Oyez, oyez, oyez! The town crier, or bellman, would inform the people of the latest news and important proclamations. In Isaiah, a message was heralded that has been heard down through the centuries all the way to you this day. Here's great news to be heard in these days leading up to Christmas.

Today is National Poinsettia Day. Have you ever wondered how poinsettias came to be associated with Christmas? There's a popular legend attached to them. However, as with so many songs and stories that crop up in Christmas celebrations, the focus often shifts to the gifts we bring to our Savior – rather than the gift that God has brought to us. When it comes to the question of what you and I should bring to our newborn King, John the Baptizer reminds us of what God Himself invites us to bring.

Like most homes you probably have a checklist of things to get ready for Christmas each year.  Mailing cards, wrapping packages, baking cookies ... As you and I approach the celebration of Christmas during this season of Advent, it’s useful to take note of the preparations that God made to get the people ready for the coming of His Son. Here's the important and useful preparation that can so easily be overlooked in the run up to Christmas - in this year or any year.

A variety of delivery services have all indicated that the deadline for packages to be delivered by ground service in time for Christmas is fast approaching. They want people to be ready. However, with so many packages being shipped this year, some are saying that delays may be inevitable. There was no delay in our Savior's first coming and Peter assures us that the same is true for the day when He will come again. It will take place in the fullness of time and right on time. Here's how God has prepared you and me for that day. Here's how you and I are ready.