This article summarizes five personal Christmas stories contained in the issue. The stories showcase the diverse Christmas experiences of: 1) Ike Suriwong, who shared the meaning of Christmas with children in Phuket, Thailand, before the devastating 2004 tsunami; 2) Mario Sant'Ana, who found a way to exponentially spread Christmas spirit by inspiring recipients to become givers; 3) Erika Blecic, who discovered music with healing power; 4) Nyx Martinez, who remembers a childhood Christmas with no money but everything that mattered; and 5) Rohit Kumar, who recounts what he thinks the Christmas angels were up to on the 2000th anniversary of their Bethlehem assignment. Each story emphasizes giving over
Activated: Christmas Rush or Christmas Reason?Spiritualibrary
This document discusses different perspectives on Christmas and what it means to different people. It explores how Christmas can be a time of financial gain or debt, family and friendship or loneliness, comfort or lack. It emphasizes that for Christians, Christmas is an opportunity to celebrate Jesus' birth and share his love. It encourages taking time to focus on Jesus rather than getting caught up in the rush and stresses of the holiday season.
This document contains two articles about finding the true meaning and reason for Christmas amidst the busy rush of activities. The first article tells a story of a child wanting to stop and look at a nativity scene but being rushed along by her mother. It encourages taking time to stop and experience Jesus, whose birth is the essence of Christmas, rather than getting caught up in endless shopping and tasks. The second article continues this theme, saying the sweetness of Christmas is found by stopping to remember Jesus rather than rushing through accomplishments. It encourages enjoying the beauty of Christmas and spending time with Jesus to receive the gifts of peace, love and joy he offers.
The document is a church bulletin that provides information about upcoming events and needs for the community. It includes announcements about packing backpacks for schools, a ladies fellowship meeting, condolences for recent losses, registration for a summer camp week, a new locking system for the building, and updates on sick members and nursing home residents. It also has a daily Bible reading schedule, birthdays and anniversaries, and schedules for upcoming youth group events and men serving for Sunday services.
Life can be overwhelming especially if you put off decisions. Sermon audio link http://edthepastor.podbean.com/e/decisions-decisions-decisions-genesis-431-15/?token=4d8d2e56042e839da4ed3253362184c5
The document discusses the need for both physical and spiritual rest. It notes that while God did not need rest after creation, people do need rest for their bodies and minds. Jesus offered spiritual rest and forgiveness from sins to those who come to him. It also references the rest believers will find in heaven. The question is posed - are readers ready for this spiritual rest?
This document provides a summary of a religious article discussing God as one's "all in all." It discusses how God offers strength when one is weak through temptation. It references a song about God being the treasure and strength. The article discusses how God can deliver people from temptation if they remain godly. It emphasizes that God wants people to come to truth and knowledge, and that people must find a balance of understanding who God is and who they are. The conclusion is that people must resolve to make God their "all in all."
This article discusses the importance of patience and how it is developed through enduring trials. It notes that many modern Christians want blessings from God immediately without being willing to go through difficulties to obtain them. True patience is built through hardship over time, not instantly. The example is given of Job, who endured immense suffering patiently without losing faith in God. The article encourages readers to seek patience through trials and not expect to gain it quickly or easily.
This article discusses the atoning blood of Christ and its importance in emphasizing the seriousness of sin, reminding us of the salvation available, and encouraging our security. It notes that only the blood of Christ has the power to remove man's guilty sin stains. It also emphasizes that Jesus died individually for each person and his sacrifice allows salvation for all men. His precious atoning blood is what washes away our sins.
Activated: Christmas Rush or Christmas Reason?Spiritualibrary
This document discusses different perspectives on Christmas and what it means to different people. It explores how Christmas can be a time of financial gain or debt, family and friendship or loneliness, comfort or lack. It emphasizes that for Christians, Christmas is an opportunity to celebrate Jesus' birth and share his love. It encourages taking time to focus on Jesus rather than getting caught up in the rush and stresses of the holiday season.
This document contains two articles about finding the true meaning and reason for Christmas amidst the busy rush of activities. The first article tells a story of a child wanting to stop and look at a nativity scene but being rushed along by her mother. It encourages taking time to stop and experience Jesus, whose birth is the essence of Christmas, rather than getting caught up in endless shopping and tasks. The second article continues this theme, saying the sweetness of Christmas is found by stopping to remember Jesus rather than rushing through accomplishments. It encourages enjoying the beauty of Christmas and spending time with Jesus to receive the gifts of peace, love and joy he offers.
The document is a church bulletin that provides information about upcoming events and needs for the community. It includes announcements about packing backpacks for schools, a ladies fellowship meeting, condolences for recent losses, registration for a summer camp week, a new locking system for the building, and updates on sick members and nursing home residents. It also has a daily Bible reading schedule, birthdays and anniversaries, and schedules for upcoming youth group events and men serving for Sunday services.
Life can be overwhelming especially if you put off decisions. Sermon audio link http://edthepastor.podbean.com/e/decisions-decisions-decisions-genesis-431-15/?token=4d8d2e56042e839da4ed3253362184c5
The document discusses the need for both physical and spiritual rest. It notes that while God did not need rest after creation, people do need rest for their bodies and minds. Jesus offered spiritual rest and forgiveness from sins to those who come to him. It also references the rest believers will find in heaven. The question is posed - are readers ready for this spiritual rest?
This document provides a summary of a religious article discussing God as one's "all in all." It discusses how God offers strength when one is weak through temptation. It references a song about God being the treasure and strength. The article discusses how God can deliver people from temptation if they remain godly. It emphasizes that God wants people to come to truth and knowledge, and that people must find a balance of understanding who God is and who they are. The conclusion is that people must resolve to make God their "all in all."
This article discusses the importance of patience and how it is developed through enduring trials. It notes that many modern Christians want blessings from God immediately without being willing to go through difficulties to obtain them. True patience is built through hardship over time, not instantly. The example is given of Job, who endured immense suffering patiently without losing faith in God. The article encourages readers to seek patience through trials and not expect to gain it quickly or easily.
This article discusses the atoning blood of Christ and its importance in emphasizing the seriousness of sin, reminding us of the salvation available, and encouraging our security. It notes that only the blood of Christ has the power to remove man's guilty sin stains. It also emphasizes that Jesus died individually for each person and his sacrifice allows salvation for all men. His precious atoning blood is what washes away our sins.
This document contains two passages. The first passage describes a sea captain who vowed to God that he would change his life if he was saved from drowning after a shipwreck. When questioned later about this vow, he became angry but could not sleep and returned to apologize, determined to keep his vow. The second passage discusses how making vows without intending to keep them can cause harm, using wedding vows and vows of faith as examples. It encourages taking vows seriously.
The document is the bulletin from East Main Church of Christ in Tupelo, Mississippi. It provides information about upcoming church events including a wedding shower, thank you notes, a new movers' program, and vacation bible school. It also lists the elders, deacons, ministers, attendance and contributions from the previous week's services.
The article discusses preparing for Judgment Day and asks the question "Are you ready?". It references a hymn that asks this same question and encourages readers to take the hymn's message to heart. On Judgment Day, the righteous will be separated from the unrighteous. The second coming of Christ will be bright for those who love God but sad for sinners. The article warns that many will be lost, thinking they are saved, but Jesus will say "I never knew you". It concludes by asking again if readers are ready for Judgment Day.
The article discusses the history and importance of lighthouses. It notes that the modern lighthouse design originated in the 18th century when French inventor Augustin Fresnel developed lenses and reflectors to concentrate light into a bright beam visible from over 20 miles away. The design is still used today in automotive headlights and other devices. The article then draws a spiritual analogy, saying that as lighthouses guide sailors to shore, Christians should let their faith shine before others to guide souls to "salvation's shore." It challenges readers to examine how bright their own spiritual light is reflecting Christ's example.
The article critiques common elements of modern nativity scenes that are not biblically accurate. It argues that while the scenes aim to promote the Christmas spirit, they have perverted biblical truth in some details. Specifically, the article notes that the Bible does not mention an angel at the manger, a star shining directly over the manger, or names or numbers assigned to the wise men who visited Jesus. The article encourages carefully examining scripture rather than accepting religious traditions without thought.
This document provides information from the East Main Church of Christ congregation in Tupelo, Mississippi. It includes an article discussing the ties that bind Christians together through faith, forgiveness, and family. It also provides announcements about upcoming church events, a prayer request list, and details about serving schedules. The document serves to inform and engage the congregation.
The document provides background on Saint Francis of Assisi and describes how he created the first nativity scene or crèche in 1223. As a young man, Francis loved material things but had a spiritual awakening after becoming ill while imprisoned in war. He gave away his possessions and founded the Franciscan Order based on vows of poverty. Francis had the idea to use a cave and simple objects like hay, an ox, and an ass to help people visualize what Jesus' birthplace may have been like. This living nativity scene attracted many people and allowed Francis to preach about the humble birth of the "poor King." It helped establish traditions still associated with Christmas celebrations today.
This document summarizes a story that traces the history of epilepsy through fictional interactions between a boy with epilepsy and famous historical figures who also suffered from epilepsy. It follows the boy as he grows up to find a cure for the disease. The story aims to increase awareness about epilepsy, explain past research efforts, eradicate myths and discrimination, and pay tribute to pharmacists and researchers working towards curing epilepsy. It discusses epilepsy in times of Hippocrates and mentions ongoing research as well as famous individuals from history who suffered from epilepsy such as Julius Caesar, Joan of Arc, and Isaac Newton.
An angel tells Joseph in a dream not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife, as the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. The child will be named Jesus and save people from their sins, fulfilling the prophecy that a virgin will conceive and bear a son named Immanuel, meaning "God with us." While some claim Christmas was borrowed from pagan winter solstice festivals, this ignores evidence that early North African Christians celebrated Christ's conception on December 25th, and the early church's focus was on Christ's conception as the transition of God becoming man, not his birth.
The poem describes a scene on Christmas Eve where no one in a house is praying or reading the Bible. When angels announce Jesus's arrival, the people in the house realize they were not prepared. Jesus judges those present based on whether their names were written in the Book of Life. Those who were ready go with Jesus to heaven, while the others are left behind in eternal night. The poem serves as a warning that Jesus will return unexpectedly and people must be prepared.
What is christmas free lesson plan keystage 2Peter Reason
This R.E. lesson plan looks at:
What is the festival of 'Christmas’?
Who was Joseph and Mary?
What was happening around the time when Jesus was born?
Let’s run through all of these events about 2000 years ago…..
This Christianity lesson plan is ready to use, straight into the classroom for the pupils to look at and work through.
Teachers require no planning for this lesson plan.
This document contains a poem about kindness, information about elders and deacons at the East Main Church of Christ, and several announcements. The poem emphasizes showing kindness to others as God showed kindness through sacrificing his son. The information section lists the elders and deacons at the church. The announcements include upcoming gospel meetings, a thank you note from the church, and daily Bible readings.
This article discusses setting godly goals for one's life. It argues that Christians should be the most successful at achieving godly goals. The article outlines two foundational godly goals: 1) Fellowship with God, focusing on one's relationship with Him above all else. 2) Righteous living, defined as doing what is right according to God's word, not one's own righteousness. The article encourages growing in faith through Bible study in order to achieve righteous living. It questions whether readers are focusing on being with God or the world, and urges setting godly goals to overcome the past and affect one's present.
The document discusses the origins and history of Christmas traditions. While Christmas is celebrated as the birthday of Jesus Christ, the Bible does not specify a date and analyses of scripture suggest Jesus was likely born in September, not December. Many Christmas traditions, such as Christmas trees, wreaths, mistletoe and Santa Claus, originated from pre-Christian pagan winter solstice festivals. The date of December 25th was chosen by early Christian churches to coincide with these pagan festivals in order to make the new religion more appealing. The document cautions against adopting pagan traditions and idolatry.
The document provides a list of seven gifts that do not cost money, including the gift of listening, affection, laughter, written notes, compliments, favors, and a cheerful disposition. It encourages giving these types of gifts generously. It also includes a Bible verse from Luke emphasizing the importance of giving to others. The rest of the document contains announcements for an area church, including information about worship services, Bible readings, birthdays, sick individuals, and schedules for serving communion and leading singing.
This document provides a summary of the concept of courtesy. It argues that true courtesy involves consideration for others and meeting their needs, not just being polite. It cites Jesus as the most courteous person who at times had to use strong language and actions to discipline those who had rejected God's standard. The document encourages Christians to set a good example and be ready to explain their faith to others with meekness and speaking the truth in love.
The document discusses why catechism and attending mass every Sunday are important aspects of the Catholic faith. Catechism helps spread the Good News of Jesus and his salvation from sin, working with priests to evangelize like the apostles. Attending mass fulfills the commandment to keep holy the Sabbath and allows Christians to remember Jesus' sacrifice in the Eucharist, receiving grace and strength from communion. The document uses examples from the Bible and lives of saints like Stephen and Paul to illustrate the importance of witnessing one's faith.
The article discusses when baptism is effective and when it is not. It argues that baptism does not provide spiritual benefits if it is not preceded by: 1) correct understanding of Jesus' death and salvation through obedience, 2) proper faith in Jesus as divine and baptism as necessary for salvation, 3) true repentance from sinful behaviors, and 4) a biblical confession of faith in Jesus as the Son of God. It also claims baptism is ineffective if it is not an immersion or not followed by ongoing Christian living. The article aims to clarify the proper role and prerequisites of baptism between those who see it as unnecessary or as a "cure all."
This article discusses the importance of giving thanks to God always. It begins with a poem about appreciating what we have compared to others who have disabilities or challenges. The poem emphasizes that we should not whine or complain when we have so many blessings. The article then discusses biblical passages about giving thanks, including Ephesians 5:20 which says to give thanks for all things. It notes that as Christians we have hope, life, and abundant life through Christ. However, some may not realize what was given through Jesus taking away our sins. The article encourages reading God's word to understand our need for salvation. It concludes by reminding us to give thanks to God during this holiday season and always.
This document is an interactive Christmas quiz presented by Joe K. Varghese. It contains 7 multiple choice questions about details of Jesus's birth from the Bible, such as where he was born (Bethlehem) and placed (a manger). The most important question asks who Jesus is and why he came - for God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, Jesus, so that whoever believes in him shall have eternal life. The quiz encourages learning about the reason for Christmas by finding the answer not under a tree but in one's heart.
The Intriguing Story of the First ChristmasMyWonderStudio
1) The archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary and told her she would give birth to Jesus, the Son of God. Mary was confused but accepted God's plan.
2) Joseph initially doubted Mary's story but an angel visited him in a dream and assured him the child was conceived by the Holy Spirit.
3) Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem for a census and Jesus was born in a stable, as there was no room for them in the inn. Shepherds visited the manger after angels announced Jesus' birth to them.
This document contains two passages. The first passage describes a sea captain who vowed to God that he would change his life if he was saved from drowning after a shipwreck. When questioned later about this vow, he became angry but could not sleep and returned to apologize, determined to keep his vow. The second passage discusses how making vows without intending to keep them can cause harm, using wedding vows and vows of faith as examples. It encourages taking vows seriously.
The document is the bulletin from East Main Church of Christ in Tupelo, Mississippi. It provides information about upcoming church events including a wedding shower, thank you notes, a new movers' program, and vacation bible school. It also lists the elders, deacons, ministers, attendance and contributions from the previous week's services.
The article discusses preparing for Judgment Day and asks the question "Are you ready?". It references a hymn that asks this same question and encourages readers to take the hymn's message to heart. On Judgment Day, the righteous will be separated from the unrighteous. The second coming of Christ will be bright for those who love God but sad for sinners. The article warns that many will be lost, thinking they are saved, but Jesus will say "I never knew you". It concludes by asking again if readers are ready for Judgment Day.
The article discusses the history and importance of lighthouses. It notes that the modern lighthouse design originated in the 18th century when French inventor Augustin Fresnel developed lenses and reflectors to concentrate light into a bright beam visible from over 20 miles away. The design is still used today in automotive headlights and other devices. The article then draws a spiritual analogy, saying that as lighthouses guide sailors to shore, Christians should let their faith shine before others to guide souls to "salvation's shore." It challenges readers to examine how bright their own spiritual light is reflecting Christ's example.
The article critiques common elements of modern nativity scenes that are not biblically accurate. It argues that while the scenes aim to promote the Christmas spirit, they have perverted biblical truth in some details. Specifically, the article notes that the Bible does not mention an angel at the manger, a star shining directly over the manger, or names or numbers assigned to the wise men who visited Jesus. The article encourages carefully examining scripture rather than accepting religious traditions without thought.
This document provides information from the East Main Church of Christ congregation in Tupelo, Mississippi. It includes an article discussing the ties that bind Christians together through faith, forgiveness, and family. It also provides announcements about upcoming church events, a prayer request list, and details about serving schedules. The document serves to inform and engage the congregation.
The document provides background on Saint Francis of Assisi and describes how he created the first nativity scene or crèche in 1223. As a young man, Francis loved material things but had a spiritual awakening after becoming ill while imprisoned in war. He gave away his possessions and founded the Franciscan Order based on vows of poverty. Francis had the idea to use a cave and simple objects like hay, an ox, and an ass to help people visualize what Jesus' birthplace may have been like. This living nativity scene attracted many people and allowed Francis to preach about the humble birth of the "poor King." It helped establish traditions still associated with Christmas celebrations today.
This document summarizes a story that traces the history of epilepsy through fictional interactions between a boy with epilepsy and famous historical figures who also suffered from epilepsy. It follows the boy as he grows up to find a cure for the disease. The story aims to increase awareness about epilepsy, explain past research efforts, eradicate myths and discrimination, and pay tribute to pharmacists and researchers working towards curing epilepsy. It discusses epilepsy in times of Hippocrates and mentions ongoing research as well as famous individuals from history who suffered from epilepsy such as Julius Caesar, Joan of Arc, and Isaac Newton.
An angel tells Joseph in a dream not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife, as the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. The child will be named Jesus and save people from their sins, fulfilling the prophecy that a virgin will conceive and bear a son named Immanuel, meaning "God with us." While some claim Christmas was borrowed from pagan winter solstice festivals, this ignores evidence that early North African Christians celebrated Christ's conception on December 25th, and the early church's focus was on Christ's conception as the transition of God becoming man, not his birth.
The poem describes a scene on Christmas Eve where no one in a house is praying or reading the Bible. When angels announce Jesus's arrival, the people in the house realize they were not prepared. Jesus judges those present based on whether their names were written in the Book of Life. Those who were ready go with Jesus to heaven, while the others are left behind in eternal night. The poem serves as a warning that Jesus will return unexpectedly and people must be prepared.
What is christmas free lesson plan keystage 2Peter Reason
This R.E. lesson plan looks at:
What is the festival of 'Christmas’?
Who was Joseph and Mary?
What was happening around the time when Jesus was born?
Let’s run through all of these events about 2000 years ago…..
This Christianity lesson plan is ready to use, straight into the classroom for the pupils to look at and work through.
Teachers require no planning for this lesson plan.
This document contains a poem about kindness, information about elders and deacons at the East Main Church of Christ, and several announcements. The poem emphasizes showing kindness to others as God showed kindness through sacrificing his son. The information section lists the elders and deacons at the church. The announcements include upcoming gospel meetings, a thank you note from the church, and daily Bible readings.
This article discusses setting godly goals for one's life. It argues that Christians should be the most successful at achieving godly goals. The article outlines two foundational godly goals: 1) Fellowship with God, focusing on one's relationship with Him above all else. 2) Righteous living, defined as doing what is right according to God's word, not one's own righteousness. The article encourages growing in faith through Bible study in order to achieve righteous living. It questions whether readers are focusing on being with God or the world, and urges setting godly goals to overcome the past and affect one's present.
The document discusses the origins and history of Christmas traditions. While Christmas is celebrated as the birthday of Jesus Christ, the Bible does not specify a date and analyses of scripture suggest Jesus was likely born in September, not December. Many Christmas traditions, such as Christmas trees, wreaths, mistletoe and Santa Claus, originated from pre-Christian pagan winter solstice festivals. The date of December 25th was chosen by early Christian churches to coincide with these pagan festivals in order to make the new religion more appealing. The document cautions against adopting pagan traditions and idolatry.
The document provides a list of seven gifts that do not cost money, including the gift of listening, affection, laughter, written notes, compliments, favors, and a cheerful disposition. It encourages giving these types of gifts generously. It also includes a Bible verse from Luke emphasizing the importance of giving to others. The rest of the document contains announcements for an area church, including information about worship services, Bible readings, birthdays, sick individuals, and schedules for serving communion and leading singing.
This document provides a summary of the concept of courtesy. It argues that true courtesy involves consideration for others and meeting their needs, not just being polite. It cites Jesus as the most courteous person who at times had to use strong language and actions to discipline those who had rejected God's standard. The document encourages Christians to set a good example and be ready to explain their faith to others with meekness and speaking the truth in love.
The document discusses why catechism and attending mass every Sunday are important aspects of the Catholic faith. Catechism helps spread the Good News of Jesus and his salvation from sin, working with priests to evangelize like the apostles. Attending mass fulfills the commandment to keep holy the Sabbath and allows Christians to remember Jesus' sacrifice in the Eucharist, receiving grace and strength from communion. The document uses examples from the Bible and lives of saints like Stephen and Paul to illustrate the importance of witnessing one's faith.
The article discusses when baptism is effective and when it is not. It argues that baptism does not provide spiritual benefits if it is not preceded by: 1) correct understanding of Jesus' death and salvation through obedience, 2) proper faith in Jesus as divine and baptism as necessary for salvation, 3) true repentance from sinful behaviors, and 4) a biblical confession of faith in Jesus as the Son of God. It also claims baptism is ineffective if it is not an immersion or not followed by ongoing Christian living. The article aims to clarify the proper role and prerequisites of baptism between those who see it as unnecessary or as a "cure all."
This article discusses the importance of giving thanks to God always. It begins with a poem about appreciating what we have compared to others who have disabilities or challenges. The poem emphasizes that we should not whine or complain when we have so many blessings. The article then discusses biblical passages about giving thanks, including Ephesians 5:20 which says to give thanks for all things. It notes that as Christians we have hope, life, and abundant life through Christ. However, some may not realize what was given through Jesus taking away our sins. The article encourages reading God's word to understand our need for salvation. It concludes by reminding us to give thanks to God during this holiday season and always.
This document is an interactive Christmas quiz presented by Joe K. Varghese. It contains 7 multiple choice questions about details of Jesus's birth from the Bible, such as where he was born (Bethlehem) and placed (a manger). The most important question asks who Jesus is and why he came - for God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, Jesus, so that whoever believes in him shall have eternal life. The quiz encourages learning about the reason for Christmas by finding the answer not under a tree but in one's heart.
The Intriguing Story of the First ChristmasMyWonderStudio
1) The archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary and told her she would give birth to Jesus, the Son of God. Mary was confused but accepted God's plan.
2) Joseph initially doubted Mary's story but an angel visited him in a dream and assured him the child was conceived by the Holy Spirit.
3) Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem for a census and Jesus was born in a stable, as there was no room for them in the inn. Shepherds visited the manger after angels announced Jesus' birth to them.
1. The document describes the story of Jesus's birth as told in the Bible, including details such as an angel appearing to Mary and Joseph in dreams to tell them Mary would give birth to God's son.
2. It describes Mary and Joseph traveling to Bethlehem for the census and finding no room at the inn, so they stayed in a stable where Jesus was born in a manger.
3. Nearby shepherds heard the birth announced by angels and went to see the baby Jesus, and later wise men followed a star to bring gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the infant Jesus.
This document is an article from a Christmas publication called Activated. It contains several short articles and stories related to Christmas:
1. The lead article discusses how Christmas is like a gift from God, with Jesus as the gift to the whole world. It shares a story of a child misunderstanding part of John 3:16 but helping the author realize how we can forget Jesus at Christmas.
2. Another story describes a couple using the only toys they had, 5 trucks, to gift the children of a family in need, connecting them to the spirit of Christmas.
3. Additional articles discuss the historical origins of Santa Claus, collecting nativity scenes from around the world, and how Christmas offers an opportunity
1. The document discusses key differences between traditional Christian teachings about Jesus and the teachings of the Divine Principle. It explains that in the Divine Principle, Jesus was meant to establish God's kingdom on Earth by marrying and having a sinless family to create a pure bloodline, rather than dying on the cross.
2. It notes Jesus needed to graduate to the family level to fulfill his role as the Messiah/True Parent, but was unable to marry. His death on the cross instead established Christianity as the "second Israel."
3. The document compares traditional Christian beliefs about Jesus' resurrection, disciples, and forgiveness of sins to the explanations provided in the Divine Principle. It suggests some traditional Christian
The document discusses three articles from a newsletter:
1) "We Shall Be Changed" discusses the resurrection and how believers will receive new, perfected bodies free from sickness and death.
2) "The Eyewitness" is a fictional first-person account of Malchus, the man whose ear was cut off during Jesus' arrest. It describes his role in Jesus' arrest and trial, and how Jesus healed and forgave him.
3) "Beyond the Hiccup" imagines an interview with God about the end times and what will happen after death. It promotes a message of hope and assurance in God's plans.
So, when there is so much turmoil, so much fear, so much uncertainty, so much unrest in our world and in our lives, it is easy to ask, “Where is this epiphany, this manifestation of the Lord?” I think the answer lies within two key lines of today’s Gospel. What are those lines? And why should we carry those lines with us each day? Check it out…
Our kids monthly magazine issue no 1 octoberzamchar
This document provides information in a monthly magazine for kids about activities at the Divine Mercy Shrine in Malta, including:
1) A greeting from Father Michael welcoming kids back from summer holidays and announcing the start of catechism classes.
2) Various puzzles, games, recipes, crafts and activities for kids related to faith.
3) Announcements of upcoming events at the shrine including a kids story/drawing/poem competition and pre-teens meetings, as well as a calendar of catechism classes for the term.
The document discusses various Christmas traditions from around the world. It notes that in Mexico, children enact Joseph and Mary's search for lodging by going door-to-door singing carols. Many countries have unique customs like lighting candles in windows in Ireland or decorating trees of light in China. The origins of traditions like Christmas trees and gift giving are explored in relation to the biblical Christmas story. The purpose of traditions worldwide is to celebrate and remember Jesus' birth and the joy and hope it brings.
Was Jesus meant to marry, have children grand-children ...
was the Cross just a second alternative that did bring Spiritual
but not Physical salvation.
Here are introduction the the Divine Principle view.
The document provides a detailed history of Christmas traditions from the birth of Jesus Christ to modern celebrations. It describes how Christmas has evolved over time from a religious holiday commemorating Jesus's birth to include secular traditions like Santa Claus delivering gifts, decorating trees, and exchanging gifts. The document also explores how different cultures around the world celebrate Christmas through traditions like caroling, feasts, lights, and gift giving.
Tates Creek Christian Church Current for December 2015David Eversole
This document is a newsletter from Tates Creek Christian Church providing information about upcoming events and articles from church ministers and staff.
The main articles discuss how Christmas traditions can change over time but the focus should remain on Jesus, remembering loved ones during the holidays, and the selfless act of mothers ensuring their children can create memories with extended family during Christmas. The newsletter also provides the church service schedule, list of staff, and calendar of December events.
The document is an article about hospitality from a church bulletin. It discusses the importance of hospitality in the Bible and how hospitality used to be more commonly practiced, such as a grandmother welcoming strangers off the train for food. However, hospitality is still needed today. While safety is important, Christians should find ways to generously receive others, such as how the Good Samaritan helped the injured man. The article encourages readers to think of ways they can exhibit hospitality.
Sermon Slide Deck: "God With Us & For Us" (Matthew 1:18-2:15)New City Church
The document is a sermon for Advent 2016 that discusses the incarnation of God in Jesus Christ. It explores the idea that God became human in the person of Jesus through passages from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. It discusses how this is the most profound miracle and defines the Christian faith. It reflects on what this means for our lives and calls us to consider how God becoming human in Jesus might impact or define us.
This document is a Christmas quiz testing knowledge of biblical facts versus Christmas traditions and legends. It contains 21 multiple choice questions about details of Jesus's birth from the gospels, as well as the origins of figures like Santa Claus. The questions are followed by explanations sourcing answers from the Bible or providing historical context about the development of traditions. Overall, the quiz aims to distinguish biblical truth from cultural myths that have developed around Christmas over time.
This document is a Christmas quiz that tests knowledge about details of Jesus's birth from the Bible. It contains 20 multiple choice or true/false questions about facts like Jesus's mother Mary, where he was born, who the wise men were, and more. The questions are followed by the answers and brief explanations or Bible verses supporting each answer. The quiz aims to help learn important facts about the nativity story and encourage reading the accounts in Matthew and Luke.
This document is a Christmas quiz that tests knowledge about details of Jesus's birth from the Bible. It contains 20 multiple choice or true/false questions about facts like Jesus's mother Mary, where he was born, who the wise men were, and more. The questions are followed by the answers and brief explanations or Bible verses supporting each answer. The quiz aims to help learn important facts about the nativity story and encourage reading the accounts in Matthew and Luke.
This is a study of Jesus as the reason for the season. I focus on the positive aspect but there is a negative side as well for much of Christmas celebration has nothing to do with Jesus.
The article discusses the concept of seasons in life and one's purpose. It argues that for Christians, the season is now to do God's work. Christians should prepare themselves, seek and save the lost, and help one another along the way. Though the seasons change, God remains the same and His work must be done while there is still time. Christians are called to make God's work personal and help shelter souls from sin during life's changing seasons.
The true meaning of Christmas was explained to some children in a town with no Christmas spirit. Mr. Rad told them the story of Jesus' birth - how Mary was told by an angel that she would bear God's son, though a virgin. Joseph initially wanted to break off his engagement to Mary when he discovered she was pregnant, but an angel in a dream told him to marry her as the child was from God. Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem where Jesus was born in a stable, as the inn was full. Angels announced his birth to shepherds in the field. The children were inspired to spread Christmas cheer in their town.
Contato - A lista de pedidos de Jesus para o NatalSpiritualibrary
O documento discute como o verdadeiro significado do Natal pode ser esquecido na correria das compras e preparativos. Contém histórias que ilustram como momentos simples com a família e uma conexão genuína com Jesus Cristo são mais importantes do que presentes ou festividades. Conclui enfatizando a necessidade de parar para apreciar o que o Natal realmente significa.
O documento discute o verdadeiro significado do Natal, que é a celebração do nascimento de Jesus Cristo, o Filho de Deus. Apesar de ter nascido humildemente, Jesus trouxe uma mensagem de amor, esperança e salvação para o mundo. Ele ensinou sobre o amor a Deus e ao próximo e realizou muitos milagres, porém foi rejeitado e crucificado. No entanto, ressuscitou três dias depois, vencendo a morte. Jesus é o maior presente que Deus deu à humanidade.
O documento descreve várias tradições natalinas em diferentes partes do mundo, como enfeitar árvores, presépios, troca de presentes e costumes religiosos. O Natal é celebrado de maneiras únicas em cada cultura, mas sempre com o objetivo comum de lembrar o nascimento de Jesus e espalhar alegria.
1) O documento apresenta cinco histórias pessoais sobre experiências vividas no Natal que, apesar das diferenças, compartilham o foco em dar ao próximo em vez de receber.
2) A história de Misha, uma criança órfã na Rússia, que ao ouvir sobre o nascimento de Jesus quis ficar com Ele na manjedoura para sempre.
3) Os oito milagres associados ao primeiro Natal de Jesus, como a concepção virginal, os anúncios angélicos e os sinais celestes que acompan
O documento discute como o Natal significa coisas diferentes para pessoas diferentes e como as mesmas tradições de Natal podem ser interpretadas de maneiras diversas. Em três frases, resume-se: O Natal traz alegria para alguns, solidão para outros. Alguns veem as decorações como símbolos de esperança, enquanto outros preferem gnomos musicais ao presépio. O documento reflete sobre os diferentes significados que o Natal pode ter.
O documento discute a importância de passar o Natal com as pessoas que amamos, compartilhando amor e atenção, em vez de nos concentrarmos apenas nas compras e presentes materiais. Também reflete sobre Jesus, o verdadeiro motivo do Natal, e como Ele deseja receber nosso amor e convite para viver em nosso coração.
O documento descreve uma viagem de Natal feita pelo autor para visitar os pais. No caminho, ele para para ajudar um motorista que teve problemas com o carro e acaba passando o Natal com essa família, tendo a oportunidade de compartilhar sobre Jesus.
Este documento conta a história de um casal missionário que enfrentou dificuldades financeiras e de saúde ao tentar manter sua obra missionária. Eles acolheram uma jovem grávida expulsa de casa e ajudaram-na. A história mostra como Deus cumpriu Sua promessa de forma inesperada ao ajudá-los nesse momento difícil.
Libri, ebook e riviste gratuiti - www.spiritualibrary.com
devozioni, devozione, giovani, adulti, vita cristiana, la vita cristiana, auto-aiuto, auto-miglioramento, relazioni con altre persone, capacità di comunicazione, capacità di lavorare in gruppo, etica,
The Power of Actions Slideshow by: Kal-elKal-el Shows
This message, “The Power of Actions”, emphasizes just how powerful moving actions are and gives us strong actions of advice as to how we use to do with actions.
ACTIONS is EVERYTHING! They bless or they curse, lift up or known down,
embrace it or unbrace it!
Tales of This and Another Life - Chapters.pdfMashaL38
This book is one of the best of the translated ones, for it has a warning character for all those who find themselves in the experience of material life. Irmão X provides a shrewd way of describing the subtleties and weaknesses that can jeopardize our intentions, making us more attentive and vigilant by providing us with his wise pages, reminding us between the lines of the Master's words: "Pray and watch."
2nd issue of Volume 15. A magazine in urdu language mainly based on spiritual treatment and learning. Many topics on ISLAM, SUFISM, SOCIAL PROBLEMS, SELF HELP, PSYCHOLOGY, HEALTH, SPIRITUAL TREATMENT, Ruqya etc.A very useful magazine for everyone.
taittreya upanishad - tradition of yoga and Upanishads, this concept of panch...Karuna Yoga Vidya Peetham
In his search towards reality or the unchanging fundamental unit of this universe, a scientist started with the external gross world of solid matter which is simple and easy to see, divide, and do experiments with.
This search led him through steps of understanding of this entire world of matter starting from elements, molecules, atoms, protons, neutrons and electrons;
He further understood that it is all packets of energy.
The atoms conglomerate together to form various chemicals; our body is therefore a permutation and combination of various chemicals. (Packets of energy in various configurations) When they join together they form molecules, cells, tissues organs, etc.
These follow certain well defined laws of nature and are controlled by nervous (electrical) and chemical (hormones) mechanisms to bring about movement and action in each and every cell.
Thus annamaya kosha is the physical frame which the grossest of the five Koshas.
"Lift off" by Pastor Mark Behr at North Athens Baptist ChurchJurgenFinch
23 June 2024
Morning Service at North Athens Baptist Church Athens, Michigan
“Lift Off” by Pastor Mark Behr
Scriptures: Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:6-11.
We are a small country Church in Athens Michigan who loves to reach out to others with the love of God. We worship an Awesome God who loves the whole world and wants everyone to see and understand what He has done for us. (1 Corinthians 15:1-4) We hope you are encouraging by our Sunday Morning sermon videos. If you are ever in the area, please feel free to attend our Sunday Morning Services at North Athens Baptist Church 2020 M Drive South, Athens, Michigan. If you have any question and would like to talk to Pastor Mark, or have prayer request please call the church at (269) 729-553
Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.
Morning Service: 10:45 a.m.
Full Morning Service on Facebook Live at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/nabc2020athensmichigan
Sermon Only Live on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@NABC2020AthensMI
Sermon Only Audio of Morning Sermon at: https://soundcloud.com/user-591083416
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Introduction
Mantra Yoga is an exact science. "Mananat trayate iti mantrah- by the Manana (constant thinking or recollection) of which one is protected or is released from the round of births and deaths, is Mantra." That is called Mantra by the meditation (Manana) on which the Jiva or the individual soul attains freedom from sin, enjoyment in heaven and final liberation, and by the aid of which it attains in full the fourfold fruit (Chaturvarga), i.e., Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha. A Mantra is so called because it is achieved by the mental process.
chakra yoga
Number of petals: 4 Location: Base of the spine Name: Foundation
Plane: Physical plane Sense Organ: Nose Work Organ: Anus Sense: Smell Element: Earth Shape: Square Sound: Lang
Muladhara is the root centre of physical experience, located at the base of the spine, the sacral plexus. The square represents the earth itself, the four dimensions and the four directions. Four allows for completion, and earth embodies the elements and conditions for human completion on all levels.
Muladhara Chakra is the meeting place of the three main nadis: Ida, Pingala and Sushumna. The downward-pointing triangle indicates the downward movement of energy and the three main nadis.
The seed mantra is Lam, the yellow square represents the earth element. The Muladhara chakra governs the vital breath Apana. An inverted triangle in the centre of the square encloses the unmanifest Kundalini, represented as a snake wrapped in three and a half coils around the svayambhu (self born) linga. Because her mouth faces downward, the flow of energy is downward.
The opening at the entrance of the sushumna is called brahma-dvara, the door of Brahma, which is closed by the coils of the sleeping Kundalini. As soon as one begins working with Muladhara chakra, this dormant energy awakens, raises its head and flows freely into the channel of Sushumna, the central nerve canal that runs along the spine. These two aspects of the kundalini: sleeping and waking, are identified as her “poison” and her “nectar.” The kundalini is poison when she remains asleep in the lower abdomen; she is nectar when she rises up through Sushumna, the medial channel, to reunite with Siva, the Absolute, in the yogin’s cranial vault.
In the pericarp is found the presiding deity Brahma, the lord of creation. His skin is the color of wheat, he wears a yellow dhoti and a green scarf. Brahma is four-faced, four-armed, holding in his upper left hand a lotus flower, the symbol of purity.
The Book of Revelation, filled with symbolic and apocalyptic imagery, presents one of its most striking visions in Revelation 9:3-12—the locust army. Understanding the significance of this locust army provides insight into the broader themes of divine judgment, protection, and the ultimate triumph of God’s will as depicted in Revelation.
Lucid Dreaming: Understanding the Risks and Benefits
The ability to control one's dreams or for the dreamer to be aware that he or she is dreaming. This process, called lucid dreaming, has some potential risks as well as many fascinating benefits. However, many people are hesitant to try it initially for fear of the potential dangers. This article aims to clarify these concerns by exploring both the risks and benefits of lucid dreaming.
The Benefits of Lucid Dreaming
Lucid dreaming allows a person to take control of their dream world, helping them overcome their fears and eliminate nightmares. This technique is particularly useful for mental health. By taking control of their dreams, individuals can face challenging scenarios in a controlled environment, which can help reduce anxiety and increase self-confidence.
Addressing Common Concerns
Physical Harm in Dreams Lucid dreaming is fundamentally safe. In a lucid dream, everything is a creation of your mind. Therefore, nothing in the dream can physically harm you. Despite the vividness and realness of the dream experience, it remains entirely within your mental landscape, posing no physical danger.
Mental Health Risks Concerns about developing PTSD or other mental illnesses from lucid dreaming are unfounded. As soon as you wake up, it's clear that the events experienced in the dream were not real. On the contrary, lucid dreaming is often seen as a therapeutic tool for conditions like PTSD, as it allows individuals to reframe and manage their thoughts.
Potential Risks of Lucid Dreaming
While generally safe, lucid dreaming does come with a few risks as well:
Mixing Dream Memories with Reality Long-term lucid dreamers might occasionally confuse dream memories with real ones, creating false memories. This issue is rare and preventable by maintaining a dream journal and avoiding lucid dreaming about real-life people or places too frequently.
Escapism Using lucid dreaming to escape reality can be problematic if it interferes with your daily life. While it is sometimes beneficial to escape and relieve the stress of reality, relying on lucid dreaming for happiness can hinder personal growth and productivity.
Feeling Tired After Lucid Dreaming Some people report feeling tired after lucid dreaming. This tiredness is not due to the dreams themselves but often results from not getting enough sleep or using techniques that disrupt sleep patterns. Taking breaks and ensuring adequate sleep can prevent this.
Mental Exhaustion Lucid dreaming can be mentally taxing if practiced excessively without breaks. It’s important to balance lucid dreaming with regular sleep to avoid mental fatigue.
Lucid dreaming is safe and beneficial if done with caution. It has many benefits, such as overcoming fear and improving mental health, and minimal risks. There are many resources and tutorials available for those interested in trying it.
Lesson 13 – The Celestial City - CPAD.pptxCelso Napoleon
Lesson 13 – The Celestial City
SBS – Sunday Bible School
Adult Bible Lessons 2nd quarter 2024 CPAD
MAGAZINE: THE CAREER THAT IS PROPOSED TO US: The Path of Salvation, Holiness and Perseverance to Reach Heaven
Commentator: Pastor Osiel Gomes
Presentation: Missionary Celso Napoleon
Renewed in Grace
Astronism, Cosmism and Cosmodeism: the space religions espousing the doctrine...Cometan
This lecture created by Brandon Taylorian (aka Cometan) specially for the CESNUR Conference held Bordeaux in June 2024 provides a brief introduction to the legacy of religious and philosophical thought that Astronism emerges from, namely the discourse on transcension started assuredly by the Cosmists in Russia in the mid-to-late nineteenth century and then carried on and developed by Mordecai Nessyahu in Cosmodeism in the twentieth century. Cometan also then provides some detail on his story in founding Astronism in the early twenty-first century from 2013 along with details on the central Astronist doctrine of transcension. Finally, the lecture concludes with some contributions made by space religions and space philosophy and their influences on various cultural facets in art, literature and film.
Astronism, Cosmism and Cosmodeism: the space religions espousing the doctrine...
Activated: God Outdoes Himself
1. CHANGE YOUR LIFE | CHANGE YOUR WORLD
GOD OUTDOES HIMSELF!
8 Miracles of the First Christmas
SOMEONE’S LAST CHRISTMAS
On the scene of the 2004 tsunami
A REAL CHRISTMAS TREE
What makes Christmas genuine?
3. IN 1994, TWO AMERICAN VOLUNTEERS ANSWERED
AN INVITATION FROM THE RUSSIAN DEPARTMENT
OF EDUCATION to teach Bible-based morals and
ethics classes in several schools and institutions,
including a home for about 100 orphaned,
abandoned, or abused children.
Shortly before Christmas, the volunteers told the
children at the home the story of the first Christ-
mas—a story that most of them had never heard
before. The children listened in rapt amazement as
Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, found no
room in the inn, and ended up taking refuge in a
stable where Mary gave birth to baby Jesus and laid
Him to sleep in a manger.
Afterwards the volunteers organized an art
project. They gave each of the children a small piece
of cardboard to make a manger, part of a yellow
napkin to cut up for straw, a piece of beige felt
from which to cut baby Jesus, and a scrap of fabric
to wrap Him in. As the children assembled their
mangers, the volunteers moved around the room,
interacting with the children and offering a little
help where needed.
When one of the volunteers came to six-year-old
Misha, she found that he had already finished his
project. But as she looked closer, she was surprised
to see two babies in his manger. When she asked
him about this, Misha crossed his arms, knit his
brow, and began explaining very seriously. For such
a young boy who had only heard the Christmas
story once, he related it all quite accurately, until he
came to the part where Mary put the baby Jesus in
the manger. Then he started to ad lib.
“Baby Jesus looked at me and asked me if I had
a place to stay. I told Him I have no mama and no
papa, so I don’t have any place to stay. Then Jesus
told me I could stay with Him. But I told Him I
couldn’t, because I didn’t have a gift to give Him
like everybody else. But I wanted to stay with Jesus
very much, so I thought about what I could maybe
use for a gift. I asked Jesus, ‘If I keep You warm,
will that be a good enough gift?’ And Jesus told me,
‘If you keep Me warm, that will be the best gift any-
body ever gave Me.’ So I got into the manger, and
then Jesus looked at me and said I could stay with
Him for always.”
As little Misha finished his story, tears filled
his eyes and splashed down his cheeks. Putting his
hand over his face, he dropped his head to the table
and sobbed. Misha had found Someone who would
never abandon or abuse him, Someone who would
stay with him “for always.”
—AUTHOR UNKNOWN
22BABES IN A MANGER
ACTIVATED VOL 6, ISSUE 12 | www.activated.org 3
4. EVERY BABY IS A MIRACLE
OF GOD. The baby’s first cry
rings out, the umbilical cord
is cut, and the proud parents
and everyone else present—
whether it’s an obstetrician
and attendants in a gleaming
hospital or a tribal midwife in
a thatched hut—rejoices at
the wonder they have just wit-
nessed. The birth of Jesus on
the first Christmas was all of
that, but also involved at least
eight more miracles.
GOD OUTDOESGOD OUTDOES
HIMSELF!HIMSELF!Eight Miracles of the
First Christmas
BY RONAN KEANE
Angelic Pronouncement
Unlike others’, Jesus’ birth
was announced before He was
even conceived. “Now in the
sixth month the angel Gabriel
was sent by God to a virgin
betrothed to a man whose
name was Joseph, of the
house of David. The virgin’s
name was Mary. The angel
said to her, ‘Rejoice, highly
favored one, the Lord is with
you; blessed are you among
women!’ Then the angel said
to her, ‘Do not be afraid,
Mary, for you have found favor
with God. And behold, you will
conceive in your womb and
bring forth a Son, and shall
call His name Jesus’” (Luke
1:26–28,30–31). Miracle
number one.
4 www.activated.org | ACTIVATED VOL 6, ISSUE 12
5. Miraculous
Conception—Times Two
It is, of course, one of the
best-known and most out-
standing miracles that at the
time of Jesus’ conception His
mother, Mary, was a virgin.
The Bible is very clear on that:
“Mary asked the angel, ‘But
how can I have a baby? I am a
virgin.’ The angel replied, ‘The
Holy Spirit shall come upon
you, and the power of God
shall overshadow you; so the
baby born to you will be utterly
holy—the Son of God’” (Luke
1:34–35 TLB).
This event was foretold
700 years earlier by the
prophet Isaiah: “Therefore the
Lord Himself will give you a
sign: Behold, the virgin shall
conceive and bear a Son, and
shall call His name Immanuel
[‘God is with us,’ in Hebrew]”
(Isaiah 7:14). In every sense,
Jesus is the Son of God.
Miracle number two.
Gabriel also told Mary that
her cousin Elizabeth, who had
been barren and was now past
the age for childbearing, would
also conceive and give birth to
a son who would “turn many
of the children of Israel to
the Lord their God.” Elizabeth
gave birth to a boy who grew
up to be John the Baptist.
Everything happened exactly
as Gabriel had announced
(Luke 1:5–25,57–66). Miracle
number three.
Place of Birth
It was also a miraculous
fulfillment of an Old Testament
prophecy that Jesus was
born in Bethlehem, since His
parents lived in Nazareth,
some days’ journey away. “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”
(Micah 5:2).
The Roman emperor
Augustus Caesar had decreed
that an empire-wide census
should be taken, and Jewish
tradition required that for
any such business each
man return to the place that
he considered his ancestral
home. For Joseph, a direct
descendant of King David,
that meant returning to
Bethlehem with his pregnant
wife, and she gave birth
to Jesus shortly after they
arrived. Miracle number five.
Angelic Confirmation
What about Joseph, Mary’s
fiancé? What was he to think
when Mary returned from
visiting Elizabeth and he
found out that Mary was three
months pregnant? As can be
expected, his first reactions
were mixed. “Then Joseph her
husband, being a just man,
and not wanting to make her
a public example, was minded
to put her away secretly”
(Matthew 1:19).
Joseph wanted to spare
Mary humiliation and possible
death—the punishment
for adultery under Jewish
law (Deuteronomy 22:13–
14,21)—but we can also
imagine the pain he must
have felt, believing that
his betrothed was bearing
another man’s child.
That’s when God sent an
angel to Joseph also, as much
to reassure and comfort him
as to clarify the situation, no
doubt. “An angel of the Lord
appeared to him in a dream,
saying, ‘Joseph, son of David,
do not be afraid to take to you
Mary your wife, for that which
is conceived in her is of the
Holy Spirit. And she will bring
forth a Son, and you shall call
His name Jesus [“the Lord
is salvation,” in Hebrew], for
He will save His people from
their sins.’ Then Joseph, being
aroused from sleep, did as the
angel of the Lord commanded
him and took to him his wife,
and did not know [have sex
with] her till she had brought
forth her firstborn Son. And
he called His name Jesus”
(Matthew 1:20–21,24–25).
Miracle number four.
ACTIVATED VOL 6, ISSUE 12 | www.activated.org 5
6. Angelic Announcement
Shepherds keeping watch
over their sheep on the hill-
sides surrounding Bethlehem
were visited by an angel, who
told them, “‘Do not be afraid,
for behold, I bring you good
tidings of great joy which will
be to all people. For there is
born to you this day in the
city of David a Savior, who
is Christ the Lord. And this
will be the sign to you: You
will find a Babe wrapped in
swaddling cloths, lying in a
manger.’ And suddenly there
was with the angel a multitude
of the heavenly host praising
God and saying: ‘Glory to God
in the highest, and on earth
peace, goodwill toward men!’”
(Luke 2:10–14).
The shepherds left their
flocks and went to Bethlehem,
where they found the Messiah
exactly as the angel had told
them. “Now when they had
seen Him, they made widely
known the saying which was
told them concerning this
Child” (Luke 2:17). What this
means is that, from day one
of His life on earth, there were
people testifying to the fact
that the Messiah had come at
last. Miracle number six.
Sign in the Heavens
Wise men (according to
tradition there were three, but
the Bible does not specify how
many) from the East (the Bible
also doesn’t specify where in
the East, but possibly Arabia,
Persia, Babylon, or even as
far away as India) observed
an unusual occurrence in
the heavens, which they
interpreted to signify the birth
of the “King of the Jews,” and
they went to worship Him.
Travel in those days was
difficult and slow, and it’s
believed, based on other
Scriptures, that it took the
wise men up to two years of
preparation and travel before
they arrived in Judea and gave
their gifts to Jesus. “Behold,
the star which they had seen
in the East went before them,
till it came and stood over the
house where the young Child
was. When they saw the star,
they rejoiced with exceedingly
great joy. And when they had
come into the house, they
saw the young Child with Mary
His mother, and fell down and
worshiped Him. And when they
had opened their treasures,
they presented gifts to Him:
gold, frankincense, and myrrh”
(Matthew 2:9–11). Miracle
number seven.
Best by Far
The supreme miracle of
Christmas, however, is not
about angels or wise men or
a sign in the sky. It’s about
God’s only begotten Son
taking on the form of a weak,
helpless baby in order to
better love, understand, sym-
pathize with, and eventually
die for you and me. Eternal life
is God’s gift to us, and that
life is in Jesus (1 John 5:11).
RONAN KEANE IS A FULL-TIME VOLUNTEER
WITH THE FAMILY INTERNATIONAL AND AN
ACTIVATED CONTRIBUTING EDITOR.
6
7. >>>>>>>
BY MARIO SANT’ANA
THE GREATEST
GIFT
If you haven’t yet
received God’s gift
from His heart to
yours—Jesus—you
can right now by
praying the following
prayer:
Thank You, Jesus,
for coming to earth
so I that could know
my heavenly Father’s
love. Thank You for
dying for me so I can
be reconciled with
Him and have eternal
life in Heaven. I
receive You as my
Savior now. Please
help me to get to
know and love You in
a deep and personal
way. Amen.
FOR SEVERAL YEARS, WE HAD PRO-
VIDED A SPECIAL CHRISTMAS DINNER
FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES HERE IN
SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL. By November
many of these people were already
eagerly looking forward to and talk-
ing about the next one.
It wasn’t until we started drawing
up our guest list that we realized how
much our work had grown. Our ini-
tial list had 500 names! Even if our
sponsors were able to provide that
much food, so many people would
cause the event to be less personal
than previous years. It was time to
reevaluate—to pray, discuss, and
possibly change what had already
become a “young tradition.”
Perhaps you remember the movie
Pay It Forward (2000), in which a
schoolboy attempts to make the
world a better place by inspiring
people to respond to a favor done
for them by doing favors for three
new people—not paying back the
debt, but paying forward. That was
the basic challenge we put to those
who had been on the receiving end
in previous years: Change sides.
Be the givers, the organizers, the
hosts. What could they give to the
community this Christmas?
Their reaction could not have
been better! From day one, the small
building where our social work is
based was buzzing with excitement
and activity. Children rehearsed
pageants while a group of teenagers
choreographed and rehearsed the
Christmas songs they wanted to
perform. Some of the adults made a
list of families that were having an
especially rough time and set out to
collect food, clothes, and other basic
needs. Others decided to teach the
children some of the games they used
to play when they were small.
When the day came, city officials
blocked off the designated street
to traffic, and a stage was erected
for the performances. Throughout
the day children and adults played
hopscotch, capture the flag, and
other games. Children sang and
danced. The story of the first
Christmas was told once again, and
once again it moved many to tears. A
group of children and preteens from
the Family International performed.
People who scarcely had enough for
their own needs worked tirelessly to
deliver the food, cleaning supplies,
clothes, and toys they had collected
to others who had even less.
At the end of the day, we realized
that Christmas lives on because,
throughout history, ordinary
people on the receiving end of God’s
extraordinary love have taken up
the challenge to change sides and
become donors of that love—a love
that came to earth in human form
on the very first Christmas. They’ve
paid forward.
MARIO SANT’ANA IS A FULL-TIME VOLUNTEER WITH
THE FAMILY INTERNATIONAL AND ONE OF THE COORDI-
NATORS OF PROJETO RESGATE (PROJECT RESCUE), AN
NGO THAT HELPS 200 LOW-INCOME FAMILIES IN THE
SOUTH OF BRAZIL.
PAID FORWARD
7
8. “THIS COULD BE SOMEONE’S LAST CHRISTMAS!” Growing up as
the child of full-time Christian volunteers, I’d heard that every
Christmas for as long as I could remember. Why was it that when
other families were taking time away from work, school, and other
responsibilities to relax and enjoy the holiday season, we were
always busier than ever? Hadn’t we already done enough this year
to help others and show them God’s love? Couldn’t we celebrate the
season like “normal” people just once?
I knew in my heart the answers to those questions, so after a short
bout of self-pity I got busy sharing “the reason for the season” with
as many as I could. It seems that people are never more interested in
hearing about Jesus than at Christmas, even here in Thailand, where
BY IKE SURIWONG
less than 1% of the 60 million
inhabitants are Christian, so this
is a special opportunity to help
others meet and welcome Him
into their hearts.
In the weeks leading up to
Christmas, other members
of my Family International
community and I visited scores
of our friends and supporters,
taking them Christmas cards
and homemade cookies or
other tokens of our love and
appreciation. We also went
Christmas caroling, did
Christmas-related activities at
several places where we have
ongoing community service
projects, and shared the
Christmas story with individuals
and at schools—especially at
schools. We performed programs
at an average of nearly three
schools a day for two weeks
straight. As a result, over 2,400
people prayed with us to receive
God’s great gift of love, Jesus.
As worthwhile and rewarding
as that was, we all looked forward
to December 27, when we planned
to take a three-day break to
rest, relax, and enjoy a little late
Christmas cheer with our families
and some friends who had come to
visit. Our much anticipated break
never happened.
On the morning of December
26, we were doing a Christmas
program for 150 children in the
Sapan Ruam slum, on Phuket’s
south side near the harbor, when
a man ran past yelling something
about an earthquake. He was
followed by a panicking crowd.
We immediately fled to higher
ground and narrowly escaped a
wall of water as it rolled inland.
Someone’s Last
Christmas
8 www.activated.org | ACTIVATED VOL 6, ISSUE 12
9. I heard the bells at midnight
Ring in the dawning year;
And above the clanging chorus
Of the song, I seemed to hear
A choir of mystic voices
Flinging echoes, ringing clear,
From a band of angels winging
Through the haunted atmosphere:
“Ring out the shame and sorrow,
And the misery and sin,
That the dawning of the morrow
May in peace be ushered in.”
And I thought of all the trials
The departed years had cost,
And the blooming hopes and
pleasures
That are withered now and lost;
And with joy I drank the music
Stealing o’er the feeling there
As the spirit song came pealing
On the silence everywhere:
“Ring out the shame and sorrow,
And the misery and sin,
That the dawning of the morrow
May in peace be ushered in.”
And I listened as a lover
To an utterance that flows
In syllables like dewdrops
Form the red lips of a rose,
Till the anthem, fainter growing,
Climbing higher, chiming on
Up the rounds of happy rhyming,
Slowly vanished in the dawn:
“Ring out the shame and sorrow,
And the misery and sin,
That the dawning of the morrow
May in peace be ushered in.”
Then I raised my eyes to Heaven,
And with trembling lips I pled
For a blessing for the living
And a pardon for the dead;
And like a ghost of music
Slowly whispered—lowly sung—
Came the echo pure and holy
In the happy angel tongue:
“Ring out the shame and sorrow,
And the misery and sin,
That the dawning of the morrow
May in peace be ushered in.”
—JAMES WHITCOMB RILEY
I Heard the Bells at Midnight
Meanwhile, the entire western
coast of Thailand was being
gutted by the tsunami, which had
been triggered by an earthquake
off the coast of northern Sumatra,
Indonesia, that measured 9.0 on
the Richter scale. The tsunami
would claim nearly 300,000 lives
and go on record as the worst
humanitarian crisis in history.
UNICEF reported that a large
percentage of the casualties were
children who had been helpless
when the waves came.
We joined the relief effort the
next day. Over the weeks that
followed, we met many of the
children who had attended our
Christmas programs and prayed
with us, some of them now
orphans. I have no idea how many
of the hundreds we didn’t see
were among the more than 5,000
people here in the Phuket area
who perished in the tsunami.
This tragedy woke me up to
the fact that each Christmas—
each day, in fact—truly is
someone’s last chance to feel
loved. Thousands die in natural
disasters, but many thousands
more die every day without
knowing their heavenly Father’s
love. Let’s all do all we can and
take every opportunity to share
that love with others. I’ve started
right where I left off, with the
children and other local tsunami
survivors, but I can only do my
best to love those in my corner of
the world. Can you do the same
in yours?
IKE SURIWONG IS A FULL-TIME VOLUNTEER WITH
THE FAMILY INTERNATIONAL IN THAILAND.
ACTIVATED VOL 6, ISSUE 12 | www.activated.org 9
10. BY NYX MARTINEZ
made the old decorations look as good as new. Then
she went to work on handcrafted “stockings” made
from shiny red paper and trimmed with cotton balls.
My little sisters helped cut and paste. There were
12 stockings—one for each of us kids—and Mom
strung them up on the staircase banister. My two
brothers managed to revive the colored lights for yet
another year, and they strung them on the veranda.
For a Nativity scene we molded little clay
figurines, then baked and painted them. Someone
gave us a set of three cherubs that were the
perfect match until we kids—all determined to
keep rearranging the figurines until we found the
perfect look—knocked over one of the cherubs and
he lost his head.
Then one evening Dad came home and announced
that he had bought a Christmas tree. Curious and
excited, we all gathered in the living room to inspect
the tree. Our first real Christmas tree!
“Isn’t it incredible?” Dad was always so enthusi-
astic.
WE CHILDREN HAD ALWAYS WANTED A REAL CHRIST-
MAS TREE—a tall, lavishly decorated one, like other
families had. It would have “singing” lights, silver
tinsel, and glass ornaments dressing its snow-
topped branches. And, of course, beneath it would
be overflowing with presents.
But another December had come and our living
room remained bare. New Christmas decorations
were way too pricey for a large missionary family
like ours, so Mom pulled out the storage boxes and
REALA Real Christmas Tree
10 www.activated.org | ACTIVATED VOL 6, ISSUE 12
11. In actuality, it was a papier-mâché model of an
evergreen, about a foot tall.
“That’s our tree???”
More sour expressions on 12 faces.
“It’s so skinny!”
“It’s kinda strange.”
“Dad, that’s not a real tree.”
“What do you mean? Of course it’s a real tree,
honey. The inmates at the prison made it. It seems
they can make almost anything! Isn’t it great?”
Dad hoped his enthusiasm would catch on. “And
look, I bought a matching reindeer to go with it!”
With some fanfare he produced the reindeer—also
made from recycled newspaper.
That was just like my father! Even though he
didn’t have much to spend on extras, he always
tried to help those who had even less by purchas-
ing some of their wares. The tree and the reindeer
would help the inmates have a bit of money to
spend on their families this Christmas, perhaps to
buy small gifts or a better meal for their children.
As a chaplain in the national correctional
system in the Philippines, he had collected many
such handcrafted items. Last year, for example,
there was an intricately carved battleship that
sat serenely on our library shelf until my brothers
went to war with it. The year before, our house had
been filled with glass bottles containing miniature
scenes—homes on stilts, tiny matchstick people,
palm trees by the beach.
One of my brothers would collect newspapers and
old magazines for the craftsmen, and my sisters and
I would help sell their beautiful handmade Christ-
mas cards. The profits went back to their families.
And now this—our “real” Christmas tree.
“I suppose we could fix it up somehow,” one of
my sisters suggested. So we set it up on the phone
table, which was the perfect size for it. Mom cut
ornaments from cardboard—stars, bells, and candy
canes. Glitter glue gave the tree a touch of sparkle.
I remembered a pair of plastic doves, covered in
white mesh, that I’d found in a wholesale store. The
doves went up too. We strung colorful miniature
lights, which flickered prettily over Mary, Joseph,
Baby Jesus, and the two and two-thirds cherubs.
Christmas came all at once to our merry little
home, and I’ll never forget it. That year in particu-
A CHRISTMAS PRAYER
Loving God, help us to remem-
ber the birth of Jesus that we
may share in the songs of the
angels, the gladness of the
shepherds, and the worship of
the wise men. Close the door
of hate and open the door of
love all over the world. Let
kindness come with every gift
and good desires with every
greeting. Deliver us from evil
by the blessing which Christ
brings. May our minds be filled
with grateful thoughts and our
hearts with forgiveness, for
Jesus’ sake. Amen.
—ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON
lar was a struggle for our family, but it was also one
of the most memorable.
No, we never got our store-bought Christmas
tree. Instead we got one that truly represented our
family’s love. Our home was never outfitted with
fancy décor, but it was filled with the laughter of
happy children and the melodies of meaningful
Christmas carols. Santa never fit in with our family,
but you can bet we caught Mommy kissing Daddy
somewhere near that tree. And as for Christmas
presents, our parents gave us gifts that no amount
of money could ever buy.
We spent many happy moments together as a
family. Our parents taught us that Christmas was
for giving of our hearts to others, and that the
same selfless love should color our lives, not only
at Christmas, but all year round—just like a real
evergreen.
NYX MARTINEZ IS A FULL-TIME VOLUNTEER WITH THE FAMILY
INTERNATIONAL IN UGANDA.
ACTIVATED VOL 6, ISSUE 12 | www.activated.org 11
12. MUSIC
MUSIC
MUSIC
WITH HEALING POWER
BY ERIKA BLECIC
I SUFFER FROM MÉNIÈRE’S SYN-
DROME, AN EAR DISORDER THAT
CAUSES VERTIGO, PERSISTENT
RINGING IN THE EARS, AND SOME
LOSS OF HEARING. In my case, if
the low-pitched sounds are too
strong, my head starts spinning
so bad that I need to lie down
before I lose my balance and
fall. My TV and radio have been
put away in the closet for a long
time.
In March 2004, my boss
sent me to cover a conference
on volunteer work in the Ital-
ian community here in Rijeka,
Croatia. I didn’t know I was
about to meet some wonderful
people from the Family Inter-
national. Anna, Paolo, Andrea,
and Simone talked wholeheart-
edly about their mission. I found
out that they do clown therapy
for children in orphanages and
hospitals, and they found out
that I know how to sew. The next
thing I knew, I was a newspaper
reporter by day and sewing
clown costumes by night. I kept
it up for ten nights, but didn’t
feel tired in the least. I was
happy to be helping people who
were helping others.
And now my Christmas story
begins. …
Last December, I saw Andrea
and Maggie at the Family’s
stand in a local shopping mall,
and I bought their CD Rhythm
of Christmas. For someone with
serious hearing problems, this
was definitely an odd thing
12 www.activated.org | ACTIVATED VOL 6, ISSUE 12
13. to do. I didn’t even have a CD
player! At least I knew that by
buying something I would be
helping their mission.
The next evening, on my way
to another assignment, I walked
into an electronics shop almost
without thinking and came out
with a CD player. I couldn’t
wait to get home and listen to
that CD! Almost as soon as it
started to play, a river of tears
streamed down my face. Pic-
tures of my late husband, sister,
and aunt flashed before my
eyes. Four years earlier, within
the space of 13 months, all of
them had died of cancer. While
they had been on their death-
beds, I was with them, sharing
their Calvary. I know what it is
to share in others’ suffering, to
feel helpless, forsaken, and to
be left alone.
At one point I wanted to turn
off what seemed to be the source
of my tears, but when I couldn’t
lift my hand to press the off
button, I realized I needed to
listen to it. I played it for over
two hours. The more I listened
and cried, the greater peace I
felt and the more my soul was
set free—finally free from the
burden of suffering and despera-
tion that I had carried inside for
four years.
It was such a wonderful
feeling that the next morning I
wanted to listen to the CD again.
How can I, at work? I wondered,
even as I stuffed the CD and
player into my bag. Since it was just two days
before Christmas, I asked my colleagues if I
could play it for everyone. No one objected.
After about 20 minutes, someone said,
“Thank you! I haven’t felt so good in here for a
long time!” In addition to the usual pressures of
putting out a newspaper, our paper is constantly
on the brink of bankruptcy. The atmosphere in
our office is often quite tense, but this heavenly
music broke through all that.
On Christmas Eve I gave another copy of
Rhythm of Christmas to one of my colleagues as a
present. She too had suffered a terrible tragedy
in her family, and still hadn’t recovered. She
too couldn’t find peace. On the 26th, she came
to work radiant with joy. I couldn’t remember
ever seeing her so happy. “As soon as I started
listening to that CD,” she said as she gave me a
big hug, “I felt lighter and even started singing
and dancing.”
Once I saw the wonderful effect that CD had
on her, I started giving copies to other friends.
It didn’t matter that Christmas had come and
gone.
A man who had been going through a particu-
larly difficult time “found meaning to the suffer-
ing and the way to regain strength.”
One of my relatives said he felt alive again.
Another friend now goes around singing its
tunes and has lost her perpetual frown. She
can’t thank me enough for the present.
To her and each of the others I answered
that seeing them happy and at peace, ready to
receive and give love, is greater thanks and
reward than I ever imagined.
Now whenever I meet volunteers from the
Family, I joke that they must be getting tired of
me always buying the same CD. But what can I
do? Everyone I know who has listened to it has
felt better—starting with me!
The more
I listened
and
cried, the
greater
peace I
felt and
the more
my soul
was set
free
ACTIVATED VOL 6, ISSUE 12 | www.activated.org 13
14. MIRACLE ON FLIGHT IC814
a desolate airbase in the remote mountain city of
Kandahar, Afghanistan. Our hearts sank further as
we realized that one of our dear friends was aboard
that plane.
It’s hard to describe what happened next, but the
thought of someone I knew personally, someone
with a wife and two children, was now in danger
of losing his life along with 120 other passengers,
took me over. Almost without thinking, I got down
on my knees and began praying. I had never prayed
like that before. It was almost as though my entire
being turned into a prayer as I asked the Almighty
to intervene.
CHRISTMAS IS ONE TIME OF THE YEAR WHEN GOD
MANAGES TO GET MORE OF THE WORLD’S ATTENTION
as our thoughts turn to the “miracle of the manger,”
Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. There’s just something
about reflecting on that act of divine interven-
tion that kindles hope in our hearts. No matter
what problems we have struggled through all year,
Christmas still brings with it a special hope that
things will work out.
On Christmas morning 2000, that hope flick-
ered low at our Family International community in
New Delhi, India. We awoke to news that an Indian
Airlines plane had been hijacked and diverted to
14 www.activated.org | ACTIVATED VOL 6, ISSUE 12
15. many personal situations, and I prayed, “Jesus, I
really need to hear from You. I need Your words of
encouragement and counsel.”
Then I quieted my spirit and tried to put my
preconceptions and all other thoughts out of my
mind—and I waited. Slowly, His words started
forming in my mind and I wrote them down.
“I will stay the hand of the hijackers, and no
more shall perish. I have set strong angels about
the plane, and they shall protect the passengers.
Keep praying, for your prayers shall form a force
field around them. You shall see your friend emerge
from the plane.”
It was a brief message, but a tremendously
comforting one to me. All I needed to do was believe
what the Lord had said, no matter what the circum-
stances.
I held on to Jesus’ promise for the next five days,
and in the end the hijack drama played out exactly
as Jesus had told me. None of the other hostages
were harmed, and on the night of December 31st
they were all released. As we huddled in front of the
TV, watching a live telecast of the hostages being
brought home, our friend was the first person to
emerge from the plane.
Later we discovered what the Lord had meant
when He said, “I will stay the hand of the hijack-
ers.” Our friend told us that a few times during the
crisis the hijackers had started preparing to execute
the hostages one by one, but each time something
seemed to stop them. I believe with all of my heart
that the hijackers had been held back by the Lord
and His angels, in answer to the prayers of many
here in India and around the world.
ROHIT KUMAR IS A FULL-TIME VOLUNTEER WITH THE FAMILY INTERNATIONAL
IN INDIA.
There’s a saying in show business that also goes
for our volunteer work, where others are always
counting on us: “The show must go on.” So we did
our scheduled benefit Christmas musical shows
that day—one at an orphanage, one at a prison, and
one at a foster home for children from disturbed
backgrounds. Our hearts were heavy as we empa-
thized with those aboard IC814, but the happiness
and laughter of those watching our shows gave us
temporary reprieve.
Between shows, we prayed together and
individually for the safety of the hostages. When
we returned home, the mood was somber. The
hijacking was headline news in every paper and on
every network. It was all people talked about.
The next day brought more bad news. The hijack-
ers had executed the first passenger—a young man
returning from his honeymoon in the Himalayas. I
went into my room and cried. Then I prayed for God
to comfort the man’s widow and family.
That evening the hijackers threatened to kill
one passenger every hour until their demands were
met. The situation continued to look bleak.
That night I desperately needed supernatural
assurance that God was in control of the situation.
We all did. As I lay tossing and turning in bed,
unable to sleep, a verse from the Bible came to
mind. “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and
you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you”
(Matthew 7:7).
I decided to do something that I had done many
times before—ask Jesus for a direct message to
help me see things as He did. I found a pen and
opened the notebook where I keep a record of all
the things I believe Jesus has said to me about
BY ROHIT KUMAR
The hijackers threatened to
kill one passenger every hour
until their demands were met.
ACTIVATED VOL 6, ISSUE 12 | www.activated.org 15
16. Gift exchange
FROM JESUS WITH LOVE
The first Christmas was all for you. It
was My Father’s gift of love to the world,
but it was also His gift to you specifically.
And it was a “gift that keeps on giving,” as
they say.
For those who saw it firsthand—the
star, the choir of angels, the baby in
the manger—it was an unexpected and
overwhelming spiritual experience. For
the blessed few who recognized that baby
as their Messiah, it was a dream come
true. For them and the many millions
since who have likewise believed, it has
been the door to eternal life. And it’s the
same today. If you celebrate Christmas
in spirit and truth, the same wonder, the
same promise, and the same unspeakable
joy can all be yours.
But now Christmas is more than that.
It’s more than a gift from My Father’s
heart to yours—it’s a gift exchange. It’s
a special time for you as you soak in My
love and relive the wonder of the first
Christmas, but it’s also special for Me in
that you take more time to love and thank
and praise Me for all I’ve done for you.
This may be hard for you to understand
and believe, but I need and appreciate
your love as much as you do Mine. So if
you’re still wondering what to give Me
this Christmas, that’s it. Let’s make this
Christmas extra special by giving each
other the best of all gifts—our love.