Today is Monday, December 19th, 2016; Karen's Korner #3461

Another entry from Kirk Cameron's DVD "Saving Christmas", as he tells viewers why Christians have the most to celebrate. He talks about the meanings connected with Christmas trees; nativity sets; Santa Claus; and today's entry: "Choosing Joy at Christmas"!


"You feel forced to attend the neighborhood party every year. Or perhaps it's a party or family gathering you host, but it's for a portion of the family you don't particular care for. What about the required work party?

"Whatever the party---and however many you have to attend---chances are there will be at least one Scrooge, and probably many, at the gathering. This year, that Scrooge may even be you!!

"Think about it:  what should truly be the most wonderful time of the year is one of the most exhausting for many of us. But it doesn't have to be that way. Christmas, after all is about making all things right.....We need to rearrange our lives and our houses so that every single thing points to Jesus.

"You might be thinking, 'How can it be a joyful experience with my family? My work people? You've never seen the folks in my neighborhood.

"Only you know how bad it can be. But it doesn't have to stay like that. And the change begins with you and your heart! What if you've made a decision---a vow---to focus on Christ and His Love throughout this Christmas season? Chances are by doing so, you will be pointing others to our Savior.

"Let's celebrate the day the way Scrooge does...at the end of the story, with new eyes. As Tiny Tim would say, 'God bless us every one!"


"There was a prophet names Anna. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem."

~ Luke 2:36a; 37b, 38

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In the discussion guide, Cameron asks a number of questions for us to consider:

* Be honest:  what is your spirit like this Christmas? Why do you think it is or isn't?

*Do you truly believe you can choose joy? Why or why not? Where does your joy come from? What are some specific ways we can bring joy to others this Christmas season?

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"Father God, forgive us for the times this Christmas and in Christmases past where we've taken our eyes off of the greatest gift the world has ever known:  the coming of Jesus Christ. Help us to have a spirit of joyfulness and gratefulness this Christmas and help us to point people to your saving Grace through Christ. In His precious name we pray. Amen."

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