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.”

 🕇

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

Click HERE to join in the fun!

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

 

 

 

December 19, 2025

 

Micah 5:2-5

The Coming Messiah

2 “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,

Though you are little among the thousands of Judah,

Yet out of you shall come forth to Me

The One to be Ruler in Israel,

Whose goings forth are from of old,

From everlasting.”

3 Therefore He shall give them up,

Until the time that she who is in labor has given birth;

Then the remnant of His brethren

Shall return to the children of Israel.

4 And He shall stand and feed[b] His flock

In the strength of the Lord,

In the majesty of the name of the Lord His God;

And they shall abide,

For now He shall be great

To the ends of the earth;

5 And this One shall be peace.

When the Assyrian comes into our land,

And when he treads in our palaces,

Then we will raise against him

Seven shepherds and eight princely men.

 🕇

This verse from the book of Micah is a powerful prophecy about the birth of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, in the town of Bethlehem. It is a reminder of God’s divine plan and promise to send a savior to bring peace and security to His people. This prophecy foretells not only the physical birthplace of Jesus but also the profound impact He will have on the world, establishing a reign of peace and security for those who believe in Him.

Have you ever thought about the significance of Jesus being born in Bethlehem according to this prophecy? It shows the meticulous planning of God and His faithfulness to fulfill His promises throughout history. The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem is a symbol of hope and salvation for all believers, bringing light into a dark world and offering eternal security to those who put their trust in Him. This verse serves as a reminder of the unwavering love and provision of God for His people, assuring us of His constant presence and ultimate victory over darkness and chaos.

Although I’m curious about how a pumpkin‑and‑chocolate pie might taste, I’m going with the one I already know I love — #2, the cinnamon apple cake with buttery icing and a hot cup of coffee. That just sounds wonderful. I enjoy both pumpkin and chocolate, but I don’t think I’ve ever had them together in one dessert, especially with an orange‑flavored icing. If I ever get the chance, I’d definitely give it a try.

How about you?

Christmas Blessings