Monday, December 25, 2023

Merry Christmas from Abundant Family Living (2023)

Merry Christmas from Abundant Family Living
The First Christmas:  Merry Christmas from Abundant Family Living

 Merry Christmas from Abundant Family Living!

For Unto Us a Child is Born
Isaiah 9:6


We hope you are all enjoying a very merry and blessed Christmas.  If this is a difficult season for you or maybe this day is not what you thought it would be, it is important to remember the reason we celebrate Christmas.  Family gatherings, good food, and beautifully wrapped packages are all wonderful, but sometimes things change quickly and we are humbly reminded that even if families can't gather, dinners can't happen for whatever reason, and gift exchanges have to be postponed, it is still Christmas.  

Christmas isn't really about all those things.  Christmas is about a baby born in a stable, the baby who would grow up to save lost souls, but not without paying a high price 33 years later at a place called Calvary.  

So whether you are currently preparing for a full day of Christmas partying or spending the day at home, maybe alone, it is still Christmas, because even though our plans may suddenly change (as is the case with my own family this year), the fact that Jesus came to us as a newborn baby born in a lowly stable will never change.  Jesus' birth is worth celebrating whether it be celebrated with fine festivities or only in our hearts.

Let's celebrate first by reading the historical account of Jesus' birth.  Let's read from the book of Luke.

Since many have undertaken to compile an account of the things accomplished among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, it seemed fitting to me as well, having investigated everything carefully from the beginning, to write it out for you in an orderly sequence, most excellent Theophilus; so that you may know the exact truth about the things you have been taught.

John the Baptist’s Birth Foretold

In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah; and he had a wife from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. They were both righteous in the sight of God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and requirements of the Lord. And yet they had no child, because Elizabeth was infertile, and they were both advanced in years.

Now it happened that while he was performing his priestly service before God in the appointed order of his division, according to the custom of the priestly office, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. And the whole multitude of the people were in prayer outside at the hour of the incense offering. Now an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the altar of incense. Zechariah was troubled when he saw the angel, and fear gripped him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John. You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice over his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord; and he will drink no wine or liquor, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit while still in his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the sons of Israel back to the Lord their God. And it is he who will go as a forerunner before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of fathers back to their children, and the disobedient to the attitude of the righteous, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”

Zechariah said to the angel, “How will I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in her years.” The angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day when these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled at their proper time.”

And meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah, and were wondering at his delay in the temple. But when he came out, he was unable to speak to them; and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple, and he repeatedly made signs to them, and remained speechless. When the days of his priestly service were concluded, he went back home.

Now after these days his wife Elizabeth became pregnant, and she kept herself in seclusion for five months, saying,  “This is the way the Lord has dealt with me in the days when He looked with favor upon me, to take away my disgrace among people.”

Jesus’ Birth Foretold

Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was very perplexed at this statement, and was pondering what kind of greeting this was. And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and give birth to a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; for that reason also the holy Child will be called the Son of God. And behold, even your relative Elizabeth herself has conceived a son in her old age, and she who was called infertile is now in her sixth month. For nothing will be impossible with God.” And Mary said, “Behold, the Lord’s bond-servant; may it be done to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

Mary Visits Elizabeth

Now at this time Mary set out and went in a hurry to the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. And she cried out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And how has it happened to me that the mother of my Lord would come to me? For behold, when the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby leaped in my womb for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what had been spoken to her by the Lord.”

Mary’s Song: The Magnificat

And Mary said:

“My soul exalts the Lord,
And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.
For He has had regard for the humble state of His bond-servant;
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed.
For the Mighty One has done great things for me;
And holy is His name.
And His mercy is to generation after generation
Toward those who fear Him.
He has done mighty deeds with His arm;
He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
He has brought down rulers from their thrones,
And has exalted those who were humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
And sent the rich away empty-handed.
He has given help to His servant Israel,
In remembrance of His mercy,
Just as He spoke to our fathers,
To Abraham and his descendants forever.”

Mary stayed with her about three months, and then returned to her home.

John the Baptist Is Born

Now the time had come for Elizabeth to give birth, and she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and her relatives heard that the Lord had displayed His great mercy toward her; and they were rejoicing with her.

And it happened that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to call him Zechariah, after his father. And yet his mother responded and said, “No indeed; but he shall be called John.” And they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” And they made signs to his father, as to what he wanted him called. And he asked for a tablet and wrote as follows, “His name is John.” And they were all amazed. And at once his mouth was opened and his tongue freed, and he began speaking in praise of God. And fear came on all those who lived around them; and all these matters were being talked about in the entire hill country of Judea. All who heard them kept them in mind, saying, “What then will this child turn out to be?” For indeed the hand of the Lord was with him.

Zechariah’s Prophecy

And his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied, saying:

“Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,
For He has visited us and accomplished redemption for His people,
And has raised up a horn of salvation for us
In the house of His servant David—
Just as He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets from ancient times—
Salvation from our enemies,
And from the hand of all who hate us;
To show mercy to our fathers,
And to remember His holy covenant,
The oath which He swore to our father Abraham,
To grant us that we, being rescued from the hand of our enemies,
Would serve Him without fear,
In holiness and righteousness before Him all our days.
And you, child, also will be called the prophet of the Most High;
For you will go on before the Lord to prepare His ways;
To give His people the knowledge of salvation
By the forgiveness of their sins,
Because of the tender mercy of our God,
With which the Sunrise from on high will visit us,
To shine on those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,
To guide our feet into the way of peace.”

Now the child grew and was becoming strong in spirit, and he lived in the deserts until the day of his public appearance to Israel.

Jesus’ Birth in Bethlehem

Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth. This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all the people were on their way to register for the census, each to his own city. Now Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register along with Mary, who was betrothed to him, and was pregnant. While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock at night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood near them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. And so the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army of angels praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace among people with whom He is pleased.”

When the angels had departed from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem, then, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger. When they had seen Him, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. And all who heard it were amazed about the things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.

Jesus Presented at the Temple

And when eight days were completed so that it was time for His circumcision, He was also named Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.

And when the days for their purification according to the Law of Moses were completed, they brought Him up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord: “Every firstborn male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice according to what has been stated in the Law of the Lord: “A pair of turtledoves or two young doves.”

And there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to carry out for Him the custom of the Law, then he took Him in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

“Now, Lord, You are letting Your bond-servant depart in peace,
According to Your word;
For my eyes have seen Your salvation,
Which You have prepared in the presence of all the peoples:
A light for revelation for the Gentiles,
And the glory of Your people Israel.”

And His father and mother were amazed at the things which were being said about Him. And Simeon blessed them and said to His mother Mary, “Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and as a sign to be opposed— and a sword will pierce your own soul—to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years and had lived with her husband for seven years after her marriage, and then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She did not leave the temple grounds, serving night and day with fasts and prayers. And at that very moment she came up and began giving thanks to God, and continued to speak about Him to all those who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

Return to Nazareth

And when His parents had completed everything in accordance with the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city of Nazareth. Now the Child continued to grow and to become strong, increasing in wisdom; and the favor of God was upon Him.

Visit to Jerusalem

His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up there according to the custom of the feast; and as they were returning, after spending the full number of days required, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but His parents were unaware of it. Instead, they thought that He was somewhere in the caravan, and they went a day’s journey; and then they began looking for Him among their relatives and acquaintances. And when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, looking for Him. Then, after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers. When Joseph and Mary saw Him, they were bewildered; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You treated us this way? Behold, Your father and I have been anxiously looking for You!” And He said to them, “Why is it that you were looking for Me? Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” And yet they on their part did not understand the statement which He had made to them. And He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and He continued to be subject to them; and His mother treasured all these things in her heart.

And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and people. (Luke:1-2)
Do yo ever wonder how much Mary knew about the life Jesus would live and the sacrifice He would make?  This is what the angel, Gabriel, told Mary.
“Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and give birth to a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.” (Luke 1:30-32

That's what we know God revealed to Mary through Gabriel.  We really don't know more than that about what Mary knew, but this question reminds me of one of my favorite Christmas songs.  I'll leave you with this song.  May you enjoy a very merry and blessed Christmas Day!

  

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Merry Christmas from Abundant Family Living
Jesus is the Reason for the Season


Friday, December 8, 2023

Pray for Recovering Addicts at the House of Hope in Central Asia

Pray for Recovering Addicts at the House of Hope in Central Asia
Pray for Recovering Addicts at the House of Hope in Central Asia

Today is the last day of our 7 Days of Prayer for International Mission Board missionaries.  Today, we are praying for Aaron and Melanie Stoval.  Aaron and Melanie serve in Central Asia bringing hope, healing, and discipleship to men who are recovering from addiction at a half-way house in the area.  Let's pray for Aaron, Melanie, and recovering addicts at the House of Hope in Central Asia.

At the House of Hope, men are provided a placer to stay.  They also learn skills that will help then learn a trade to support themselves.  The men staying at the House of Hope attend Bible studies and prayer times.  In addition to skills training, they raise and sell rabbits and vegetables.  The Stovals live among these men, mentoring them as they grow in their faith and positively impact the region where so many are lost.

How to Pray for Recovering Addicts at the House of Hope in Central Asia


Here are three specific ways you can pray for the Stovals’ ministry:

1.  Pray for the men at House of Hope to grow in their personal faith and relationship with Christ as they participate in Bible studies and prayer times. Pray that they would be empowered to impact the vast lostness in their region.

2.  Pray for Aaron and Melanie as they mentor and disciple these men. Pray that God would grant them wisdom, compassion, and grace as they share God’s love and truth with them.

3.  Pray for House of Hope’s continued success in providing a safe place to stay, job skills training, and fellowship for recovering addicts. Pray that more men would come to know Christ and find hope and healing at this halfway house.

Download the following graphic listing ways to pray for the Lowes and their ministry.  Mount it somewhere in your home so that you will be reminded daily to pray for Aaron and Melanie Stoval and their ministry in Central Asia.

Pray for Recovering Addicts at the House of Hope in Central Asia
Ways to Pray for Aaron and Melanie Stoval and Their Ministry

Don't forget to continue to pray for our previously mentioned International Mission Board missionaries.

Paul Yount and Willie Brown who serve in StoryOne Camps in Africa
Tim and Annie Tidenberg who serve in a pastoral care ministry in West Africa
Don and Pam Lynch who serve in a unique Coffee Bike ministry in Belgium 
Eric and Ramona Reese who serve as church planters in Sao Paulo, Brazil 
Jeri Whitfield who serves in remote areas in Thailand where some have never heard the gospel
Cordy and Eloise Lowe who share the gospel and provide medical care in a South Asian village

You can download and print all 7 graphics (one in each post) listing ways to pray for these missionaries serving around the world through the International Mission Board.  Let's continue to pray over them now and in the days to come. 

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Pray for Recovering Addicts at the House of Hope in Central Asia
Pray for Recovering Addicts at the House of Hope in Central Asia

Sunday, December 3, 2023

Pray for Medical Care in South Asia

Pray for Medical Care in South Asia
Pray for Medical Care in South Asia

We are continuing our 7 Days of Prayer for International Mission Board Missionaries.  Each day, we have received specific information about particular missionaries and the people they serve.  So far, we have prayed for Paul Yount and Willie Brown who serve in StoryOne Camps in Africa, Tim and Annie Tidenberg who serve in a pastoral care ministry in West Africa, Don and Pam Lynch who serve in a unique Coffee Bike ministry in Belgium, and Eric and Ramona Reese who serve as church planters in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and Jeri Whitfield who serves in Thailand.  Today, we are praying for Cordy and Eloise Lowe.  Cordy and Eloise share the gospel and provide medical care in a South Asian village where people are afraid to seek medical care due to a shortage of facilities and it's too dangerous for them to travel to clinics that are too far away.  

Lucky is a doctor friend who has helped the Lowes reach groups they would not otherwise have access.  Lucky, a local Christian, is working to open a small clinic in his community.  He will also serve 7 other villages nearby where there are no other known Christians.

Together, the Lowes and Lucky have hosted medical clinics.  The clinics provide opportunities for them to share the good news of Jesus with those who don't know Him.  Many of the people who seek medical care at the clinic have never even heard the name of Jesus.  The Lowes and Lucky are making a significant impact in the lives of the people they serve in South Asia.

How to Pray for Cordy and Eloise Lowe and Medical Care in South Asia


Here are four specific prayer requests we would like you to consider as you pray for Cordy and Eloise Lowe’s ministry:

1.  Pray for the physical and spiritual health of the South Asian villagers they are serving. 

2.  Pray for the success of Lucky’s clinic and for the safety of all those who seek medical care there.

3.  Pray for the safety and protection of Cordy and Eloise Lowe as they continue to travel to these remote villages and share the gospel with those who have never heard it before.

4.  Pray that the Lord will continue to provide opportunities for the Lowes and Lucky to share the gospel and that many hearts will be transformed as a result.

Download the following image.  Then, print it out.  Mount it in a place in your home where you will see it often as a reminder to pray these specific prayers for the Lowes and their medical doctor friend, Lucky.

Pray for Medical Care in South Asia
Pray for Cordy and Eloise Lowe and Medical Care in South Asia

Thank you for joining us in prayer for these International Mission Board Missionaries!

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Pray for Medical Care in South Asia
Pray for Medical Care in South Asia

Friday, December 1, 2023

Pray for IMB Missionary Jeri Whitfield

Pray for IMB Missionary Jeri Whitfield
Pray for IMB Missionary Jeri Whitfield

Today, we are on day 5 of our 7 days of prayer for International Mission Board missionaries.  Previously, we prayed for Paul Yount and Willie Brown who serve in StoryOne Camps in Africa, Tim and Annie Tidenberg who serve in a pastoral care ministry in West Africa, Don and Pam Lynch who serve in a unique Coffee Bike ministry in Belgium, and Eric and Ramona Reese who serve as church planters in Sao Paulo, Brazil.  Today, we are asked to pray for Jeri Whitfield who serves in Thailand.  As a young 22 year old Journeyman, Jeri knew she wanted to focus on a longterm relationship with the people she would serve while providing access to the Gospel and changing the lives of people who need the Lord.

Jeri has served in missionary work for 40 years, returning to Thailand three times.  She recently visited a "spirit doctor" in Thailand who has heard the Gospel message, but has not entered into a personal relationship with Jesus.  Jeri is committed to reaching the "spirit doctor" and others like him so that they may know Jesus.  Sometimes she travels into remote areas.  

Ways to Pray for Jeri Whitfield


1.  Pray for Jeri’s health and safety as she continues to serve in Thailand and travel to remote areas for missionary work.

2.  Pray for Jeri’s efforts to connect with those in Thailand, that they would know Jesus through her words and deeds.

3.  Pray for the “spirit doctor” and the people like him whom Jeri has encountered over her time of service in Thailand, that they may come to know the love of Jesus Christ.

Save the following image to your computer.  Then, print it out.  Mount it somewhere in your home so that you will be reminded to pray for Jeri Whitfield and the work she is doing with the peopel of Thailand.

Pray for IMB Missionary Jeri Whitfield

Thank you for joining me in praying for International Mission Board missionaries and the people they serve.

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Pray for IMB Missionary Jeri Whitfield
Pray for IMB Missionary Jeri Whitfield

Saturday, November 25, 2023

Pray for a New Church Plant in Sao Paulo, Brazil

Pray for a New Church Plant in Sao Paulo, Brazil
Pray for a New Church Plant in Sao Paulo, Brazil

If you are praying with me over International Mission Board missionaries this week, we are on day 4 of 7.  Previously we have prayed for Paul Yount and Willie Brown who serve in StoryOne camps in Africa, Tim and Annie Tidenberg who server in missions pastoral care in Africa, and for Don and Pam Lynch who operate a Coffee Bike ministry in Belgium.  Today we are asked to pray for Eric and Ramona Reese who are serving as church planters in Sao Paulo, Brazil.  

Eric and Ramona have served in Brazil for 22 years, sometimes in dangerous locations.  The following is an excerpt from an amazing story.  You can start reading it here.  Then, click through to read the rest.

The pastor of a congregation in the slum of Santa Lucas invited me to preach during a special event for his church. Several murders had recently occurred in the community, and the pastor wanted me to encourage his people to not be fearful. He told me the theme of the event: “Men of God who are not fearful.”

Based on the title, I wasn’t sure I was the best choice to speak, but I accepted his invitation anyway. A young seminary student named John accompanied me. His job while I preached was to pray, because I knew we were going into a dangerous community.

I preached on a familiar story—David and Goliath. I had three main points I wanted to make. The first was that men of God who stand for God are not afraid to fight for God. I explained the point. “If someone came to me to say that Jesus is not Lord, I would stand my ground and be willing to say that He is Lord. I would be willing to fight for what is true.”

As soon as I said that, gunshots erupted from out in the community. The only person who hit the deck was the guest-speaking American missionary invited to tell the locals that men of God are men of courage. John laughed out loud. I looked out from my prone position to see smiles across the congregation. I stood up, apologized, and resumed preaching.

My second point was that David carried with him memories of being willing to fight for the right. King Saul told David he was too young to fight Goliath, yet David told Saul how when he was a young shepherd, he killed a lion and a bear that threatened his sheep.

As if on cue, shots rang out again. This time, though, they came from a machine gun. And this time, the bullets hit the church building. One bullet went through the top of a wall and hit a ceiling fan in the sanctuary. Again, I hit the deck. This time, I wasn’t alone… READ MORE . . .

Here are specific ways to pray for Erica and Ramona as they serve in a new church plant in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Specific Ways to Pray for a New Church Plant in Sao Paulo, Brazil

1. Today let’s pray for the protection and the power of the Reeses’ ministry in Brazil!

2.  Ask God to bless a sports ministry the Reeses are working with in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

3.  Pray for many partnerships forming with Brazilian Baptists.

Save the following image to your computer.  Then, print it out and place it in a location that you see often as a reminder to pray for Eric and Ramona Reese and their church plant in Brazil.

Pray for a New Church Plant in Sao Paulo, Brazil
Pray for a New Church Plant in Sao Paulo, Brazil

Pin the following image so others can also pray for Eric and Ramona Reese.
Pray for a New Church Plant in Sao Paulo, Brazil
Pray for a New Church Plant in Sao Paulo, Brazil

Friday, November 24, 2023

Pray for Coffee Bike Missionaries in Belgium

Pray for "Coffee Bike" Missionaries in Belgium
Pray for "Coffee Bike" Missionaries in Belgium

We are on day 3 of our 7 days of prayer for IMB Missionaries.  We have prayed for Paul Yount and Willie Brown as they minister through StoryOne camps in Africa.  Then, we prayed for Tim and Annie Tidenberg as they minister to other other missionaries through their pastoral care ministry.  Today, we are praying for Don and Pam Lynch who serve in Flanders, Belgium.  Don and Pam minister through a unique ministry they call their Coffee Bike Ministry, so today, we are praying for Coffee Bike Missionaries in Belgium and the people they serve.

Pray for Coffee Bike Missionaries in Belgium

The people in Flanders, Belgium are very private.  Building relationships outside their tight communities is challenging for them.  Don and Pam Lynch have a "coffee bike" complete with a generator and an espresso machine.  While the Lynches grind and prepare coffee, they join in conversations with the people around them.  They are enjoying the opportunity to offer free coffee and listening ears to those who hang around to talk with them.  They also offer Biblical truths, godly counsel and prayer support.  

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, the people in Flanders, Belgium felt even more isolated from others.  Depression is common.  Don and Pam are praying for God to provide more opportunities for them to engage in gospel conversations and build long term friendships through their Coffee Bike Ministry.

How to Pray for Coffee Bike Missionaries in Belgium

1.  Pray for the Flemish to find hope, meaning, and purpose in Christ—especially those who are struggling with depression and loneliness to find the help and hope they need in Jesus.

2.  Pray for the Lynches as they devote time to building relationships through their coffee cart ministry.

3.  Pray for deep gospel conversations and open hearts.

Save the following graphic to your computer.  Then, print it out and hang it somewhere so that you will be reminded daily to pray for Don and Pam Lynch's Coffee Bike Ministry.

Pray for Coffee Bike Missionaries in Belgium
Pray for Coffee Bike Missionaries in Belgium

Pin this post so others can pray for IMB Missionaries too!
Pray for Coffee Bike Missionaries in Belgium
Pray for Coffee Bike Missionaries in Belgium

Have a wonderful day!

Living Abundantly in Him,
Tina


Thursday, November 23, 2023

My Christmas Coloring Pages: 20 Christmas Coloring Pages for Kids

My Christmas Coloring Pages:  20 Christmas Coloring Pages for Kids
My Christmas Coloring Pages:  20 Christmas Coloring Pages for Kids

Coloring is a timeless activity that has been enjoyed by children and adults alike for centuries. It's not just a fun way to pass the time, but it also offers numerous benefits, especially for kids. Engaging in this activity provides opportunities for children to exercise their small motor skills, which are crucial in their development.

The Significance of Coloring in a Child's Development


Coloring is a simple yet powerful tool that aids in a child's development. It's an activity that is fun and engaging for kids of all ages and at various levels of ability. When a child holds a colored pencil or a crayon, he learns to grasp and control it. This process helps in the development of his small motor skills.

Furthermore, coloring requires focus. This not only helps kids to concentrate but also aids in their cognitive development. It trains them to pay attention to details, which is a crucial skill that will be helpful in their future learning experiences.

My Christmas Coloring Pages:  

20 Christmas Coloring Pages for Kids


With the Christmas season approaching, I want to share with you a fun and festive activity for your kids, 20 Christmas coloring pages. This collection of coloring pages features various Christmas-themed illustrations that your kids will surely love.

Each page features a range of designs from Christmas trees, Santa Claus, reindeer, snowmen, to ornaments. Your kids can bring these drawings to life with their imagination and creativity. It's an excellent way to keep them engaged during the Christmas season while also encouraging them to explore their artistic skills.

Why Christmas Coloring Pages?


My Christmas Coloring Pages is not just a collection of coloring pages, but also a tool for learning. Each illustration is designed to spark the creativity of children and inspire them to explore their artistic side.

Moreover, this collection of Christmas coloring pages is a digital product, which means you can print it out immediately and you can print as many copies as you need for your personal children, your homeschool, or your classroom if you teach in a private or public school. This feature allows multiple children to color the same page, or a child to try coloring the same page multiple times, experimenting with different colors each time.

In conclusion, My Christmas Coloring Pages is a perfect blend of fun and learning. It's a great way to keep your kids engaged during the holiday season while also aiding in their development. So, why wait? Grab your copy today and let your kids dive into the world of colors this Christmas!

My Christmas Coloring Pages is available in our Etsy shop for only $2.50, but you can get them for free by subscribing to our blog here!

My Christmas Coloring Pages:  20 Christmas Coloring Pages for Kids
My Christmas Coloring Pages:  20 Christmas Coloring Pages for Kids

You may also like:

Ways to Teach Your Children the Meaning of Christmas
Ways to Teach Your Children the Meaning of Christmas

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My Christmas Coloring Pages:  20 Christmas Coloring Pages for Kids
My Christmas Coloring Pages:  20 Christmas Coloring Pages for Kids




Wednesday, November 22, 2023

Pray for International Mission Board Pastoral Care in West Africa

Pray for International Mission Board Pastoral Care in West Africa
Pray for International Mission Board Pastoral Care in West Africa

This is day 2 of 7 days of prayer for International Mission Board missionaries.  Yesterday, we prayed for Paul Yount and Willie Brown as they continue in their StoryOne ministry in Africa.  Today, we are praying for Tim and Annie Tidenberg.  Both Tim and Annie were missionary kids who decided to continue the work of their parents in Africa.  They began as church planters in East Africa.  After several years, they moved to the United States where they led a church for five years.  After that, Tim and Annie felt called to West Africa where they currently serve as pastoral care missionaries with International Mission Board Pastoral Care.

As pastoral care missionaries, Tim and Annie provide pastoral care and counseling to support and equip missionaries, contributing to their spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being.  Tim says, “We spend time with them, encourage them if they’re in a crisis situation, we pray with them and we try to get them some resources to work through what they’re dealing with.”

Pray for International Mission Board Pastoral Care in West Africa


Here are specific ways to pray for Tim and Annie Tidenberg:

1.  Pray that the Lord would give them wisdom and discernment as they care for and mentor missionaries.

2.  Pray that they would have insight into the unique needs and challenges that these missionaries face and that they would be able to offer practical advice and support.

3.  Pray they would be strengthened and encouraged in their own faith as they pour into the lives of others.

4.  Pray that the Lord would refresh and renew their spirits and give them the strength and energy they need to serve with excellence.

5.  Pray that their impact would be multiplied as missionaries are equipped to share the gospel around the world. 

6.  Pray that the Lord would use Tim and Annie’s mentorship to raise up a new generation of passionate and effective missionaries who will take the gospel to Africa and beyond.

Save the following graphic to your electronic device.  Print it out and place it somewhere to remind yourself to pray for Tim and Annie.  Keep praying for Paul and Willie too.

Pray for International Mission Board Pastoral Care Missionaries in West Africa
Pray for Tim and Annie Tidenberg, International Mission Board Pastoral Care Missionaries in West Africa

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Pray for International Mission Board Pastoral Care in West Africa
Pray for International Mission Board Pastoral Care in West Africa

Monday, November 20, 2023

Pray for StoryOne Camps in Africa

Pray for StoryOne Camps in Africa
Pray for StoryOne Camps in Africa

Yesterday, I shared with you an opportunity to join me in prayer for International Mission Board missionaries.  I signed up here to receive an email every day for seven days.  In each email, I'll receive information about a specific missionary so I can pray specific prayers for them.  I'll be sharing each request here on the blog so you can join me in prayer each day for these missionaries who have answered the call to GO.  Today, we are praying for Paul Yount and Willie Brown.  Paul and Willie are asking us to pray for StoryOne camps in Africa.

   

Pray for StoryOne Camps in Africa

Through StoryOne camps, Paul and Willie minister to the deaf in Africa.  Access to Scripture is limited in Africa.  It is also common that the deaf in Africa do not read or write.  This presents even greater challenges for them.  The deaf in Africa communicate with sign languages specific to their respective countries, their heart language.  They don't understand the written Word and the truths it communicates.

The goal of the StoryOne camp is to translate eight Bible stories into the indigenous sign languages of Senegal, Burkina Faso, Niger, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia.  

Quoting directly from the email I received from Emily Hall:
"They learned how to tell these stories in an accurate yet compelling way in sign language, as well as how to illustrate some of these stories and larger Bible concepts graphically with pen and paper. The eight Bible stories this camp focused on are designed to teach Deaf nationals doctrinal statements on the identity of Jesus, functions of the church, and how to conduct missions work. These stories are also accompanied by mnemonic hand movements that assist Deaf nationals in recalling them for evangelizing and discipling."

Speaking of one man's new love for Jesus, Paul Yount said, “He needed to see stories from the Bible translated into his heart language to understand, appreciate, love, and be transformed by God.”

Here are three specific prayer requests for today:

1.  Pray for Paul, Willie, and other IMB missionaries who are dedicated to reaching the Deaf of Africa.

2.  Pray for the continued success of StoryOne camps in relaying the truths of Scripture to the Deaf.

3.  Pray that IMB and our partners would continue to find unique and effective ways to present the gospel of Jesus Christ in the heart language of those we serve.

Save the following image to your electronic device.  Print it out and place it somewhere in your home where you will be reminded daily to pray these specific prayers over Paul, Willie, and StoryOne in Africa.

Pray for StoryOne Camps in Africa
International Mission Board Prayer Requests - Day 1

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Pray for StoryOne in Africa
Pray for StoryOne Camps in Africa




Sunday, November 19, 2023

An Opportunity to Pray for International Mission Board Missionaries

An Opportunity to Pray for International Mission Board Missionaries
An Opportunity to Pray for International Mission Board Missionaries

Missionaries face many obstacles as they serve in unfamiliar places with unfamiliar customs.  Sometimes foreign cultures and languages present challenges most of us might not realize.  Even though missionaries spend a lot of time studying the cultures where they will serve and learning new languages, they still face challenges.  If you ask missionaries what they need most, they will most likely tell you they need prayer above all else.  When we pray for missionaries, we also pray for the people they serve.  I was recently presented with an opportunity to pray for International Mission Board missionaries.  I'm passing this opportunity on to you.

An Opportunity to Pray for International Mission Board Missionaries

Recently, Emily Hall, a prayer content specialist with the IMB prayer office sent out a message asking other believers to join in prayer for specific missionaries for seven days.  Now that I'm signed up, I'll receive information about a specific missionary every day for the next seven days.  I'll be able to pray specific prayers for specific missionaries, their families, and the people they serve.  

If you would like to join me in praying for IMB missionaries for the next seven days, go here to sign up.  After you sign up, you'll be led to a page where you can give financially if you would like to or if you feel led to give, but giving financially is not required to receive information and prayer requests concerning the missionaries.  

I hope you'll take this opportunity to pray for International Board Missionaries.  The world is in a very fragile state right now.  The world needs prayer and the world needs Jesus.  I'm reminded of an old song I used to love.  Many years ago, when I served for several months in Alaska, we used to sing the song People Need the Lord.  Alaska isn't a foreign county with unfamiliar customs, but the message of that song was just as true then and there as it is true in every place and every culture around the world today . . . people need the Lord.

I invite you to listen to the song here.  Then, don't forget to go here to sign up to pray for a missionary every day for the next seven days.

Have a wonderful and very blessed Thanksgiving week everyone!

Living Abundantly in Him

Tina

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An Opportunity to Pray for International Mission Board Missionaries
An Opportunity to Pray for International Mission Board Missionaries

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Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Journey to Bethlehem Movie Review

Journey to Bethlehem Movie Review
Journey to Bethlehem Movie Review

Journey to Bethlehem - where do I start? I love inspirational movies, especially faith films that are Scripturally based.  I love sharing about great movies that inspire movie watchers to dig more into the Christian faith.  We usually buy the overpriced movie tickets, and then we buy the DVD versions when they are released.  We can show Hollywood that we want more faith based films by supporting the films financially.  Sadly, Journey to Bethlehem was disappointing.  Before I tell you what I didn't like about the movie, I'll tell you the three things I did like.

For those of you who are not familiar with Journey to Bethlehem, here is the official movie trailer.

Journey to Bethlehem - What I Liked About the Movie


1.  The movie creators did stick to Scripture when it came to identifying who Jesus is.  He is Jesus, the Messiah, the Savior.  They did not deviate from this truth.

2.  I liked two songs. 

Mother to a Savior and King


The Nativity Song

Mary's part at the end of The Nativity Song is beautiful so listen all the way to the end.


3.  I like the message of trusting God with our future, especially when things don't go as we planned.  God's plans for our lives are much greater than our own.  The blessings in store for us are much sweeter than we can think or imagine.  We just need to trust God.

That's about all I liked about the movie.

What I Did Not Like About Journey to Bethlehem


1.  The film is a musical comedy.  I don't particularly enjoy musicals, but that wasn't the problem.  My problem is the misplaced comedy.  I love a good comedy when it's appropriate, but the comedy in Journey to Bethlehem was not appropriate for this kind of movieThe wise men who followed the star to find Jesus were scholars.  They were some of the most intelligent scientists of their day.  They were not ridiculous goofs.  To be fair, we don't know much about their personalities.  Maybe they all had a good sense of humor, but in this film, they were portrayed as big ole goofs.  

2.  The Angel Gabriel was also portrayed as a bit of a goof.  When Gabriel descended into Mary room, he was portrayed as insecure.  The film creators had him pacing back and forth, reciting his sentences as if he wasn't sure what he should say.  Then, he clumsily bumps his head on a rafter beam.  The Angel Gabriel is an archangel, a messenger of God.  He isn't an insecure goof who doesn't know what he is supposed to say.  This moment was a holy moment in history.  This scene should have remained true to Scripture.  

3.  The film makers omitted Mary's response from Luke 1:38 when she tells Gabriel, "I am the Lord’s servant.  May your word to me be fulfilled."  Her obedient response speaks to her mature character as we know her in the Bible.  Before Gabriel leaves Mary, he tells her to cower to no one.  That is not in the Bible.  Why put it in the movie?

4.  Biblical Jospeh was a carpenter.  Journey to Bethlehem Joseph was an inventor.  Why change this?

5.  I believe Mary's and Joseph's personalities might have been misrepresented in the movie.  The Bible teaches us that Mary was highly favored by God.  Although we don't know much about Mary or Joseph before Gabriel appeared to Mary, I doubt they were the typical rebellious type teens of today.  Back then, there was no extension of childhood.  There was no "teenager."  You were a child, and then you were an adult and expected to act like one.  Based on what we know about human development today, particularly development of the brain, I'm sure they had youthful personalities, but probably not like what is portrayed in Journey to Bethlehem.  They were not perfect and Mary is not to be worshiped, but they were highly favored for a reason.  I know God used people of "colorful" character throughout the old testament and Mary and Joseph certainly were not perfect young people, but they are set apart because they were chosen to parent God's Son on Earth.  This was not just a half-calling, but an extremely important one that would require maturity.  This point is based on my personal opinion.  I know many will not necessarily agree with me and everyone is free to form their own opinions.  I just feel like they got this part wrong.

6.  King Herod tells his son to kill all pregnant women, but his son talks Herod out of that order.  If you are familiar with Scripture, you know that King Herod ordered all babies aged 2 and younger to be killed and that order was carried out.  It's horrific, but it happened.  This is an example of a Biblical historic account being completely changed.  Why change it?  They didn't have to show it, but to change it completely is in direct violation of Scripture itself.  The Bible tells us:
Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the Lord your God that I give you. Deuteronomy 4:2 (NIV)
7.  In Journey to Bethlehem, King Herod's son leads a search to find the unwed pregnant mother.  His father, King Herod, wanted her dead.  This is not what we are told in the Bible.  The Biblical account of this historical event tells us that King Herod ordered the wise men to find the baby and then report back to him so that he could worship Him too.  We know that Herod's plan was ultimately to kill baby Jesus.  In Journey to Bethlehem, King Herod's son conducts a search for Mary.  He and his army find them in the barn just after Jesus is born.  This is not an accurate account of this holy night.  Why put this in the movie?  Then, when Mary, Joseph, and the wise men who were also there think King Herod's son is going to kill them all, Joseph, although he begs the king's son not to hurt them, is portrayed as weak, in my opinion.  Mary, who remembers Gabriel telling her to cower to no one stands up to King Herod's son.  Again, this scene is not true to Scripture.  In the scene, there were four men in the barn with Mary and baby Jesus.  Yet it was Mary who had just given birth who stood up to King Herod's son.  In those days, it would have been Joseph who stood up like a man to protect his wife and baby.  However, this particular event did not really happen anyway.  Why change it?  This was completely unnecessary.

Final Thoughts


I am thankful that the Christian movie industry has picked up in popularity in recent years.  I am happy that more and more people are going to theaters to see Christian films that will point them in the direction of the Bible and Jesus.  I know that film makers take certain creative licenses in order to fill in gaps and to make a story complete.  In some cases, these creative licenses make the move more entertaining.  That is all fine and good as long as said creative licenses do not change the original author's story.  For example, let's say a film is covering the part of the Bible where Joseph and Mary went to Jerusalem for the Festival of the Passover.  They made this journey every year.  When Jesus was 12 years old, his family left to return home with their family and friends as they did every year after the feast was over.  They did not realize until they had traveled an entire day that Jesus was not with them.  Joseph and Mary looked for Jesus among their relatives and friends, but they couldn't find him.  They found Jesus three days later in the temple.  We don't know what Joseph and Mary did or how they felt from the time they realized Jesus was missing to the moment they found him in the temple three days later.  A film maker might take certain creative licenses to fill in that three day gap.  This is acceptable as long as Joseph's and Mary's characters are not compromised and the creative licenses do not change the story at all.  

In the case of Journey to Bethlehem, the creative licenses added to and took away from the historical account as recorded in Scripture which was written by men but inspired by God.  There is no need to change the story.

When a movie is kept true to Scripture and it leads people to read the Bible or visit a church, they aren't going to question the accuracy of the historical accounts as recorded in the Bible because the movie and the church teachings are the same.  However, when a film deviates from Scripture as much as Journey to Bethlehem did, people might question the accuracy of the Bible once they realize the movie is very different from what is taught in the Bible and in churches.  What will they believe, especially if they are totally unfamiliar with Scripture or the Christian faith?  Deviating from Scripture creates confusion in the minds of those who are not familiar with Scripture.  We don't want to confuse people.  We want to lead them in the direction of truth, always TRUTH.  We never want anyone to think that parts of Scripture might not be true.  We never want to lead anyone to question the authority of the Bible.

A lot of people will enjoy the film which is more like a broadway production than a drama based on Scripture.  It isn't the worst movie in the world, but personally, this is not a movie I particularly enjoyed or one that I would recommend.  I like humor.  I love comic relief in a film when it is done correctly.  I detest dumb humor no matter the movie, but I especially hated it in Journey to Bethlehem.  What bothers me more than anything is so many Scriptural inaccuracies.  Way too much of this story was changed and that is not OK.

I saw the film with a group of people.  There were things about the movie we all agreed was not great, but I probably disliked the movie more than everybody else.  If you really want to go see it, then go see it and form your own opinion so you can decide whether or not you want your kids to see it, but I do not recommend this film due to way too many "creative licenses" that are not accurate.   

Journey to Bethlehem is entertaining, but if you want to take your family to a movie about the birth of Jesus that stays true to Scripture, Journey to Bethlehem is not that movie.   

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Journey to Bethlehem Movie Review
Journey to Bethlehem Movie Review

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