December 2024 Edition

Culture, History, & News

A Royal Decree

Over two thousand years ago, Jesus the Christ, was born in Bethlehem. The prophets long foretold of this coming messiah who would be a divine light unto the world. He would reign as King of the Jews. The confession of faith and belief in Christ as messiah is the primary tenet of Christianity. In general, other Abrahamic religions such as Judaism and Islam recognize Jesus Christ as a prophet, but do not accept him as the messiah. Accordingly, his birth found in the New Testament: Gospel of Luke 2:1-21, is of great significance to Christendom.   

The birth of Christ was a divine blessing for humanity. But it was also seen as a threat to the rule of wicked kings. The Magi (wise men) traveled from their homeland in the east to worship the Christ child. The Gospel of Matthew 2:1-18 speaks on their experience with King Herod and the Christ child. King Herod was a wicked ruler who believed the messianic prophecy was a threat to his reign. He disguised his corrupt intentions to the Magi and encouraged them to report back the location of Christ. When the Magi found Christ, they gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The Lord visited the Magi in a dream and warned them not to return to King Herod. He instructed them to depart home using a different route.    

King Herod felt mocked by the disappearance of the Magi and issued an immediate royal decree. It was so ordered that children from two years old and under living in Bethlehem were to be slain. An angel of the Lord visited Joseph in a dream with instructions to take Mary and the Christ child and flee into Egypt. They remained in Egypt until the death of King Herod. After that time, they returned to Israel.

We are living in uncertain times with wars and rumors of war (see Matthew 24:6-7 KJV). This provides even more reason that you should be prepared. Activate faith not fear. And prayer is your GPS. As Christians, our cornerstone is faith in the Lord Almighty and his son Jesus Christ. The Lord can guide you to participate in your own protection during troubling times. We see this in the example of divine dreams and instructions given to the Magi and Joseph.

The ancient biblical world had wars and times of uncertainty, go back and read those stories. The comforts of living in a modern prosperous nation can induce forgetfulness. But that biblical world still exists today, it’s just a little older. Having a relationship with the Lord Almighty is important not only during the time of wicked kings, but is important at all times. Wishing you a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Nativity Books

Art/Film/Literature News

Holiday Movies

The Christmas season is here! The stores are open with holiday cheer decorations and sales. Amid the hustle and bustle, take a moment of rest and enjoy a holiday movie. So, grab some Christmas cookies and hot chocolate for a festive movie night. Begin your holiday season with these family friendly movies. Merry Christmas y’all!

Business/Non-Profit/Inspirational News

Christmas Home Decor

The holiday season brings yummy food, cheer, and decorations! Christmas home decor is widely available to fit many different styles. Whether you like classic designs, Santa or Grinch inspired, or whimsical displays to warm and brighten your home. Have some fun with holiday decor!

Book Review

The Twelve Hours of Christmas

Get into the holiday spirit by reading the book: The Twelve Hours of Christmas by Jenn Bailey and illustrated by Bea Jackson (32 pages, 2023, hardcover). It’s a sweet story that spins the classic twelve days of Christmas into the twelve hours of Christmas. The book has a simple storyline and beautiful illustrations. Try to find the missing kitten in each different scene!

News Videos (5)

The Nutcracker Ballet