Joshua 1 details a very exciting moment in the history of Israel. After being in Egypt for 430 years (1876-1446 BC) and after wandering in the wilderness for 40 years the nation is positioned to receive the long awaited gift of land. Unfortunately, the gift of land could not be unwrapped and enjoyed without a challenging fight. The land that God promised to Israel was occupied and the residents had to be driven out. Now, although a challenge...

The wise men who came from the east asked King Herod, “Where is He born King of the Jews? We have seen His star and we have come to worship Him” (Matt 2:2). I invite you along with the wise men of old to come, “O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.” What is it about Christ that is so beautiful, that is so worth adoring? What was it about Christ, the Lord that stirred the affections of Mary in her Luke 1 hymn of praise? What...

Evil days require making the most of every opportunity (Ephesians 5:15-16). When interacting with those outside the Christian faith, “buy up” every opportunity for gospel speaking (Colossians 4:5). Given the Christmas season that is upon us, how can we be gospel-centered in our celebrations? Joy will definitely diminish in the fog of any life season when our focus moves away from Christ. In my last post, I encouraged a steady...

In a day and time when a seasonal holiday with deep Christian roots is under attack, it is imperative that we stay focused on Christ and His redemptive work. So, is it possible to make the most of your Christmas by simply staying focused on Christ? Christmas after all is about Christ. The WHO of Christmas is the incarnate Son of God. The WHAT of Christmas is the gift of salvation provided by the person of Christ and our proclamation of that...

The Lord allowed me to pastor two different churches for short periods of time in my ministry life. In each church, the Christmas season brought both challenge and opportunity to my preaching schedule. In my last pastoral assignment, I enjoyed preparing the church family to think biblically about how to celebrate Christmas. I am returning to this thought once again, especially because I believe the meaning of Christmas is under aggressive...