When we surrender the idol of our performance we can fall back into the reality of God's unmerited favor and undeserved grace.

"They saw the star and were overjoyed." Stargazers and spiritual seekers have the advantage of awe - the perspective that wonder offers about our position in the universe and the glory of God.

How is the Christmas Story a source of JOY for all people? How is the suffering of Jesus a source of joy for God?

When Mary and Joseph were compelled to journey to Bethlehem, they entered into the story of all humanity - wandering exile as we search for an elusive reality we call "home."

Our stories are marked by conflict, strife, and even violence. Despite the struggle, God invites us to dream about and move toward peace. The peace of God starts in our hearts and flows out of us into our world.

Advent starts with expectant hope - that even in the midst of darkness and confusion we can hope for a better future because Jesus is drawing near.

Our culture celebrates accumulation and hoarding, but the invitation in God's Kingdom is to live generously and find freedom from greed.

We have been entrusted with a great treasure - our one and only life. We are accountable for how our life is spent for the sake of the Kingdom. Given the extravagant love of our Father, living small will never do. Unbury your story!

What would happen if we thought of abundance as something we were entrusted with instead of as something we were entitled to? To whom much has been given, much will be required.

Even as your family works toward a better future, remember that progress is the goal and not perfection.