December 22, 2025
Christmas in Uruguay
John Bliffen tells the story of a celebration of Christmas in Uruguay, reminding us that the traditions may differ, but the message is the same.
Articles for tag: Christmas Eve
December 18, 2025
The Best Christmas Ever
Dr. Joe Grana recalls the story of a Christmas that changed everything in his life and was the best Christmas ever.
December 24, 2023
‘The Spirit of Christmas Eve’ (1906)
In this excerpt from a 1906 essay, Anna D. Bradley responded to a correspondent who contended that Christmas Day was "handed down from heathendom." . . .
December 23, 2022
An Aluminum Tree, a Phonograph, and ‘Snowballs’
Christmas childhood memories can blur together, but one specific Christmas—I think it was 1966—certainly left a lasting impression.
July 15, 2018
Easter Service Promoted as ‘Unlike Any Other’ Was Actually Just Like Any Other
By Caleb Kaltenbach KANSAS CITY, MO—Easter experiences are still being reported to various Christian magazines and outlets and a common theme is emerging: Some pastors pledged an Easter service like no other, but it turns out these were empty promises. Stan Hanson, pastor of the newly planted Crossways Christian Church, told his congregation: “Don’t miss Easter! Arrive early, bring a friend, and get ready for an experience unlike any other.” Crossways member Tom Harlow offered this critique of the service: “Let’s see. They had a creative opener, more lights, good singing, and a sermon on the resurrection. Pastor Stan also
December 24, 2015
Meditating on Joy: December 24
By Becky Ahlberg Thursday, December 24 Having grandchildren is a particular joy. I am constantly amazed at their humor, insight, and ability to live with joyous abandon. They make me laugh and watch in wonder as they encounter their world. “Christmas is for children” is a common phrase this time of year. Decorations, extra “goodies” to eat, and, of course, gifts are some of their favorite things. We love to see them squeal with delight. But is that what brings them joy? The older I get the more I realize that children are elated with just about anything if they
December 3, 2015
16 Ways to Make Your Minister Happy at Christmas
By Jennifer Johnson 1. Say the following to him in November: “What”s the biggest need for the Sunday before Christmas? What about Christmas Eve? I”m on it.” 2. Give him a gift card (or just some cash!). Do not give him a plate of cookies, an inspirational wall hanging, or a Bible. 3. Encourage him to take off the weekend after Christmas (or, even better, the entire week), and enthusiastically attend services that Sunday even though he”s not preaching. 4. Give extra money to the church. 5. Do not expect him to be at all three performances of the children”s
December 22, 2012
A Clap-Clap-Clap-Clappity Christmas
By Elaine L. Schulte In early December, my husband and I packed for a small-ship adventure in the South Pacific. I phoned our friends and neighbors, Judy and Andy, who would travel with us. “Will there be a pastor for Christmas on such a small ship?” I asked them. “What if God wants us to conduct the Christmas service?” “I”ll bring songbooks, just in case,” Judy replied. “I could do my Christmas reading. . . .” We were willing. On December 17, we flew to Guam, a United States protectorate. Our bus”s guide said, “Don”t expect too much. Guam is
December 24, 2006
‘Tis the Season
Christmas awakens a restless longing in many—through perfectionism, loneliness, grief, or escape. Like the Magi, people seek what they can’t fully name. This reflection calls believers to notice that longing and reach out.
