by jakeowensby | Dec 18, 2021 | Luke 2:1-20
The angels said to the shepherds, “To you is born this day … a Savior.” And once the angels had gone, the shepherds headed into Bethlehem to see for themselves. What they found there was an exhausted young mother. A vigilant new father. And a baby. A baby lying in a...
by jakeowensby | Dec 3, 2021 | Luke 3:1-6
Despite the heat and humidity of late-July Florida, I strapped on my shoes for an afternoon run. The relief of getting out of the house and capturing a few quiet minutes on my own outweighed the threat of heat stroke.* Andrew, our firstborn, was just a few weeks...
by jakeowensby | Nov 26, 2021 | Uncategorized
We’re ready for Christmas. Oh we’ve got gifts to buy. There’s a house to decorate, parties to throw, and cards to send. So we still have lots to do before the big day arrives. But I had something else in mind when I said that we’re ready. The past year and a half has...
by jakeowensby | Dec 18, 2020 | Uncategorized
Christmas decorations went up especially early this year, even among some who are normally scrupulous about keeping the church’s liturgical seasons. No wonder. Times are tough. People need something to lift our spirits and give us hope. Lights and garland and baubles...
by jakeowensby | Dec 15, 2020 | Uncategorized
Mary and Joseph got imperial notice that they had to make their way to Bethlehem. Caesar Augustus had ordered a census. The authorities were forcing everyone to return to their hometown. Magistrates would add their names to the tax roles there. I imagine Joseph...
by jakeowensby | Dec 4, 2020 | Mark 1:1-8
Recently it occurred to me that Dr. Phil might be channeling John the Baptist. Or, at least, I think that Dr. Phil has given us a valuable filter for hearing how the Baptist helps us prepare for Christmas. For the coming of Christ again in our hearts. Here’s what I...
