“Jesus, a man who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act.” (Mohandas K. Gandhi)

Tomorrow, January 6^th, is designated Epiphany (literally “shining upon”), a Christian festival commemorating the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles in the persons of the Magi. The word epiphany also refers to perception or insight into the reality or essential meaning of something. The wise men made a long journey, requiring a great deal of time and effort, to see Jesus. And when they saw Him, they presented Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh—acknowledging Christ as King, God, and Sacrifice. That long ago and far away history comes alive personally when we see the Light they saw on the face of Christ (2 Corinthians 4:6).

Bowing the knee to Christ as King, we obey Him and experience an epiphany of joy as He makes Himself real to us. (John 10:36-37;  14:21)

Yielding our life to Christ as God, we worship Him and experience an epiphany of praise as we realize He is the Great I Am. (John 8:51-58).

Surrendering our heart to Christ as Sacrifice, we love Him and experience an epiphany of gratitude as we contemplate His death on Calvary on our behalf (Mark 10:45;  John 10:11;  1 John 4:10, 19).   

Living by faith in the Christ we have not yet seen, we occasionally detect a little bit of light shining from above down into this dark world and experience an epiphany of hope.

Journeying through time with Immanuel, we look forward to tomorrow, a future as bright as the promises of God.

Trusting our Savior, we believe deep in our heart that the dawn of His reign in heaven on earth will be the ultimate Epiphany.  

”All glory to him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are his before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen.” (Jude 1:25 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Interim Pastor, Nomini Baptist Church

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Blog http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.” (Alfred, Lord Tennyson)

There’s plenty about life that can disturb us—dreary overcast Mondays, post-holiday depression, anxiety about what the new year may bring, health concerns, family squabbles, moral dilemmas. But we will not disintegrate emotionally if we habitually share with our Father what bothers us. Scripture reassures us we can give all our worries and cares to God, since He cares about us (1 Peter 5:7).

When we need to talk to God, He is ready to listen.

Jesus Christ, our Great High Priest, through his perfect sacrifice on the cross, has made it possible for us to have a standing appointment with God. We do not have to approach our Maker with fearful, low-hung head. Heaven’s throne is mercy, not marble, so we can pray with confidence.

On the other hand, we should never casually stroll into God’s Presence—prayer is an audience with the King, so we must advance reverently.

And when we pray, we should keep in mind we’ll never get near God’s heart by thoughtless chatter and endless babble. Flippancy merely vocalizes unheard soliloquies; wordy repetition is unnecessary.

Monologue does not enhance our friendship with God. God invites us to enjoy heartfelt conversation with Him.

When we are ready to listen, God wants to talk with us. 

“I will meet with you there and talk with you from above the atonement cover between the gold cherubim that hover over the Ark of the Covenant.” (Exodus 25:22 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Interim Pastor, Nomini Baptist Church

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[This devotion based on Day 52 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.” (Alfred, Lord Tennyson)

There’s plenty about life that can disturb us—dreary overcast Mondays, post-holiday depression, anxiety about what the new year may bring, health concerns, family squabbles, moral dilemmas. But we will not disintegrate emotionally if we habitually share with our Father what bothers us. Scripture reassures us we can give all our worries and cares to God, since He cares about us (1 Peter 5:7).

When we need to talk to God, He is ready to listen.

Jesus Christ, our Great High Priest, through his perfect sacrifice on the cross, has made it possible for us to have a standing appointment with God. We do not have to approach our Maker with fearful, low-hung head. Heaven’s throne is mercy, not marble, so we can pray with confidence.

On the other hand, we should never casually stroll into God’s Presence—prayer is an audience with the King, so we must advance reverently.

And when we pray, we should keep in mind we’ll never get near God’s heart by thoughtless chatter and endless babble. Flippancy merely vocalizes unheard soliloquies; wordy repetition is unnecessary.

Monologue does not enhance our friendship with God. God invites us to enjoy heartfelt conversation with Him.

When we are ready to listen, God wants to talk with us. 

“I will meet with you there and talk with you from above the atonement cover between the gold cherubim that hover over the Ark of the Covenant.” (Exodus 25:22 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Interim Pastor, Nomini Baptist Church

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[This devotion based on Day 52 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

One hundred years ago today, on Christmas Eve, the World War I Christmas truce occurred. The respite in fighting happened in the unlikely setting of mud, cold rain, and senseless killing. It took place despite orders by superiors. It took place despite language barriers. If only for a few hours, sworn enemies became temporary friends.

World War I had been raging for only four months, but it was turning out to be one of the bloodiest wars in history. Soldiers on both sides were trapped in trenches, exposed to the cold and wet winter weather, covered in mud, and extremely anxious because of snipers. Machine guns had demonstrated their worth in war, bringing new meaning to the word "slaughter."

In a place where bloodshed had become commonplace, something surprising happened on the front for Christmas in 1914. The men shivering in the trenches embraced the Christmas spirit. In one of the most authentic acts of goodwill toward men, soldiers from both sides in the southern portion of the Ypres Salient temporarily put down their weapons and hatred, and met in No Man's Land.

It started when German soldiers lit candles on small Christmas trees and sang “Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht”, and British, French, Belgian and German troops serenaded each other. Soon they gathered and buried the dead, in an age-old custom. But as the power of Christmas intensified, they exchanged addresses and letters and expressed admiration for one another. Uniting across the front line—they sang carols, exchanged gifts, ate and drank, and even played games of soccer. When angry superiors ordered them to recommence shooting, many soldiers aimed harmlessly high overhead.

And so great beauty was observed in the midst of deep tragedy. Unspeakable carnage followed, making the Christmas truce stand out as one of history’s most poignant moments. In the terrible darkness of war, if only temporarily, there shone a little bit of light.

At another No Man’s Land—a bloody place of slaughter called Skull Hill, on the front line of good and evil—God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. (2 Corinthians 5:19 NLT). This was not just a truce between God and sinners; it was a divine act of love offering eternal forgiveness and peace.

Jesus was “born that man no more may die”; and He died in our place so we may be born from above. Anticipating heaven, enjoying the pleasure of His company day by day, we enjoy more than a temporary halt in hostilities—we celebrate a relationship that will never end, a relationship that changes us from the inside out, a friendship that inspires us to sing of heaven’s peace even in the midst of earth’s pandemonium.  

Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased. (Luke 2:14 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

One hundred years ago today, on Christmas Eve, the World War I Christmas truce occurred. The respite in fighting happened in the unlikely setting of mud, cold rain, and senseless killing. It took place despite orders by superiors. It took place despite language barriers. If only for a few hours, sworn enemies became temporary friends.

World War I had been raging for only four months, but it was turning out to be one of the bloodiest wars in history. Soldiers on both sides were trapped in trenches, exposed to the cold and wet winter weather, covered in mud, and extremely anxious because of snipers. Machine guns had demonstrated their worth in war, bringing new meaning to the word "slaughter."

In a place where bloodshed had become commonplace, something surprising happened on the front for Christmas in 1914. The men shivering in the trenches embraced the Christmas spirit. In one of the most authentic acts of goodwill toward men, soldiers from both sides in the southern portion of the Ypres Salient temporarily put down their weapons and hatred, and met in No Man's Land.

It started when German soldiers lit candles on small Christmas trees and sang “Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht”, and British, French, Belgian and German troops serenaded each other. Soon they gathered and buried the dead, in an age-old custom. But as the power of Christmas intensified, they exchanged addresses and letters and expressed admiration for one another. Uniting across the front line—they sang carols, exchanged gifts, ate and drank, and even played games of soccer. When angry superiors ordered them to recommence shooting, many soldiers aimed harmlessly high overhead.

And so great beauty was observed in the midst of deep tragedy. Unspeakable carnage followed, making the Christmas truce stand out as one of history’s most poignant moments. In the terrible darkness of war, if only temporarily, there shone a little bit of light.

At another No Man’s Land—a bloody place of slaughter called Skull Hill, on the front line of good and evil—God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. (2 Corinthians 5:19 NLT). This was not just a truce between God and sinners; it was a divine act of love offering eternal forgiveness and peace.

Jesus was “born that man no more may die”; and He died in our place so we may be born from above. Anticipating heaven, enjoying the pleasure of His company day by day, we enjoy more than a temporary halt in hostilities—we celebrate a relationship that will never end, a relationship that changes us from the inside out, a friendship that inspires us to sing of heaven’s peace even in the midst of earth’s pandemonium.  

Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased. (Luke 2:14 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“Instead of complaining that God had hidden Himself, you will give Him thanks for having revealed so much of Himself.” (Pascal, Pensees, 1670)

Reverencing Christ, we begin to comprehend God’s gracious personality. Jesus perfectly represents His Father, personifying love in His life. Observing Christ, we see God’s likeness.

Submitting to our Sovereign, we experience God’s infinite goodness. Believing God engineers our lives with our best interests in mind, we rely on Him to take good care of us. Traveling rough roads teaches us lessons we’d never learn any other way. Yielding to our Master on sunny and stormy days, we find true joy transcending circumstances.

Confidently entering heaven’s inner sanctum—overshadowed by the cross—we behold Christ’s brilliant radiance.  Cleansed by His blood, we are privileged to enjoy guilt-free living and constant access to His throne in prayer.

Trusting the immortal, unseen King, we can relax. We cannot see Him with our eyes, but we can trust Him with our heart. And when we do, we find peace too wonderful for words.

Focusing the eyes of our heart on our invisible Friend, we can visualize the bright future He promises. The Victor over death, hell, and the grave offers us triumph over lesser enemies of tempting demons, current frustrations, and menacing worries.

Listening to voices of our family, we perceive God’s love. God places us in a family to counteract loneliness. He makes us part of a believing community to encourage and reinforce our faith.

Opening our dull eyes, we observe the grandeur of creation. God’s hand crafted the breathtaking cosmos. He whispered innumerable blazing galaxies into existence. He snapped His fingers and the big blue marble we call home appeared out of thin air.

Praying, we picture Gods heart. Heaven’s throne is made of mercy, not marble. His Presence guides us through life’s labyrinth and gives us a melody to cheer us on until we see His smile.

God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:6 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[This devotion based on Day 51 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“Instead of complaining that God had hidden Himself, you will give Him thanks for having revealed so much of Himself.” (Pascal, Pensees, 1670)

Reverencing Christ, we begin to comprehend God’s gracious personality. Jesus perfectly represents His Father, personifying love in His life. Observing Christ, we see God’s likeness.

Submitting to our Sovereign, we experience God’s infinite goodness. Believing God engineers our lives with our best interests in mind, we rely on Him to take good care of us. Traveling rough roads teaches us lessons we’d never learn any other way. Yielding to our Master on sunny and stormy days, we find true joy transcending circumstances.

Confidently entering heaven’s inner sanctum—overshadowed by the cross—we behold Christ’s brilliant radiance.  Cleansed by His blood, we are privileged to enjoy guilt-free living and constant access to His throne in prayer.

Trusting the immortal, unseen King, we can relax. We cannot see Him with our eyes, but we can trust Him with our heart. And when we do, we find peace too wonderful for words.

Focusing the eyes of our heart on our invisible Friend, we can visualize the bright future He promises. The Victor over death, hell, and the grave offers us triumph over lesser enemies of tempting demons, current frustrations, and menacing worries.

Listening to voices of our family, we perceive God’s love. God places us in a family to counteract loneliness. He makes us part of a believing community to encourage and reinforce our faith.

Opening our dull eyes, we observe the grandeur of creation. God’s hand crafted the breathtaking cosmos. He whispered innumerable blazing galaxies into existence. He snapped His fingers and the big blue marble we call home appeared out of thin air.

Praying, we picture Gods heart. Heaven’s throne is made of mercy, not marble. His Presence guides us through life’s labyrinth and gives us a melody to cheer us on until we see His smile.

God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:6 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[This devotion based on Day 51 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“Our notion of an optimist is a man who, knowing that each year was worse than the preceding, thinks next year will be better. And a pessimist is a man who knows the next year can’t be any worse than the last one.”  (Franklin Adams, 1944)

An end-of-the-year USA TODAY/Pew Research Center Poll reveals that 70% of people surveyed are dissatisfied with how things are going in America today. Only 49% predict 2015 will be better—the first time in a quarter center that optimism for the year ahead has fallen below 50%.

Though the stock market has shown positive signs and job numbers are growing, most Americans evidently have very low expectations that the new year will bring significant improvements to their lives. A stronger economy hasn’t helped everybody. Many people have quit looking for work, while others are underemployed. Governmental gridlock discourages many Americans; 77% predict that the stalemate will not improve over the next five years, while over a third expect it to get worse.

The bottom line, according to USA TODAY—“Our long national funk isn’t over.”  

Pessimists might react “If you think this year was bad, wait until next year; we haven’t seen anything yet!” Optimists may insist “There are some hopeful signs on the horizon; our country will turn around, just wait and see!” How will Christ followers respond?

In a time of rampant cynicism, will we still believe the future is as bright as the promises of God?

In a culture enamored with transitory material things, will we sing hymns out of an inner conviction of eternal realities?

In a society celebrating a holly-jolly-jingle-bell-rock-Rudolph-and-Frosty-and-shop-‘til-you-drop “Christmas”, will we give gifts to our loved ones while remembering that the greatest gift is our Savior?

In a nation focused on wish lists and getting what we want, will we align our lives by hope in anticipation of what God is going to do next?

In a world on the threshold of another year filled with potential problems, will we dare to live by faith in God, no matter what 2015 brings?

"Next Year in Jerusalem" is a statement of spiritual hope—that Jerusalem will be rebuilt spiritually, as the spiritual center of the world, with the Temple and the manifest Presence of God on earth, at its center. That’s a radical hope, derided by some as an impossible dream. However, the children of God keep dreaming and praying and hoping that the intractable problems plaguing us will be solved once and for all by the return and reign of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Christmas carol by Cecil Frances Alexander expresses well our ultimate reason for eternal optimism—“And our eyes at last shall see him, Through his own redeeming love; For that child so dear and gentle Is our Lord in heaven above, And he leads his children on To the place where he is gone.”

As much as we love America, it is good for us to recall a timeless truth—“We are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. He will bring everything under his control.” (Philippians 3:20, 21 NLT)   

“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”  (Romans 15:13 NLT)

A Christ-filled Christmas to you—and a Joyful, Peaceful, and Hopeful New Year!

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Blog http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“Our notion of an optimist is a man who, knowing that each year was worse than the preceding, thinks next year will be better. And a pessimist is a man who knows the next year can’t be any worse than the last one.”  (Franklin Adams, 1944)

An end-of-the-year USA TODAY/Pew Research Center Poll reveals that 70% of people surveyed are dissatisfied with how things are going in America today. Only 49% predict 2015 will be better—the first time in a quarter center that optimism for the year ahead has fallen below 50%.

Though the stock market has shown positive signs and job numbers are growing, most Americans evidently have very low expectations that the new year will bring significant improvements to their lives. A stronger economy hasn’t helped everybody. Many people have quit looking for work, while others are underemployed. Governmental gridlock discourages many Americans; 77% predict that the stalemate will not improve over the next five years, while over a third expect it to get worse.

The bottom line, according to USA TODAY—“Our long national funk isn’t over.”  

Pessimists might react “If you think this year was bad, wait until next year; we haven’t seen anything yet!” Optimists may insist “There are some hopeful signs on the horizon; our country will turn around, just wait and see!” How will Christ followers respond?

In a time of rampant cynicism, will we still believe the future is as bright as the promises of God?

In a culture enamored with transitory material things, will we sing hymns out of an inner conviction of eternal realities?

In a society celebrating a holly-jolly-jingle-bell-rock-Rudolph-and-Frosty-and-shop-‘til-you-drop “Christmas”, will we give gifts to our loved ones while remembering that the greatest gift is our Savior?

In a nation focused on wish lists and getting what we want, will we align our lives by hope in anticipation of what God is going to do next?

In a world on the threshold of another year filled with potential problems, will we dare to live by faith in God, no matter what 2015 brings?

"Next Year in Jerusalem" is a statement of spiritual hope—that Jerusalem will be rebuilt spiritually, as the spiritual center of the world, with the Temple and the manifest Presence of God on earth, at its center. That’s a radical hope, derided by some as an impossible dream. However, the children of God keep dreaming and praying and hoping that the intractable problems plaguing us will be solved once and for all by the return and reign of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Christmas carol by Cecil Frances Alexander expresses well our ultimate reason for eternal optimism—“And our eyes at last shall see him, Through his own redeeming love; For that child so dear and gentle Is our Lord in heaven above, And he leads his children on To the place where he is gone.”

As much as we love America, it is good for us to recall a timeless truth—“We are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. He will bring everything under his control.” (Philippians 3:20, 21 NLT)   

“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”  (Romans 15:13 NLT)

A Christ-filled Christmas to you—and a Joyful, Peaceful, and Hopeful New Year!

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Blog http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“No one tests the depths of a river with both feet.” (Ashanti Proverb)

Knowing life could be dangerous and being concerned for our welfare, our parents advised us to be careful. From God’s omniscient perspective, aware that invisible forces are ready to attack when our guard is down, our Heavenly Father warns us to be careful.

Drifting on life’s sea can lead to moral shipwreck. A tumbleweed in circumstantial winds entangles in embarrassing ethical barbed wire. Therefore we should prayerfully listen to our Lord’s  wise and loving counsel.

A common public sign cautions us of possible danger—WATCH YOUR STEP! Sadly, we sometimes pay closer attention to human words than to heaven’s. When we’re inattentive or tired, we’re more likely to trip. We wouldn’t play volleyball in a minefield, so why run helter-skelter through life?

We should be careful to pray only to the one true God. We should avoid bending the knee to ego, status, money, possessions, technology, power, or sensuality. Under no circumstances should be climb on Satan’s bandwagon—he would take us on a wild ride ending in catastrophe.

If we have the courage and desire to follow the marks of Jesus’ wounded feet, we will watch our step while we walk in His.

“Be careful to do everything I have said to you.” (Exodus 23:13 NIV)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[This devotion based on Day 50 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“No one tests the depths of a river with both feet.” (Ashanti Proverb)

Knowing life could be dangerous and being concerned for our welfare, our parents advised us to be careful. From God’s omniscient perspective, aware that invisible forces are ready to attack when our guard is down, our Heavenly Father warns us to be careful.

Drifting on life’s sea can lead to moral shipwreck. A tumbleweed in circumstantial winds entangles in embarrassing ethical barbed wire. Therefore we should prayerfully listen to our Lord’s  wise and loving counsel.

A common public sign cautions us of possible danger—WATCH YOUR STEP! Sadly, we sometimes pay closer attention to human words than to heaven’s. When we’re inattentive or tired, we’re more likely to trip. We wouldn’t play volleyball in a minefield, so why run helter-skelter through life?

We should be careful to pray only to the one true God. We should avoid bending the knee to ego, status, money, possessions, technology, power, or sensuality. Under no circumstances should be climb on Satan’s bandwagon—he would take us on a wild ride ending in catastrophe.

If we have the courage and desire to follow the marks of Jesus’ wounded feet, we will watch our step while we walk in His.

“Be careful to do everything I have said to you.” (Exodus 23:13 NIV)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[This devotion based on Day 50 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“Nowadays truth is the greatest news.” (Thomas Fuller, 1732)

Scanning today’s headlines, it’s difficult to discover any good news. In the Philippines, at least 21 are dead and 1,000 homes have been destroyed by Typhoon Hagupit. In Iraq, Kurds are in a stalemate battling the Islamic State militants. In Abu Dhabi, a monstrous killer stabbed to death a kindergarten teacher. In Afghanistan, a thousand additional U.S. troops will remain in response to increased Taliban attacks. In Iraq, Iranian jet airstrikes against ISIS are raising suspicions that Iraq is sharing intelligence with Tehran. In Mexico City, tens of thousands are protesting attacks on students by corrupt police and drug cartel gunmen. In California, violent crowds are protesting the chokehold death of Eric Garner in New York and the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. Daily news is mostly negative.

True, over the last year a few extraordinary people did exemplary things. Former Boston College baseball captain Pete Frates, suffering from ALS, unable to walk or speak, wheelchair-bound, inspired the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge and raised more than $100 million to fight the disease. Ellen Stofan, chief scientist at NASA, outlined a technological roadmap for discovering potentially habitable worlds beyond earth. Kathleen Connors, surgical nurse, stopped at a Vermont diner for breakfast, then paid the bill for a neighboring pair of strangers, triggering a chain that repeated itself 46 times over the day.

Yet tough questions remain—even if a cure for ALS is found, will we acknowledge our mortality and live in light of our accountability to our Creator? Would it really be good news if we could land a human on Mars, if we’re still killing each other on this planet? Do a few random acts of kindness cancel the predominance of heartlessness in the world?

Despite rare benevolent acts, 2014 has generally been a year confirming the corruption of the human heart. Ebola, ISIS, downed planes, and racial unrest have only served to confirm our assessment of the evil rampant in the world. This year, like all the others that preceded it, had plenty of bad news.

We’re in a fix that only God can get us out of. We cannot survive unless God helps us. We cannot have tomorrow unless it comes as a gift of God.

Advent is a holy season reminding us of God’s gifts of hope, peace, joy, and love. In a despairing world, Christ’s promise of heaven brings us hope. In a warring world, Christ’s power in our lives brings us peace. In a sad world, Christ’s presence in our hearts brings us joy. In a hateful world, Christ’s pardon of our sins teaches us love.

In our century, as in all centuries, truth is the greatest news. Truth liberates our spirits, enlightens our minds, and cheers our souls. And that’s really good news. In fact, the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is the greatest news ever announced to the human race.

“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“Nowadays truth is the greatest news.” (Thomas Fuller, 1732)

Scanning today’s headlines, it’s difficult to discover any good news. In the Philippines, at least 21 are dead and 1,000 homes have been destroyed by Typhoon Hagupit. In Iraq, Kurds are in a stalemate battling the Islamic State militants. In Abu Dhabi, a monstrous killer stabbed to death a kindergarten teacher. In Afghanistan, a thousand additional U.S. troops will remain in response to increased Taliban attacks. In Iraq, Iranian jet airstrikes against ISIS are raising suspicions that Iraq is sharing intelligence with Tehran. In Mexico City, tens of thousands are protesting attacks on students by corrupt police and drug cartel gunmen. In California, violent crowds are protesting the chokehold death of Eric Garner in New York and the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. Daily news is mostly negative.

True, over the last year a few extraordinary people did exemplary things. Former Boston College baseball captain Pete Frates, suffering from ALS, unable to walk or speak, wheelchair-bound, inspired the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge and raised more than $100 million to fight the disease. Ellen Stofan, chief scientist at NASA, outlined a technological roadmap for discovering potentially habitable worlds beyond earth. Kathleen Connors, surgical nurse, stopped at a Vermont diner for breakfast, then paid the bill for a neighboring pair of strangers, triggering a chain that repeated itself 46 times over the day.

Yet tough questions remain—even if a cure for ALS is found, will we acknowledge our mortality and live in light of our accountability to our Creator? Would it really be good news if we could land a human on Mars, if we’re still killing each other on this planet? Do a few random acts of kindness cancel the predominance of heartlessness in the world?

Despite rare benevolent acts, 2014 has generally been a year confirming the corruption of the human heart. Ebola, ISIS, downed planes, and racial unrest have only served to confirm our assessment of the evil rampant in the world. This year, like all the others that preceded it, had plenty of bad news.

We’re in a fix that only God can get us out of. We cannot survive unless God helps us. We cannot have tomorrow unless it comes as a gift of God.

Advent is a holy season reminding us of God’s gifts of hope, peace, joy, and love. In a despairing world, Christ’s promise of heaven brings us hope. In a warring world, Christ’s power in our lives brings us peace. In a sad world, Christ’s presence in our hearts brings us joy. In a hateful world, Christ’s pardon of our sins teaches us love.

In our century, as in all centuries, truth is the greatest news. Truth liberates our spirits, enlightens our minds, and cheers our souls. And that’s really good news. In fact, the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is the greatest news ever announced to the human race.

“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“You say before you die, you intend to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land,

climb to the very top of Mount Sinai, and read the Ten Commandments out loud.

I’ve got a better idea. Why don’t you just stay right where you are and keep them!”

- Mark Twain

We can live joyfully by trusting God. Bowing to false gods of the heart disappoints. God is the only absolutely reliable spot in the universe.

We can live wisely by worshiping God. The Almighty brooks no rivals—allegiance to the Sovereign God is indivisible. First place belongs only to God.

We can live humbly by lovingly speaking God’s name. Irreverent voices toss God’s name around in curse or jest, but devout believers speak His name prayerfully.

We can live healthfully by recreating zest for living. The Creator offers us a one-day vacation every week. Getting out of fast-forward mode by pushing the pause button enhances health.

We can live fully by honoring our parents. God gave us life through our father and mother, so they should be respected.

We can live harmoniously by deleting sarcasm from our vocabulary. Angry looks kill; verbal arrows murder. We enjoy harmony in life when we find peace in our heart.

We can live purely by running from sexual temptation. Mental adultery is wrong. Evil fantasies weaken our character. Resisting the devil and relying on Jesus is the path to victory.

We can live honorably by refusing to steal. Thievery takes what belongs to another; it also robs us of self-esteem. Honesty is the only policy.

We can live kindly by squelching gossip. We should never let our tongue idle with our mind in neutral. Hearsay wrecks the neighborhood.

We can live contentedly by humble gratitude. When we learn to be satisfied with what God gives us, we are genuinely rich.

God has never revised His publication on relationships. He writes commandments, not suggestions. When we can’t seem to get life on earth together, we should try following heaven’s directions.

“God instructed the people.”  (Exodus 20:1 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[This devotion based on Day 49 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“You say before you die, you intend to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land,

climb to the very top of Mount Sinai, and read the Ten Commandments out loud.

I’ve got a better idea. Why don’t you just stay right where you are and keep them!”

- Mark Twain

We can live joyfully by trusting God. Bowing to false gods of the heart disappoints. God is the only absolutely reliable spot in the universe.

We can live wisely by worshiping God. The Almighty brooks no rivals—allegiance to the Sovereign God is indivisible. First place belongs only to God.

We can live humbly by lovingly speaking God’s name. Irreverent voices toss God’s name around in curse or jest, but devout believers speak His name prayerfully.

We can live healthfully by recreating zest for living. The Creator offers us a one-day vacation every week. Getting out of fast-forward mode by pushing the pause button enhances health.

We can live fully by honoring our parents. God gave us life through our father and mother, so they should be respected.

We can live harmoniously by deleting sarcasm from our vocabulary. Angry looks kill; verbal arrows murder. We enjoy harmony in life when we find peace in our heart.

We can live purely by running from sexual temptation. Mental adultery is wrong. Evil fantasies weaken our character. Resisting the devil and relying on Jesus is the path to victory.

We can live honorably by refusing to steal. Thievery takes what belongs to another; it also robs us of self-esteem. Honesty is the only policy.

We can live kindly by squelching gossip. We should never let our tongue idle with our mind in neutral. Hearsay wrecks the neighborhood.

We can live contentedly by humble gratitude. When we learn to be satisfied with what God gives us, we are genuinely rich.

God has never revised His publication on relationships. He writes commandments, not suggestions. When we can’t seem to get life on earth together, we should try following heaven’s directions.

“God instructed the people.”  (Exodus 20:1 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[This devotion based on Day 49 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

Let Christmas not become a thing merely of merchant’s trafficking,

Of tinsel, bell and holly wreath and surface pleasure.

Beneath the childish glamour, let us find nourishment for soul and mind.

Let us follow kinder ways through our teeming human maze,

And help the age of peace to come from a Dreamer’s martyrdom.

- Madeline Morse

The sacred holy day of Christmas has degenerated into a holiday season pressuring consumers to spend unreasonably. Close on the heels of Thanksgiving Day—when we took time to thank God for blessing us with everything we need in life—Black Friday offered irresistible deals to enthused consumers. Then followed Small Business Saturday, a time to shop at “mom and pop” stores. Today is called Cyber Monday, luring millions to purchase gifts online. And every day remaining in this annual American retail festival, stores won’t let up on us for an instant. I wonder how long it will be before some enterprising merchant tags the Sunday between Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday with a name that encourages increased spending on a day when most businesses used to be closed.  

Surely there’s something better than a holly-jolly-jingle-bell-rock-Rudolph-and-Frosty-and-shop-‘til-you-drop Christmas. We need to reevaluate our way of celebrating Christmas. We need to realize that a real Christmas has nothing to do with purchasing power. Instead, in an uncertain and dangerous world, the most valuable currency we can save and spend is hope. And the hope we have in Christ is not cheap—it was bought at an incalculable price.

Jesus is not the reason for the holiday season of shop-‘til-you-drop—He is the reason for the holy season of love, peace, joy, and hope.

“I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! His name will be the hope of all the world.” (Luke 2:10-11; Matthew 12:21 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

Let Christmas not become a thing merely of merchant’s trafficking,

Of tinsel, bell and holly wreath and surface pleasure.

Beneath the childish glamour, let us find nourishment for soul and mind.

Let us follow kinder ways through our teeming human maze,

And help the age of peace to come from a Dreamer’s martyrdom.

- Madeline Morse

The sacred holy day of Christmas has degenerated into a holiday season pressuring consumers to spend unreasonably. Close on the heels of Thanksgiving Day—when we took time to thank God for blessing us with everything we need in life—Black Friday offered irresistible deals to enthused consumers. Then followed Small Business Saturday, a time to shop at “mom and pop” stores. Today is called Cyber Monday, luring millions to purchase gifts online. And every day remaining in this annual American retail festival, stores won’t let up on us for an instant. I wonder how long it will be before some enterprising merchant tags the Sunday between Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday with a name that encourages increased spending on a day when most businesses used to be closed.  

Surely there’s something better than a holly-jolly-jingle-bell-rock-Rudolph-and-Frosty-and-shop-‘til-you-drop Christmas. We need to reevaluate our way of celebrating Christmas. We need to realize that a real Christmas has nothing to do with purchasing power. Instead, in an uncertain and dangerous world, the most valuable currency we can save and spend is hope. And the hope we have in Christ is not cheap—it was bought at an incalculable price.

Jesus is not the reason for the holiday season of shop-‘til-you-drop—He is the reason for the holy season of love, peace, joy, and hope.

“I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! His name will be the hope of all the world.” (Luke 2:10-11; Matthew 12:21 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

Let Christmas not become a thing merely of merchant’s trafficking,

Of tinsel, bell and holly wreath and surface pleasure.

Beneath the childish glamour, let us find nourishment for soul and mind.

Let us follow kinder ways through our teeming human maze,

And help the age of peace to come from a Dreamer’s martyrdom.

- Madeline Morse

The sacred holy day of Christmas has degenerated into a holiday season pressuring consumers to spend unreasonably. Close on the heels of Thanksgiving Day—when we took time to thank God for blessing us with everything we need in life—Black Friday offered irresistible deals to enthused consumers. Then followed Small Business Saturday, a time to shop at “mom and pop” stores. Today is called Cyber Monday, luring millions to purchase gifts online. And every day remaining in this annual American retail festival, stores won’t let up on us for an instant. I wonder how long it will be before some enterprising merchant tags the Sunday between Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday with a name that encourages increased spending on a day when most businesses used to be closed.  

Surely there’s something better than a holly-jolly-jingle-bell-rock-Rudolph-and-Frosty-and-shop-‘til-you-drop Christmas. We need to reevaluate our way of celebrating Christmas. We need to realize that a real Christmas has nothing to do with purchasing power. Instead, in an uncertain and dangerous world, the most valuable currency we can save and spend is hope. And the hope we have in Christ is not cheap—it was bought at an incalculable price.

Jesus is not the reason for the holiday season of shop-‘til-you-drop—He is the reason for the holy season of love, peace, joy, and hope.

“I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! His name will be the hope of all the world.” (Luke 2:10-11; Matthew 12:21 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“I only ask to be free. The butterflies are free.” (Charles Dickens)

When we’re exhausted, we can seek God’s strength and glide gracefully on eagle’s wings. That is not to say it will be easy—we may have trouble envisioning such beauty, and it may be all we can do just to get to our feet. But if we take God’s hand, He promises to help us fly high above the mediocre world below. On His wings of proven love and absolute truth, our Lord pilots us above gloomy clouds of despair. Spirit Wind aerodynamics lift our spirit to altitudes exceeding loftiest earthbound ambitions.

When we’re disenchanted, if we dare take a seat in the cockpit of grace God will carry us on an unforgettable sortie. We’ll do more than merely survive; eagle-like, we will soar!

When our mortal wings tire, we should try His.

When our flight is turbulent, we can trust the Pilot.

When we’re a little nervous about His flight plan, if we listen carefully we’ll hear heaven’s reassuring message—Relax and enjoy the flight.

“You know how I brought you to myself and carried you on eagle’s wings.” (Exodus 19:4 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[This devotion based on Day 48 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/

“I only ask to be free. The butterflies are free.” (Charles Dickens)

When we’re exhausted, we can seek God’s strength and glide gracefully on eagle’s wings. That is not to say it will be easy—we may have trouble envisioning such beauty,and it may be all we can do just to get to our feet. But if we take God’s hand, He promises to help us fly high above the mediocre world below. On His wings of proven love and absolute truth, our Lord pilots us above gloomy clouds of despair. Spirit Wind aerodynamics lift our spirit to altitudes exceeding loftiest earthbound ambitions.

When we’re disenchanted, if we dare take a seat in the cockpit of grace God will carry us on an unforgettable sortie. We’ll do more than merely survive; eagle-like, we will soar!

When our mortal wings tire, we should try His.

When our flight is turbulent, we can trust the Pilot.

When we’re a little nervous about His flight plan, if we listen carefully we’ll hear heaven’s reassuring message—Relax and enjoy the flight.

“You know how I brought you to myself and carried you on eagle’s wings.” (Exodus 19:4 NLT)

Johnny R. Almond

Christian preacher and writer

Author, Gentle Whispers from Eternity

[This devotion based on Day 48 of Gentle Whispers from Eternity]

Read blog at http://GentleWhispersFromEternity-ScripturePersonalized.com/