Christmas? ... hmm

In today’s complex and hyper-busy culture, it’s sometimes difficult for a believer to know just how to navigate through this techno-maze without getting out of step with the principles and purposes of our faith.  In fact, much of what we all daily face is so vastly different than biblical precedent, it can severely challenge our ability to relate.

Take, for instance, the simple matter of transportation.  In Jesus’ day the prime requisite was a pair of sandals.  In 2002 we still need the shoes, but also a vehicle, driver’s license, vehicle registration, inspection, insurance, maintenance, gasoline, oil, water, anti-freeze, courage — and a good deal of angelic oversight as we put it all on the public byways.

Similarly, Jesus and his disciples nourished their bodies simply and safely from the land.  They ate fish from unpolluted waters, untainted fruits, whole, ripe, raw, fresh, organic produce, nuts, olives, raw honey, grape juice, etc.  Not possible today!  Life has changed so markedly that many urbanites haven’t so much as seen a garden or fresh-water spring, not to mention a farm or milk’s original tap.  Some even believe making a meal “from scratch” means opening up a can and a box themselves — rather than defrosting a TV dinner.  Even the most astute are challenged to secure a safe diet in view of air pollution, soil depletion, fouled waters, pesticides, genetic tampering, artificial colorings, factory flavors, produce gassing, pasteurization, irradiation, chemical additives, preservatives,  microwaves, storage, transit time, manufactured vitamins, etc.

Add to all these: rockets, GPS (global positioning satellites), jumbo jets, cell phones, computers, fax machines, e-mail, voice mail, internet, jet-skis, virtual reality, TV, CDs, MP3, DVD, CJD, artificial hearts, Viagra, fertility clinics, alternative lifestyles, same-sex marriages — and life can seem overwhelmingly complicated.  How can one even survive, no less know how to live?!  Questions also arise as to how a believer is to view the world’s customs and holidays (Rom 12:2).  Christians and unbelievers alike are crying out for guidance and relief.

The answers are much simpler and more reassuring than the world in which we live and, in spite of the cultural abyss — they’re all in the Bible.  The standard and only yardstick by which all Christian thought and behavior can be measured is the Word; Jesus, the epitome of absolute truth.  He’s our “GPS”!  We need but look to our Lord for navigational wisdom — including our approach to Christmas (Easter as well).

ABOUT US:  Founded in 1993, Hallelujah Living Ministries is a donation-based, non-denominational Christian outreach to uplift, inform and challenge followers of Jesus Christ.  For more information or a copy of our always-free print newsletter, please include a  postal mail address along with your comments and prayer requests. Thank you for visiting  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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