When someone says these words there has been a failure to meet expectations.  Whatever the past looked like needs to change now.  One thing is necessary for that to happen.

Merry Christmas from Dean Collins!

As the news media scramble to grab our attention, they make us increasingly aware of a world awash in bad news. . . . But it need not overwhelm us. The reality that God himself came to earth can energize even our most mundane or difficult days. One of the favorite Christmastime greetings we have posted on this site. Read it all by clicking here.

We find ourselves rushing through Scripture readings, Advent devotionals, and prayer as we frantically try to get gifts purchased, food prepared, parties attended, and work finished. And we just can’t seem to find enough time to sleep.

Christmas is a season of joy. And joy, real and divine joy, comes to us as we abide in Christ and follow his teachings.

As we contemplate the gift of Jesus who came to the world a little over 2,000 years ago, we can have full assurance that he delivers on his promises 100 percent of the time.

The angels spoke their praise. Today we gladly sing it. And it’s a message not limited to the familiar Christmas Bible texts.

We may hide gifts at Christmas, but God has made clear the remarkable gift h’s provided for us.

The gospel is born and bathed in mystery. At Christmas, let’s not take the wonder for granted.

We may think of repentance as a subject for Lent more than Advent. But a second look helps us to think again.

“Let us press on to know the Lord.”

The little letter of Jude gives us the perfect Christmas list: “May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you.”

When we have a right relationship with God through Christ, then his peace fills us and makes it possible for us to bring peace to others.

When we go to our hiding place with God, he will cover us with his loving arms, remind us of all his promises, and give us the strength and the wisdom to navigate every challenge victoriously.

Dean Collins quoted a favorite Christmas hymn, told us a little about how it was written, and challenged us to see its truth in one chapter from 1 John in this post that first appeared in 2021.

What good news we have is that our identity with Christ translates into community with God and each other.

“For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. “

Decorating for Christmas is usually a sensory experience. Christ’s first coming involved all the senses, too.

Most of us have trouble waiting, especially for Christmas. Even more challenging is our wait for the second advent of Jesus.

Advent includes some looking back at the promises and prophecies of God. But Advent also always prompts us to wait and to hope for something yet to be revealed.