“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:14)Christ is born! For today’s devotional I’d like to wish you a merry Christmas! I’d also like to remind you of the good news of Jesus’ arrival—and in general of his life, death and resurrection—through the gospel-soaked words of … Continue reading Glory to the newborn King
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The bridge between heaven and earth
Welcome to Christmas Eve!Over 700 years before the birth of Jesus, the prophet Isaiah spoke of a coming King. Like many prophecies, not only were the prophet’s words rooted in historical situations and concerns, but they looked ahead to the future. This King would bear divinity. He would be born of a virgin and would be called … Continue reading The bridge between heaven and earth
The true meaning of Christmas: Be careful
At this time of year, we often hear people talking about “the true meaning of Christmas.” I’m glad about that. We need to focus on what and Who matters most.However, be careful. There are competing definitions of “the true meaning of Christmas.”For example, I’ve heard it said that the true meaning of Christmas is that … Continue reading The true meaning of Christmas: Be careful
A perfect time to re-centre
“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour” (Matthew 25:13).A dying boy wanted to meet Dwight Eisenhower, the 34th President of America, whose term occupied most of the 1950’s. Somehow his request made its way to the President. One day, low and behold, Eisenhower just showed up at his front door, unannounced. It … Continue reading A perfect time to re-centre
Not alone in your struggles
Dr. James Tour is a professor at Rice University. His church has a ministry to support families dealing with the challenges of cancer. People need treatment like chemotherapy for months at a time, so families from their church welcome these families into their homes.Sometimes, as we know, even children get cancer. In the midst of … Continue reading Not alone in your struggles
What will life be like in 100 years from now?
Merry Christmas! “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11). Think of everything that has happened in the past 100 years. 100 years ago … Continue reading What will life be like in 100 years from now?
With God all things are possible
Merry Christmas! After today, The Up Devotional is going on pause until January 3rd, but I just wanted to send you one last message on Christmas morning. Christ is born! Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah—God’s chosen king and representative on the earth. But something his followers came to learn was that Jesus was more than … Continue reading With God all things are possible
Knowing God, not knowing everything
What does Mary teach us about having faith today, especially when the future is uncertain. In short, a lot. Just imagine her situation. She was a young Jewish woman. She may have been as young as 14, 15 or 16 when she gave birth to Jesus. She would have grown up learning the Scriptures, reciting … Continue reading Knowing God, not knowing everything
The generosity of Saint Nicholas
When most people think about Christmas they also think about Santa Claus, the jolly red-suited man who magically brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve. But where did he come from? Has he always been associated with Christmas? And is it true that he is based on a man named Saint Nicholas? In regards to … Continue reading The generosity of Saint Nicholas
Why are we doing this?
“Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done…” (1 Chronicles 16:11-12) With December comes traditions. People start to sing carols, light candles, put up Christmas trees, buy gifts, and send cards. Traditions can be good. But not if they obscure the meaning of what we’re supposed … Continue reading Why are we doing this?
