Angels among us

Throughout Scripture – and especially at the birth of Jesus – angels have played a unique role in God’s great redemption story. They announced His arrival; ministered to Him in the wilderness; guarded His tomb; and instructed the disciples on how to watch and wait for His return at his ascension.

Blessings of the holiday season

Family gatherings at Christmas are natural, right and good. J.C. Ryle (1816-1900) described them as “one of the very few pleasant things that have survived the fall of man.

Holiday not always observed in states

In this day and time – with Christmas items appearing on store shelves before Halloween – it’s difficult to believe that celebrating Christmas was once banned in America. During the 17th century, Christmas celebrations were banned by the Puritans – especially in the New England area.

The celebration of Hanukkah

Actor Adam Sandler wrote a song about Chanukah and performed it on television. He said he did it for Jewish children who felt left out during the Christmas season. It made people more aware of a Jewish holiday observed just before Christmas.

Insurance fix

Lots of us are trying to figure how to adjust our budgets for the coming year, given the health insurance increases many face.  We already know the problem: bills are too high, and there is not enough money to cover them!

Reflections after Thanksgiving holiday

G.K. Chesterton wrote, “I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.”  I think most people see the superiority of giving thanks over taking things for granted.

Cherokees and the Civilian Conservation Corps

Much has been written about the Civilian Conservation Corps, the work performed and the part it played in pulling America out of the Depression. But when it comes to the part the Cherokees had in the effort, not so much.

Yuletide Ministries spreads holiday cheer

I remember as a youngster in school singing about Yuletide carols.  I didn’t know what Yuletide was, but I knew it had something to do with Christmas.  Originally, Yuletide was a Norse celebration during midwinter.

Holidays are a time for reflection

Ready, set, go!  The holiday season is right here, right now and I feel like the year has sped by unbelievably fast. Christmas decorations were in stores before Halloween and Thanksgiving. When we wait to put up our holiday decorations, it tends to make them more special. Why the rush?

Thankful for Mama’s raising

The columnist still looks back on the values instilled by her mother with fondness. You’ve heard the expression, “She worked her fingers to the bone.”  Well, my mother was the exact living embodiment of that phrase.