When December rolls around, it’s easy to get swept up in the glittering lights, festive music, and the rush of holiday shopping. While these traditions bring joy and togetherness, the true meaning of Christmas runs much deeper—it’s about love, hope, and the gift of presence over presents.
At its heart, Christmas is a celebration of light breaking into darkness. For Christians, it marks the birth of Jesus Christ, a moment that symbolizes God’s love and the promise of redemption. But even beyond faith traditions, the season carries a universal message: kindness, generosity, and connection matter more than material things.
Christmas invites us to show love in tangible ways—through compassion, forgiveness, and time spent with those who matter most. It’s a reminder that relationships are the real treasures of life.
The story of Christmas is one of hope against all odds. Whether you’re facing personal challenges or global uncertainty, the season whispers that brighter days are ahead.
Gift-giving is beautiful when it reflects thoughtfulness rather than obligation. Sometimes the most meaningful gifts are not bought—they’re shared moments, heartfelt words, or acts of service.
Amid the noise, Christmas offers a chance to slow down, reflect on the year, and realign with what truly matters. It’s a season to let go of grudges and embrace peace.
The true meaning of Christmas isn’t meant to fade when the decorations come down. Carrying its spirit into everyday life—through kindness, gratitude, and empathy—can transform not just the season, but the entire year.
In the end, Christmas is less about what’s under the tree and more about who’s around it. It’s about hearts opening, hands giving, and hope shining brightly, and of course, God’s love in motion that forgives the sins of the world through Jesus.
(I have been experimenting with AI. A good portion of this blog post was written via AI.)
At first glance, Monopoly might seem like nothing more than a competitive scramble for cash, property, and power. But if we look closer, this classic board game can actually serve as a thought-provoking metaphor for biblical truths about life, stewardship, and eternity.
In Monopoly, no matter how many hotels you own or how much cash you’ve stacked, the game eventually ends. When it’s over, everything goes back in the box. The Bible reminds us of the same reality: “For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it” (1 Timothy 6:7). Our earthly possessions are temporary; what truly matters is how we use them for God’s purposes. And at the end of your life, you, too, will go into a box.
In the game, you never truly “own” the board — you’re just managing resources for a time. Likewise, scripture teaches that “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). We are stewards, entrusted with time, talents, and treasures to manage wisely. Winning in God’s eyes isn’t about accumulation, but about faithfulness.
Monopoly often rewards aggressive acquisition, but in real life, unchecked greed can destroy relationships and peace. Jesus warned, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions” (Luke 12:15). The game can be a playful reminder of how easily our hearts can be drawn toward “more” instead of “enough.”
Monopoly may be a game of strategy and competition, but it can also be a mirror for our spiritual lives. The real “victory” isn’t measured in property deeds or stacks of cash, but in a life lived with open hands, a generous heart, and an eternal perspective.
In Monopoly, one player’s gain is often another’s loss. But the Kingdom of God operates differently — it’s not a zero-sum game. In Christ, we are called to generosity, lifting others up rather than bankrupting them. Imagine if we played life more like that — offering mercy, forgiveness, and help instead of just trying to “win.”
(I have been experimenting with AI more and more. As a result, most of this blog post was written using an AI. tool.)
It’s me. Of course, you should know that because I’m probably the only one in the world who is praying right now. I’ve got a slight headache. Can you take care of that for me? Thanks. Oh, and my little toe, on my right foot, still hurts from where I stubbed it when I got up in the middle of the night to get a beer. By the way, I need help with buying groceries, too.
I’m thrilled to inform you that I’ve found the perfect truck for me. I know it will be a gas guzzler, but I really want it. I will look so cool driving around town. People will think I am so successful. Of course, to pay for it, I will probably need a new job, a better job, so can you work on that?
I need someone to work on my house, as well. Someone who will be understanding and not charge me much or not at all. You know how the roof is leaking and there are two broken windows, and I can’t use the bedroom door because I think the floor is unlevel.
And speaking of the house, it would be great if you could get a woman to marry me who would cook, clean, and buy the groceries. She should also be able to keep my bank account straight and do my laundry. Can you make her cute with a nice body?
Thanks, God. You’re the best!”
The Bible instructs us to make our requests known to God, but this guy is acting as if God is his personal genie! And is he really a prayer warrior? Not once did he pray or intercede for anyone else.
You can ask God to meet your “needs”, and He already knows the desires of our hearts. With that said, praying for yourself is okay, but then trust in God to handle things as He sees fit. Then, turn your attention to praying for others. Prayers do work, and prayers become more powerful when more people agree together and pray for the same needs.
1 Timothy 2:1(ESV) First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.
Ephesians 6:18(ESV) Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.
Philippians 4:6(ESV) Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
1 John 5:14(ESV) And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.
You’ve seen the games. The ones where there is a themed list of words to find inside a rectangle of individual letters that are spaced out. Like in the included photo. Sometimes it can be challenging. Especially when the word is running backwards, or at an angle.
Another place to do a word search is in the Bible. God’s word. There are a lot of differences, though. God’s words are not hidden. They are right there between the front cover and the back one. Unlike the game, His words are not running backwards or at an angle, but there is a common theme throughout, and that is His love for us. Even in the Old Testament, He helped the Israelites defeat their enemies. He did so because they were wicked individuals who practiced ungodly things like human sacrifices. The reason God wanted them all gone is so they would not influence his children and lead them astray, because He loved them so much.
The same goes for us today. God may not destroy an individual because our battles are not with flesh and blood but with principalities that rule over the area you live in. (Eph. 6:10). But with that said, He doesn’t want you to become entangled with those who may lead you astray.
We must find a way to make reading God’s word a spiritual practice as an active part of our lives! His words to you are not hidden, and when you read something you don’t understand, ask me. I’m kidding, but you can do an internet search for a commentary on that portion of the scriptures.
A guy in my church, who has read the Bible all of his life, says he still comes across areas that are difficult for him to fully understand. He said last Sunday that he has been asking “Copilot” and that so far, it has provided answers or insight that have agreed with his spirit.
I go to “Bing.com” a lot and type in the search bar what I want to know. For instance, the other day I typed in “What did Jesus mean when he said, ‘greater judgement’ in Mark 12:40?” The answer was insightful and answered my question.
So, read God’s word, the Bible, regularly. Search out the truths that you can apply to your life. He wants you to be informed so the majority is easy to understand, and the truths are not hidden. The parts of the Bible that one may find difficult, I assure you, have nothing to do with you going to heaven or not.
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching and for showing people what is wrong in their lives. It is useful for correcting faults and teaching how to live right. 2 Tim. 3:16 (ICB)
God’s word is alive and working. It is sharper than a sword sharpened on both sides. It cuts all the way into us, where the soul and the spirit are joined. It cuts to the center of our joints and our bones. And God’s word judges the thoughts and feelings in our hearts. Heb. 4:12 (ICB)
Your word is like a lamp for my feet and a light for my way. Ps. 119:105 (ICB)
I have been open and honest about being grumpy and having a temper. Especially lately, when I wrote the blog post: “Meany Flowers.” I don’t like myself when I act out! When it happens, I probably should be told to go sit in the corner and think about my behavior. My mother was always “hands-on” if you know what I mean. As in, her hand on my bottom, so I don’t know if time-outs really work or not.
I know I am thankful that God is slow to wrath, or else I’m sure I would have been smitten down by now! (Exo. 34:6-7a) With all of that said, I try my best to work on how I react to people, especially April. I know some may categorize my suggestion for a new fruit of the Spirit under the “Self-Control” fruit. But somehow, what I am going to mention is different.
I don’t want to be like one of those annoying ads on Facebook that keep talking “around” something and never really get right to it. For instance, “Doing this every night before going to bed will help you lose 25 pounds in two weeks!” So, without further ado, I propose the new fruit of the Spirit, “Silence.”
With God’s help, I am learning to remain silent when I get upset. And if I think it will help, I will walk away as well. It’s difficult for me because I believe in communication. As in, they should know I don’t agree or I don’t like their behavior. Instead, it seems to be more powerful to look at them and say nothing. And if I walk away, then as soon as I can, go to God in prayer. For me as well as for them. Who knows? There could be some underlying reason why they said or did what they did.
In no way am I trying to admen the scriptures, but in the MBV (Mark Brady Version), I may have to include “Silence” as one of the fruits of the Spirit. I’ll put it in Gutlations 5:22-23 because it just feels right in my gut to respond that way. Thank you, God, for always being there to help me become more like Jesus, and for not taking me out as soon as I act out.
6 The Lord passed in front of Moses and said, “I am the Lord. The Lord is a God who shows mercy and is kind. The Lord doesn’t become angry quickly. The Lord has great love and faithfulness. 7 The Lord is kind to thousands of people. The Lord forgives people for wrong and sin and turning against him. Exo. 34:6-7a (ICB)
Post Note: I wrote this blog post in a quiet corner of a restaurant. At least it was until a young woman who looked to have several issues sat near me and proceeded to watch some video on her phone without using headphones. I was trying to write another blog post, but the noise was distracting. I looked over at her twice, but she acted as if she had no idea why I wasn’t happy with her behavior. I kind of laughed to myself as I thought, “Way to go, God. Make me practice what I write.” I packed up my stuff and walked away, and didn’t say anything.
I honestly feel as if I had said something, she would have vented her anger on me, and that would have made me feel worse! Perhaps her acting out was a way of saying, “Please talk to me.” I’m not sure, but in the moment, it was all I could do to operate in the fruit of the Spirit, “Silence.” I may have been able to help her, maybe not, but one thing I do know is I didn’t hurt her.
Looking into someone’s eyes is a powerful act that can foster deep connections and understanding. It is a form of nonverbal communication that can reveal hidden truths and emotions, making it a crucial aspect of human interaction. Eye contact can enhance empathy, trust, and social connection, while the absence of eye contact can lead to discomfort and disconnection. By understanding the science behind eye contact, individuals can improve their communication skills and build stronger relationships.. (Source: Copilot search)
I frequent a place of business quite regularly. To the extent that I have gotten to know the three employees who work there. I will use the first letter of each one’s name, but then change the rest.
The first employee is Todd. He greets customers with a big smile, and when you look into his eyes, you see joy, hope, and care. I’ve never inquired, but it seems obvious that he knows and has accepted Jesus Christ into his heart because “love” shines when he assists you. Todd could be angry and bitter because he suffers from a debilitating disease that causes him to use arm crutches to simply walk.
The next one up is Holly. She always looks depressed. Her eyes say, “See me! Notice how smart I think I am.” She tends to lean on or over the counter, and she is highly defensive. Though they don’t say anything, a lot of the customers get frustrated with her. She will stand still and go on and on about stuff that she knows but has no connection with doing her job. Most customers want to run in, do business, and get out quickly.
The third employee is Evelyn. She is very nice and is the manager. It took her a while to open up to me. I think that is due to her race. Her eyes say that she has been disrespected and hurt. She doesn’t smile very often, but when she does, it is warm and genuine. Her eyes reveal that she is tired and would probably be at home knitting for her grandchildren. She has a big heart for people who need a break, like Todd.
Making eye contact takes time and being intentional. I feel Jesus did this. Like when the woman who was caught in adultery was brought to him. When she looked at Jesus, she no doubt saw love, acceptance, concern, and her forgiveness. I’m convinced it was direct eye contact with Jesus that ministered to many.
I had a situation yesterday where, when I tried to speak to a lady and assist her in getting in and out of the sanctuary while the lights were dimmed for the worship, she only looked down. It bothered me, and I almost said something negative in nature to her, but thankfully, the Holy Spirit stopped me.
Later, I saw her while looking over the congregation. I got a sense she was tired, and her heart was heavy. I prayed for her, and that is when I sensed God say to me, “I see her.” After the service was over, I ran into her in the lobby. I asked her if she had a moment. This time, she looked at me and our eyes made contact. I told her what I had sensed, and then I said, “God wanted me to let you know He sees you.” She started crying, and I asked April to hug her, as I prayed over her.
See people, make eye contact, and let them know they are seen.
Matthew 19:26 Looking into their eyes, Jesus replied, “Humanly speaking, no one, because no one can save himself. But what seems impossible to you is never impossible to God!” | The Passion Translation (TPT)
This is a true story, but the woman’s real name has been changed.
Josephine was born in a poor country. Her family struggled to make ends meet, especially after her father left them. That is when they moved in with her grandparents, but still, life was difficult.
Josephine’s grandmother was strict, and she demanded a lot out of her. Due to her grandmother’s fears, she was not allowed to leave the house except to attend school. When she heard that a local church handed out cookies and Kool-Aid after the service to the children, she and her sister started attending. She heard about God, his amazing love, and about his Son, Jesus. She accepted Jesus into her life and learned how to live God’s way. It was then that she committed herself to be his servant.
Her family looked down on her because she struggled mentally. They said she was stupid, dumb, and only good for serving them. This hurt her tremendously, but she continued to live with the knowledge that God loved her and that she was special to him.
As Josephine got older, she finished high school and then went to college and got her teaching degree. After teaching elementary students for a few years, she quit to be the full-time caretaker of her grandmother. She started getting up in age, and because she had not married, the neighbors were beginning to call her an “old maid.” She wanted to be married and dated a few men, but found their motives were not pure, and one broke up with her when she said she was committed to God and to doing life his way.
After beginning to think she would never find a man who believed in God the way she did, she gave up and turned it over to God. Three days later, an American man contacted her via a dating website. They began talking, and he soon married her, and they started the process so she could “legally” come to America. She found employment, started attending her husband’s church, and found a group of ladies from her home country that she could meet with regularly.
It didn’t take long for family members back in her country to start contacting her for financial help. Even the so-called “head of the family,” the one the others had considered the wealthiest and the most powerful. She even contacted Josephine and asked for financial assistance, promising to pay it back, but she never did. Even Josephine’s sister asked for money, and she, too, promised to pay it back, but never did.
God had promoted Josephine to a position of wealth and power. Because she had submitted all her ways to Him. She worked hard at her job to become a valued employee and always tithed on her income. She was faithful to God, and God was faithful to her. Several others in her family do not share her commitment, and they don’t submit to God. Who is dumb or stupid now? The one they once looked down on and thought would never amount to much is now using her income to help them with life’s expenses. She is there to provide and lovingly support them. Always giving God the credit for what she has and trying to point them to Him.
Josephine’s story reminds me a lot of the Biblical story of Joseph. God destined him for greatness, where people’s lives would depend on him. His brothers hated him, looked down on him, and wanted him dead. But even through one injustice after the other, he remained faithful to God and His ways. Then God promoted him, and his family eventually honored him.
14 Fools say to themselves, “There is no God.” They sin and commit evil deeds; none of them does what is right 2 The Lord looks down from heaven[f] at the human race, to see if there is anyone who is wise[h] and seeks God. 3 Everyone rejects God; they are all morally corrupt. None of them does what is right, not even one. 4 All those who behave wickedly[m] do not understand— those who devour my people as if they were eating bread, and do not call out to the Lord. 5 They are absolutely terrified, for God defends the godly. 6 You want to humiliate the oppressed, even though the Lord is their shelter. Psalms 14:1-6 (NET)
When God promotes you, it is a significant moment that reflects His trust in your abilities and character. Embrace the preparation process, remain faithful, and be open to the unexpected paths that may lead to your divine elevation. Trust in God’s timing and guidance, knowing that He has a purpose for your life that is greater than you can imagine.
“Because it’s Sunday.” “I was raised to.” “It makes my mother happy.” “To show off my latest outfit and Louis Vuitton purse.” “I think God takes attendance.” “So, I can talk to someone who accepts me. Otherwise, I’m lonely.” “To try to enlarge my client list.” “To show my spiritual knowledge.”
The truth is, people attend church for various reasons. And while there, their motives may take advantage of others. Sadly, some individuals will go to church to prey upon the weak, the poor, or the young.
Jesus had a few things to say about why we should attend church and what motivates us to do so. We see in Mark chapter 11 that Jesus went into the temple.
He entered Jerusalem, then entered the Temple. He looked around, taking it all in. But by now it was late, so he went back to Bethany with the Twelve. (Vs. 11) MSG
They arrived at Jerusalem. Immediately on entering the Temple, Jesus started throwing out everyone who had set up shop there, buying and selling. He kicked over the tables of the bankers and the stalls of the pigeon merchants. He didn’t let anyone even carry a basket through the Temple. And then he taught them, quoting this text:
My house was designated a house of prayer for the nations; You’ve turned it into a hangout for thieves.
The high priests and religion scholars heard what was going on and plotted how they might get rid of him. They panicked, for the entire crowd was carried away by his teaching. (Vs. 15-18) MSG
Then, in chapter 12, Jesus continued teaching:
He continued teaching. “Watch out for the religion scholars. They love to walk around in academic gowns, preening in the radiance of public flattery, basking in prominent positions, sitting at the head table at every church function. And all the time they are exploiting the weak and helpless. The longer their prayers, the worse they get. But they’ll pay for it in the end.” (Vs. 28-40) MSG
I must admit I struggled with that last part, “But they’ll pay for it in the end.” Some versions of the Bible say, “they will receive greater damnation.” I spent some time researching the meaning of Mark 12:40. I came upon a very profound explanation via “Copilot”:
In Mark 12:40, Jesus refers to the greater punishment as a severe condemnation for the scribes who exploit widows’ houses and make long prayers for pretense. This punishment is a reflection of the severity of their actions, which were not only hypocritical but also harmful to the vulnerable. The term “greater damnation” suggests that God holds us accountable for our actions, especially when we misuse our power and influence over others.
To fully grasp the weight of Mark 12:40, we must consider the context in which Jesus spoke, which was during a series of confrontations with religious leaders. Just before this, Jesus had been teaching in the Temple, addressing issues of authority and challenging the hypocrisy he saw among those who thought they were righteous. The backdrop of these confrontations was the Temple itself, a place meant for worship, reverence, and connection with God. Yet, the behaviors displayed by the scribes indicated a deep disconnect from the Temple’s true purpose, which is to serve and care for the community.
Then, from Reverend Michael Johnson:
We can guard against spiritual pride by staying humble and recognizing that all our abilities and accomplishments come from God. We should not boast about our spiritual practices or look down on others who may not be as advanced in their faith journey. It is important to remember that true spiritual growth comes through humility and a servant heart, rather than through seeking recognition or praise from others.
To guard against hypocrisy, we must ensure that our actions align with our beliefs and teachings. We should strive to live out our faith in an authentic and genuine way, rather than putting on a facade for others to see. This involves seeking integrity in all areas of our lives and being honest with ourselves about our motivations and intentions. We can guard against the pitfalls of hypocrisy by constantly examining our hearts and striving for consistency between our words and actions.
Application
Think about the scribes from Mark 12:40—condemned for their hypocrisy. Like overloaded employees forgetting honesty, or parents failing to lead by example, they missed the mark. As followers of Christ, let’s be genuine in our service to God and others. Your every action, your every intention, should mirror Jesus’ values of love, compassion, and integrity. Will you step up and live your faith authentically with me?
April and I visited a friend of mine today. A dear friend whom I hadn’t seen in several years. He’s now getting up in age, and it seems like he is ready to go home. Heaven, that is, as Earth is not home for those who believe in Jesus Christ. I was feeling that if I wanted to see him alive, then I had better go now.
We had to travel two hours away. In fact, to another state to reach his residence. I pulled out my old GPS from storage. I know my phone has it built in, but I don’t like to tie up my phone. One might say I was going “old school.”
We reached our destination without any problems. In fact, we made it without my GPS screaming at me, “Recalculating!” Not once! We had a very nice visit. My friend is a man of God, and I have always admired him and how he lives his life. He talked about how God has always been there with him, guiding and directing him. The way he talked made me think he had blindly trusted God every day after he accepted Him.. We can’t see God, but at times we can feel his presence.
On the drive home, I asked April if she knew where we were. She said, “No. Not at all.” “Is that scary?” I asked. “No. I trust you.” It made me feel good to be trusted.
I have a sense that “blindly trusting” God makes him feel good as well. He wants us to trust him and to believe that He is taking us to the right destination. It shows that we are confident in our God. Remembering He is strong and mighty if we face any battles. If we live consistently according to God’s commands, then we can be sure we will reach our final destination, heaven
Look, God is my deliverer! I will trust in him and not fear. For the Lord gives me strength and protects me; he has become my deliverer.”Is. 12:2 (NET)
You keep completely safe the people who maintain their faith, for they trust in you. Is. 26:3 (NET)
I’ve mentioned it before, but getting old is hard, and life can be, too. Not being a morning person doesn’t help either. Like the great philosopher once said, “I would like mornings better if they started later!” – Garfield. Then, there are my pet peeves. So, the other day, while driving April to work, the perfect storm happened. All three issues came together.
I hadn’t gotten a good night’s sleep, and when the alarm went off at 4:20 AM, I wasn’t done yet. So, morning came way too early, and I was feeling grumpy. On the way to the car, I saw two lists on the kitchen counter. While driving, April didn’t say a word about them, so I had to ask. Lack of communication is one of my top pet peeves. See where this is going?
I got mad. Really mad! I didn’t understand why I had to ask what the lists were for, and when April’s reply made it seem as if I should have been able to figure it all out. Well, that was like throwing gasoline on a campfire. (Kids, never throw gas on any open flame. Let your father look like an idiot.)
Yep, words came out that should have never been spoken. My behavior and my words were awful. April certainly didn’t deserve that kind of reaction, no matter what. Especially at the beginning of her day. “Hi, I’m Mark, and I’m a Meany.” The crowd responded, “Hi, Mark.”
On the drive back home, I felt horrible. I didn’t want those words to be with April all day. So, before I went back to bed, I texted her an apology and owned up to being a “Meany.” I apologized to God, too, and asked for forgiveness.
Later in the day, while shopping, I bought April some flowers. Pretty ones in her favorite colors. I called them “Meany Flowers.” I know they didn’t make up for my poor, ungodly behavior, but they might help heal the emotional wound I created in her. April can forgive easily, and of course, God is faithful to forgive us of our sins. (1 John 1:9)
Do we, or I, act out more easily knowing that God will forgive us? I think I do at times. I know it’s wrong. It’s as if I trample on His grace and mercy and take it too lightly. Perhaps I am saying to Jesus, “Hey, buddy, thanks for that suffering on the cross stuff, but after all, I deserved it.” The truth is, I don’t deserve his forgiveness, but God so loved the world.
God forgives those who ask for it because He doesn’t want to see anyone die in a sinful state and go to hell. Of course, because He gives us free will, where we spend eternity is up to us.
So, April forgave me, and yes, God forgave me. God knows our hearts, and He knew I was ashamed of what I did and said. I try to be aware of my weaknesses and ask God for help quickly when I start to feel my temper rising. And besides, flowers are expensive!
brady, mark a. 