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Today, in this special Christmas message, Pastor Jack teaches that Christmas is God's missionary journey to save us. It is not a story, but a real tragedy that mankind, once perfect, is ruined by sin. But, it is also the ultimate act of mercy when God offers us salvation, through His Son Jesus Christ, and promises that He will return.  

As Christians, we’re called to be the salt and light of the world, to be set apart as ambassadors of Christ. But when we argue or hold grudges against one another in the church, it doesn’t reflect who Jesus is. That’s why, in today’s message, Pastor Chris reminds us that there can be no strife or division within the Body of Christ. We’re called to walk in unity and love; the same love that Jesus showed us is the love we must show the world and one another, so that we may be of one accord.

Hanukkah dates 2025:

Hanukkah isn’t just a Jewish tradition, it’s a supernatural story of rebellion, rededication, and revelation. Join Rabbi Schneider and Dustin Roberts as they uncover the explosive origins of Hanukkah, connect it to the teachings of Jesus, and reveal why this ancient feast applies to Christian faith today. Miracles, history, and the Light of the World - this is the Hanukkah you’ve never seen.

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Families in crisis often feel overwhelmed, isolated and “at the end of their rope,” but Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur remind parents they are not alone and real help is available. They explain that teen struggles are usually signs of deeper issues — not parental failure — and that progress often comes through small steps, strengthened relationships and seeking support. Parents are encouraged to focus on connection over control, admit they don’t have all the answers, and reach out for community or counseling instead of trying to carry the burden alone. Ultimately, this season is temporary — change is possible when families hold on, stay consistent and take steps toward healing.

If you are at the end of your rope, Mark's Families In Crisis Conference may be the help and support you need. Visit familycrisisretreat.com to learn more!

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org. 

Kids are no strangers to big emotions. This can be scary for parents to navigate. Michelle Nietert is a licensed professional counselor, author, and mother of two. With personal stories and expert advice, Michelle provides practical and faith-based tools for parents to guide their little ones through emotions – big and small!

Receive Bringing Big Emotions to a Bigger God Bundle and the audio download of the broadcast "Cultivating Healthy Emotional Habits with Your Children" for your donation of any amount! Your Gift DOUBLES to Help Deliver Hope and Joy! Save 2X the marriages and families this Christmas with your life-changing gift today!

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We’re deep into December, and the window for smart year-end tax planning is closing quickly. Taxes may not be at the top of your Christmas wish list, but they are an important reminder of God’s provision—and an opportunity to honor Him through wise stewardship.

As Scripture reminds us, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). That includes the resources He’s entrusted to us. Thoughtful planning isn’t about avoiding responsibility—it’s about managing God’s gifts with intention and gratitude.

Today, we sat down with Kevin Cross, a seasoned CPA who has helped countless families navigate taxes with clarity and confidence. As we approach December 31 and look ahead to 2026, here are some of the most important moves to consider.

Charitable giving is always close to the hearts of our listeners, and year-end is an especially strategic time to consider it.

Recent changes to the tax code—including a higher standard deduction and an expanded SALT (state and local tax) deduction—mean many households may now benefit from itemizing again. If that’s you, making charitable contributions before December 31 could provide meaningful tax benefits.

But even if your standard deduction is still too high to itemize, there’s another strategy worth considering: bundling your giving. Instead of spreading donations evenly each year, you might combine two years’ worth of giving into one year. That can push you over the itemization threshold and maximize the tax benefit—while still supporting the ministries and causes you care about.

If you don’t yet know precisely where you want to give, a donor-advised fund (DAF) can be an incredibly flexible option. We often call it a charitable checking account. You receive the tax deduction when you contribute to the fund, then take your time prayerfully distributing gifts to qualified charities.

Kevin likes to say it’s “the most fun fund you’ll ever have”—because it encourages generosity while allowing your resources to be invested and potentially grow before they’re given.

For those who want to ensure their giving supports gospel-centered ministries, I recommend opening a donor-advised fund through the National Christian Foundation (NCF). It’s a wonderful way to align generosity with faith-based impact. You can learn more at FaithFi.com/NCF.

One of the most talked-about developments Kevin highlighted is a new child tax savings account (Trump Account), set to begin in 2026. While no action can be taken until then, it’s worth knowing what to expect.

Under this provision, eligible children may receive a government-funded seed contribution, and families can contribute up to $5,000 per year. Even more interesting: businesses may be able to contribute up to $2,500 tax-free under the right circumstances—while still receiving a deduction.

What makes this especially notable for generous families is that donor-advised funds may be used to contribute to these accounts, creating new ways to bless the next generation while maintaining a strong commitment to charitable giving. Proper planning and paperwork will be essential, but this is an opportunity many families will want to explore.

One of the most underutilized tax strategies Kevin sees involves Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)—and it always surprises me how many people don’t know about them.

If you’re 70½ or older, you can give directly from your IRA to a qualified charity and exclude that distribution from taxable income. Once you reach the age for required minimum distributions (RMDs)