Think Outward
Every church will tell you they have an outward focus because they know that's Jesus' Great Commission, but the truth is that many are not.
Articles for tag: Christmas
January 1, 2026
Succession: The Things You Need to Know but Others Won’t Tell You
We need to start thinking and planning for succession earlier rather than later, knowing that the stakes are high, the process takes time, and that we are following a biblical mandate.
January 1, 2026
Retirement, Ministry, and Learning to Let Go: A Pastor’s Wife’s Perspective
Retirement doesn’t mean ministry is over. It just means it looks different. The way we influence and serve may change, but God still uses us.
January 1, 2026
Bridging the Leadership Gap: Essential Steps for Church Succession
Elders and pastors need to intentionally work to identify and develop future pastors and leaders, viewing this as both a calling and a priority.
January 1, 2026
Serving in the Shadows
If your main motivation is to please other people, and your self-worth depends on others’ approval, you will be frustrated and disappointed.
January 1, 2026
Pastoral Transition: Succession or Interim?
When done with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, succession and an intentional interim create the smoothest path to pastoral transition.
December 25, 2025
Americans in Germany Embrace a British Christmas Tradition
Randy and Katy Smelser describe the pleasure of Advent fellowship in Germany with a church of Anglican tradition.
December 24, 2025
In Its Time
Amy Storms reflects on her daughters' performances in the Nutcracker ballet and how God brings everything about in its right time.
December 23, 2025
Grandma’s House
Trevor Littleton recalls Christmas visits to his grandma's house, how a child adopted his grandma's name, & how we have been adopted as God's children.
December 22, 2025
The Wonders of His Love
Jesus came to save us from sin and fulfill messianic prophecies. He is the Christ of the cross who arose as King of kings. Don't miss the wonders of his love.
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.
December 21, 2025
The Time a Family Bought Me a Christmas Tree
Bryan Sands recalls the joy he experienced when a Christmas tree was given to him and how it reminds him of God's great compassion.
December 20, 2025
Who’s That Guy?
Chad Broaddus tells us about reading the Christmas story with his family and how Quirinius reminds him of the authenticity of Jesus' birth.
December 19, 2025
The Christmas Gift
Italian missionary Dot Elliot shares a reminder about the greatest gift of all and tells the story of her first Christmas in Italy.
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 15, 2025
Lay Down Your Crowns
During this Christmas season, let’s bow in self-abandoned surrender and confess that every honor, accomplishment, and triumph we possess comes from the Lord, who alone deserves the glory.
December 15, 2025
HOME FOR CHRISTMAS
Here at the Communion table, we gather as wanderers who have come home and are part of God’s forever family: his church.
December 2, 2025
Christmas Ramblings, Attendance Trends, and the Medication Everyone Should Get On in 2026
Recent studies contend that the joys of Christmas can be carried beyond December and result in good mental and physical health by regularly going to church.
November 6, 2025
Love’s Persuasive Power
Love has persuasive power. Compassion makes our arguments more convincing, but without love, our arguments sound hollow.
October 30, 2025
Lesson for the Holidays
In the exuberance of merriment that characterizes the holiday season, there is always danger, more or less, of being swept into excesses.
