In this season of great joy (and stress,) take a moment to remember WHY it is we celebrate at all! The Birth of Jesus, as read from the Gospel of Luke.

Jesus speaks to the religious authorities, who claim he Jesus drives out demons by the power of Beelzebub. He condemns them, calling them a Brood of Vipers, and proclaiming the only unforgivable sin. What is it? Give a listen!

God gave the seventh day, blessed it and made it holy... set apart from the rest of the week. Sabbath is an essential part of a life of faith, but some make it legalistic, while others ignore it altogether. In a world of 24/7 work, taking time for Sabbath is more important than ever.

Jesus shows us who he is through daily miracles and the revealing of God's mysteries.

Surely, if John the Baptist could question who Jesus is, then we can too. Circumstances in our lives are often the source of our doubts and uncertainties about following Jesus.

Jesus tells us to expect problems when we dedicate our lives to him. Interpersonal issues, persecutions, temptations all await us. But, the reward for following him and placing him first in our lives is greater than any obstacles we will face.

Jesus sends out the 12, with clear instructions. But Jesus sends us out, too, knowing that the message will not always be welcomed. But the power of Almighty God dwells within us, and will give us the words we are to say.

Our faith in Jesus Christ holds the power to make us see the world with new eyes, and send us out into the world as servants of the Lord, with utter confidence in him.

Jesus does a new thing with us by coming into the world, in order that we could be as close to God as any human being can possibly get while here in the flesh. God is doing a new thing with you. Do you perceive it?

Jesus forgives sins AND heals and makes whole? He eats with tax collectors AND sinners?? Why, that's ME! Forgiven, healed and made whole.