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Israel and its Arab neighbours are all set to begin an oil pipeline initiative
By: Akshay Prasad
Tags: United States, Arab World, Israel

Following the signing of a normalising deal with its Arab neighbours and the end of decades of diplomatic impasse, Israel has now set the stage for the start of a trans-Israeli pipeline project connected to Arab nations.Under Donald Trump’s presidency, Washington supported peace accords between Israel and the Arab world, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan. The US administration is now working to develop Israeli energy trade relations with Oman, Sudan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, the Palestinian Authority and Jordan.

The Trans-Israel Pipeline (TIPLine) was planned to create a network of energy supply, focusing on the pipeline transport of oil and other energy resources. From the Gulf of Aqaba in southern Israel to the Mediterranean port of Ashkelon in the north of the Gaza Strip, the exit pipeline covered a wide stretch.Ironically, to avoid the Suez Canal route, TIPline was built in 1968 to carry oil to Israel’s political rival, Iran. But the Jewish nation later partnered with Russia and used it to supply Asian nations with oil.

While addressing the Israeli energy pipeline plan extensively, US Secretary of Energy Daniel Brouillette said on Tuesday, “There has been some good work done… on the movement of gas between Israel and Egypt throughout the region.” We assume that there are some possibilities… for the movement in that pipeline of both crude oil and even other goods (TIPline).

Discussing the possibility of moving energy and other reductions through the network, Brouillette said We do believe that there are some possibilities in terms of electricity movement.” He spoke of the enormous opportunity we have for the development of hydrogen and hydrogen movement throughout the region.” In those developments, too, there seems to be a decent amount of interest.

In the near future, he also shared the prospects of peace and trade deals with more Arab nations, but gave no information. He said that he was not aware of any new administration that could come down the road,” but expected the pattern to continue with bilateral relations with the Arab world.

“I know that Egypt has a great relationship with Israel,” he said. Under an organisation called the EasternMed Gas Forum, they have held several discussions. These kinds of conversations are supposed to continue.” He added that the US goal was to generate energy and make it available to the region, but also to build economic opportunities for Egypt, Israel, and others who want to supply the rest of the world with natural gas or maybe crude oil.
Genesis Diagnostics
By: Genesis Diagnostics
Tags: United States, Revenue Cycle Management, Genetic Testing, USA, Diagnostic Centre

Genesis Diagnostics is full service clinical, toxicology, reference laboratory headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that is redefining diagnostic service provision in the medical field. Our Satellite offices are located in India (Genesis Healthcare Pvt. Ltd.) and United Kingdom (Genesis Scientific).

Genesis Diagnostics ofiice

Through excellence in revenue cycle services, laboratory testing, service, research, and development, Genesis’ mission is to continually improve patient care.
All The Sh*t Trump Is and Isn’t Doing
By: Jennifer Friebely
Tags: United States, Political Satire, Trump, Politics, News

We are experiencing unprecedented times in the United States. Our president, Donald Trump has behaved like no other in our history. He acts more like a toddler than a president. For someone who is complaining bitterly that his election loss “was a steal” and is continually trying to undermine our democracy — he’s done nothing to show he is worthy of the job.

It would not be an exaggeration to say he is the worst president in American history.

Here’s a rundown of this week’s Trump sh*t show:

January 20th cannot come soon enough. Trump’s failures to lead at every turn have taken their toll on this country in immeasurable ways. If Trump had acted appropriately last February and behaved like a true commander-in-chief who cared about our lives — many more Americans would be alive today. We have a lame duck president who is criminally negligent of killing people. Not to mention his attempt to disenfranchise millions of voters.

But please, can one of the aides who is getting tired of the temper tantrums please take a video and post it please? The rest of us would love to see it.
Trump Tries To Garner Public Praise Over Sudan-Israel Truce
By: Hira Menon
Tags: United States, Donald Trump, Sudan, Middle East, Israel

While trying to press away wrinkles that exist between two countries, Americans leaving President Donald Trump figured cash would be the most ideal choice. In this way, the questionable hired fighter President has evidently, offered an amount of up to $850 million to American survivors of psychological oppressor assaults in America and Sudan. This is all, it is affirmed, an endeavor to save an arrangement with Sudan to set up full political binds with Israel.

Sudan has not been eye-to-eye with Israel since 1948 and has from that point forward thought of it as a foe state. Before the choose President Joe Biden can come into full power, Trump is as yet in charge of dynamic. By splitting the abundance between September 11 casualties and assaults on American consulates in Sudan, he has wished to agree with Congress to pass an enactment that could reestablish Sudan’s sovereign invulnerability and eliminate it from the rundown of state backers of psychological oppression (SST). This progression appears to have been a forerunner to the entire plan of getting Sudan to look for worldwide assistance to standardize its economy and to expedite a ceasefire with Israel.

All the means have been towards sending Trump’s own PR plan of resembling the individual who has been instrumental in bringing harmony and concordance among Israel and the other Middle Eastern nations. There are reasons that the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordon, and Bahrain had cut binds with Israel as much as Qatar. Israel has been known to empower dread exercises.

Sudan has been powerless trapped in common war, that it was being utilized to channel by Iran to supply arms and ammunitions. Trump, it is known has been utilizing his time at the White House to collect help for the apparently beneficial things he has accomplished for the American vote bank. As far as he might be concerned, his Middle East arrangement is a major success, which he needs to repeat as he leaves the White House before year’s end.
Advantages Of Hiring A Commercial Locksmith Company!
By: Macarthur Locks
Tags: United States, Commercial Services, Commercial Door Service, Commercial Locksmith, Washington DC

Handling a business is never an easy job, and there are many things that you have to take care of to keep a business thriving and secure. One of these critical factors in maintaining the workplace’s security, whether it is a store, office, or building.

The very first thing that protects business property is security locks. It is essential to routinely check the locks of a commercial business to ensure they are functioning properly. If you find a problem with the locks at your business, get a commercial locksmith service ASAP.

When you hire a locksmith for your business, you should check the company’s experience in commercial locksmith service since residential locksmith services are very different from commercial locksmith services. A locksmith who has never performed commercial locksmith services might not be able to address a business’s needs.

Listed below are the main reasons why you should hire a commercial locksmith.

Safety of the Business

As a business owner, it is necessary to keep a business secure and safe. The door locks and security lock system are vital points for the safety of a business. It is still essential to review and check these safety measures to reduce and eliminate many security risks.

By hiring a locksmith expert, you can add effective security measures such as master key systems, keypad and alarm locks, security locks, gate locks, and other features. These security measures will help you to keep your commercial business safe at all times.

Update the Security Lock System

Unfortunately, burglary issues are still a major problem for many businesses. Updating a security lock system is an excellent first step in deterring potential crime.

A commercial locksmith expert can assess the security lock system for a business and make recommendations. You should periodically check and review a business security lock system regularly and make any necessary updates.

There is also another reason why you should update your security lock system — worker turnover. In many cases, employees who leave employment know the business’s security lock system. It is wise to call a commercial locksmith professional in these instances and update the security lock system.

Access Control

Access control to a business property should be managed judiciously. New employees should be assessed thoroughly before being granted full access to a business. And former employees should have access removed immediately once they leave employment. This is important to maintaining the security of a business.

Conclusion

It is essential to maintain a high level of security for all businesses at all times. From updating the security lock system to access control, a business’s safety and security are important. That is why a commercial door locksmith should be your first call.

For more information about commercial locksmith services, contact MACARTHUR LOCKS & DOORS to learn more.
What Happens Now That the Electoral College Confirmed Biden’s Win Yet Again?
By: Jennifer Geer
Tags: United States, Culture, Politics, News, Elections

What Happens Now That the Electoral College Confirmed Biden’s Win Yet Again?

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

For someone who doesn’t like losing, soon-to-be-former President Trump continues to put himself up for devastating loss after devastating loss.

As he predicted, one of his nonsense lawsuits, the one from the state of Texas, made it all the way to the Supreme Court. What he didn’t predict was the conservative court unanimously dismissed the case almost immediately.

And now it’s official. The electoral college has met and affirmed victory for Joe Biden. There were no faithless electors. No state legislatures replaced the winning party’s electors for Trump loyalists. The day passed with no surprises, as it does every four years in America.

As I am writing this, the news broke that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has at long last acknowledged Biden’s win. Notably, this was after Vladimir Putin, but still, it’s progress. Surely this will open the floodgates for other members of Congress to follow suit.

This should be the end of things. Well, the end of things should have been Saturday, November 7th, when the major news media outlets called the election for Biden. But it wasn’t. And December 14th’s electoral college vote won’t be either.
LET’S TALK THEOLOGY 012 — JESUS: THE REASON FOR THE SEASON
By: Oloye Oluwadara
Tags: Christmas, Theology, Saviour, Jesus, Christianity

Courtesy: Unsplash

Introduction

Who is the reason for celebrating Christmas? I imagine you would say, Jesus. And, of course, it is Jesus Christ. He is the reason we rejoice. God Himself has come to become flesh to save His creation from destruction. As such, we rejoice, for our Saviour has come into the world.

Why reiterate the obvious?

You may say to yourself, “Yeah yeah, we know Jesus is the reason for the season”. The whole Jesus is the reason for the season mantra is so popular nowadays that even non-Christians know it.

And now, there are two major problems I have seen from this popularisation of the phrase.

Problem I: It does not mean what it should

As with most popular one-liners, people get lost in the rhymes and don’t get the actual message or, as in this case, the meaning becomes gradually lost with time.

The very reason Jesus has to come into the world is because of our sinfulness. Oh, what joy that God Himself comes to reconcile us to Himself by Himself.

In the words of John Piper, “Meditate on the fact that we need a Saviour. Christmas is an indictment before it becomes a delight”.

Problem II: Christians are getting tired of it

This is also a prevalent problem with rhymey one-liners — people soon get tired of it and try to turn it into a new and more interesting line.

I have heard a few Christians say that We are the reason for the season, with we referring to Christians. On the surface, this makes sense because Jesus came, but He came for us. Therefore, we are the reason for the readings.

However, this is a classic example of narcigesis. Narcigesis is gotten by combining the words: narcissistic and eisegesis. What it means from an overall perspective is, we tend to make the Bible about us and not about who it is about — God.

Although, in this case, we are not dealing with a text from Scripture, it shows how we make ourselves the center of everything relating to the Christian faith.

On the contrary, dear friends, Christmas is not about us; it is about God coming in human flesh to save sinners deserving of death as punishment for their sins.

Meditate on the fact that we need a Saviour. Christmas is an indictment before it becomes a delight -John Piper

Conclusion

I urge you, dear brethren in Christ, to not get tired in proclaiming that Jesus Christ is the reason for our celebrations. He is our Saviour. Our King. Our Redeemer. The One who will, in time, surrender his life so that we might be reconciled to God and have peace with him.

Dear friends, this season is not about us — we are sinful and deserving of punishment. It is about God coming into his creation to save them from their sins.

Merry Christmas, and happy new year in advance.

Yours in insight,

Oluwadara, OLOYE.
Feast of the Holy Family — Luke 2:22–40
By: Vic Alcuaz
Tags: Catholic, History, Bible, Holy Eucharist, Jesus

When the days were completed for their purification

according to the law of Moses,

They took him up to Jerusalem

to present him to the Lord,

just as it is written in the law of the Lord,

Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord,

and to offer the sacrifice of

a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons,

in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord.

Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon.

This man was righteous and devout,

awaiting the consolation of Israel,

and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit

that he should not see death

before he had seen the Christ of the Lord.

He came in the Spirit into the temple;

and when the parents brought in the child Jesus

to perform the custom of the law in regard to him,

He took him into his arms and blessed God, saying:

“Now, Master, you may let your servant go

in peace, according to your word,

for my eyes have seen your salvation,

which you prepared in sight of all the peoples,

a light for revelation to the Gentiles,

and glory for your people Israel.”

The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him;

and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother,

“Behold, this child is destined

for the fall and rise of many in Israel,

and to be a sign that will be contradicted

— and you yourself a sword will pierce —

so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

There was also a prophetess, Anna,

the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher.

She was advanced in years,

having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage,

and then as a widow until she was eighty-four.

She never left the temple,

but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer.

And coming forward at that very time,

she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child

to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.

When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions

of the law of the Lord,

they returned to Galilee,

to their own town of Nazareth.

The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom;

and the favor of God was upon him.
Tá difícil se relacionar? Acredite, pra Jesus foi pior…
By: Leonardo Stutz
Tags: Amor, Jesus, Luxo, Relacionamentos, Depressão

Learn more. Medium is an open platform where 170 million readers come to find insightful and dynamic thinking. Here, expert and undiscovered voices alike dive into the heart of any topic and bring new ideas to the surface. Learn more

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Nicolaitans and Balaam’s Doctrine: A Solemn Warning to Churches
By: The Jesus People
Tags: The Jesus People, Revelation, Bible, Jesus, Christianity

The Doctrine of Nicolaitans

The spirit of the antichrist is taking over many churches and denominations nowadays. Look at how the spirit of the world are entering churches upon churches. The old doctrine of the Nicolaitans, that control and subdue God’s people, trying to despise the leading of God’s Spirit, forbidding miracles and spiritual manifestations if they are not in accord with leadership authority. This is very rampant in denominational circles, where people, especially those who are called to certain ministries are destroyed because they are not in accord with leadership policies. While imposing policies are good, if they make the people incapable of fulfilling God’s call, the people are destroyed. They subdue people and feed themselves while laying their lives for the flock of God. They rules like lords in the church, enslaving the church instead of exercising servanthood which is the very essence of Christian spirit. This is seen today in the hierarchical controls among churches.

This is a religious spirit with political aspiration. This is the same doctrine that Jesus hates and abhors in Revelation Chapter 2. He praised the church at Ephesus for resisting the deeds of the Nicolaitans but rebuked the church in Pergamos for allowing their doctrine (Revelation 2:6, 15). This deeds of the Nicolaitans subdues God’s people by robbing their liberty in Christ. This is the same spirit we can find in many denominations today.

The Doctrine of Balaam

Another problem is the doctrine of Balaam mentioned in Revelation 2. This refers to denominational policies of hiring preachers, paying money to do their job. This spirit is not in accord with Jesus Christ. The Lord do not want preachers or ministers for hire who are only interested in receiving money for their personal benefits. They are only into serving themselves and not the people. They are not concern on teaching right doctrines or the message of holiness simply because they don’t really care for the sheep but only interested in people’s money. Their focus is on how to feed themselves and not for the salvation of people. Because of that, they cannot preach repentance to people. They cannot encourage God’s people to forsake sin and worldliness in pursuit of obedience to God’s will. This spirit encouraged God’s people to commit fornication with liberty and eat things that are sacrificed to idols (Revelation 2:14).

While the sin of fornication is rampant among churches in the New Testament, the doctrine of Balaam was known for giving license of grace for people to commit sin openly. Grace is not a license to sin, and when a Christian commits sin, he should repent and turn to God. Those who teaches that grace is a license to freely commit sin is something that Jesus hates. Titus 2:1–12 says that the real grace of God teaches us to do what is right, to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live a life pleasing to God in the midst of sinful world.
Jesus’ Core Message Is as Simple and Radical Today as It Was in His Time
By: John Warner
Tags: Compassion, Kindness, Love, Jesus, Empathy

Jesus’ Core Message Is as Simple and Radical Today as It Was in His Time

Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash

I am no longer religious, but there is no denying that Jesus’ core message has resonated deeply in Western culture for two millennia because it is as simple and radical today as it was in his time

“I tell you the truth when you did it to one of the least of these, my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me.”

We long for it, but we are afraid to act on it. We’re too quick to judge, which really is more our head trash about ourselves than about others. We’re too often like the influential priest in the good Samaritan parable who is an unempathetic snob, rather than the detested foreigner who ignores social barriers to be kind and compassionate. We hesitate to care for others because we are too busy, or worse because we are afraid of how others will judge us for violating social norms. By hanging out with unworthy people like lepers and prostitutes despite withering criticism, Jesus modeled how we all know we should live.

Regardless of your religious faith or lack of faith, this is a powerful unifying message of community to meditate on this Christmas season. Especially during this pandemic, we need to be kinder to one another and look out for each other more. Everyone has a story. We’re all in this life together.
Christmas looks a little different this year
By: Hannah Murry
Tags: Christmas, Jesus

I won’t get into all the ushering in the New Year stuff and reflecting on what I learned from this year quite yet (that post is coming soon), but I figure I could at least reflect on what Christmas has looked like amidst the chaos that is 2020.

Christmas is a holiday meant for spending time with loved ones, gathering around trees (real or fake, no judgement here), ooh-ing and aah-ing at all the pretty lights, jamming out to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You”, giving and receiving gifts, and filling the house with the heavenly smell of Christmas cookies.

Christmas is also a huge birthday party for Jesus, the coolest reason for the season.

Unfortunately, this year’s Christmas looked pretty different than last year and the years before that: gatherings were downsized, or even gone completely digital, and masks are actually a useful gift (who would have thought?).

For me, my Christmas consisted of six people. Originally we had booked flights to travel and stay with family for the holiday who I haven’t seen in months because of school and distance. We really thought the craziness would have died down by now, but alas… We cooked up some prime rib and biscuits, threw on some Christmas music, and gathered around the table — silently mourning the time we had hoped to spend with the rest of our loved ones. However, we decided our health comes first in the hopes that this time next year we will have moved past this pandemic safely and be ready for the sweetest reunion.

There was also a moment after we had finished our dinner where we took some time to kneel at the feet of Jesus, thanking Him for another Christmas. We filled our glasses with sparkling grape juice (for the holidays, of course), set out a plate with a loaf of bread, and took communion together. It really reminded us of how blessed we are that God’s grace and Jesus’ sacrifice saved us from ourselves and the sin we carry as humans. The one who crafted the universe sent His son to die for us and to cover our sins so that we may be with Him forever in Heaven. Just to be able to have a meal in a warm house on a cold winter’s night is a blessing in itself.

We were also reminded of the fact that for some, the holidays often bring more reminders of pain and loss than happiness and cheer. I pray that if that’s you, you know that you are loved by me and, more importantly, by Jesus who came to earth as God in the flesh to pay the ultimate price on the cross. Take time to reflect and be thankful and know that you will come out of this season stronger. Tomorrow’s a new day. Rest in that.

Christmas may have seemed a little different for me and many others, but the real reason for the season stays the same.

Love you all. Merry Christmas x
Santa Kneels Before Salvation’s Child
By: Michelle Renee Kidwell
Tags: Santa Claus, Poetry, Jesus, Christmas

Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge in the light: Helen Keller http://www.facebook.com/fansofMichellerkidwell
It’s Christmas. We want gifts! We want gifts!
By: Misa Ferreira De Rezende
Tags: Santa Claus, Christmas, Giving, Jesus, Gifts

Everyone exclaims contentedly

It’s Christmas! It’s Christmas!

Where does everyone go anyway?

They hurry to the streets

For decorated stores

They think about Christmas dinner, drinks

And lit trees

Everyone wants Santa Claus

That in pomp descends from the heights

Oh! Oh! Oh!

So the little ones learn

In delight, they throw kisses and they shout

We want gifts! We want gifts!

Very expensive and attractive

And everyone forgets about the boy

That poor little one!

Who had nothing from his own

Only a little straw crib where He was born

And the cross where he died

As Saint Teresa used to say

And that even in His extreme poverty

Was King of the kingdom that was not of this world

Who can understand this deeper mystery?

And many do not know Him

Barely they have heard

Of a nice little baby

Who would come to save us

Who slept warm in Maria’s lap

Illuminated by the guiding star

And me here in my selfish little world

Consumerist and so material

I dare to say:

Dear Jesus

Happy Christmas!

É NATAL

Toda a gente exclama contente

É Natal! É Natal!

Aonde vão todos afinal?

Acorrem sôfregos para a rua

Para as lojas enfeitadas

Pensam em ceias, bebidas

E árvores iluminadas.

Todos querem o Papai Noel

Que em pompa desce do Céu

Oh! Oh! Oh!

Assim aprendem os pequenos

Em delírio jogam beijos e acenos

Queremos presentes! Presentes!

Bem caros e atraentes.

E todos se esquecem do Menino

Daquele pobre pequenino

Que só mesmo teve de seu

O presépio onde nasceu

E a cruz onde morreu

Como dizia Santa Teresa

E que mesmo em sua extrema pobreza

Foi rei de um reino que não era deste mundo

E quem pode compreender mistério mais profundo?

Muitos não o conhecem

Vagamente ouviram contar

De um bebezinho bonzinho

Que viria nos salvar

Que dormia quentinho no colo de Maria

Iluminado pela estrela guia.

E eu aqui no mundinho egoista

Consumista e tão material

Ouso dizer:

Querido Jesus

Feliz Natal!
Almighty God, you have given your only-begotten Son Jesus to take our nature upon him, and to be…
By: Father Troy Beecham
Tags: Christmas, Father Troy Beecham, Salvation, Jesus, Christianity

Almighty God, you have given your only-begotten Son Jesus to take our nature upon him, and to be born this day of a pure virgin: Grant that we, who have been born again and made your children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by your Holy Spirit; through our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom with you and the same Spirit be honor and glory, now and forever. Amen.
Christmas — Jesus Christ Our Savior Is Born
By: Padraic Cyril Mc Freen
Tags: Christmas, Birth, Love, Jesus, Christ

Dear Father GOD Christmas Day has come.

“and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.”

Luke 2:7

In Jesus’ Name
Christmas Thoughts
By: Andrea Cannon
Tags: Holidays, Jesus, Family, Happiness, Christianity

Photo by Katy R Mahoney from Pexels

Settling in this Christmas Eve,

My thoughts wander about

here and there —

Dinner, gifts, family, friends, blessings and thanks.

But my mind settles on this one thing…

He is a light to reveal God to the nations (Luke 2:32 NLT).

The star atop the tree, as well as the star many of us witnessed in the evening sky just a few days ago, are reminders that this night is a celebration of the birth of our Lord, our Messiah, our Savior.

Wherever you are and however you celebrate — alone, with family, or gathered virtually — take a moment to thank God for this precious gift, and remember that He came for you, for me, for all of us.

Merry Christmas and blessings to all, from the bottom of my heart.

~ Andrea
Hours Before Christmas
By: Padraic Cyril Mc Freen
Tags: Christmas, Hope, Love, Jesus, Mary

Dear Father GOD in these Hours Before Christmas,

“Mary’s Song

And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the LORD and my spirit rejoices in GOD my SAVIOR, for HE has been mindful of the humble state of HIS servant.

From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the MIGHTY ONE has done great things for me — HOLY is HIS name. HIS mercy extends to those who fear HIM, from generation to generation.

HE has performed mighty deeds with HIS arm; HE has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. HE has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.

HE has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. HE has helped HIS servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as HE promised our ancestors.’”

Luke 1:46–55

In Jesus’ Name
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!
Tags: Christmas, Joy, Jesus, Merrychristmas

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!

There is always hope when we put our trust in God and his plan. Today we remember how much he loved us and gave us the gift of hope.

From the Sewell family to you and your loved ones, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!

-Aaron
開箱文│聖誕節，你最想收到甚麼禮物？從蝴蝶結、包裝盒、禮物、祝福，一層一層打開吧！
Tags: Christmas, Blessings, Bible, Jesus, Gifts

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Merry Christmas!!!!
By: Claude Weary
Tags: Christmas, Jesus, Chist

Merry Christmas!!!!

In every child's life, we all have experience opening presents at Christmas time. Christmas Day was for kids only. The Entrepreneur who thought of the idea of Chris Kringle as Santa Claus. Santa Claus, the reindeer, the sled, and presents brought the chimney to be placed under a tree for lights and ornaments name should be placed right up there with Jesus himself.

Eventually I figured it out and as I figured out that Santa Claus and the reindeer, elfs working, riding on a sled, and getting all the things on my list was all made up with a lie for parents to feel guilty if they didn’t play along. Now, just about every entrepreneur now makes most of their profits during the Christmas season.

What is funny is that when you became a parent and even though you don’t believe in Jesus Christ. You still play along until this day. Buying Christmas trees, putting lights up in the window, on the house, and in the yard. And when some of you have found out the truth about Christmas and don’t even believe Jesus existed. You want to get paid for have time off from work because of this great holiday.

For to us a Child shall be born, to us a Son shall be given; And the government shall be upon His shoulder, And His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 AMP

Photo by Євгенія Височина on Unsplash

As me being a Bible studier, spritural counselor, and a Christ Jesus believer. I thank God for Christmas for the real reason the holiday was made for. I’m sure you know the story of Jesus being born here on this earth without an earthly father. Jesus is the very reason you are even breathing and you are able to see this post, read it, understand it which all these are miracle things happening here.

God gave us a Thanksgiving for every soul to have a chance to live life as Jesus did when He walked among us teaching us how to love and to obey His Father's wishes. Then after Jesus was crucified, the Father left for us a Comforter that will help you with life crisis on a day to day basis. The comforter is named the Holy Spirit. May you find her the now. I could go on and on about how the Holy Spirit has helped me to bring why we are here and how to handle things as Jesus would.

Having the Holy Spirit is a testimonial thing. Those who know Jesus and believe in His death and rising on the third day have the best meaning for Christmas even though Jesus’s birthday is now celebrated for both none believers and believers.

If you want to reap the great benefits of Christ, and you want to be part of this holiday that has been around since the creation of the earth. Contact me and I would love to show you how to become part of a family that has over 3000 promises given and inherited to all His believers.

Happy Birthday, Jesus!!!
The Story of My First True Christmas
By: Janis Cox
Tags: Christmas, Bible, Jesus, Gifts, Christianity

When did the Christmas Story take hold of me?

One Christmas Eve, we visited a different church in our small town. It was dark when we arrived at the little church.

Haliburton United Church — personal photo

Stained glass windows adorned the walls. We walked in through the narthex at the back of the church.

At the front of Haliburton United church. Personal photo.

A buzz of voices greeted us as we entered. A lovely small woman met us at the door and welcomed us to the Christmas Eve service. We found a seat.

A few people said hello but I will never forget the smile on that lovely woman’s face when she said, “Hello, my name is Eleanor.”

We sang Christmas carols and then it was time for the message. The minister rose and walked to the podium.

Then something happened.

My ears were opened that night. I don’t know what he said exactly but he explained the Incarnation in a way that I had never heard. I was a believer at the time. I had been baptized.

But I didn’t understand that:

God came down to earth. He lived here. He walked among us. He was God incarnate.

That hit me deeply. God loved me so much that He left heaven and the heavenly connection He was used to, to come to His people. To rescue them and me.

From that night on, Christmas Eve has never been the same

I have taken the place of each character from that night.

Mary as she birthed her baby (I felt that one).

Joseph as he admired his new child. (I’ve seen that in my husband’s eyes.)

The Shepherds who were astounded, filled with fear but told not to be afraid (how many times have I felt that?)

The Angel — proclaiming the Good News. (When I sing Christmas songs about the Angels, I am carried to the heavens.)

I have even put myself in the spot of Jesus (I was a baby once).

So much happened that night.

From the star in the sky to the shepherds’ arrival, the Incarnation is the most wonderful story of all.

May I pray for you and me?

Father, thank You for sending Jesus to live on earth, to teach us, to comfort and heal us, to take our sins upon Himself and reconnect us to the Father. We are grateful and happy for knowing Jesus. In His name, we pray. Amen.

Please visit this page: A Free Gift of a Colouring page

Colouring Page by Janis Cox

Another place for free gifts until December 31:

End-of-year Special — Bonus Gifts from now until December 31.
Be Born in Me ~ You Are Here
By: Aramis Thorn
Tags: Christmas, Love, Jesus, Following Christ, Faith

The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; Those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them.

Happy Christmas Dear Reader,

What did you write down yesterday? Jesus only takes up residence where he is welcome. All of the stuff that makes him less than loving is manmade.

Today I am meditating on the presence of Christ with us. He is Emmanuel, literally “God with us.” The Bread of Life, which we discussed earlier in November was born in a town whose name means House of Bread; Bethlehem.

In the fullness of time, the Father tipped the glass and things began to flow again. On that December morning, the Creator of all things became a part of his creation so that he could be with us. This is brief today. We need to get that Jesus is always here. He said, “I am with you always.”

I am writing down that I will live each moment as if Christ is with me because he is; that is the reality of it. I wish you a Happy Christmas, Dear Reader. Find the Child, the Man, and the Lord. He wrote his name on my heart in flame and that is a wound I will not erase. Jesus, you are here.

You’re Here — Francesca Battistelli

Hold on now, I gotta take a deep breath

I don’t know what to say when I look in your eyes

You made the world before I was born

Here I am holding you in my arms tonight

Noel, noel, Jesus our Emmanuel

You’re here, I’m holding you so near

I’m starring into the face of my Saviour, King, and Creator

You could’ve left us on our own, but you’re here

Don’t know how long I’m gonna have you for

But I’ll be watching when you change the world

I Look at your hands, they’re still so small

Someday you’re going to stretch them out and save us all

Noel, noel, God with us Emmanuel

You’re here, I’m holding you so near

I’m staring into the face of my Saviour, King, and Creator

They could’ve left us on our own, but you’re here you’re here

Someday I’m gonna look back on this

The night that God became a baby boy

Someday you’re gonna go home again,

But you leave your Spirit and flood the world with joy

You’ll be here, I’m holding you so near

I’m staring into the face of my Saviour, King, and Creator

They could’ve left me on my own, but you’re here you’re here

Hallelujah you’re here hallelujah

You’re here

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, “That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a homeowner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Every human story is part of the great story that leads to the Father getting everything back to Good.

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The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; Those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them.
Joy of Christmas Day
By: Padraic Cyril Mc Freen
Tags: Christmas, Birth, Magi, Joy, Jesus

Dear Father GOD news of the Joy of Christmas Day is spreading,

“The Magi Visit the Messiah

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.’

When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born.

‘In Bethlehem in Judea,’ they replied, ‘for this is what the prophet has written:’ ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’

Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, ‘Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.’

After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.

On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.

Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.“

Matthew 2:1–12

In Jesus’ Name
ILLUMINATION-Curated
By: Dr. Deborah M. Vereen
Tags: Spirituality, Christmas, Religion, Jesus, Christianity

1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.

2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
The birth of Jesus shatters all myths
By: Filip Djukic
Tags: Christian, Jesus, Christianity

Man can only find his way with God. Jesus Christ’s existence has been confirmed through various researches by historians and researchers.

Some of them are in the Gospels — and there is also evidence coming from non-Christian sources.

For example, Mishnah is a collection of Jewish oral traditions known as the Oral Torah. In Mishnah, we can find evidence about Jesus’ existence.

The existence of God, Jesus, in addition to being contained in the Gospels, can be most understood through all the centuries in which his teaching and name have been maintained. Up to today.

The philosophy of Christianity has nothing to do with paganism. The mantra that Christianity has taken over the myths previously written by the Babylonians, the Sumerians is ridiculous for several reasons.

The Sumerians and other peoples were polytheists and had no structure of faith, and the persons they mention in their epics (the epic of Gilgamesh) cannot be historically confirmed.

Jesus, on the other hand, is a historical person, and his work is explained through historical proofs.

more: https://filipidiombloc.wordpress.com/2020/12/25/the-birth-of-jesus-shatters-all-myths/
In Reality You Are a Multimillionaire
By: M.X. Christopher
Tags: Millionaire, Christmas, Wealth, Jesus, Christianity

pexels-Evgeny Tchebotarev

Imagine you owned a field. And buried in that field was a pot of gold. Worth millions of dollars.

Only, you didn’t know it was there. And so, while you technically were a millionaire, because you were unaware of what you possessed, you lived very meagerly. You even often complained of money problems, and worried often about lack of finances. All the while the answer to all your problems was hidden in the very field which you owned.

Family, it’s the same with our riches in Christ. Christ was the sacrificial lamb that took away the sins of the world. Every sin, forgiven. But many do not know of their glorious inheritance in Christ. They don’t know they are forgiven. And so, they live in fear, in guilt, and in shame.

And even the ones that do know, they are usually preoccupied with trying to please God or themselves, when God has already said, he is well pleased with us because of Jesus Christ’s finished work on the cross.

Sister, Brother, this Christmas know for certain that you are loved and you are forgiven. Don’t sit anymore on the richest of Christ. Search deep within your heart and realize that Christ desires to make his home in your heart so you can sup together.

Dig up the lost and buried treasure and rejoice! You are more than a millionaire.

You have true riches in Christ.
Advent: Light & the Christ candle.
By: Ashley Worsham-Giaccone
Tags: Christmas, Advent, Light, Eve, Jesus

We live in a world where everyone sins. Even Christians sin, though we actively try not to. It is part of being a human in a fallen world. Jesus never sinned during His time on earth, but instead lived a perfect life above reproach. Satan tempted Him to sin, but Jesus didn’t fall for the temptation (Matthew 4:1–11). Multiple times, Jewish leaders tried to trick Jesus into sinning — but they never succeeded because God is above sin and Jesus is God.

In a sinful world, Jesus’ sinless life stands out, like a light in the dark. To be counter-cultural means to go against what most of the people around us are doing. As we discussed last week, Jesus frequently hung out with unpopular people. That was counter-cultural.

Even though we still sin despite our love of God, we are also called to be counter-cultural to the best of our abilities. How we live our lives should reflect Christ and be a light to the world. We can accomplish this by treating everyone with love and dignity, caring for those in need, or doing what’s right even when it’s easier to do what’s wrong.

We will fail in doing so at times, but we should always try regardlessly and fix our mistakes when we do mess up. Sometimes, it’s easy to believe that the best way to show Jesus is to always do everything right — to be perfect. But at times, our light shines brightest not by being perfect, but by acknowledging our mistakes and fixing any problems we’ve caused. While we do follow Christ and strive to do what’s always right, He loves us even when we make mistakes. By graciously admitting these mistakes and forgiving others of their mistakes, we can show others how Jesus loves us even though we are sinners. The test is not to see if we’ll never have mistakes, but how will we respond when they happen.

The fifth advent candle is called the Christ Candle and symbolizes light and purity.
Natal: conflitos e paz
By: Dirceu Cardoso
Tags: Gotas De Edificação, Jesus, Paz, Natal, Devocional

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Ele vai chegar
Tags: Natal, Jesus, Balaio, Mangedoura

Learn more. Medium is an open platform where 170 million readers come to find insightful and dynamic thinking. Here, expert and undiscovered voices alike dive into the heart of any topic and bring new ideas to the surface. Learn more

Make Medium yours. Follow the writers, publications, and topics that matter to you, and you’ll see them on your homepage and in your inbox. Explore
Então é Natal
By: Tânia Braga Guimarães
Tags: Maria, Jesus, Menino, Cristo, Natal

Consciousness Facilitator. Phd in Languages Studies. Buddhist inside. Crazy outside. Dreamer. Can call me Taniá. Facilitadora de Consciência.