The Reason For The Season (by Carolyn Marshall)

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD almighty will accomplish this.”

Isaiah 9:6-7



There are many scriptures throughout the Bible, in both the old and new testaments, that tell of the coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ. No matter what the scripture, the message is always one of hope, joy, peace, love … salvation. But the message isn’t just about the birth of a baby in a manger. It begins there, but is hardly the whole story. For without the birth of the baby Jesus and His life here on earth, there would be no crucifixion and death on the cross. Without the crucifixion and death on the cross, there would be no burial and resurrection. Without the resurrection, there would be no redemption for us and no salvation. And without redemption and salvation, there would be no life everlasting with God and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

So, this December 25 (the day we have chosen to celebrate Christmas), remember the whole story of why this birth was (is) so special. And after that day has passed and all the trees, ornaments, and gifts have been put away, remember that the most important gift of all, the one from heaven above, can be enjoyed and celebrated 365 days a year. Don’t tuck it away in a box somewhere not to be pulled out again until next December comes around. Keep it open in view of all. It was meant to be shared with everyone.

God bless each and every one of you as you celebrate Jesus!

The Reason For The Season

Christmas is a season filled with laughter and good cheer,

A time to visit family and friends that we hold dear.

Trinkets dress our tree and pretty tinsel makes it bright.

An angel placed on top will keep us safe throughout the night.

The children are so happy that the day is almost here

To see what Santa brings them dressed in red and long white beard.

Excitement fills the air, and almost everywhere you go,

You’ll see the celebration with the houses all aglow.

But let us not forget on Christmas day so long ago

A child was born in Bethlehem and wrapped in swaddling clothes.

His bed was in a stable, just a manger made with hay.

And one bright star up in the East would help to lead the way.

Three wise men and some shepherds heard the news and left that night.

With gifts in hand they traveled far to see the Holy Light.

This baby boy was Jesus, sent to us from God above.

His only child, from virgin birth, would live with perfect love.

The reason for the season is the best gift God could give.

He loved the world so much He gave His son so we could live.

A gift of life eternal with the Father and the Son.

The reason for the season is the gift of God’s pure love.

Carolyn Marshall

© 12/16/04

Cuddle Up With Jesus (by Carolyn Marshall)

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

(Matthew 11:28-30)



(Circulated via email - Photographer Unknown)

Have you ever wanted to just run away, to leave the world behind, to crawl up in the lap of Jesus and cuddle with Him? This picture is a beautiful reminder of how simple it is to do.  How wonderful it would be to sit there and lay our head on His shoulder. We wouldn’t need to say a word as Jesus wrapped His arms around us. We would feel His love in those intimate moments with Him. Without speaking, He would let us know just how much He loves us and that every tiny detail of our lives is under His control. How awesome is that!

In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites all of us who are weary or burdened to come to Him and He will give us rest - body, mind and soul. We should all follow the example of this trusting dog and seek comfort in the lap of Jesus. Oh, and by the way … the breed of the dog is a German “Shepherd”!