There is a danger of thinking that at least we aren't as bad as others, the Corinthian believers thought that as well. Paul calls them, and us, to repentance and to unity in Christ.

Haggai calls us to consider who we are, to consider God's presence, and to consider God's promised blessing.

When Haggai rebukes the people, he refers to three places, or spheres of work, where the people can apply themselves to: homes; hills; and the House of the Lord.

John calls us into a deeper contemplation of the significance of the incarnation. The baby in a manger was a sign of God's cosmic and eternal purpose.

As children of God we are not alone for we belong to the family of God. We are part of a story that is bigger than ourselves.

The light of Christmas allows us to see things as they really are, to appreciate truth and beauty, and to be freed from sin and death.

The focus of biblical history is not on the most sensational world events, but on God's judgments and care toward His covenant people

History is Yahweh's liturgy. Daniel learns above all in this vision that it is God who governs. He is in control. It is God who providentially reigns despite all appearances sometimes to the contrary.

We have a lesson in prayer here. Daniel models for us how to pray and what to pray.