Believe the Christmas miracles
“Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth…
He’s coming—really!
“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20). Weather radar is amazing. I have a weather app on my cell…
What makes Christmas Christmas?
Christmas isn’t about what we do. It’s about Christ coming to earth to do what we were unable to do. I have a secret. And it’s about Christmas. It might…
My Christian life: Finding real Christmas joy while in the hospital
A hospital stay during Christmas helps a pastor focus on real Christmas joy. “Please, Lord, please let next Christmas be different.” On Dec. 12, 2020, I was admitted to the…
A thought: Mary
Mary was a special woman, chosen for an exceptional part in God’s plan. But Matthew does not characterize her as anyone special. He just says that the mother of Jesus,…
Away in a feed trough
Jesus lived a real human life, subject to all the realities of the times in which he lived. Somehow “Away in a feed trough, no crib for a bed” doesn’t…
Showing and sharing the story of Christmas
St. Paul, Howards Grove, Wis., does not just tell the story of Jesus’ birth. Every year since 2003, it shows the story of Jesus’ birth to its community. What started…
President’s message: Peace on earth—but what kind?
The year was 1914. World War I had thrown the continent of Europe into a conflict that would last for four years and kill or wound more than 25 million…
A thought: Happy birthday, Brother!
Birthday parties for family members are most often special events—the candles, the cake, the presents, and then the pictures. Years later we trot out the pictures to remember the young…