Podcast Episode 25 is available for listening or downloading. Click the blue button to hear words and music of faith hope love or follow links and read the articles.

As you start your week”

I know you’re probably really starting to spin as the Christmas parties and shopping and planning is all beginning to blur together. But I hope you’ll pause now and then to take a few deep breaths and remember what it’s all about.

It’s not the parties…even though they’re fun. It’s not the shopping…although who doesn’t like to get and give presents? It’s not about the planning…even though that’s necessary. And it’s not even about family getting together. Yep, you read that right. It’s not even about the warm and fuzzies so many seem to crave this time of year.

This so-called “holiday season” only came about for one reason. To celebrate the birth of Jesus…the One called “Emmanuel”…God with us. God took on human flesh and dwelt among us for a little while. And we, like spoiled brats beat Him, ridiculed Him, and crucified Him…so we wouldn’t have to face our own ugly selves.

Yet, the ironic thing is…when the world beheld Him on the cross, beaten, shredded, and bleeding…we saw how ugly our sinful souls truly are. Jesus was willing to endure that torturous death for us. And that’s the only gift I ever need on Christmas.

How about you?

Now”here’s what you’ll find in this week’s podcast. (including some songs)

I talked about:

* going fast forward into the future

* by and by in a lullaby

* your right to refuse service

* I can’t remember (well, I can…but I can’t)

* trained apes

* a glorious body (no, not that one)

Stay tuned,