HOPE FOR THE HOME: Family reflections on Christmas

Jerry: The Bible is such a wonderful book. It reveals through prophecy the predicted birth of Jesus and then discloses how His life unfolds. The Bible tells us that He lived in every way as a human but never sinned. He was the way we would be reconciled to God our Father. He died and defeated sin, death, and the grave by His resurrection. No other human could or would do that for you and me. Luke 1:32 tells us, “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Highest ...” As you prepare your family for the celebration of Christmas do not neglect to read from the Bible the account of the coming of our Lord Jesus. Remind them that the poor shepherds and the Magi both responded in the same manner when they saw the Son of God, they worshipped Him. Christmas is so much more than presents under the tree. It is about the babe in the manger. His birthday should be extra special.

Becky: When the angel, Gabriel, told Mary she was to be the mother of Jesus she was afraid. She asked, “How can this be?” She must have thought, “Who am I to have such a task as to raise the Lord of mankind?” Most expectant mothers are uncertain and wonder, “Can I do this?” Babies do not arrive with a manual on how to raise them. Mary was told she could rely on wisdom from God to instruct Jesus. Luke 2:51-52 gives us insight on how Mary approached the raising of Jesus, “She treasured all these things in her heart. Jesus grew in wisdom, stature and favor with God and man.” As a parent, you also have a special task. That is to raise your children to become all that God wants them to be. Make you a bit anxious or afraid? Be certain, as Mary relied on God to instruct her, He will do the same for you.

Jerry and his wife Becky are on American Family Radio weekdays at 4:20 PM (CT) and on Sundays at 5:35 PM (CT). Check out their resources for the family at HopefortheHome.org. Becky’s latest book, “The Bright Side of Blue” and Dr. Drace’s, “44 Ways to Strengthen Your Marriage” offer biblical principles and timely advice for dealing with the challenges and trials of life. You may order these and other resources by contacting them at: hopeforthehome@juno.com.