This is Passion Week. We celebrated Palm Sunday and we look forward to celebrating Easter. What are your plans? What has been occupying your time and mind these past couple days?

I cannot help but wonder what was occupying Jesus’ mind during this pivotal week; His last week walking this earth before offering Himself as our sacrificial lamb. He knew what was ahead for Him. He knew before time itself. He knew His sole purpose was to suffer and die for our sins. He knew as He grew from a boy into a man what His purpose, His destiny, was. And yet He came.

He did not have to. But He did.

Before creation itself, the plan for our salvation was in place. Jesus would come to this earth, born of a virgin, fully human and fully God. As God the plan was crystal clear, but what about the human part of our Savior? I can only imagine what this last week must have been like for Him.

He did not have to. But He did.

​Anywhere along the line Jesus could have said, no. He did not have to ride into Jerusalem on the back of the donkey to the shouts of Hosanna and elation. He didn’t have to place Himself directly in the Chief-Priests’ and Pharisees’ line-of-fire. He could have changed course at any time and traveled to another town. But He did not.

While He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, scripture says His sweat was like drops of blood. Luke 22:44, “And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.” He was terrified! At any time, Jesus could have commanded the angel who had appeared to strengthen Him (Luke 22:41-43) to take Him away, and the angel would have. But He (Jesus) did not.

Jesus did not have to allow Himself to be arrested. But He did. He did not have to submit Himself to the torment and humiliation of the mock-trial, the beatings, the curses, the betrayal; He did not have to grieve as He listened to the very people, who only days before had shouted, “Hosanna, Hosanna!” and now were shouting, “Crucify him!” But He did.

Jesus was beat to within an inch of His life. Scripture says He no longer looked human. Isaiah 52:14 “Just as there were many who were appalled at him – his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and his form marred beyond human likeness.” Jesus was whipped 39 times with a whip called a cat-of-nine-tails; his flesh was literally torn from his bones, muscles and possibly organs exposed. Pilot set the punishment at 39 lashes because most victims died from 40 lashes.  Jesus did not have to endure this torture. But He did.

​And then there was the cross!

During this last week Jesus not only knew the physical agony He would suffer, but more-so, He knew that for the first time in eternity the Trinity—He, the Father, and the Holy Spirit, would be divided. As Jesus hung on the cross all the sins of the world, all our sins, were thrust upon Him; He became sin! Can you imagine the excruciating pain He suffered?

“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?!” Jesus cried out. God can’t look at sin, He cannot! This meant God could not look at Jesus. God turned His back, not because He did not love His son, but because He hates sin. For the first time in eternity Jesus felt alone, truly alone. Abandoned.

He did not have to do any of this. But He did.

​Anywhere along the line Jesus could have said, NO! With one word He could have called down a legion of angels to rescue Him. With a wave of His hand, He could have caused the Roman soldiers to fall to their faces. He could have simply walked away. But He did not.

May you have a blessed Good Friday and a Glorious Resurrection Day!

"Love incarnate, love divine. Star and angels gave the sign. Bow to babe on bended knee. The Savior of humanity. Unto us a Child is born. He shall reign forevermore. Noel, Noel. Come and see what God has done. Noel, Noel. The story of amazing love! The light of the world, given for us. Noel." (Lyrics from the song, Noel, by Chris Tomlin ft. Lauren Daigle)
           
Christmas is nearly upon us. Our to-do lists grow by leaps and bounds. Trim the tree. Decorate the house. Buy Christmas gifts for everyone under the sun. Bake.  Mail Christmas cards. Oh, dear, forgot a gift, run back to store. Take children to see Santa. Go nuts trying to fulfill their Christmas lists! Plan Christmas meal. Wrap gifts. Clean house! Stress out to the max! Find time to breathe, maybe. Be thankful when Christmas is over and done with. Pay Christmas bills!
 Sound familiar?          
           
 My favorite Christmas decorations are our two manger scenes, which Bob made. Our grandson loved to lay under our Christmas tree when he was little, where I placed a stable, and move the pieces around. Always giving special care to baby Jesus. At his tender age this was Christmas. It was all about baby Jesus. We were celebrating Jesus' birthday - even though He received no gifts. But the birth of Jesus is only the beginning of the story of amazing love!
             
"Son of God and Son of man. There before the world began. Born to suffer, born to save. Born to raise us from the grave. Christ the everlasting Lord. He shall reign forevermore. Noel, Noel. Come and see what God has done. Noel, Noel. The story of amazing love! The light of the world, given for us. Noel."
           
On that night so very long ago the 2nd person of the Trinity came to earth as a tiny newborn. Son of God and Son of man - there before the world began. While Jesus was born in a humble stable surrounded by animals over 2000 years ago, the love story began before time itself, and will continue into eternity.
           
Before the heavens and the earth; before the sun, moon, or stars; before animals; before mankind...there was the Word. And the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Before creation itself, The Plan was in place. God created everything, and it was good. Unfortunately, in a shorter time than we could imagine, that all changed. Sin entered not only Adam and Eve, but as a result, the entire earth was cursed. Sin and evil ran rampant, to the point God had to step in with the flood. God made a covenant with Noah and his family, through the rainbow, that He would never again destroy the entire earth through a flood.
           
As the earth repopulated, sin continued. Sacrifices were made...many, many, sacrifices; yet sin continued. All the sacrifices and shed blood could not cover the magnitude of sin in people's hearts; could not wash people clean. With each new sin, another sacrifice. Mankind was lost with no hope of salvation.
           
The time had come. The time for the Ultimate Sacrifice to come into the world. On a not-so-silent-night, in a smelly stable, surrounded by animals, Mary gave birth to a son. Mary gave birth to God's Son, to the 2nd part of the Trinity. Anywhere along the line God could have thrown his hands up in frustration and given up on mankind entirely. Yet, knowing all our failures before time began: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit had a plan. They had THE PLAN. The Plan to not only save us from sin in this world, but the Ultimate Plan for our eternal lives. An incredibly amazing story of absolute love for all of eternity. "Son of God and Son of man. There before the world began. Born to suffer, born to save. Born to raise us from the grave. Christ the everlasting Lord. He shall reign forevermore."
           
Jesus entered the world as a tiny baby; grew to a man who suffered the same trials and temptations as each and every one of us yet did not sin; suffered an agonizing death on the cross, shedding his sacrificial blood for our sins; rose again, and ascended into heaven as His disciples watched.
           
But the story isn't finished. Oh no, my dear friends; the story has just begun. Soon and very soon we will be with our Lord, the King. We will see Him in all His Glory. We, and all believers who have gone before us, will no longer be shackled within the confines of our earthly bodies. We will be adorned within brand-new, glorified bodies for all of eternity. I honestly can't wipe the smile from my face.
           
As we go about the hustle and bustle of this Christmas Season, let us not forget, and remember always, this absolutely amazing story of Unconditional, Eternal Love. Let us take time from our busy schedules to marvel at what God has done. Let us give our eternal thanks for THE PLAN. And let us wait with anticipation, with unbridled elation, not only for Christmas Day, but for That Great and Glorious Day!
           
​"Noel, Noel. Come and see what God has done. Noel, Noel. The story of amazing love! The light of the world, given for us. Noel, Noel."   

Please take a moment to enjoy the music video below: Noel, by Chris Tomlin, ft. Lauren Daigle.

Blessings to you,
​Sandy

Over the past years, I have written numerous articles concerning God’s Prophetic Word and how it relates to our world and our lives today. In my discussions with various people, I find most agree on one issue. The book of Revelation. They haven’t read it or have tried to, only to find themselves lost and confused. Some fear this complicated book. I completely understand.

The book of Revelation, however, is the one book in the Bible that carries a blessing. “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it because the time is near.” (Kings James Bibles says: “Blessed is he that readeth and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.”) No need to read out loud unless reading to someone.
           
​As I was doing my devotions this morning, I felt drawn to Revelation, and I felt the Holy Spirit tugging at me. I was to simply write God’s Words as written in John’s Revelation. And in doing so, hopefully, ignite a spark in our minds and hearts and open us up to learning more. So, without further ado, I bring you Revelation: 1. NIV

Prologue
1 The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, 2 who testifies to everything he saw—that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

Greetings and Doxology
4 John,
 To the seven churches in the province of Asia:
Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne, 5 and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.
To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, 6 and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power forever and ever! Amen.
7 Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all peoples on earth will mourn because of him. (2nd coming, not the rapture)
So shall it be! Amen.
8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”

​John’s Vision of Christ
9 I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10 On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, 11 which said: “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.”
12 I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned, I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and among the lampstands was someone like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. 14 The hair on his head was white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. 15 His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. 16 In his right hand he held seven stars, and coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword. (His Word) His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance.
17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.
19 “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later. 20 The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels (or messengers) of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.”

I get excited when I read this first chapter. Here is John, exiled to the isle of Patmos, likely nearing the end of his life, the last of Jesus’s apostles’ living. It says that John was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day, and he heard a loud voice like a trumpet. Wow! And there before him was Jesus Christ in all His heavenly glory. Again, Wow! Jesus tells John not to be afraid. But to write down everything John sees because it will take place soon. He then proceeds to explain to John the mystery of the seven stars in His right hand and the seven golden lampstands.

The book of Revelation, if read all at one time, can be daunting. But, if we tackle this book one chapter at a time, possibly one verse, it’s completely doable. So, I would suggest that you grab your Bible and turn to Revelation 1. Take your time to really dig into this short chapter. Take note of the reference letters along the way and look up the related Bible verses. If that verse has a reference letter, then keep going. Taking notes would help. 

I find it helpful to read the introduction page whenever I read a new book in the Bible. The information is invaluable in my understanding of the book and the message therein. According to my introduction page, the book of Revelation is: “lavish in colorful descriptions of visions which proclaim for us the last days before Christ’s return and the ushering in of the new heaven and new earth. The fact that it may at first seem too complex is no reason to avoid this book, for it is a full disclosure for the prophetic events which await every person, whether dead or alive.”

I feel the Holy Spirit guided me to write the first chapter of this incredible book as a way for us to dip our toes, as it were, into Revelation. And to relieve some of our fear concerning His Prophetic Word. Because the time is very near. Are you ready? One prophetic teacher commented that the book of Revelation and all of God’s prophecies are more accurate than the evening news. I would have to agree.

Studying and understanding prophecy is not an easy task, but it is vital to all believers. We either see all that is happening in the world through the world’s eyes and know only fear, or we see the world through the eyes of God’s Prophetic Word, and know hope. God gave us His Prophetic Word for a reason, and I am sharing His Word for a reason—What does He want us to learn?

I would suggest finding qualified Prophecy Study Resources. Dr. David Jeremiah's study materials are fantastic. If you are interested go to his website: davidjeremiah.org. It would also be helpful to study with a buddy, or several buddies. Perhaps a small group.

Revelation is only one prophetic book in the Bible. Daniel is is the forerunner of Revelation, as well as all the major and minor Old Testament prophets. And don't forget the New Testament. Wow! That's a lot. But today we are just dipping our toes in the shallow end of Prophecy. 

With all this said I must ask some vital questions. Do you know the Lord? Have you confessed that you are a sinner and need Jesus? Have you asked Him into your heart? God's clock is ticking and we all will spend eternity in one of two places; Eternal Life with Jesus or Eternal Death. As for me, I choose to be with Jesus. How about you?

​Waiting Expectantly,
Sandy Wells

Please take time to watch the video below by David Jeremiah, The Prophetic Times. It is a bit long so pull up a chair, grab your favorite beverage, and relax.

I love clouds. I have met very few clouds that have not caused me to marvel. There is even a certain amount of splendor to be found in the deepest, darkest storm cloud. The power surging within their billowing masses is both breathtaking and frightening. As impressive as storm clouds are, I am not a fan of the impending tempests.

I must admit that one of my favorite cloud formations is the cumulus nimbus. Those magnificent, puffy, mountainous masterpieces appear to rise from the horizon, overwhelming in their grandeur. Backlit by the sun, they are brilliant; engulfed in the radiance of sunset, they burn like the brightest fire. Only our God could create such all-encompassing beauty.

On windy days I love watching the clouds as they race across the sky. I am reminded of a verse from the Bible: “Sing to God, sing in praise of his name, extol him who rides on the clouds; rejoice before him--his name is the LORD.” Psalm 68:4. I can envision God with arm raised and hair blowing, riding the galloping clouds—and I rejoice before Him.

​How many of us have lain on the grass, much like Charlie Brown, searching the clouds for shapes: an elephant, a horse, a bunny, an angel? Children are best at this. Their young minds are still filled with imagination and wonder, and this wonder spills out into the clouds above. Their young eyes gleam as they discover a magical animal floating over their heads. They laugh with glee as the form changes shape, and they find yet another treasure. Ah, to be young.

My love of clouds runs deep. Deeper than the most fantastic formations. Deeper than the most radiant sunset burning through the swollen masses. My fascination for clouds runs as deep as my faith in my Lord Jesus and His promise for believers.
​
“16For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will be the first to rise. 17After that, we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so, we will always be with the Lord. 18Therefore, encourage one another with these words.”1 Thessalonians 4:16-18.

Can you imagine?! God’s Word says this will happen in the twinkling of an eye. That’s fast…faster than a blink. There will be no five-minute count-down. Jesus warned: “No one knows that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” Matthew 24:36. This is why we must always be watchful.

“Therefore, keep watch because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So, you must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” Matthew 24:42-44.

​I once heard a pastor say that when we see Christmas decorations go up, we know Thanksgiving is around the corner. The decorations are a sign of what is to come, Christmas. But before Christmas is Thanksgiving. Before the 2nd coming of Christ is the Rapture. While specific things must happen before Jesus returns, all foretold in prophecy, absolutely nothing must happen before the trumpet sounds, and we meet Jesus in the clouds. No man knows the day or the hour, not even the angels in heaven or the Son. In the twinkling of an eye, we will be caught up and meet Him in the clouds. I cannot wait! 

But how do we know or recognize the signs to watch for? Jesus does not want any to be lost. Just as the prophets of old spoke of Jesus coming the first time—His birth, life, death on the cross, and His resurrection—the Holy Spirit also prophesied through them specific details and signs to do with the Rapture and 2nd coming of Christ. The books of Daniel and Revelation are the two major books revealing the end times in which we live. As do Isaiah, Ezekiel, Jeremiah, the Psalms, Zechariah, Malachi, Matthew, and more—even Genesis.

God placed a passion for prophecy in my heart many years ago. The first time I read Daniel and Revelation, I was thoroughly confused. But over the years of studying prophecy and seeking out reputable prophecy teachers, such as Dr. David Jeremiah, who wrote “The Handwriting on the Wall,” a guide through Daniel, I am learning. And the more I learn, the more I dig, and the deeper I dig, the more I see. I now recognize that we are living in the times of the signs. I genuinely believe this, as did the apostle John.

“Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. (Not THE antichrist, but those filled with the spirit of the antichrist.) This is how we know it is the last hour. They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us.” 1John 2:18-19. Those who supposedly once believed have abandoned the faith and now follow the world.

Some may question why I harp on this subject. Why can’t I write something more positive and uplifting? Well, to answer the 2nd question, I would ask, what could be more uplifting than meeting Christ in the air?! As I said, God put a passion for studying prophecy in my heart, so ask yourselves, why? The Bible says that we will not know the day or the hour when Jesus will come for his Bride, us, but we will recognize the time is near because of the signs. As I said, Jesus does not want to lose a single person, so thousands of years ago, he spoke to the prophets about events that would happen in the last days. I believe that I, as well as you, were placed in this world for such a time as this, for a purpose.

With all this said, I need to ask an important question, a question my mother asked me many years ago. Are you ready? Have you asked Jesus to live in your heart? Because despite what some say, Jesus is the only way. Jesus said that two will be in the field, and one will go, the other will remain. Will you go or remain? And despite what a former pastor said, some who sit in church pews regularly can be left behind if Jesus does not live in their hearts.

​I will continue to marvel at clouds until the great and wonderful day when I meet Jesus in the air. How about you?

​Awaiting that day
Sandy Wells

Please take a moment to enjoy the music video below: Awake, by Christian artist Beckah Shae

This is Passion Week. We celebrated Palm Sunday and we look forward to celebrating Easter. What are your plans? What has been occupying your time and mind these past couple days?

I cannot help but wonder what was occupying Jesus’ mind during this pivotal week; His last week walking this earth before offering Himself as our sacrificial lamb. He knew what was ahead for Him. He knew before time itself. He knew His sole purpose was to suffer and die for our sins. He knew as He grew from a boy into a man what His purpose, His destiny, was. And yet He came.

He did not have to. But He did.

Before creation itself, the plan for our salvation was in place. Jesus would come to this earth, born of a virgin, fully human and fully God. As God the plan was crystal clear, but what about the human part of our Savior? I can only imagine what this last week must have been like for Him.

​He did not have to. But He did.

Anywhere along the line Jesus could have said, no. He did not have to ride into Jerusalem on the back of the donkey to the shouts of Hosanna and elation. He didn’t have to place Himself directly in the Chief-Priests’ and Pharisees’ line-of-fire. He could have changed course at any time and traveled to another town. But He did not.

While He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, scripture says His sweat was like drops of blood. Luke 22:44, “And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.” He was terrified! At any time, Jesus could have commanded the angel who had appeared to strengthen Him (Luke 22:41-43) to take Him away, and the angel would have. But He (Jesus) did not.

Jesus did not have to allow Himself to be arrested. But He did. He did not have to submit Himself to the torment and humiliation of the mock-trial, the beatings, the curses, the betrayal; He did not have to grieve as He listened to the very people, who only days before had shouted, “Hosanna, Hosanna!” and now were shouting, “Crucify him!” But He did.

Jesus was beat to within an inch of His life. Scripture says He no longer looked human. Isaiah 52:14 “Just as there were many who were appalled at him – his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and his form marred beyond human likeness.” Jesus was whipped 39 times with a whip called a cat-of-nine-tails; his flesh was literally torn from his bones, muscles and possibly organs exposed. Pilot set the punishment at 39 lashes because most victims died from 40 lashes.  Jesus did not have to endure this torture. But He did.

​And then there was the cross!

During this last week Jesus not only knew the physical agony He would suffer, but more-so, He knew that for the first time in eternity the Trinity—He, the Father, and the Holy Spirit, would be divided. As Jesus hung on the cross all the sins of the world, all our sins, were thrust upon Him; He became sin! Can you imagine the excruciating pain He suffered?

“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?!” Jesus cried out. God can’t look at sin, He cannot! This meant God could not look at Jesus. God turned His back, not because He did not love His son, but because He hates sin. For the first time in eternity Jesus felt alone, truly alone. Abandoned.
He did not have to do any of this. But He did.

Anywhere along the line Jesus could have said, NO! With one word He could have called down a legion of angels to rescue Him. With a wave of His hand, He could have caused the Roman soldiers to fall to their faces. He could have simply walked away. But He did not.

Jesus became the ultimate sin sacrifice to rescue us from Satan’s grasp. He paid our ransom. Through His sacrifice, through His blood, we who ask Jesus to live in our hearts, are saved. If He had walked away, we would still be the devil’s hostages. It was only through His blood, freely given, that we could escape the wages of sin, which is eternal death.

The devil thought he had won, Jesus would die—game over. But he was so very wrong. There was one little part of Salvation’s plan that the evil one forgot. Yes, Jesus would die, but Sunday would come! Jesus would and did Rise!

​During this week, as we await to celebrate Resurrection Day, let us take time to reflect. What was this time like for Jesus? And let us truly give Him thanks for doing what He did not have to do.

(I stumbled across this article that I wrote on December 12th, 2016. Four years ago, almost to the day. It honestly could have been written today. So, I dug the article from my archives and dusted it off, so to speak. We hear this song each year at this time, but do we know how it originated? The lyrics of this beautiful song, written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, during the Civil War,  could very well have been written for such a time as this. Can we hear the bells?"

“I heard the bells on Christmas day. Their old familiar carols play. And mild and sweet their songs repeat. Of peace on earth good will to men. And the bells are ringing (peace on earth) Like a choir they're singing (peace on earth) In my heart I hear them (peace on earth) Peace on earth, good will to men.” Lyrics of the song, I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.)

Peace on earth good will to men. We have entered the season of Advent, preparing for the day of our Savior’s birth. Trees are lit, gifts have been bought, and families gather together in celebration. Something, however, is missing. Something that we long for, pray for, hope for—Peace on earth, good will to men.
War has been a part of our lives for too many years now. War abroad and sadly war within our nation. Tempers flair. Fear engulfs. Lives are lost. And, yet, we continue to hope, and we listen for the bells ringing (peace on earth)  

“And in despair I bowed my head. There is no peace on earth I said. For hate is strong and mocks the song. Of peace on earth, good will to men. But the bells are ringing (peace on earth) Like a choir singing (peace on earth) Does anybody hear them? (peace on earth) Peace on earth, good will to men.”

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote the poem “Christmas Bells” which ultimately led to the Christmas carol “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” while our country was in the midst of the Civil War, and he was in the midst of depression from losing his beloved wife, Fanny as a result of an accidental fire, and his son Charles suffering a crippling injury in war. There was no peace for our country, nor for his soul. His head was bowed in despair and he was certain there was no peace on earth—For hate was strong and mocked the song. Hate and despair could not, however, silence the bells.

“Then rang the bells more loud and deep. God is not dead, nor does he sleep (peace on earth, peace on earth). The wrong shall fail, the right prevail. With peace on earth, good will to men. Then ringing singing on its way. The world revolved from night to day A voice, a chime, a chant sublime. Of peace on earth, good will to men. And the bells they're ringing (peace on earth). Like a choir they're singing (peace on earth). And with our hearts we'll hear them (peace on earth). Peace on earth, good will to men”

(The following is a direct quote from Tom Steward – Dec. 20, 2001) “The first Christmas after Fanny's death, Longfellow wrote, ‘How inexpressibly sad are all holidays.’ A year after the incident, he wrote, ‘I can make no record of these days. Better leave them wrapped in silence. Perhaps someday God will give me peace.’ Longfellow's journal entry for December 25th 1862 reads: ‘‘A merry Christmas' say the children, but that is no more for me.’  Almost a year later, Longfellow received word that his oldest son Charles, a lieutenant in the Army of the Potomac, had been severely wounded with a bullet passing under his shoulder blades and taking off one of the spinal processes. The Christmas of 1863 was silent in Longfellow's journal…. Finally, on Christmas Day of 1864, he wrote the words of the poem, "Christmas Bells."…  Longfellow's Christmas bells loudly proclaimed, ‘God is not dead.’… Even more, the bells announced, ‘Nor doth He sleep.’… ‘The wrong shall fail, the right prevail’…the message that the Living God is a God of Peace is proclaimed in the close of the carol: ‘Of peace on Earth, good will to men.’”

This past year has been tumultuous for our nation. [2016 & 2020] Peace has been nowhere to be found. Many have endured their own times of despair. Hate this past year has been strong and has done everything in its power to mock the song. But, the bells refuse to be silenced.

​“God is not dead, nor doth He sleep,” they sing. “Then ringing singing on its way. The world revolved from night to day. A voice, a chime, a chant sublime. Of peace on earth, good will to men. And the bells they're ringing (peace on earth). Like a choir they're singing (peace on earth). And with our hearts we'll hear them (peace on earth). Peace on earth, good will to men”

​Henry Wadsworth Longfellow penned these word during the Civil War. Our nation was divided; war raged within our very borders; brother fought against brother; peace was but a distant memory.

The year is 2020 and our nation is once again divided. Brother fights against brother. A war rages within our very borders. A virus named Covid holds our people hostage. Peace? But if we listen closely, we just may be able to hear the bells ringing--Peace on earth good will to men.
​
Can you hear them? Listen closely. The bells will continue to ring through the chaos and strife, through war and fear, through loss and despair—the Christmas bells will continue to ring. Can you hear them?

​“Do you hear the bells they're ringing? (peace on earth) The life the angels singing (peace on earth) Open up your heart and hear them (peace on earth) Peace on earth, good will to men.”

Please take a few minutes to enjoy the music video below by Casting Crowns, I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.

​I am a stickler for waiting until after Thanksgiving for all things Christmas. Well, almost all things. Trans-Siberian Orchestra can be loudly heard in my home at the onset of November. But, this year is different.
 
Perhaps the difference comes from this being the first Christmas Bob and I will celebrate in our new home. Perhaps the difference is a result of all things 2020—a year unlike any other in our history. Perhaps the difference is a result of the election drama. Perhaps it is a result of all of the above.
 
Whatever the reason, I hear Christmas calling, and I know many of you do as well. This  year has been grueling; fraught with fear, anger, and despair. As a result, many are craving the light of Christmas in our homes earlier than usual. We long to feel the joy of Christmas once again. We yearn for the peace Christmas brings to our hearts and souls.
 
I need Christmas this year, perhaps more than ever. Oh, not the hustle and bustle of fighting crowds trying to find the perfect gifts; not stressing-out planning huge family gatherings; not all the must dos that have absolutely nothing to do with Christmas. No, I don't need any of these.
 
I need to truly experience Christmas this year. I need to experience the peace and joy held within the bosom of this season. I need the light of Christmas to brighten my heart and enliven my soul. I need CHRISTmas!
 
"Wonder of all wonders outside of Bethlehem. Angels come to shepherds, ordinary working men. Not the high and mighty, the powerful and great. But those who feel unwanted, that the world has pushed away. Hear the call of Christmas, all you lost and left behind. The lowly and those longing, with an emptiness inside. The forgotten and forsaken, I bring you good news. Hear the call of Christmas, the Savior waits for you." (Lyrics from Zach Williams' song, "Call of Christmas."
 
I listened to this song a few weeks ago and it spoke to my heart. Amid all the trials and tribulations of 2020, in the midst of fear and anxiety, there is good news! Jesus, our Lord and Savior waits for us! We as Christians wait in anticipation to celebrate the birth of our Risen Savior, and we live in hope for His glorious return!  Can you hear Christmas calling you?
 
"All who feel rejected, unwanted and alone. We’re all undeserving of the kindness we’ve been shown. Come behold the King of Kings. Find rest you weary souls. Lay down all your burdens. He will mend and make you whole."
 
So, throwing all our rules pertaining to Thanksgiving out the window, Bob and I dug out our decorations and I have been decorating, and blasting Christmas music. It has been thrilling decorating our new home with our treasured decorations. They somehow look different this year. Christmas light abounds in our small home, and my heart and soul are overjoyed. Our new, smaller, Christmas tree will be adorned on Thanksgiving.
 
We have no idea what the rest of 2020 will bring, but we can rest in the peace of Christmas:  "For all of those in need, come find your hope and peace. Oh, do not be afraid, for He has come to save. He has come to save."

Listen for the call of Christmas
Please take a minute to enjoy the music video below, "Call of Christmas, by Zach Williams.

​(Lyrics from "Worth the Fight" by Christian artist Kim Walker-Smith)"This is gonna take an army. We the people. We the dreamers. We will not be divided. We're one nation. We remember. Only truth can break through darkness. Only hope can save a soul. On the shoulders of our Fathers. We meet the night with a roar"
                       
"Wake up, eyes up. Now is the moment, now is the time. One chance, one voice. No backing down, this is where heroes rise. Push back the shadows. Take back tomorrow. This is for freedom. Stand up, stand up, for what is right. The future is worth the fight."
                       
Our nation was founded and built on the shoulders of our forefathers. They refused to passively and silently accept England's tyranny. If we were to be a free and independent nation, they must fight—and fight they did. Our forefathers banded together to fight against tyranny and create a Republic founded on freedom. They worked tirelessly to draw-up our Constitution and Bill of Rights, the cornerstone of our government.
 
Generation after generation has shed blood in the battle for freedom, whether within our  borders or defending other countries. Freedom was the call. Freedom of religion. Freedom of speech. Freedom of the press. Freedom of assembly. Freedom of life! Our nation was also built on God's Word, one Nation Under God. These freedoms are now under attack.
 
For the first time in my life, I honestly fear our nation's future. Wrong has become right, and right has become wrong. Lies, deception, and hate run rampant. Bible believing, God fearing, Americans have been labeled bigots. The sanctity of life no longer applies to  unborn, or newly born children; they are helpless, innocent victims whose voices will never be heard  
 
We are one election away from the death-grip of Socialism. So many promises—free this, free that, everyone will be happy—until they're not. Nothing is free. We will pay the price. (Just Google Venezuela to see the effects of Socialism) 

Our freedom, taken for granted by most, has come at a great price. Thousands upon thousands of brave men and women fought, and sacrificed their lives to ensure our freedom. These men and women are our heroes! The time has come when we as Americans have to wake up and remember. It's time we, the silent majority, be courageous enough to stand up and declare, "We the people, we will not be divided. We're one nation! We remember!" It is time we honor those who sacrificed their lives, so that we can be free. It is time we become heroes.
                       
A war is raging within our borders. A campaign that, if left unchecked, will lead to the destruction of all we as Americans hold dear. Freedom will be a mystery deleted from our books of history. Life as we know it will cease to exist. Everything our forefathers fought for will be for naught. The sacrifices of our men and women in the military will be worthless. Evil will win. We will no longer be one nation under God—God and believers will be outcast. Conservative Christians are a roadblock to the plans of those attempting to control our country.
 
The time has come for heroes to arise. The time has come for the silent majority to find their voice. This battle will take an army to win. We are that army! "Now is the moment. Now is the time. One chance, one voice! No backing down. This is where heroes rise. Push back the shadows. Take back tomorrow. This is for freedom. Stand up! Stand up, for what is right. The future is worth the fight."
 
Our nation was founded on the blood, sweat, tears, and prayers of our ancestors: Ancestors who stood courageously for what was right. Our country stands today because of those who continue the valiant fight for freedom. Our nation's sovereignty, however, is under attack. "We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Ephesians 6:12. We must fight!
 
When I say that we must fight, I am not referring to rioting. We, as Christians, the silent majority, must take a stand. We must stand on our faith and commitment to the One True God. We must gather together in prayer. We must find our voices and stand together for our nation, for our freedom, for what is right, for our God. "Old Glory can be made new. This is the moment for breakthrough. Believe in the dream again."
 
(Lyrics continued) "Laying down our lives for others. Soldier sisters. Band of brothers. We're no longer called the silent. We fight for justice. For our children. Only truth can break through darkness. Only hope can save a soul. On the shoulders of our Fathers. We meet the night with a roar. Wake up, eyes up. Now is the moment, now is the time. One chance, one voice. No backing down, this is where heroes rise.
 
"Push back the shadows. Take back tomorrow. This is for freedom. Stand up, stand up, for what is right. The future is worth the fight. Believe in the dream again. Believe in what could be again.
 
"Old Glory can be made new. This is the moment for breakthrough. Believe in the dream again. Believe in what could be again. Old Glory can be made new. This is the moment for breakthrough.
 
"Take back tomorrow. This is for freedom. Stand up, stand up. For what is right. The future is worth the fight."
               
How can you or I make a difference? How can we make our voices heard? One word. Vote. We, as Americans, are blessed to have the right to vote. Many people in other countries don't have this right. Government is thrust upon them. Sadly, all too many Americans don't vote, they are not allowing their voices to be heard. They passively stand by, accepting whatever happens, or grumbling in vain. We, the silent majority, are vital to our nation. Our voices matter. The time has come to speak up. The time has come to rise as heroes.
 
"We're no longer called the silent. We fight for justice. For our children. Only truth can break through darkness. Only hope can save a soul. On the shoulders of our Fathers. We meet the night with a roar. Wake up, eyes up. Now is the moment, now is the time. One chance, one voice. No backing down, this is where heroes rise."

Believe in the dream again.
 
Please take a minute to watch the music video below: "Worth the Fight" by Kim Walker Smith.

​ Psalm 91
 
1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. a
2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
3 Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.
4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
5 You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day,
6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.
7 A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.
8 You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.
9 If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling,
10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.
11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;
12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
13 You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.
14 “Because he b loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
15 He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.
16 With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”
 
During this time of fear, confusion, and chaos, many unfortunately look to our government officials for answers: grasping desperately for reassurance and safety, becoming more confused and frightened with each passing day.
 
Our security does not lay in the hands of our government officials. Our true security comes from the Most High, our refuge and fortress—God! "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"
 
In whom do you trust?

​She rolled over in bed and slapped the snooze-button. Five more minutes. Just five more minutes. The alarm sounded again and again; each time she slapped the snooze-button; craving more sleep.
 
The warnings of her co-workers and her boss tugged at the edges of her brain: "If you don't get on the ball you're going to get yourself fired." "If you come in late one more time, that's it. Your gone!"
 
And yet she continued slapping the button.
 
Without warning her alarm sounded again. But this time was different. This was not the usual alarm. This alarm was loud; very, very loud, and shrill. It grew in volume with each second.
 
She punched the snooze-button over and over again, but the alarm grew all-the-louder. And now voices joined the ear-splitting siren. "You need to listen! You need to pay attention! If you don't you'll lose everything. There will be no more warnings! And you'll only have yourself to blame."
 
She buried her head beneath her pillow, then grabbed the other pillow and shoved that on top of the first. What was happening? Why won't the stupid thing shut-up?
 
Even buried beneath two pillows the sound of the alarm was deafening. The words of warnings grew all-the-more intense. "THERE WILL BE NO MORE WARNINGS! WAKE-UP NOW OR LOSE EVERYTHING!"
 
Tears coursed down her cheeks. "Wake-up or lose everything!" The warning pummeled her brain. She had heard all the warnings before, but chose to ignore them. She was fine. Her job, secure. Nothing bad would happen. Right?

 Scenes from her life played through her mind at warp-speed. She didn't like was she was seeing. So many people had reached out to her, trying to wake her up to the destruction that had become her life. Her boss had given her one chance after another, but no more. Her unwise choices were leading to...where?
 
She shoved the pillows to the floor and bolted up in bed; the alarm continued to wail. Was she too late? Almost, but she still had time, barely.
 
She swatted the snooze-button. The room fell silent. She jumped from bed and ran through the shower; tossed on clothes; ran a brush through her hair; grabbed her keys and a bagel, and burst out the door.
 
Her boss looked up as she scurried to her desk. He had the dreaded book in his hands. "The Book of Death", as it had been dubbed by her co-workers. Her name was in the book with numerous check-marks; one more check and she was gone.
 
 She instinctively glanced to the clock. She was on-time, barely. She held her breath and waited.
 
He glanced at the clock, smiled, and nodded his head. "Good job," he said, before closing the book and walking back to his office.
 
                                                 **************************
 
The woman in this tale knew she was on the wrong track, but she didn't care. No matter how many co-workers warned her, she wouldn't budge. Her boss's warnings also fell on deaf ears. She liked her life exactly like it was. She wore blinders when it came to the destructive path she had wandered onto.
 
Warning signs were all-around. And yet she buried her head, ignoring the alarms. She was fine. Nothing bad would happen. She could continue slapping the snooze-button and sail through life, unaffected by her choices.
 
Much like many of us.
 
The Bible is chock-full of prophecy concerning the times we are living in. Detailed signs and warnings. All there if we look. 

2 Timothy 3:11 - This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God... 

Matthew 24:7 - For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in diverse places.
 
Luke 21:25 - And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars, and upon the earth; distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;

Luke 21:36 - Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.
 
Revelation 3:3 - Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.

​Jesus also has a book: The Book of Life (also called The Lamb’s Book of Life) is a record containing the names of those who have overcome sin through accepting Jesus as Christ (having a spiritual rebirth).
 
I am so very thankful my name is written in this book. Is yours?
 
It's time we open our eyes, hearts, and minds to God's Word. Dig deep. Seek. Watch. Believe. Heed the signs. And Rejoice!
​