How it started One of my hobbies is model trains, specifically, O-gauge trains running around my Christmas tree. Yes we had a Lionel train which we three Jones brothers shared when I…
Tag: Christmas
Sam Visits for Christmas
My Grandson Sam is a hands-on guy. He was not very interested in running the trains, though he did that briefly once or twice. He liked the whistle on the train a…
Our manger scene has a history
Our outdoor manger scene is an integral part of our family Christmas celebration. JoAnne and I originally made it while pastoring at our first church in Bentley Creek PA. Our church was…
A child’s Christmas wonder is catching
It happened in the middle of the children’s program at church — the moment that crystalized the essence of the Christmas sermons I have been preparing. Little Parker, who is barely tall…
Christmas star
When we think about the historical birth of Jesus, it makes us curious about the star. Here’s a neat article on the Christmas star recommended by my friend Spencer Soohoo whose hobby…
A devotional for Christmases that are not the same as those in the past
Here is a very thoughtful and personally touching devotion for everyone facing Christmas in different or difficult circumstances this year. It comes from the insightful mind of Shirley Mullen, President of Houghton…
Not 500, but many good results
Setting a goal encouraged us to invite others Some of you have asked me already, “Did we make 500?” I almost don’t want to answer the question because I am so excited…
Christmas trains running!
Our annual Christmas display is a highlight of the season. I’m a little late getting it up since we visited Keely and Mark over Thanksgiving weekend. However, I finally have three trains…
Advent Christmas series titled The Light of the World
Every year as we approach the Christmas season, we automatically focus on Bible passages in Luke chapter 2:1-20 and Matthew chapter 2:1-12 where the Christmas story is found. As I was thinking…
January fun with Christmas trains
I always wondered what went on in those houses where Christmas trees remained visible in the windows many weeks into January. Well, now we’re one of those houses. So I can share…