We began this reflective journey to discover why the end of the year is so “festive” for many religions and cultures and why it leads to a greater tendency to do good and be less self-centered.  I propose to you that we may be able to trace it back to the Tower of Babel.   I will explain.  First, let us come full circle and summarize what we have seemingly learned about the “holiday spirit” so far.  It is a real enough phenomenon to make it into a dictionary.  It is the “feel

Have you heard the phrase “Why can’t every day be like Christmas?” in a song, movie, or conversation?   What are they referring to?  Is it a longing for peace that comes from the unity of celebrations?  Is it the joy that comes from giving gifts or serving others?  Is it the feeling of gratitude that reduces stress?  Bigger question, why is it only associated with the Christmas season?  In Part 1, we posed the question as to why does the end of the year seem to compel people

There is an intensity of celebrations that happen all around the world and in every season.  It amazes me the unity holidays bring, even in unexpected places and unexpected ways.  Thanksgiving, for instance, is an American holiday, yet the influence of American culture and Americans living abroad have impacted other countries to recognize and celebrate with us.  Having lived in the Cayman Islands for a number of years, I can attest that many local island restaurants will offe

As we enter in to the most celebrated and recognized holiday season for Christians around the world, I began to ponder about this time of year with its heightened sense of activity and why it feels so different from the rest of the year.  In the month of November and December, there are many religions celebrating some holiday or festival.  The Christians have Advent, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.  The Jews celebrate Hanukkah.  African Americans observe Kwanza.  Buddhists keep

In our last reflection, we explored the topic of biblical hospitality and entertaining.  Today, we are going to dive into the biblical depths of servanthood before beginning our “Journey Through the Bible” series.  The greatest servant that ever was or will be was Yeshua/Jesus, for He was no ordinary servant.  Mark 10:45 (ESV) states, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”   This verse articulates that His prim

When I say the word “hospitality,” what comes to mind?  Hosting get-togethers for family and friends with lavish meals and festive...

Have you ever identified with a person in the Bible? Well, I have and it wasn’t too hard for me. It’s the queen of hospitality herself, “Martha.”  While that’s not necessarily something to boast about, it has helped me to recognize areas that I need to work on. I struggle with spending time with my Heavenly Father and in His Word. I am so busy with attending to things in this world that I often fail to quiet myself and spend quality time with Him. It's the classic case of