HOPE FOR TODAY: The heart of Christmas

What is the heart of Christmas? Is it the children, helping the less fortunate or being with family? Also, what is the significance of the baby Jesus in a manger that we observe in holiday plays and hear about in Christmas carols? Is it just a nice seasonal story or does it mean something?

The God who answers by fire

“Then you call on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord; and the God who answers by fire, He is God.

OUT TO PASTOR: Proper etiquette for returning Christmas gifts

The Christmas frenzy is over, and the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage and Yours Truly are sitting back surveying our Christmas plunder. Why is it that something as wonderful as Christmas takes so long to prepare and goes by so quickly?

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: Still the greatest story ever told

Good week to all: Welcome to the “front porch.” The Gospel of Luke – with little doubt – is the loveliest book ever written. During these chilly, festive days of December I think we appreciate Luke’s gospel and the physician’s brilliant storytelling ability more than ever.

OUT TO PASTOR: Is this a Christmas present or what?

One great blessing of Christmas is presents. Of course, at my age, I am not too interested in what I am getting but rather what I am giving. I cannot think of one thing I really would want. I got everything I need even though some of it may be old and outdated.

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: ‘Ma’am, have you ever been to heaven?’

Good week to all: Welcome to the “front porch.” The five-year-old had a hop in his step as he let go of his mama’s hand and plopped into the barber’s chair. “Well, hello, young man,” said the stylist, “What’s your name?” “I’m Levi,” he said confidently, “What’s yours?

HOPE FOR TODAY: The miracle of the virgin birth

The center piece of the Christmas season is the birth of Jesus. Popular Christmas songs, various figurine displays and holiday sermons all make it prominent. But what about Jesus’ birth specifically, makes Christmas, Christmas? His virgin birth.

OUT TO PASTOR: Where does Santa get his naughty or nice list?

This week, the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage approached me with a serious question. As far as I am concerned, life is full of questions, but coming from her, I need to be very careful. I have found out that a question with her is not merely a question.

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: Two old friends ringing in a new year again

Some scenes stick with you for a lifetime, kind of like that old Georgia red clay. Proceed carefully today, because the scene of which you are about to read will stay with you a very long time. I am sure of it. I began sharing this particular one with you many years ago.

OUT TO PASTOR: The difference between a fool and being full

I was relaxing in my easy chair just one day after Thanksgiving. My ears were still ringing with all the chatter that went on around our Thanksgiving dinner table. As I was sitting in my chair, I noticed I was feeling rather stuffed.