Not a Creature is Stirring

Luke 2:28-35
Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:
 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
    you may now dismiss your servant in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
   which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
    a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
    and the glory of your people Israel.”
The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”

The day after Christmas and all through the house not a creature is stirring...

This morning I picked up the remnants of last night's party. My fridge is full of left-overs and my heart overflows with the joy of family. We shared gifts. Some hand-made, some made for spending later. And I loved every one. We added new family this year and watched a sweet 18-month old enjoy the magical chaos. And in the midst, we read of the angels who announced to the shepherds, the birth of the man who would be Savior.

Yes, Jesus came to earth as a baby. And I love celebrating his birth. But more than that I love remembering his life. He walked the earth for thirty-three years. In his last three years he taught his followers and all who would listen about God. He spoke the beatitudes. He preached of light and salt. He was tempted and baptized. He lived so he could die for me and all who walk on earth. But most important, as I told my grandchildren last night, he rose from the dead to offer new life after this one ends. I love Jesus and thank God for his son. Praise God for the gift of life!

It's Christmas!

December in a Small Town

December

Santa and Frosty came from the Marathon gas station in Lynchburg

wreaths,

candy canes grace

small town

Main Street.

Santa's coming,

Jingle Bells plays,

Nativity's in place.

Carolers jostle down the street 

Christmas tea.

Evergreens twinkle 

in windows,

on street corners.

Christmas lives

in small town.

Small town.

My town.

Your town.

Grow up

And grow memories

In small town.

This is part of the poem "Small Town" I wrote about growing up and raising my children in Lynchburg, Ohio.

To read the whole poem go to: 

http://www.pennyfrostmcginnis.com/p/small-town-oem.html

Oh Christmas Tree

Luke 2:11
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

Christmas trees adorn the windows of the stores and businesses. Some twinkle with white lights, others don red ribbons. I've even seen a few pink ones. In the morning, while the dark still covers the day, tree lights peek from behind curtains. In our home a silver tree lights the corner with multi-colored lights. And what a fun sight to see a car zipping along the highway with a fresh cut tree tied to the top.

The evergreen tree has been a symbol of hope since ancient times; a reminder that spring followed winter. Since the evergreen doesn't lose its leaves and remains green all winter, it's also a great symbol of life. Because Jesus Christ died on a wooden cross, sometimes referred to as a tree, I'm reminded of his sacrifice every time I see a Christmas tree. The evergreen has life through the winter when other trees stand stark. Jesus offers life in heaven, where God reigns and life flows abundantly. This Christmas as I look at the beautifully decorated trees at a time when I celebrate Jesus birth, I'm reminded of his death and resurrection. Praise God for his son.

Merry Christmas! May peace and joy fill your days.

Merry Christmas!

Tim & I wish everyone a Christmas filled with peace & joy!

Children's Book Review: Angels in the Bible Storybook by Allia Zobel Nolan, illustrated by Alida Massari

Book Description:

Where were the angels when God created the world? Why did an angel force a donkey off a road? Who did the angels get out of jail twice? Young readers will find answers to these and other questions in this exciting storybook, written by bestselling author Allia Zobel Nolan with illustrations by Alida Massari. Angels in the Bible Storybook gives children a fascinating look into how God’s powerful behind-the-scenes helpers interacted with Bible greats from Abraham, Lot, and Gideon to Zechariah, Mary, and Jesus himself, acting as messengers, protectors, warriors, and more.

TheAngels in the Bible Storybook, written by bestselling author Allia Zobel Nolan and illustrated by Alida Massari, is filled with vibrant illustrations and engaging text that brings beloved Bible stories to life.

My Review:
This sweet book filled with amazing stories about the angels in the Bible will entertain young people. Nolan has done an excellent job telling the stories of the incredible miracles the angels were a part of. I think as humans we forget the part the angels have played and continue to play in the lives of believers. The narratives have everything a child would want from a story; excitement, entertainment, and truth. Massari's whimsical art adds beauty to the stories. I'd recommend Angels in the Bible Storybook for children 10+. My grandmother loved the stories of the angels and often shared them with me. This would be a great way to share angels with a special young person in your life.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

Christmas Magic