas' can create stress and also cause unmet expectations. Also those who have recently experienced a loss may be less than merry.The time of year set about to be "merry and bright" can often turn into a sad struggle. Even other times of the year loneliness can abound but this time of year it seems to be on 'steroids' so to speak.

If you are feeling lonely, first of all know that God loves you. Try to not entertain thoughts of doubt, fear, condemnation, comparison and basically do a mental practice of focusing on good and positive thoughts. Even talk out loud to yourself things like the following:

I am a child of God!

Jesus loves me!

Joy comes in the morning!

No weapon formed against me will prosper!

I am the head and not the tail!

You Lord have good plans for me!

I refuse to listen to Satan's lies!

You can probably add a few of your own. Loneliness can be quite disabling though. One of the BEST cures is doing something for someone else and what better time of year is there to do that but this time when giving is overemphasized. My friend, God does not want you to be lonely. Run to Him. Talk to Him in prayer and get busy and get out and find someway to help someone else. I guarantee it will make you feel better. 

PRAYER: I am very grateful for the gift of family and friends and do not take these relationships for granted. Show me how to be a good friend and awesome family member. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below for a song of praise and hope:

http://youtu.be/YYRc0JeQuC0