I find Christmas absolutely amazing. It's not just because of the great music, the beautiful lights, or the glorious glitter. I find it amazing because it's a celebration about the Lord of all creation stooping down to our level, to leave … Read more
Norma Farber's poem, The Queens Came Late , is new to me and perhaps to you, too. It's about several royal queens who travel to see the newborn Christ-Child. They leave housework and children behind in order to see this marvellous sight. … Read more
Ruby came to me when she was seven. The SPCA had rescued her from a puppy mill. She had been seriously wounded by other dogs and needed immediate medical attention. I agreed to foster her until she was healed. As the months rolled by, … Read more
When I think of hospitality, the image that comes to mind is my golden retriever's greeting for my son. When my son comes back for a Christmas visit, she absolutely throws herself at him. Tail wagging and tongue lolling, she barks her … Read more
When I was a teenager in Scotland, I worshipped with the Salvation Army. My best friend at the time, George, had joined the Salvationists, and was a great trumpet player. He always seemed to have a good attitude, was very dependable as a … Read more
Last Advent, there was a mishap in our tiny congregation. As the church was being decorated for Advent, the baby Jesus was inadvertently dropped and broken. Although the figurine was mended and thus able to take its place within the … Read more
You better watch out. You better not cry. You better not pout. I'm telling you why! "Santa" might bring you a new computer! Thousands of people spend time in hospital emergency wards every Christmas because of computer injuries. A foot … Read more
During the years that we wintered in the desert southwest, I volunteered four days at holiday time as an escort for the Salvation Army. The generosity of the wealthy to those in need was overwhelming. For example, one businessman donated … Read more
Recently, on the American Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) channel, I watched a three-part series on the British monarchy. Queen Elizabeth II is one of the unsung heroes of the 20th and 21st centuries in the world. Just because she is a … Read more
During the holiday season, I especially enjoy sending old-fashioned greeting cards to family and friends as an expression of my faith. Since I am very selective about my choice in cards, I carefully take the opportunity to remind others … Read more