December 20, 2025

Matthew 2:1-2

Wise Men from the East

2 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, ² saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”

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The wise men were astrologers, or priests from the East, most likely from Persia, Babylon, or Arabia. They were scholars who studied the stars and ancient texts, often seeking signs of divine events.  Despite modern nativity scenes, the Wise Men did not arrive at the manger on Christmas night. Based on Matthew 2:11, they came to a house, not a stable, and Jesus may have been a few months old. Their journey to find the newborn King of the Jews shows a profound example of faith. Despite being Gentiles, they followed a star for hundreds of miles simply to worship Jesus.

SATURDAY 9: HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Hosted by Sam

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From the archives

1.       As you can see, when Sam Winters was a little girl, she loved giving her annual wish list to Santa. If you could ask Santa for anything at all, right now, what would it be?

My annual wish prayer is very simple, yet it’s for the whole world.

Let there be peace on earth, goodwill toward men.

2. Are you currently on the Naughty or Nice list? How did you get there?

I’m pretty sure I’ve landed on the Nice List this year—though not without a few near‑misses that probably made the angels raise an eyebrow. I’ve tried to love well, extend grace when it wasn’t easy, and keep my sense of humor intact through the bumps and bruises of everyday life. Of course, there may have been a moment or two of impatience or a sarcastic comment that slipped out before my filter woke up. Yet, with a humble heart, a grateful spirit, and a wink toward the One who knows the whole story and loves me anyway, I’m claiming the Nice List…

3.       Are you traveling this Christmas? If so, are you going by car, plane or train?

We’re traveling  a couple of miles down the road to our daughter’s home.

4. Did you ship any gifts to friends and family this year? If yes, which one traveled the farthest?

No

5. Did you buy yourself a gift this year?
No

6. Which do you prefer: candy canes or gingerbread?

7. Can you see any holiday decorations from where you're sitting now?

Yes, I can most of the decoration we have in our home.

8. What's your favorite winter beverage?

I’ve always loved wassail. Back when I worked at the bank, it was a tradition we enjoyed together, and those cozy memories have stayed with me. After I retired, I tried making it at home a few times, but it turns out I’m the only one in the family who really likes it—so I don’t make it often anymore.

Still, I have a simple version I turn to when the mood strikes: just apple juice with a package of red hots, warmed in a pot until the candy melts away and the whole kitchen smells sweet and spicy. Every now and then, especially on those brrrrr-cold days, I’ll make a batch just for myself. It’s a little tradition that still brings me comfort.

9. Share a memory from last Christmas.

“This memory isn’t from last year—it’s from a few years back. It’s one of my favorites, because I love spending time with my girls, and this photo captures that joy perfectly.”

From left to right:

Tracey, Tammy, Yours Truly, Peggy

Christmas Blessing to All

Until Next Time