The work God gave his Son to do was finished. Our debt of sin was paid in full. There is no need for another blood sacrifice by a priest to cancel sin for a season.

Angels appeared to shepherds, proclaiming good news and rejoicing over the arrival of the Savior.

Christmas joy is rooted in a Savior who came to restore our souls and teach us how to live in truth. May these reflections encourage you to grow in Christlike character and share His joy with everyone around you.

Even when our understanding is cluttered with cultural add-ons, Jesus endures every storm with grace. My prayer is that these words help you rest in the One who has never lost His place in the story—and never loses His place in your life.

He told us plainly that some would reject Him, even as they embrace the celebrations around His birth. Yet He continues to love the world and to sustain those who follow Him.

Just as we treasure certain items because of the people they remind us of, this Advent season calls us to treasure Christ above all.

From Genesis to the prophets to the manger, God’s plan has always pointed to Jesus. As you read, may you be reminded that His gift is for all people, including you, and that His revelation brings life and purpose.

May these words remind you that your security rests not in flawless behavior, but in confessing Christ and walking in His love. In Him, you can know, not guess, that you belong to God.

We search for the perfect gifts each December, yet Jude reminds us that God has already given us treasures beyond measure.

We hide Christmas gifts for surprise and delight, but God offers us something far better; a hiding place of peace, protection, and strength.

Just as Christmas lights draw crowds with their warmth and beauty, the true Light, Jesus, draws our hearts toward hope.

As you reflect on His coming, may you embrace the sacred opportunity to carry His light into places of pain, offering hope to those still searching for refuge in the darkness.

In a season filled with lights, matching pajamas, and festive sweaters, we pause to remember the humility of Jesus’ birth—swaddling cloths, a borrowed manger, and the quiet arrival of our Servant-King.

As you walk through Advent, may you slow down, notice His nearness, and remember that the Savior who once cried with us now dwells within us.

Even when waiting feels uncomfortable, Scripture shows it can become sacred space for growth. Paul’s example teaches us that God works powerfully in seasons where time seems to stand still.

Through a grandson’s simple “Good morning” and love for Jesus, we’re reminded that the message of Christ is both personal and communal—drawing every generation into His joy. As we share the gift of Jesus with others, our own fellowship with Him grows deeper and our joy becomes complete.

You are invited to remember the extraordinary gift God has already placed in your hands—a faith strengthened by His power and designed to grow through daily discipline.

While the physical celebrations of Christmas come to an end, the spiritual work of Christ—His finished sacrifice and the ongoing transformation He brings—continues in our lives and hearts.

Merry Christmas from Dean Collins!

In Luke 2, we read that Mary gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manager. Consider this for a moment. God  chose to put on skin and be bound in swaddling clothes.