The Gift of Peace

 

“What peace can they have who are not at peace with God?”  

                                                                    Matthew Henry 

Two artists set out to paint a picture that was to represent perfect peace. The first painted a canvas depicting a carefree boy sitting in a boat on a little lake without a ripple to disturb the surface. The other though painted a raging waterfall, winds whipping spray about. Yet on a limb, overhanging the swirling water, a bird had built its nest and sat peacefully brooding over her eggs. Here she was safe from predatory enemies and though surrounded by the roaring falls, she was totally at peace.
  Peace isn’t just the absence of conflict. In fact, peace is best appreciated and understood when conflicts raged all around.
  Alexander Maclaren said, “However profound and real that Divine peace is, it is to be enjoyed in the midst of warfare. God’s peace is not [inertia]. The man that has it has still to wage continual conflict, and day by day to brace himself anew for the fight. The highest energy of action is the result of the deepest calm[ness] of heart. That peace of God…is peace militant.”
  A relationship with God isn’t like some magic wand to be waved over all of your problems. True peace doesn’t come that way. As we make the tough choices to trust Him and hold fast to His grace, His peace surges through us. As hard as life is, militant peace arrives at the instant we exercise faith during the battle. It gives us strength to say, “I can do this. I can make this tough choice for the honor of Christ. I can, I will trust Him!”
  Peace is something that we all desperately need and want. It’s one reason why countless millions are spent annually in search of peace. Every year thousands of people seeking personal or family peace flock to professional counselors. Diplomats fly around the globe pursuing peace between nations. Our courts are jammed with cases arising from a breakdown of peace between individuals or corporations. But all this money and time hasn’t worked. Seemingly, there is less peace than ever before.
  Peace, the kind of peace we need and yearn for, is a gift. It’s a gift that God lovingly gave us when He sent His Son, Jesus, the Prince of Peace, into our world. 2,000 thousand years ago angels announced God’s peace in His Son to a group of poor shepherds.
  The peace the Lord Jesus gives isn’t just any kind of peace. The Bible tells us that this peace is a type of peace that enables us to experience an inner calm in spite of circumstances that would normally cause us to unravel. It’s like the calm like the eye of a hurricane…perfect stillness and peace while storms rage all around.
  The best picture of the gift of peace that Jesus brings us is seen in Jesus Himself. The way that the Lord Jesus lived His life showed that when it comes to peace Jesus knew what He was talking about. He fully deserves the title: Prince of Peace. For example, the very storm that caused His disciples to panic, made Him drowsy. Remember? The disciples feared that their boat would be their tomb but to Jesus it was a cradle. Another time, when Jesus was teaching a crowd of 5,000 men (not counting women and children) His disciples panicked because it was supper time, and they were worried about how they’d feed the huge crowd. When they informed Jesus, He faced that situation with unworldly calm.  As He began His earthly ministry and told people in the synagogue that He was the Messiah. They responded by trying to throw Him off a cliff, but He calmly walked through their midst. The professional mourners at the home of Jairus laughed in His face when Jesus told them the little girl was only asleep. Then He calmly entered her room and raised her from the dead. Even the raging demoniac in the graveyard at Gadara didn’t scare Him. On the cross while the other two prisoners cursed their executioners, Jesus prayed for them, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.”
  Isn’t that the kind of peace that we all long for? Wouldn’t you like to be able to face the trials of life like Jesus did? Doesn’t this particular gift of Christmas seem appealing to you? Jesus came to give us peace, yet there is only one way to have this peace.
  You must surrender your life to King Jesus. The Bible teaches that we’re all sinners and at odds with our Holy God. There’s no such thing as a “good” person. Most of us aren’t even nice. So, to experience this gift of Christmas we must first make our peace with God. We must resolve our part of the conflict between God and man that began when sin entered the world. When Adam and Eve sinned by disobeying God’s laws, really just one command, they broke their relationship with our loving Creator. Every human being since has done the same thing.
  Instead of living our lives according to the will of our Creator, each of us willfully chooses to live according to our own self-will. Isaiah 53:6 describes this selfish rebellion when it says, “We all…like sheep…have gone astray; each of us has turned to his own way.” When sin entered the world, peace left it. Since then, all of us go our own way instead of God’s. We disobey His laws in thought, word, and deed. Yet Jesus came to make peace between God and man a possibility again. In dying for our sins, Jesus carried the guilt of the entire human race in His own body. Jesus became our peace offering.
  A peace offering is a gift or service for the purpose of securing peace or reconciliation. In the Old Testament there are dozens of references to the Jews recognizing this enmity between themselves and God by bringing peace offerings, sacrifices to God in His temple. But Jesus came to be the peace offering to God for all humanity. His sacrificial death on the cross is the source of this gift of peace.
  It’s what Ephesians 2:14 means when it says, “For He [Jesus] Himself is our peace, Who has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, for through Him we have access to the Father.” To have inner peace then, we must personally accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. We must claim Him as our peace offering.
  Jesus is the first Christmas gift. He’s God’s gift to YOU! It’s the message of John 3:16. But a gift is worthless unless you personally accept it. You can believe there’s a gift, know all about it, but it doesn’t become yours until you accept it. Jesus came to give us the gift of peace with God. That’s the beginning of true peace. My friend, have you accepted God’s gift?

Can we help you spiritually? Please check out more resources on our church's web page, Gracechurchwi.org. Or call us at 262.763.3021. If you'd like to know more about how Jesus can change your life, I'd love to mail you a copy of how Jesus changed my life in "My Story." E-mail me at Carson@gracechurchwi.org to request a free copy. Please include your mailing address. 

Christmas: Better Than A Hallmark Christmas Movie

 

“I wanted to send you something AMAZING for Christmas, 

but the mailman told me to get out of the mailbox…”   Unknown

 
Doesn’t that sound like a line from some Hallmark Christmas movie? One of the most popular movie genres this time of year – one that you probably either love or hate – is Hallmark Christmas movies. Initially associated with the Hallmark Channel, the genre now spans multiple networks and streaming services. To say these movies are successful is an understatement, considering some 50 million people have watched at least one Christmas movie on the Hallmark network.
  It’s an all too familiar script: a reluctant young woman travels back to her hometown; sworn enemies fall in love; towns are named after favorite Christmas treats. There will be an initial conflict, but it will be overcome because Christmas is a time of love…even miracles. We see just enough of our own lives reflected in these conflicts—a sick parent, a heartbreak, a jealous ex—that we can see ourselves as the protagonist. But unlike real life, there’s always a happy ending.
  While I have some Christmas movies that I love to watch each year, the Hallmark ones are a bit too cheesy for me. Jane and I tried to watch one recently. At the halfway point I’d had enough. Everything was just a little too perfect. Maybe that’s my problem. I know that no matter what Hollywood or Hallmark churns out, Christmas is not about perfect.
  And even the Hallmark Christmas movies have a vital unanswered question: What happens after the perfect, cheery holidays? We want to believe that they’re fairy tale endings – “they lived happily ever after.” But most of these movies end at Christmas. What about after Christmas? What does life look like when the magic of Christmas is gone? Or what if the magic of Christmas was never there?
  For some this will be the first Christmas with an empty place at the table. Others have gone through a terrible divorce. It’s the first Christmas after the death of a marriage. Some serve our country in the far reaches of the world. Others must work on Christmas. Many go “home” but family relationships are like walking through a minefield. The atmosphere is fraught with tension and unresolved conflict. Hallmark Christmas movies give us a happy ending in a time for some that feels anything but “merry.”
  With the beauty of Christmas, the decorations, gifts, singing and parties and sanitized manger scenes, we easily forget that Christmas happened because this world was a disaster. Christmas happened, because we’re all a hot mess. God the Father in love sent His only Son into our trainwreck to clean it up, to give us hope.
  Jesus was the first Christmas gift, yet it doesn’t end with a smiling infant in a manger. It ends with a Savior on a cross. While you and I were born to live; Jesus was born to die.
  In his book, Every Good Endeavor, Tim Keller explains the three elements of a story. He points out that a story begins when something knocks life out of balance and things are obviously not as they should be. Then it progresses, or the plot “thickens,” as the protagonists in the story struggle to restore the balance of peace while antagonistic forces work to thwart their efforts. Finally, the story ends as the struggle results in either the restoration of balance or the failure to recover it.
  One of the reasons we love the stories that fill our Christmas traditions is that they inevitably end in the restoration of peace and the perpetuation of the Christmas Spirit. They’re so familiar that we don’t need a spoiler alert.
  Remember that when the Grinch stole Christmas, he gave it back. In Christmas Story Ralphie gets the Red Ryder BB Gun. In Christmas Carol that old curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge embraces generosity. Even in Home Alone, Kevin’s family makes it home for Christmas, the bandits are hauled off to jail, and a lonely old man reunites with his family.
  We cherish those Christmas stories because they reflect the hope that’s associated with Christmas. An association we make because of the real Christmas Story, when the protagonist, Jesus Christ, came to light the way to peace and reconciliation with God and us, and us with each other.
  Our story going back to the Garden begins when something knocks life with God out of sync. Sin entered the world and things were no longer as they were supposed to be. You and I, and the whole human race, were originally designed to walk in peace with God. Because of sin, we lost the connection. In biblical terms when sin entered the world, the lights went out and we couldn’t see His way. From that point forward, the world is filled with darkness, and everyone is on a hopeless quest for peace. We either sought to work our way to God through religion, or sought peace in other things—money, drugs, power, prestige, or people. None of it works. It’s why Jesus had to come!
  Christ-followers are reminded every Christmas that Christmas isn’t the ultimate end—it’s the beginning. At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the One sent to save us from our sins and the fulfillment of God’s promise. The first promise of a coming Savior is found in the first pages of Genesis in Genesis 3:15. That miracle—a baby born to save us all—is the promise that can get us through the worst days. God created a home for us in Heaven, a home where there will be no more tears, no more pain, no more death. It’s a home where we’ll be reunited forever with our brothers and sisters, all who have accepted the One who came to be our Savior.
  Christ-followers get to live this truth each year, celebrating the miracle of new beginnings. For us there really is a happy ending, one that’s out of this world forever! Because of God’s great love and great Christ’s sacrifice, we will live with Him in heaven forever.
  So, what’s home? It can be many things. It can be a mom or dad, or grandparents. Maybe it’s the aroma of Christmas dinner. Our one true Home is because of faith in a loving God and His promises. When we commit our lives to Him, when Christ lives within us, our hearts yearn for “peace on earth” that begins in our hearts. There really is no place like Home and the one our Heavenly Father is preparing for us. And Hallmark ain’t got nothing on that. It will be a happy ending that lasts forever!

Can we help you spiritually? Please check out more resources on our church's web page, Gracechurchwi.org. Or call us at 262.763.3021. If you'd like to know more about how Jesus can change your life, I'd love to mail you a copy of how Jesus changed my life in "My Story." E-mail me at Carson@gracechurchwi.org to request a free copy. Please include your mailing address. 

Truly Helping the Poor

 

“We don’t have to have deep pockets or be rich to help the needy, the poor and the hungry, we need to have a heart.” Kevin Dcruz 

Did you hear the recent generosity story of New York Knicks’ 7-foot center, Mitchell Robinson? Butch Stockton was Robinson’s high school basketball coach. Butch’s wife, Dawn, recently died at the age of 70 after a battle with metastatic cancer. The Stocktons had been married for 31 years.
  According to the news article this NBA star, Mitchell Robinson, visited Dawn every day when she was in the hospital. Then, after her death he invited his former coach to move in with him. Robinson told him, “Coach, no reason to stay down here in Louisiana. You come to New York with me and enjoy yourself and get your mind back straight because you know how much you loved your wife.” I love stories like that!
  Christmas is the season of giving. The Lord Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Yet who and where do we give? We want to give wisely. There’s a world of difference between helping and enabling.
  Personally, I struggle with what to do when a homeless person asks me for money. A good friend who knows a lot about helping the homeless shared that the best thing to give is a granola bar. If they’re an addict, it’s not easily swapped for drugs. A granola bar is nutritious and easily stored.
  Then, because we have some locals who are virtually homeless and spend lots of time in the elements (most have mental health issues), I keep gift cards for fast food restaurants in my car to give away so that they can go someplace warm and get something to eat. Caring for the poor isn’t easy yet doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let me suggest some considerations.
  Begin with who you know, often that’s in the church, and move out from there. The Bible teaches that caring first starts with those suffering in our own families. If you have a relative who is a single parent or someone elderly with limited means or disabled, that’s a place to start. It doesn’t have to be money. For a single parent, babysitting or watching a child so they can shop or get a break can be huge. It might be simple house or car repairs. When you’re financially tight, you let things go. You can’t afford the repairs, but little repairs, if ignored, can turn into big ones.
  One of my greatest joys at Christmas was when Jane learned of a need and then gave money in my name to meet that need instead of buying me a Christmas gift. I’ll be honest, I can be as materialistic as anyone else yet there’s nothing that I really need. Giving always does a lot for my heart!
  Love and giving starts within our local church families. The early church, motivated by their love of Christ and the grace that God had shown them, lived an open-handed lifestyle, sharing with each other (Acts 2:44-45).
  Give to organizations that you know will use your gifts to help the poor, not for overhead.  Locally, I appreciate Love, Inc. and they’re part of our church’s budget. The Salvation Army seeks to directly touch the lives of the impoverished. There are others like reputable inner city rescue missions that are making a difference.
  So, do a little research before you give to a charity organization. The top executives at some charities earn over $1 million a year. Avoid giving to organizations where a major portion of their budget goes to administration or marketing, yet funds trickle down to those with real needs.
  Support government programs that help the disenfranchised. Speaking up for those who often have no one speaking for them can make a big difference. Many government programs have a good intention yet are not fully thought out and ultimately hurt the ones that they’re supposed to help.
  For example, 2024 marks the 60^th anniversary of President Lyndon B. Johnson's launch of the War on Poverty. Since then, the taxpayers have spent $23 trillion on Johnson’s war. Adjusted for inflation, that's some three times the cost of all our wars since the American Revolution.
  Visit an urban area and it’s very apparent, we’re losing the “war.” Poverty is a very complex issue with complicated answers that require wisdom and courage on the part of elected officials. Sadly, most of them seem to be more concerned about being re-elected than doing what is best or right.
  Let me point out a popular cause that illustrates this. Most people have not thought through the long-term implications, particularly for the poor, of the eradication of fossil fuel vehicles. At the 2022 World Economic Forum leaders flew in on over 300 private jets. The carbon dioxide emissions from those flights were equal to 350,000 gasoline-powered cars on the road for the same weeklong period. Elites with jets and limousines shamelessly propose laws for others that have a limited effect on their own lifestyle.
  It’s growing more difficult for someone with limited means to own a home. With electric vehicles costing over $100k, it will soon be impossible for them to own a car, but a car is a source of freedom. The next time you drive past a group waiting for a bus on a cold day imagine living without one. A car gives you the freedom to live or work anywhere. If we care for the poor, we must question and evaluate kneejerk proposals where the long-term impact of those ideas make the lives of the poor more difficult.
  Look for simple, practical ways to make a difference.  Consider the options around you. Perhaps it’s volunteering at an after-school program, a soup kitchen or clothing pantry. Since Covid, many children are struggling with basic reading and math skills. They need assistance to catch up. Most schools have programs where a retiree or someone with some free time can volunteer a minimal amount yet make a big difference. There are more needs around you than you might realize. Ask God to give you eyes to see and a heart with compassion to serve!
  Remember, spiritual problems require spiritual solutions. Poverty is fundamentally a spiritual issue, so we’re wise to work with groups that recognize this truth. Look for organizations committed to proclaiming the gospel, even as they minister to the many needs of the economically challenged. Assisting the poor yet failing to minister to their spiritual needs helps them only for this brief life. We must never forget that Jesus died to save us from sin and provide the only way to heaven for all eternity!

Can we help you spiritually? Please check out more resources on our church's web page, Gracechurchwi.org. Or call us at 262.763.3021. If you'd like to know more about how Jesus can change your life, I'd love to mail you a copy of how Jesus changed my life in "My Story." E-mail me at Carson@gracechurchwi.org to request a free copy. Please include your mailing address. 

 

The Star or R-A-T-S

“If spiritual things become a drag and the message of Christmas is dull you can be sure the problem is not in the message but in your loss of awe and wonder at the message.” Dag Hammerskjold 

One pastor of a small church was directing the children’s program on the Sunday night before Christmas. He was especially excited about the final scene of the production in which four children would give recitations using letters that they held up: S-T-A-R which stood for Shepherds, Trees, Angels, and Redeemer. The scene opened with “Silent Night” playing softly in the background as the children filed onstage holding the posters. The narrator solemnly spoke into the microphone, saying, “And now, four of our children are going to tell you how they feel about Christmas.” On that cue, the youngsters turned over their cards, which should have spelled the word STAR. Unfortunately, they had lined up backward, and instead, the letters said…RATS! 

  Sadly, isn’t that the way that many people feel about Christmas? High prices, snarled traffic, rushed trips, long check-out lines, extra chores, more debt, blown diets, countless Christmas parties, and cold weather. Many just want to get it all over with. Yet, if we fall into that thinking we lose the power of that first Christmas – we lose wonder!

  It’s said that “familiarity breeds contempt. More often “familiarity breeds indifference.” The more familiar we become with something the less fascination we have. The newness fades and we lose the wonder.

  That happens with us at Christmas. We’ve heard the nativity account so many times that the wonder of what happened 2,000 years ago begins to dim. We no longer marvel. We’re no longer amazed. The old story has become just an old story. Yet if we stop and truly contemplate that first Christmas, we’ll find that we’re once again filled with awe and wonder.

  God became one of us. Joan Osborne had a hit song, “One of us.” It asked what if God was one of us.   

What if God was one of us?
Just a slob like one of us
Just a stranger on the bus
Trying to make His way home.

That’s one of the wonders of Christmas, the Incarnation. God did become one of us. The Creator of the universe stepped into space and time and became one of us. The eternal Son of God didn’t merely add flesh to His deity, He is not just God in a body. God became flesh, human flesh. He became a creature. He didn’t give up anything, He added humanity. It’s why His disciples saw His glory. They saw grace and truth incarnate.

  What does God look like? Since God is invisible He can’t be seen. In Jesus, though the invisible God became visible.

  What does grace look like? What does truth look like? Because they’re abstract concepts, they’re unseeable. But in Jesus, grace and truth became visible, in His person, His words, and His works.

  At His birth, the shepherds and Magi desired to see Him. Throughout His life, the poor, the vile, the rejected, the disenfranchised, and the oppressed were attracted to Him. Sinners flocked to Him. And today, frightened, ashamed, hurting and guilty people still long to see Him. God’s Son is our hope. He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).

  Christmas is the commemoration of the moment when Jesus, the eternal Son of God, was born into this world to be our Savior. He didn’t come for a visit. He made His dwelling on this earth. This world is now His home. After the cross, when the work of redemption was complete, according to the Apostle John, “I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God’” (Revelation 21:3). That’s wonder!

  That first Christmas was filled with wonder. Zacharias wondered how he and his elderly wife could give birth to the forerunner of the Messiah (Luke 1:18). Mary wondered how it would be possible for a virgin to give birth to a baby (Luke 1:34). Joseph wondered why he and Mary were chosen to be the parents of the Messiah (Matthew 1:18–25). The shepherds wondered about the angels that appeared to them and what their message meant (Luke 2:13–15). Those in Bethlehem wondered about the story that the shepherds were spreading through the village (Luke 2:17–18). Mary wondered about everything that was happening at the birth of her son (Luke 2:19). Simeon wondered at the blessing of being able, before he died, to see the child-Messiah (Luke 2:25-32). Mary and Joseph “marveled” at the words prophesied by Simeon about their baby (Luke 2:33–35). Those in the temple wondered about the words of Anna, who spoke of the redemption to come through this child (Luke 2:36–38). The Magi wondered about the newborn King for whom they brought gifts (Matthew 2:1–12). Joseph wondered about his dream warning him to take his young family and flee to Egypt (Matthew 2:13–15).

  Those are the moments of wonder recorded in Scripture. Think of how many more moments of wonder there must have been among those who were witnesses to the first Christmas. It was overwhelming wonder!

  Wonder was the message of one of the great hymns of the 20^th century called “The Wonder of It All.” 

There’s the wonder of sunset at evening,

the wonder as sunrise I see;

But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul

is the wonder that God loves me.

  That’s the greatest wonder of Christmas – God loves us! It’s why He gave the first Christmas gift. Have you accepted God’s gift? “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” A wonderful God, His wonderful love, and a wonderful gift! Wonder!

 Can we help you spiritually? Please check out more resources on our church's web page, Gracechurchwi.org. Or call us at 262.763.3021. If you'd like to know more about how Jesus can change your life, I'd love to mail you a copy of how Jesus changed my life in "My Story." E-mail me at Carson@gracechurchwi.org to request a free copy. Please include your mailing address. 

 

Where's the Manger?

“Jesus took His place in a manger 

so that we might have a Home in heaven.” Greg Laurie

 Can you imagine New Year’s Eve without horns, party hats, champagne or clocks counting down to midnight? What if for the 4^th of July you couldn’t find anything red, white and blue and there were no American flags anywhere, plus no parades, cookouts, picnics or fireworks?

  Yet if you venture into most stores around Christmas, you’ll have difficulty finding a nativity scene. Mangers are as hard to find as a snowball in July. Christmas decorations might include Santa, elves, snowmen, lights, gnomes…even baby Yoda, but it’s rare to find a nativity scene or manger. While they’re rare in stores, they’ve often been banned from public places like parks, malls, schools or government buildings only to be replaced by images of snowmen, candy canes, and reindeer.

  The irony of all of this is lost on a pluralistic culture where Christmas is just another holiday. It’s like celebrating someone’s birthday and completely ignoring the one whose birthday is actually being celebrated.    

  Luis Palau tells of a wealthy European family that decided to have their newborn baby baptized in their enormous mansion. Many people were invited. It was an elegant and elaborate affair. They took off their coats and laid them on the bed in a designated room. Soon the time came for the main purpose of their gathering but then no one could find the baby! To the horror of all they finally found the baby who was now buried under the pile of coats, jackets and furs, nearly smothered to death.

  In essence, in western civilization, we’ve buried Baby Jesus under our other trappings of a Christmas celebration. Why has that happened? The manger represents what we humans are not and what we don’t want to be. The manger represents…

  God in His helplessness. We don’t like to be helpless and we avoid those who we consider helpless. The nativity account in Luke 2 says that His mother “wrapped him in swaddling cloths” (vs. 7). Back then newborns were wrapped in strips of cloth to protect them from the harsh elements. Mothers would wrap the arms and legs separately and then wrap the torso until the baby looked a bit like an Egyptian mummy. It severely restricted the child’s movements. But in a world with little medical care where babies routinely died before their first birthday, it was a way to provide a crude kind of protection. At His birth, Jesus was as helpless as any other baby.

  Decades later an adult Jesus stood before the Jewish authorities, bound and guarded like a common criminal. When falsely accused, He didn’t respond. When reviled, He refused to answer. He stood before His accusers with his hands bound, awaiting a verdict that would end His life. It’s not a coincidence that He entered the world as He left it, bound and helpless.

  God in His humility. How would you respond if someone served your dinner in a dog’s food bowl? The word manger means a feeding trough. Even in that feeding trough, our Savior was already bearing the only cross a baby can bear—extreme poverty along with the contempt and indifference of mankind. In the words of Francis of Assisi, “For our sakes He was born a stranger in an open stable; He lived without a place of His own wherein to lay His head, subsisting by the charity of good people; and He died naked on a cross in the close embrace of holy poverty.”

  This newborn lying forgotten in an exposed stable, resting in a feeding trough is God’s appointed “sign” to us. It’s the Incarnation. God came into this world in the most unlikely way. It’s what Philippians 2:7 means when it says Jesus “made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” Nothing about Baby Jesus appeared supernatural. There were no halos, visible angels or choirs singing.

  If we’d been there and had no other information, we’d have concluded that this was just another baby born to a poor young couple down on their luck. Nothing about His outward circumstances pointed to God. Looking at the baby this way, no one would think that He only came for the rich or powerful. No one would suggest that He used His heavenly power to make an easy or grand entry into the world. Jesus came not for an elite few. He came to be the Savior of all the world.

  God in His humanity. “A baby.” That’s all the original Greek says. The word means “an infant” or “newborn.” It’s an ordinary word used to describe the birth of a child. It reminds us that Christ came into the world just as we all do. Even though we often speak of the virgin birth, it should be remembered that the real miracle occurred at the moment of His conception nine months earlier. Jesus’ physical birth was completely normal—or as normal as it could be given the unique circumstances.

  To say that Christ was born as a baby brings us face-to-face with the truth of the Incarnation. Although Jesus was fully and truly God from all eternity, the Second Person of the Godhead took on humanity when He was conceived in Mary’s womb. He wasn’t half-God and half-man, He was fully God and fully man. He never ceased to be God, though He temporarily laid aside the glory of His deity. In some way mysterious to us, Jesus was the God-Man, two natures joining together in His one Person.

  That’s the central truth of Christianity. God entered human history in order to provide for our salvation. What we could not do, He did for us through His Son. Everything else flows from this truth. If Jesus had not been born, He could never have died for our sins and would not have risen from the dead. He had to become like us in order to be able to save us. There was no other way.

  Yet, it’s because Jesus was helpless, humble, and human that this world doesn’t want to be reminded of mangers. The necessity of His manger means that we couldn’t fix it. We couldn’t save ourselves. We must be rescued.

  Our world’s greatest need isn’t a new government program or more education or better housing. It’s not even affordable healthcare.

  2,000 years ago the angels announced our greatest need,  “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

  What we desperately need is a Savior! Thankfully, Jesus came to be our Savior. And while you may not find a nativity scene, you can’t hide Jesus. He’s already come to earth. My friend, have you let Him into your life?

Can we help you spiritually? Please check out more resources on our church's web page, Gracechurchwi.org. Or call us at 262.763.3021. If you'd like to know more about how Jesus can change your life, I'd love to mail you a copy of how Jesus changed my life in "My Story." E-mail me at Carson@gracechurchwi.org to request a free copy. Please include your mailing address. 

 

Christmas Stress

 “Three phrases that sum up Christmas are: 

Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men and Batteries are not included.

  A few days before Christmas two men in Florida decided to go sailing while their wives went Christmas shopping. While these guys were out sailing a terrible storm arose. They had great difficulty keeping their boat under control. As they maneuvered their way back to land their boat got grounded on a sandbar. Finally, they had to jump overboard and push with all their might trying to get their boat into deeper water. As they did the wind was blowing terribly, the waves were rushing on them, they were soaking wet and knee-deep in mud. But then one of the guys looked at his buddy and said, “You know it sure beats Christmas shopping though.”  

  Too often what should be the most wonderful season of the year, the time of year that should bring us joy and warm our hearts, instead often brings stress, anger, headaches and depression. The stress associated with Christmas can make what should be a joyous time of year a miserable mess. Because of this, many (maybe that’s you) actually dread Christmas. The stress that can plague us at this time of the year are rooted in three basic sources; Time (getting everything done), Money (paying for it) and Emotions (conflict with family and past painful memories that resurface).

  Through the years I’ve suffered from all three of those. You’d think that if you had some bad Christmas memories from growing up, you’d write new chapters in adulthood. I wish that were true. There are some pages though from raising my own children that are worthy of a good book burning or at least chapter burning. I’m so glad God is gracious and my own family is forgiving. Let me share some thoughts for a less stressful Christmas.

  Remember, it really is all about Jesus. Ask most people what Christmas is about and you’ll hear a myriad of answers. Sadly, what’s lost in the Christmas rush is that it’s a celebration of Jesus. His miraculous birth 2,000 years ago and His birth in our hearts is the reason we celebrate Christmas. It’s not about Santa, holidays, family, gifts, food or anything else. When we look to things of this world to give the season true meaning, none of it works. Jesus is the most wonderful part of Christmas. Each time family, food, and parties get to be too much, turn your eyes back on Jesus. The world may forget, but we remember that Jesus is the reason for the season.

  We must choose to purposefully reclaim the joy of Jesus in the festive season. Jesus is the source of joy for believers. Joy is independent of outward circumstances. It rises from within and is a choice. Be overwhelmed with joy or with stress. You decide.

  No matter how many cookies you burn, candy you eat, or family criticisms you endure; determine to rejoice in the Lord. Smile when another car takes your parking spot. Laugh when the Christmas lights blow a fuse. Things go wrong. Roll with it. Keep rejoicing in Jesus because you’re celebrating His birth, after all.

  Slow down. Have you ever noticed when people are stressed not only do they do everything faster, but they talk faster? So slow down. When we’re pressured we foolishly skip on what will give us the strength to truly have peace in our hearts – time with the Lord. Please don’t do that. You don’t have to make your Quiet Time a marathon. Some days it might be more like a short sprint. It will though better prepare you for whatever is thrown at you if you start the day with the Prince of Peace. Spend time in His Word. Pray for wisdom and strength. I’ve found starting the day praying Psalm 19:14 helps me: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”

  Set limits. Determine your family’s limits when it comes to holiday get-togethers. As much as you may want to please everyone, determine what you and your family can handle. Put the most important events on the calendar early so you don’t overschedule.

  Set limits on spending and gift-giving. Having a budget will help you stay on track and not have a regretful January when the bills arrive. Keeping the gift-giving simple is an easy way to maintain the focus on the birth of Christ and not the commercialization of the holiday. 

  One gift that we too easily overlook can be one of our most precious gifts – T-I-M-E. Perhaps instead of this year’s hot toy, give your child an hour or two each month with just you and your child. Too many of us herd our kids when they need one on one time with us. If you know your Dad loves sports, schedule to go to a game with him. If your Mom loves a certain activity, give her the gift of time by doing with her what she loves. Go sit with a grandparent and listen to their stories (even if it’s for the 100^th time).

  Give sacrificially. Gift giving began when our generous God gave His Son as the very first Christmas gift to this world. “Thanks be to God for His inexpressible gift!” (2 Cor. 9:15). Jesus willingly gave up glories beyond our wildest imaginations to come to earth for us. He unobtrusively came into the world in a stable; amongst cattle, donkeys, and sheep. He came to give His life. He was born to die.

  When we contemplate such love and sacrifice, you’d think Christmas would be a time when people would lay aside their own demands and bend over backwards to accommodate others. Selfishness sadly often contaminates what should be a season of giving.

  As God was kind to us, even when we were His enemies (Rom. 5:10), it’s a time for us to let His kindness flow through us. It’s a time to be kind to that tired and whiny child or that sibling who can drive you nuts. After all what’s the opposite of selfishness? Grace - undeserved favor. Selfish behavior produces anger and hostility. Instead, as we have been given the gift of grace, give it to others and watch irritation and selfishness shrink.

  Over the years our family has gone out and sang carols to shut-ins or folk alone at Christmas. We take baked goods to neighbors. We look for ways to be a blessing to someone in need, usually anonymously. We always find that giving does so much for us. It changes our hearts and gives us just a glimpse of our Heavenly Father’s generosity to us.

  The peace of God can’t be purchased. It’s a gift. Peace and being stress free comes from Christ living in our hearts. Open your heart and choose to let Him give you His peace this Christmas.

Can we help you spiritually? Can we help you know Jesus better? Please check out more resources on our church's web page, Gracechurchwi.org. Or, call us at 262.763.3021. If you'd like to know more about how Jesus can change your life, I'd love to mail you a copy of how Jesus changed my life in "My Story." E-mail me at Carson@gracechurchwi.org to request a free copy. Please include your mailing address. 

God is not Santa

 

You better watch out
You better not cry
Better not pout

I'm telling you why

Santa Claus is coming to town
Gonna find out who's naughty and nice
Santa Claus is coming to town
And checking it twice;

He’s making a list.

Sometimes, particularly antitheists, will make a comparison between God and Santa. They’ll suggest, that after all, you can’t see either of them. Then, some believe in Santa but most don’t. Both see all – weighing up your good and bad deeds – and reward you based on how good you’ve been. The clincher is that both are essentially myths that bring people a bit of comfort and joy with not much behind them in the way of evidence. But the parallels are really only there for those who wish to force them.

  Drawing a link between God and Santa Claus because you can’t see them is weak. There are lots of things that we can’t see that exist, nonetheless.  For example, consider time, emotions and history. All things we can’t see but all things that every sane person accepts exist. Not being able to see something does not mean it doesn’t exist.

  Nor is existence determined by the number of people that believe. As it happens, if it were determined by the numbers, theism wins. There are more theists in the world than atheists and agnostics combined. The validity of God’s existence isn’t determined by popularity. Even if we insist that “experts” get to decide, truth isn’t determined by some sort of popularity contest. For a long time, the overwhelming majority of people believed stomach ulcers were caused by stress or a terrible lifestyle. Dr. Barry Marshall won a Nobel prize proving that view wrong, insisting that he was repeatedly told – and held by the majority – to be entirely wrong. That is until he infected himself with bacteria causing him to get a stomach ulcer and then curing himself. Truth is not determined by majority rule.

  God is not like Santa Claus. For one, few adults come to believe in Santa. While it’s common for children to believe the Santa myth and then, as they grow older and examine the evidence, it becomes clear Santa is only a fairy tale. Compare this to the multitude of people who grow up to examine the evidence, having never believed in God before, who come to believe in Him as an adult. On top of that, there are the people who are taught about God as children who never shake their belief in Him. You’ll have a tough time finding anyone who holds to the Santa myth later on in life.

 Add to that, we need to compare the behavior of God and Santa Claus. Santa is a distant figure who watches the world and rewards people based on their deeds once-per-year. But the God of the Bible is the One who cares about this world so much that He sent His only Son to enter it. God is not a moralist who rewards you based on how “good” you are. Instead, God is a gracious father who gives us the very opposite of what we deserve. He doesn’t hold out rewards based on whether we please Him with our behavior, He gives us good gifts out of grace because He loves us.

  Most people grow up to stop believing in Santa not out of a lack of evidence for his existence but because of the positive evidence against his existence. Most stop believing in Santa that moment they catch their Mom or Dad laying out all their gifts on Christmas Eve. Even if that clarifying moment never comes, most begin asking questions that defy logic. How can Santa fly around the world in one night and deliver all of his gifts? How does he get down chimneys when he’s so fat? Why has nobody ever seen a flying reindeer? Why are parents okay with a stranger wandering their house at night at Christmas but no other time of year?

  There are good reasons to actively disbelieve the Santa Claus myth. People don’t reject it because of the lack of evidence. They reject it as a result of the overwhelming evidence that he doesn’t exist. Yet, contrast that with those who come to believe in God, particularly God as revealed in His Word and in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. They believe because the evidence is so overwhelming. It’s not evidence that’s simply poured into them as children which they never managed to dismiss. Many come to faith entirely apart from being taught it as children.

  Add to that, there are unanswered questions. Where do morals come from? Is it more likely that the universe has always existed or that it has a cause? Is the fine tuning of the universe better explained by necessity, chance or design? What explanation best accounts for the Jesus’ empty tomb, the postmortem appearances and the birth of Christianity? Many conclude that the evidence points in the direction of the existence of a real God. They conclude that it’s the answer that has the widest explanatory power for all these questions, the least ad hoc of all available explanations.

  Maybe you think that God is a myth and Christianity is a big fairy tale. But are you sure? Aren’t there other “beliefs” that you were very sure of at one time?

  Can I challenge you to give yourself a gift this Christmas? Examine the evidence for yourself. Don’t just believe what you’ve been taught or what others have told you. Check it out for yourself. Read Jesus’ biography for yourself. It’s the original Fab Four – Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. And maybe pray this simple prayer: God, if You’re real then reveal Yourself to me. Christianity isn’t a blind leap of faith. Countless skeptics, when they were honest and examined the evidence, found themselves overwhelmed by the truth of a loving God who gave His Son as that first Christmas gift for them. I know that’s true because I was one of them.

Can we help you spiritually? Can we help you know Jesus better? Please check out more resources on our church's web page, Gracechurchwi.org. Or, call us at 262.763.3021. If you'd like to know more about how Jesus can change your life, I'd love to mail you a copy of how Jesus changed my life in "My Story." E-mail me at Carson@gracechurchwi.org to request a free copy. Please include your mailing address. 

A Norman Rockwell Christmas or National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation?

 

“Nobody’s walking out on this fun, old-fashioned family Christmas.”  National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

 Many years ago our church did a wonderful Christmas program called “The Peanut Butter Christmas.” This fictional story tells of a family who experienced the worst Christmas nightmare. Somehow they were stranded in a motel room without electricity on Christmas Day. But this terrible Christmas, this nightmare becomes a favorite Christmas memory as the three children learn that the spirit of Christmas lives not in what we get, but in what we give.  
  Christmas is “the most wonderful time of the year,” or so the Andy Williams’ song goes. It’s expected to be a time of celebrating with family around a Christmas tree filled with gifts underneath, parties filled with friends and fun, and unique moments of enchantment and joy therein. In the mind’s eye of many, Christmastime is supposed to reflect some Norman Rockwell painting. But what if it doesn’t. What if instead of experiencing that Norman Rockwell version, you end up experiencing some version of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation? Would that potentially be a Covid-2020 Christmas? 

  Let me guarantee you on how to ruin Christmas and not just a Covid-2020 Christmas, but this and future Christmases. The guaranteed way for me and you to ruin Christmas are The Three Kings. 

  Most of us are familiar with the Christmas carol, “We Three Kings.” I can’t begin to tell you how many times I’ve sung that song or heard recording artists add their own rendition to the classic. We refer to the three kings as the “wise men” who traveled to worship baby Jesus and present Him with gifts.

  As we wrap up 2020, I’ve been convicted about which “king(s)” I’m admiring, listening to, taking advice from, and worshiping. This time of year is always a great time for reflection. There have been a number of things to think back on in 2020: COVID-19, riots, disharmony, a tenuous election cycle, facemasks, shutdowns, racial tension, Supreme Court confirmation…the list goes on and on. So, I have to check myself on a regular basis to make sure I’m not following the wrong “three Kings.” Sadly, too often I do. But these kings are not in charge. They’re not the wisest. In fact, they’re very selfish. They generally lead me into trouble and sin, and away from what I know is right. And you have the same three tugging on your heart, trying to lead you down the wrong path.

  Who are these three kings? Me, Myself, and I. Yup, that’s them. Those three “kings” get me in a lot of trouble. I’m constantly battling to resist their rule over my life. Yet, I still fall victim to their temptations. If they’re on the throne of my heart, it’s a guaranteed National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation rather the Norman Rockwell version.

  While you can’t change Christmas past, you can change Christmas present and Christmas future. Starting right now, in your own heart and with your own family, create new memories and Christmas traditions that will redeem this season. You can give yourself and those around you a Christmas gift that no one will want to return. And in the process, your heart will grow to love the Lord and others more. So, as we reminisce in 2020 and plan ahead for 2021, would you join me in making every effort to de-throne these kings? How can we do that?

  Be Intentional. Grab some paper or open a new note on your phone and create an actual plan that you’ll execute. Nail down some dates and times for the things you decide to do. If you need other information first, such as the family calendar, get it as soon as possible. The next days will pass by faster than you think so now is the time to make a solid plan.

  Love the “neighbor” closest to you. Spend time one-on-one with your wife and each child during the holiday season. Maybe you need to start with some relationship repair. It’s been a difficult year. Some of the most important words that you and I will ever utter are; I’m sorry. I was wrong. Please forgive me.

  Go for a walk with your spouse. Spend individual time with each child, even if it’s just going to a park and sitting in the car together. Pick up some hot chocolate and watch the cold on the outside with a warm relationship inside the car. Don’t make it a marathon. Half an hour may be enough. It’s important to take each child out individually to spend time with you alone.

  If your children are far away, schedule a video call at a time when you know they’ll be free of distractions or deadlines. Ask them questions about their life. A healthy conversation is a dialogue, not a monologue. The goal is quality, one-on-one time with each family member.

  Have fun! Don’t allow everyone to drift through your time together playing with their devices or watching football. Set aside scheduled time to do some fun things together. There are tons of things to do safely outdoors together, such as an evening walk or a drive to look at lights. Even though staying home doesn’t feel like something that needs to be reserved on the calendar, it is! Set aside some specific times to play games as a group. Choose a favorite board game or card game. Bake or cook a special Christmas recipe together. If you have younger children, you could act out the nativity story with your family members (pets welcome).

  Give to someone in need. Christmas isn’t about getting, it’s about giving. That’s what God the Father did that first Christmas when He sent His Son, Jesus. This year especially, there is no shortage of people who will benefit from whatever you have to give, whether it’s your time, attention, or money. As a family, maybe be a secret Santa for a family with limited resources. Go carol someone elderly or shut-in, even if it’s just you and your spouse. It truly is the thought that counts. So, get creative. There are so many ways to encourage and give and serve. Find some. Make some memories. Make a difference in your own heart and in the lives of others.

Can we help you spiritually? Can we help you know Jesus better? Please check out more resources on our church's web page, Gracechurchwi.org. Or, call us at 262.763.3021. If you'd like to know more about how Jesus can change your life, I'd love to mail you a copy of how Jesus changed my life in "My Story." E-mail me at Carson@gracechurchwi.org to request a free copy. Please include your mailing address. 

Worst Christmas Ever

“It is not materialism that is the chief curse of the world…but idealism. Men get into trouble by taking their visions and hallucinations too seriously.”  H.L. Mencken

Have you ever had a miserable Christmas? I’ve had a few. Do you know whose fault it was? It was my kids! No, that’s not true. It was my fault. The person who caused my unhappiness looked back at me from the mirror.

  Do you know the biggest cause of personal misery? Other than your own sin nature – idealism. I’m not sure that I’ve ever watched a Hallmark movie, at least I’m not going to admit it, yet between my ears I had a picture of a Hallmark Christmas…and when it didn’t turn out that way, I was disappointed, even angry.

  Ours is a world where the standard promoted is perfection. We shop for the perfect Christmas gift. We expect the perfect Christmas gift. We attempt to take perfect Christmas pictures. We want the perfect house when all of the relatives visit. We want our kids to be perfectly behaved. Our spouse is to be perfectly dressed, loving and helpful. We try to prepare the perfect meal and the weather needs to cooperate and be perfect. So, how’s that working out for you? Not so good…that’s what I thought.

  So, please turn off the TV, set aside the Christmas cards with pristine scenes, walk hurriedly by the perfect nativity scenes at Kohl’s and clear out those imaginary pictures in your mind. That first Christmas was not only not ideal, it was a huge mess, glorious, yes, but still a mess. Why?

  Mary and Joseph were traveling a long way from home. It’s about 90 miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Assuming approximately 20 miles a day on the back of a donkey when Mary is nine months pregnant (Joseph no doubt walked the whole distance). How ideal are you at traveling with no modern conveniences? Add, to that it was hot, dry and dusty.  

    Mary and Joseph were going to Bethlehem to be taxed, and so was everyone else. How do you feel about taxes? How do you feel about large crowds? Does it put a big smile on your face and put you in a great mood? Do you like being shoved and jostled? I didn’t think so.

  Were you born in a barn? Dave and Karyn Borucki raise goats and recently had a litter all born at the same time. I dropped by to congratulate them and check out the new kids. They were glad to see me but Dave warned me to be careful where I stepped. When you think of clean or sanitized, does “barn” come into your mind? Have you ever been in a barn that didn’t smell?

  Most mothers aren’t beautiful during childbirth. I’m sure that Joseph thought Mary was beautiful. I’ve had the awesome experience of being there for the birth of my three children. After hours of labor and with that first small cry, Jane was the most beautiful woman in the world to me. On a human level though, beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder.

  Then, where is that OB-GYN? Joseph was the OB-GYN, nurse and everything else. What are most first-time Dads like when their wife is giving birth? Frantic, nervous, terrified. Then, you realize all that blood is not from the baby, but from your wife. There were no sanitary receiving blankets. Swaddling clothes are cloths used in the practice of swaddling, or essentially “wrapping” an infant tightly in cloth. The idea behind it is that it helps the baby transition from the womb (a very snug place) to the outside world. So, no doctors or nurses. Not even a midwife. Just a young Dad, his teenage wife and their brand new son.

  The first visitors smelled too. We’ve glamorized the shepherds. We’ve given them long flowing, colorful robes and put perfectly shaped shepherds rods in their hands. Everyone’s beard is immaculately trimmed and of course they’re kneeling in a very reverent pose. On many Christmas cards, baby Jesus is smiling and looks like He’s even waving at them.

  But these guys were ordinary shepherds, blue collar workers. They made just enough money to survive. They had rough hands, clothes that were dirty and tattered from a life out in the open fields. As they came to Jesus, they smelled like sheep and human body odor. They were working stiffs doing an ordinary job on an ordinary night when they had an extraordinary encounter with God.

  Even the lighting was far from perfect. We take electricity for granted. Walk in a house, flip a switch and we have light…lots of it. Our family has vacationed a few times in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Until then, I don’t think that I realized how dark darkness could be.

  Maybe you’ve had to change a tire or work on a car problem in the dark. The oft repeated phrase is, “move that light over here.” But what if there was no light. Just an ancient lantern that’s very susceptible to a slight breeze snuffing it out. And you’re in the midst of a medical procedure that you have no experience in. There are no copies of Delivering Babies for Dummies lying around. You can’t even Youtube it.

  What’s the lesson for us? We must learn to look for God in the less than ideal, in the ordinary and not the spectacular. What was for them so ordinary became so eternally extraordinary! And it was all God!

  Over the next few days as you approach Christmas, put your antenna up and look for divine encounters in your everyday life. Take a page out of Mary’s book. The Bible tells us that this teenage Mom treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart (Luke 2:19). Focus on the Savior who left the perfection of heaven to come to a dirty, smelly world for dirty rotten sinners like you and me. This Christmas take some  time to ponder all that’s happening and be “amazed” as all who heard it were amazed at the shepherds' story (Luke 2:18). Everyone heard about it. Most were impressed for a New York minute. But God gave His Son for us so that we’d be amazed! It’s why for those who know Him know it’s Amazing Grace! This Christmas, please take some time and be amazed again!

Can we help you spiritually? Can we help you know Jesus better? Please check out more resources on our church's web page, Gracechurchwi.org. Or, call us at 262.763.3021. If you'd like to know more about how Jesus can change your life, I'd love to mail you a copy of how Jesus changed my life in "My Story." E-mail me at Carson@gracechurchwi.org to request a free copy. Please include your mailing address.