Grace Magazine His
December 2021
WOOD
"Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which interpreted is, God with us." Ministries Matthew 1:23
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Table of Contents Merry Christmas!
December 2021
"And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." John 1:41
Comic.................................................................................Page 3 From the Pulpit.................................................................Pages 4-7 Book in Review..................................................................Page 8 Poetry.................................................................................Page 9 Timeless Truths.................................................................Pages 10-11 Prayers...............................................................................Pages 12-13 Entertainment News.........................................................Page 15 World News.......................................................................Pages 16-17 Sports News.......................................................................Page 18 Weather News....................................................................Page 19 Athletes for Christ.............................................................Pages 20-21 Recipe ................................................................................Pages 22-25 Bible Study.........................................................................Pages 26-27 Celebrations.......................................................................Page 29 Movie in Review................................................................Page 30
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Merry Christmas!
Comic... December 2021
The Word According to Elijah
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Joyeux Noel!
Feliz Navidad!
Buon Natale! Ho Ho! Ho!!
God Jul!!
Merry Christmas!
Luke 2:14
“Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men! ”
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Merry Christmas!
December 2021
Immanuel!
God with Us!
Owner/Publisher: Rob Wood
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t's the most wonderful time of the year... words from a popular Christmas song. It's true; it is a wonderful time to be with the people you love, hot chocolate, and just having fun with family and friends, a time of gift giving, turkey dinners, movies and just relaxing. It can also be very stressful for some people; maybe they live alone, or don't have money for gifts, never mind money for food. Unfortunately during this time of year, alot of families are impacted this way... too much stress and not enough joy. Don't let satan steal your joy this Christmas; go to the Lord and let Him know what is going on in your life and tell
Him why you are so stressed. Lay it all out for Him; ask Him to take it from you; He can help you through it. As we grow, let's rely on Him more; let's learn to surrender a little more each day, each week, each month. Sometimes, we don't actually realize what God is doing until later on. Then we see and understand, just like in this story, A delayed Christmas Present. A ten year old boy named Jeff wanted to buy his first ten speed bike, and he worked out a deal where his dad would help him buy it. Even though it was not a new bike, he was still excited to have a bike. He started to cut grass and shovel snow to make money, and his dad would put in the other half. He would pay his dad back in monthly payments for the next six months. He spent that summer and fall riding his
bike everywhere. His sister, Liz, with her old five speed and a banana seat just couldn't keep up with his bike. He would ride all over town, even as far as the beach on some days. It was just before Christmas and his deadline was coming up to pay back his dad. It really helped that they had a few snowstorms back to back so with his shoveling money, he had more than enough to pay it all back. Now Jeff was a very happy bike owner. Christmas was finally here and they gathered by the tree to receive their presents. Jeff remembered receiving a portable record player, which was a blessing because he didn't have to share the family stereo anymore. Then his dad called his sister Liz to the kitchen, "We have one more gift for you," he said to her as he opened the door that led to the garage.
There in front of her on the stairs, was a brand new ten speed Schwinn bike! All Jeff could think about at that very moment was he had to endure all the scraping of his shovel on driveways and pushing the lawnmower to cut grass in order to buy his used bike, and less than a week later, his sister had a brand new shiny bike. He didn't want to feel ungrateful, but he was feeling a little hurt. Jeff's sister with joy said to him, "Let's go for a ride, Jeff!" as their dad held the bike upright for her. Jeff muttered to her, "It's too snowy to ride today." After a few weeks had gone by, Jeff's dad asked him, "Is everything okay Jeff?" "It's not fair," he said. "I worked so hard for my bike, and it's not even new. Then Liz was given a brand new bike and she didn't have to do anything for her new
December 2021
bike." His dad then just looked at him and smiled. He said, "She didn't have to do anything for it because it's not really for her." After he said that, he left the room. Jeff stood there, thinking to himself, 'What did that mean? I don't want her bike, it had girls' bars that sloped to the frame, and had a big white basket in the front." He pondered that for a long time; eventually he simply got over it and moved on. By the spring, Jeff and Liz were riding their bikes all over town together, now that she could finally keep up with him. They were the two youngest of seven children and they formed a bond that would last forever. As Liz and Jeff grew up, they became very close, best of friends.They rode their bikes to the pond and went for a nice swim together. Afterwards, they would bike for seven miles to take free tennis lessons. They even ended up at the same college and
Merry Christmas!
Immanuel!
graduated the same year. It wasn't until many years later that Jeff finally realized what his dad meant. That brand new 10 speed bike was actually not a gift for his sister, Liz; it was a gift for him. His dad had given him the gift of his sister's company, the ability to become so close that they would stay together and never drift apart, even in the midst of adversity or stress of daily life. Jeff's dad gave him his best friend. In a way, our lives can be just like Jeff's was; we pray for things that we think we need, or want. But when we don't receive them, we get upset. We get mad at times, don't we? But we don't see the whole picture; God sees everything and we don't. Jeff's dad is like our Heavenly Father. God knows and wants the best for us, so next time something doesn't work out the way we thought it should, thank God for looking out for us, and know that something way better is on its way, in
God's perfect timing. Speaking of the best gifts that have been given to us, how about the gift that God gave us on that night two thousand years ago in a town called Bethlehem...the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ; they shall call Him Immanuel meaning, "God is with us." Matthew 1:22-23 says, "So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: "Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel, which is translated, "God with us." What a perfect gift that is! Just think about it; Jesus was born to die on the cross for our sins. He came as the light of the world. John 8:12 says, "Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of Life." And also, John 9:5 says, "As long as I am in the world, I am the
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light of the world." The day that we are celebrating is the birth of Jesus Christ. We are now in the Advent season, as it usually starts four weeks before Christmas and it finishes on Christmas Day. Advent which means "Arrival," refers to the arrival of Jesus Christ into the world. Why is the birth of Jesus so important? Well, the reason is because over 2,000 years ago, God came down from heaven and became a human being without the sin nature. Jesus Christ was born God in the flesh, as John 1:14 says, "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." A baby who was born in a manger could have come down as the powerful God that He is. But no; instead, God became a man in Jesus. This is called the "Incarnation", which is from the Latin meaning, 'in flesh.' This isn't a biblical word, but it is a biblical truth
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because Jesus is God who became flesh. The incarnation means that, while He remained God, Jesus also took on human nature. This means that the incarnation was the uniting part of the divine and human into one Person, because Jesus Christ was fully God and fully human. Why did Jesus come down to be among us? The first reason why God came down was to give us a revelation of what God is really like. If you truly want to know God, then you don't have to look any further than Jesus. Without knowing Jesus, you cannot know God and without accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you cannot gain eternal life. We need to focus more on Jesus by reading scripture. John 1:18 says, "No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him." Jesus Himself tells us about God's humanity. So we already know what
Merry Christmas!
God is like, as Jesus shows us and He says in John 14:9: "... Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father, so how can you say, 'Show us the Father'?" Colossians 1:15 tells us that, "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation." Secondly, when sin entered the world and Adam and Eve were kicked out of the Garden of Eden, God then brought in a concept of a substitute sacrifice. But the sacrifice of animals wasn't a long term answer because it couldn't take away the sin, much the same thing with an ordinary person; that person is simply not able to remove sin from anyone. What had to happen and what was needed was the perfect sacrifice to take away everyone's sin. This could only be accomplished by God coming down, becoming a human being, by being born
December 2021
Immanuel!
as a baby. God was born in the flesh, and came down to be with us, so we could go up, to be with Him. This was God's plan, even before the beginning of time, to provide a way for us to be forgiven of our sins. Before we even existed, God the Father and the Word, who is Jesus Christ, were willing to pay the ultimate price - to have Jesus, the beloved Son of the Father, sacrificed in suffering and death as a substitute for our sins. In Titus 1:12, we read: "... the acknowledgment of the truth which accords with godliness, in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began." Also, 1 Corinthians 2:7-8 says: "But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory, which none of the rulers of this age knew, for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory."
Jesus Christ was born to die for us on the cross. All of the sins of the world were put on Him; He sacrificed Himself. Matthew 20:28 says, "Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." Jesus died and paid the penalty for us, for our sins. He died in our place, so that our sins would be covered by His blood. Also, God became a man to fulfill the prophecies of the Old Testament. Luke 24:44 says, "Then He said to them, "These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me." When Jesus referred to the Law of Moses, the prophets and the Psalms, He was including all of the Old Testament prophesies of Him fulfilling God's promise by coming
December 2021
to this world. Jesus spoke to His disciples as He stood in their midst and said, "Peace to you," because He knew, that in that day, the disciples would have perceived Him as a spirit and it would be frightening to them. Luke 24:38 says, "Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have." The fourth reason why God became a man was to identify with our weaknesses. God chose the least of cities to be born in (Bethlehem) for the birth place of His Son. Also, God chose the least in people (shepherds) as first witnesses of the birth of Jesus. Back in the day, shepherds were considered ceremonially unclean, because they had contact with Gentiles during financial transactions. Because of this uncleanliness, they were not allowed
Merry Christmas!
Immanuel!
to enter the Temple to worship. This was all done so that God could show His love for us; not as a powerful God that He is, but as flesh and blood. He humbled Himself as a baby... God born in the flesh. Jesus is God, always has been God and always will be God. Jesus gave up His position in heaven, before He came down to earth as a child. Philippians 2:5-7 says: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men." Hebrews 4:15 says, "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." We can take all of our burdens and pains to our Lord in prayer because we know that He understands and relates to us because
He experienced all of our temptations, even more so because He was tested in ways that we could not even comprehend. Jesus' name is 'Emmanuel', and it means 'God with us.' God is with us, He understands us. Apart from Christ, where do we go when we need help? There are times in our lives when we need grace and we will find it in Him. We can boldly go to Him in our time of need. He bore the marks of evil that we deserve so that we can be forgiven; He made Himself approachable, reachable and touchable. Everything in the Old
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Testament on the first coming of Christ is true and accurate and is fulfilled in the New Testament. You can rest assured that everything you read in the Bible about the second coming of Christ is just as real and just as true. Jesus came, and Jesus will come again! The message of Christmas is that the Prince of Peace is knocking on your door, desiring to be your Lord and Savior. Won't you invite Him into your life today? From everyone here at Wood Ministries, we wish you a Merry Christmas!
WOOD Ministries Publisher/Sales/Graphic Designer/Writer: Rob Wood wood.ministries.2020@gmail.com
Editor/Writer: Donna Wood
wood.ministries.2020@gmail.com
Writer: Lynne Wood
wood.ministries.2020@gmail.com
Owned and published by Rob Wood of Wood Ministries. Contact us @ 905-380-4489, or email us at wood.ministries.2020@gmail.com
Book in Review...
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Merry Christmas!
December 2021
Storming the Gates of Heaven
Prayer that claims the Promises of God
Book by: Anne Graham Lotz Written by: Lynne Wood
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torming the Gates of Heaven is a small book with a powerful message. This book was written by Anne Graham Lotz, the daughter of Billy Graham. Anne, as you can imagine, grew up in a loving home where they were taught the power of prayer. Anne's mother encouraged her to pray wherever she was and whatever she was doing. That's exactly what Paul told the Thessalonian Christians when he said to, "pray without ceasing." Anne also made a commitment to get up early every morning to pray, read and study the Bible. Anne said it wasn't easy at first, but what a difference it made in her life to spend time with God every morning. She says your prayers should always be rooted in what God has said. If you have a specific need, want, wish or hope, put it in the form of a request, then open your Bible and ask God to speak to you about it. He may change the way you're praying, as He did with Anne, or He may confirm it. Ask Him for a
promise for whatever is uppermost on your mind, then pray. God loves to be held to His word. Throughout the pages of this book, Anne talks about Daniel. Daniel prayed with such compassion, such commitment and such faith; he did storm the Gates of Heaven, and God answered his prayers. Daniel made a commitment to pray to
God that he never forgot. He would withdraw into his room to pray three times a day facing in the direction of his beloved Jerusalem. Daniel gave thanks to God every single day, no matter what. Even though Daniel was taken from his homeland as a teenager, watched many of his friends murdered through it all, he still found so many things to
be thankful for. Despite all Daniel's circumstances, he had an attitude of gratitude. The answer to Daniel's prayer today is Jesus, He is the One and only One who will save us. Our prayers can be answered immediately; sometimes we have to wait for an answer. Don't give up; God hears your prayers and even though it can be very difficult, He knows what's best for you. When you start to think God doesn't care, you're not important to Him, just remember it's the devil whispering in your ear. As a child of God, rebuke him, and tell him to leave in Jesus' name. Keep praying; God loves you and will never leave you. It's time to pray like Daniel and Storm the Gates of Heaven. Matthew 7:7-8: "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened."
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Merry Christmas!
Choose Jesus Now!
Choose Jesus now; Keep your eye on the sky For He is coming soon; Your redemption draws nigh! Be watchful and pray That you be counted worthy To escape the tribulation, So keep your candle burning! Choose Jesus Now! Let not this day slip away; Tomorrow is never promised; Secure your eternity today!
(Proverbs 27:1)
“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.”
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an artificial intelligence (AI) created by man, be superior than human intelligence (HI) created by God? In May of 2020, Microsoft unveiled the fifth most powerful machine in the world, designed to train single massive AI models in selfsupervised learning, bypassing the need for humanlabeled data sets. Human intelligence is described as the capability to perform logic, reasoning, conceptualization, selfawareness, learning, emotional knowledge, planning, creativity, abstract thinking and problem solving. Scientists describe artificial intelligence as a machine's capability to replicate higher-order human cognitive functions. In Genesis chapter 11, people sought to build the Tower of Babel, a monolithic super-state in the land of Shinar. Today, scientists are seeking to build a monolithic decisionmaking Singleton, a super-intelligent single decision-making agency. Similarities between the
Merry Christmas!
December 2021
The AI Invasion
two transcend time and space, both being a quest for man's supremacy, glory and independence apart from his Creator.
After a series of updates, machines will eventually take over the world. In fact, we have no idea how fast this is coming.
Does AI relate to the end times? Will it destroy humanity? Is it mentioned in the Bible? In Daniel chapter 12, the prophet Daniel speaks of how we know when we're approaching the end times. This 2600 year old prophesy refers to the travelling to and fro and how knowledge increases. The term, 'Singularity', another word for 'end times', is being thrown around these days and refers to AI spinning out of control, when AI reaches the intelligence of a human. That time is already here, a time where artificial intelligence is taking on a multitude of forms in every sector of society.
We have more info today that we know what to do with. Man's whole knowledge base has increased on a massive scale. Physicists believe that when AI awakens, artificial intelligence will take off on its own and redesign itself at an alarming rate. It will develop thousands of times faster than humans; it will be impossible for us to keep up with it. Revelation chapter 13 tells us of how the anti-christ is going to micro-manage our entire planet by controlling all buying and selling, by controlling the global economy. How is he going to do that? By the mark of the beast, which every human will have to receive, either on their
hand or their forehead, if they want to survive. What sort of system can control such a huge task? If there is, how will anybody know if someone isn't worshiping the anti-christ? AI and Big Brother technology will know. The day is coming when everything on the planet will have a micro-chip...every person, every pet, every product, every vehicle... EVERYTHING! It will all be tied together with the Big Brother system by cameras, information; every cell phone and every electronic device will be able to be accessed or tapped into. Just as the prophesy of Israel becoming a nation came to fruition in 1948, the AI technology now is just as big, because 1) The tribulation cannot happen until Israel became a nation once again, and 2) Revelation 13 cannot be pulled off without AI; the micromanagement of the planet and of the economy. Something super human needs to come along in order to control all of this...AI already has the capability to do all of this,
December 2021
and it's already in place. So how does this affect the average person today? It is so intriguing to watch technology emerge and evolve to the level that is has reached in the world today; however, making artificial super intelligence (ASI) that outperforms humans could be a dangerous and slippery slope. Some scientists see the Singleton at the highest level of technological superiority, where no other entity could threaten its existence. As Christians, this is a sign from God. He tells us these things to let us know that the end times are getting close.
Merry Christmas!
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The AI Invasion
We need to recognize that this is so important as a prophesy sign. AI is here to stay. We can't go back, but it is a huge part of Bible prophesy. We must remember that we are integrated beings created in the image of God; we are spirit, body and soul (1 Thess. 5:23) and we are valued. There is a hierarchical order between God and man. And our mandate is to subdue the earth and everything within it (Genesis 1:28), including AI. The AI agenda needs to be in submission to mankind, for the human spirit, the faculty that connects to God is not
within the reach of AI. Lastly, we are of love as God is love, demonstrated by Jesus, who came to earth to serve. AI can only process and simulate sadness in very limited forms, such as facial recognition and language processing, but is unable to elicit emotions such as sadness from compassion or empathy. Humans are more than their intelligence; wisdom is uniquely human and superior to intelligence. Divine wisdom is the spirit of mankind receiving God's revelations through the Spirit of God that God promised to generously
“For they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.”
(1 Thessalonians 1:9)
grant to those who call on Him and ask in humility. Wisdom encapsulates the moral compass, discernment, sound judgment, discretion, compassion, and intuition. We can feel...we can feel peace, purity, love, something that no machine can do. We can bless humanity far better as beings of love than any AI agenda could accomplish. If we keep this perspective, we can apply the benefits of AI technology and use it as a tool to serve and to bless others through managing resources more efficient, healing the sick and offering relief to the stressed workforce.
WOOD Ministries Written by: Donna Wood Photo by: Stock
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Merry Christmas!
December 2021
A Christmas Prayer Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the joy that comes from You alone. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who gives us A calm and quiet spirit. Let us see the beauty of that holy night So many centuries ago. Your name is called ‘Wonderful,’ ‘Counselor,’ ‘The Mighty God,’ ‘The Everlasting Father,’ And ‘The Prince of Peace.’ Help us to be a living vessel carrying The “Good news of great Joy!” So that others may see the light And love of Jesus through us and in us, Always pointing the way to You. You are no longer a babe in a manger; You are King of kings and Lord of lords And we celebrate You This Christmas and always, In Jesus’ precious name we pray,
Amen
“For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
Merry Christmas!
December 2021
Kentucky
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Kentucky after the devastating path of destruction of the tornados that tore through Kentucky. We pray for the families who lost loved ones in this terrible storm. We pray for those who lost everything. Please let's keep them all in your prayers.
WOOD Ministries
"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us."
1 John 5:14
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Merry Christmas!
Merry
December 2021
Christmas!
Donna and I would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
December 2021
Merry Christmas!
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Chosen's Christmas Movie
The movie, 'Christmas with the Chosen' sets new record for Best Selling Event Ever
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hristmas with the Chosen is now the greatest selling and the highest attending event ever. It has been screened in 1,700 theatres across the United States in the first ten days in December. The movie from The Chosen's portrayal of the Christmas story of Jesus's birth smashed all records from the past of big events, with sales exceeding $8 million from just 640,000 tickets sold. The movie event also set a new record for the fastest out of the gate sales, the event made $1.5 million during it's first twelve hours that the movie was shown. The Christmas movie of the Chosen is about the biblical story of Jesus Christ's birth and it's all from the viewpoint of Mary and Joseph. Dallas Jenkins who is The Chosen creator, director and writer said, "We don't do this for the numbers, but these records indicate people will indeed go to the theater for a project
they're passionate about. The enthusiastic comments from new and old fans give us confidence to do this again." The series of The Chosen has so far made history, being the first multi-season that is solely about Jesus' life. They support this series through "Pay It Forward" Campaign as viewers support every season. As of to date, The Chosen's worldwide audience pay it forward for $40 million as they completely funded seasons one and two, and they are in production of the third season now. The Chosen is the No. 1 highest audience funded project of all time. One thing that is so
different about The Chosen is how they tell the story of Jesus and His disciples. The Chosen series is authenticity, when it comes to showing Jesus as He lives out His holy calling in Samaria, Judea and in Galilee. Dallas Jenkins said, "The No. 1 word that we put on our wall, the banner across everything we do, is authenticity. So many past Bible projects telling Jesus' story have been a little stiff, maybe a cleaned up, sanitized version of the story. We desperately seek to pursue a portrayal that's as authentic as possible." In The Chosen, it shows all of Jesus' emotions as He laughs,
He cries, He gets mad, He comforts people, and shows His humor. In the portrayal of Jesus' birth in Christmas with The Chosen, Dallas decided to go fully authentic, as he showed the earthly father of Jesus. Joseph is shown in the movie shoveling manure, while he is working in the stable to clean a nice space for Mary, so she can have her baby. Dallas said, "That image alone, of Joseph scooping manure to prepare a spot for Mary to give birth, is not only one of the special's defining images but one of the main themes of 'The Chosen' series. He even featured the shovel shot in the special's trailer." This Christmas special speaks of the Nativity story with some music; some of the music is traditional and some is new. It has performances from Phil Wickham, Brandon Lake and For King & Country. The Chosen now has been translated for 50 languages and is still growing.
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Merry Christmas!
December 2021
Disturbing trends!
Some Catholics and mainline Protestants say you don't need faith in God to go to Heaven
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here are a lot of disturbing trends starting to play out before our eyes now, such as this new wave of saying that you can go to heaven through any religious organization, as we wrote about last month. Now there's this story of some Catholics and Protestants that say you don't need faith in God or even believe in God to go to Heaven. Scripture is very clear, as it says unless we have faith, it is impossible to please God. Hebrews 11:6 says, "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." This is completely wrong from what the Bible clearly teaches us. Data for this study, which was done back in September of this year, was collected from 6,485 adults in the United States. Pew Researchers made a decision to ask some questions, for instance; the meaning of life? The
purpose of suffering and why bad things happen to good people? This national study was released during some life threatening times for everyone worldwide. When talking about American views about the eternity, this study revealed that the majority of adults in the United States believe in Heaven and hell, but more believe in Heaven than they do in hell. Of the people that were polled, 73% of them believe in Heaven, in contrast to the 62% that believe in hell. Also, 39% of American adults believe
that anyone who doesn't believe in God will all go to Heaven, 68% of Catholics and 56% of Protestant Christians were also found to believe everyone will go to Heaven. When people were asked about suffering in the world today, few of the people blamed God, although some did. Most of them did agree that suffering happens because of people's actions. A lot of evangelical Christians believe that satan has his hands into human suffering. Now 86% of adults believe that people's
suffering is due to random choices that are made. Even though people have a wide range of beliefs on suffering, most of the people did not view suffering as something that is negative, because 68% believe "everything happens for a reason" and that suffering exists " to provide and opportunity for people to come out of it stronger." Many people that were polled in this study show the way they see suffering as being connected to the way they see God. Eighty percent of the people in this group said that suffering in this world comes from people, not God. Also, 70% of the same group believe that it's okay to go against God's plans. Around 69% of the people from the historical black churches blame satan for most of the suffering in the world, but less than half of Protestant Christians and Catholics blame satan for the suffering.
December 2021
Merry Christmas!
Vaccine Microchips
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Some people are getting Vaccine Passport Microchips placed into their hands
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ccording to all the new COVID restrictions in Sweden, many of the people who live there have decided to have a microchip implanted with their vaccine passport into their hand. Since December 1st, Sweden started new regulations that would have people have a vaccine passport to all activities with more than 100 people attending. Karin Tegmark Wisell, who is with the Swedish Public Health Agency, said, "Vaccine passes are a measure that we see as necessary. We cannot just kick back and hope for the best." A Swedish newspaper called the Aftonbladet has reported that since the regulations were put into place, the number of people who have come forward to receive a microchip in their hand in place of having to carry a passport have rapidly increased. One person that had it inserted in his hand is Hannes Sjoblad. He told the Aftonbladet he had the microchip with
all his vaccine passport inserted into his hand. Now when he scans his hand, all of his COVID information shows up on his cell phone. There are around 6,000 people in Sweden that have the microchip inserted into their hand since 2014. They use the microchip for things such as train tickets and their identification cards. Alot of people are calling this "Internet of bodies." Others are calling it medical injections; it's all devices that are going into the human body and connects to the internet. Mary Lee, a RAND (Research and Development) said, "It's
a bunch of devices that are connected to the internet that contain software and that either collect personal health data about you or can alter the body's function. We think of this 'internet of bodies' as a collection of all devices as well as all the data." They are calling it a "health tool." It is predicted that the microchip will become more popular as time goes on. Haley Weiss said back in 2018, "As with most technologies, the tipping point for implantable chips will come when they become so useful they'll be hard to refuse. It could happen sooner than you think."
Also, several of the European countries have now reestablished restrictions since the rising of the Omicron variant, which is now popping up in many countries around the world. Austria has now installed a full lockdown. Germany is getting closer to what will be a countrywide vaccine mandate after they have stopped the unvaccinated from public places such as restaurants and more. Also, the Netherlands has now mandated businesses to start closing earlier. The President of the United States, Joe Biden, has announced some new plans to fight COVID-19 all through the winter months, which will include testing that will be stricter for people entering the United States. The President said, "It doesn't involve shutdowns or more lockdowns, but widespread vaccinations and boosters and testing and a lot more."
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Merry Christmas!
December 2021
Russell Wilson, 100th Win!
He gives God all the glory, as he becomes the fastest Quarterback to win 100 games
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ven though The Seattle Seahawks are having one of their worst seasons in awhile, it could be the first time that they have a losing season during quarterback Russell Wilson's time with them, despite he recently won his 100th game of his career in his 10th season with the Seahawks. Thirty-two year old Russell uploaded a chart on twitter showing the ten fastest quarterbacks to have won 100 games. He then said, "Jesus...You get ALL the Glory. " During a post game press conference, Russell said that he goes all out to win every game. He praised his teammates and all the people that have supported him throughout his career. "That's why I play the game, is to win. Just to be in great company
with some amazing players in the history of this game, it's pretty special." Russell also said, "I think back to my Dad when he used to wake me up in the morning and before, I didn't really want to wake up that early. He used to try to wake me up at 5:15, 5:30 in the morning and he'd knock on my door and say 'Son, you want to be great?' Every day. I started answering the call, you know. I tried to
be up earlier than him." Russell then gave an important message for athletes that look up to him for encouragement. He said, "To any young kid out there too, I think about the hard work. Hard work pays off. You have to put the work in. There's no mistaking hard work. I think back to my mom and my dad. They both demonstrated so much faith and they believed in my brother, my sister and me so much that they always
encouraged rather than discouraged." Russell and his wife, Cara, are both God-fearing Christians who are both outspoken and honest about their faith in Jesus Christ. Earlier this year when Russell accepted the 2020 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, he quoted part of scripture from the New Testament in the Bible. The scripture was from Corinthians 13:4; he said, "To America, to the world, love is patient, love is kind, love changes things. The great Walter Payton once said, 'We are stronger together than we are alone. Dad, I think Walter was right. To the young boy or girl who has a dream, who wants to make a difference, remember this one thing: love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love changes things."
December 2021
Merry Christmas!
Devastating Tornadoes!
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Terrible Tornadoes that struck the US are the deadliest in a decade; still 100 people missing
A
fter four days of cleaning up the area, the towns are trying to recover from the 44 tornadoes that tore through nine states. Kentucky was the hardest hit state as they had 74 people that were killed. Across five states, the death toll is now near 90 with still more than 100 people missing. Kentucky Governor, Andy Beshear, who was very emotional as he spoke, said, "Of the ones that we know, the age range is five months to 86 years. And six are younger than 18." A lot of the residents lost everything during the storm. Resident Deanna Cato said, "We lost our home. We lost all our vehicles, all of our belongings. We basically have nothing." This was the deadliest tornado outbreak to strike the United States in over a decade. Drone video shows businesses and homes completely down and tons of damage as far as you can see. A cell phone video
shows what it was like for the workers that were trapped inside the candle factory in Mayfield, Kentucky that collapsed to the ground. In Illinois, the Amazon warehouse collapsed killing six workers; that
is under investigation. Nine year old Addistyn Rackley from Missouri died during the storm and Meghan, her mother, is in hospital fighting for her life. The community is holding a prayer vigil.
The Salvation Army and other organizations such as Operation Blessing are there distributing food and supplies. Linda Pierce who is with the Salvation Army said, "A lot of this area is a poorer area and rebuilding is going to take time. And the big thing is the outpour of love and affection, and support is here now. This is day 3, day 4 but what's going to happen on week 2, week 3, week?" Toby Swager from Operation Blessing, said, "There are relief loads coming into Mayfield with different church partners on the ground. They bring those loads in and it has immediate needs items, food, warmth, tarps, things of that nature." President Biden has approved disaster declaration for Kentucky. He said he will sign an emergency request from Illinois. President Biden is expected to come to Mayfield and Dawson Springs, Kentucky on Wednesday.
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Merry Christmas!
Athletes for Christ...
December 2021
Doug Smail
Doug gave his life to Jesus when he was a teenager
D
Doug Smail
with the Minnesota North Stars in 1990-1991
oug Smail was born September 2, 1957 in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. After Doug won a NCCAA Championship with the University of North Dakota, he signed a contract with the Winnipeg Jets of the NHL. He played 16 years in the NHL, on five teams including 10 seasons with the Winnipeg Jets, one season with The Minnesota North Stars (Dallas), one season with the Quebec Nordiques (Colorado) and he played on season for the Ottawa Senators. Doug was known in the NHL as a solid two way hockey player, where he appeared in the NHL All Star game in 1991. He was a very good penalty killer; he was one of NHL's best through his career. He also still holds a season and career record for most shorthanded goals for the Winnipeg Jets with 28 goals.
Doug played in 12 consecutive seasons with at least one shorthanded goal; he also shares two NHL records for the fastest goal to start a game and has six thirty goal scores on one team, which was the Winnipeg Jets (tied with the New York Islanders.) Doug was also picked to represent his country Team Canada on two different occasions. But both times he wasn't able to play for Team Canada because of season ending injuries that he suffered. Doug won a few awards: Winnipeg Jets Emory Edge award winner for the best plus, minus; Winnipeg Jets Shorthanded Goals record holder; NHL All Star Game 1990; NHL's Fastest Goal from a start of a game; NHL's most 30 goal scorers on a team with 6 Winnipeg from 1984-1985 season. After retiring, Doug is in Head Coach/Management with the Rocky Mountain Roughriders of the AAA Hockey League. He has been established to include: experience, understanding, organizational managerial skills, also personal playing and coaching experience. Doug has a blueprint for the Roughriders that he coaches. The blueprint requires prerequisite of: Hard work, Responsibility, Creativity. Not only does Doug Smail have great hockey stories that he can share, but he is really helping the young men on his team grow.
December 2021
Merry Christmas!
Athletes for Christ...
Doug Smail
Doug lives in Colorado where he continues to coach with his wife and three children. Doug is a man who truly loves God. He is a very strong Christian, and was strong as a hockey player and now coach. He accepted Jesus Christ into his life when he was a teenager.
Doug Smail Head Coach of Rocky Mountain Roughriders
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Merry Christmas!
December 2021
Christmas Dinner Menu
• Turkey • Ham • Mashed Potatoes • Scalloped Potatoes • Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes • Baked Cabbage •Green Bean Bake • Vegetable Supreme • Maple Glazed Carrots • Turnip Casserole • Cranberry-Onion Relish • Turkey Stuffing
Mashed Potatoes:
10 med. Potatoes, cut in chunks ½ pkg. Philadelphia Cream Cheese, cubed 2 tbsp Butter 2 tbsp fresh Thyme, chopped
1 cup Sour Cream ¼ cup Milk 1 pkg. (227 gram) sliced fresh Mushrooms
• Cook and drain potatoes • Add sour cream, cream cheese and milk • Mash; spoon into casserole dish • Melt butter in large skillet on med. high heat; add mushrooms • Cook approx. 5 min, stirring frequently • Top potatoes with mushrooms, sprinkle with Thyme • Keep warm in oven until ready to serve. Makes 12 servings (Can be prepared a day ahead; in that case, heat just before serving)
Scalloped Potatoes:
6 med. Potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 3 tbsp Flour ¼ tsp Pepper 1 small Onion, finely chopped
4 tbsp Butter 1 tsp Salt 2 ½ cups Milk
• Preheat oven to 325 deg. • Heat 3 tbsp. butter in saucepan over low heat until melted • Blend in flour, salt and pepper • Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and bubbly • Gradually stir in milk, ½ cup at a time • Heat to boiling; boil and stir 1 minute • Arrange potatoes in greased 2-quart casserole in 3 layers, topping each layer with portion of chopped onion sauce • Dot the top with remaining 1 tbsp butter, broken into little pieces • Cover and bake until potatoes are tender, about 60-70 minutes • Let stand 5-10 minutes before serving. Serves 6
December 2021
Merry Christmas!
Christmas Dinner Menu
Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
6 small Sweet Potatoes, cut into spears ½ cup Zesty Italian Dressing ¼ cup grated Parmesan Cheese 2 tbsp fresh Parsley, chopped •Preheat oven to 375 deg • Lightly grease baking sheet • Toss sweet potatoes with dressing • Roast 30 min., turn and cook an additional 30 min., sprinkling with cheese during the last 5 minutes • Sprinkle with parsley. Makes 8 servings
Baked Cabbage:
1 head green Cabbage 1 small white Onion, chopped ½ tsp Salt 1/8 tsp Cumin 1/8 cup Chicken stock
4 small red Tomatoes, diced ½ tsp Garlic Powder 1 tsp black Pepper 1/8 tsp Caraway Seed
• Preheat oven to 325 deg. • Quarter cabbage; boil for 10 minutes • Drain and place in shallow baking dish • Combine remaining ingredients in small bowl ; pour over cabbage • Bake covered for 30 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed, turning halfway through cooking time • Serves 4
Green Bean Bake:
1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup 1/4 cup Milk 1 tsp Onion Powder 1/8 tsp Pepper 1 tsp Soy Sauce 3 cups Green Beans 2 tbsp canned French’s French Fried Onions, crushed • In 1 ½ qt. casserole dish, mix all ingredients except French fried onions. • Bake at 350 deg. for 25 minutes or until hot • Top with French fried onions; bake 5 more minutes or until onions are golden
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Merry Christmas!
December 2021
Christmas Dinner Menu
Vegetable Supreme:
2 cups fresh Broccoli florets and stems 2 Eggs 1 med. Onion, finely chopped 1 cup sharp Cheddar Cheese, grated 1 box seasoned Croutons, crushed
2 cups fresh Cauliflower florets ½ cup Mayonnaise 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup ½ cup Butter, melted
• Preheat oven to 350 deg • Cook vegetables separately in salted boiling water for 5 minutes; drain thoroughly • Distribute evenly in lightly buttered 11 x 7 dish • Beat eggs; combine with mayonnaise, onion, mushroom soup and ½ cup grated cheese • Pour evenly over vegetables • Sprinkle remaining cheese over top and gently level with back of spoon • Pour melted butter over entire top of casserole • Sprinkle crushed croutons over melted butter • Bake for 40 minutes. Serves 12 (Can be prepared a day ahead; in that case, bake just before serving)
Maple Glazed Baby Carrots:
2 pkg. (340g each) baby Carrots ¼ cup Maple Syrup ½ cup Pecan pieces, toasted
¼ cup calorie-wise Catalina Dressing 1 tbsp Butter
• Cook carrots in water 12-14 minutes or until tender; drain and set aside • Mix dressing and syrup in saucepan; cook on med. heat until bubbly, stirring occasionally • Add carrots; cook until glaze is thickened to desired consistency, stirring frequently • Add butter; stir until melted • Stir in pecans • Makes 10 servings
Turnip Casserole:
1 large Turnip 2 Apples Dash Cinnamon
1 tbsp Butter ¼ cup Brown Sugar
• Cook turnip; mash • Add butter; mash • Peel and dice apples; toss with brown sugar and cinnamon • Arrange in layers in greased casserole dish
For Topping, combine: 1/3 cup Flour
1/3 cup Brown Sugar
• Spread on top of turnip • Bake at 350 deg. for 1 hour
2 tbsp Butter
December 2021
Merry Christmas!
Christmas Dinner Menu
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Cranberry-Onion Relish: 1 tbsp Butter 1 tsp minced Garlic ½ tsp Ginger ¼ tsp ground Nutmeg ½ cup Orange Juice 2 tsp grated Orange Zest
1 cup Onions, diced 1/3 cup packed Brown Sugar ¼ tsp ground Cinnamon 3 ½ cups (340 g bag) frozen whole Cranberries 1/3 cup raisins
• Melt butter in 10” non-stick skillet over med. heat • Add onions and garlic; cook and stir until tender (5 min.) • Add brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg, cooking and stirring until brown sugar melts • Stir in cranberries, orange juice, raisins and orange zest; bring to a boil • Reduce heat to low; simmer uncovered for 5 minutes until cranberries begin to pop open • Remove from heat; cover and cool in refrigerator completely before serving
Turkey Stuffing:
4 cups stale Breadcrumbs ¼ cup Butter 1/2 cup chopped Celery 1 tsp Sage ¼ tsp Savory ¼ tsp Pepper
2 tsp Parsley ¾ cup Onion, chopped ¼ tsp Fennel ¼ tsp Salt ¼ tsp Marjoram 1/8 tsp Thyme
• In large frying pan, sauté all ingredients except breadcrumbs and parsley for 10 minutes • Add breadcrumbs and parsley, toss • Set aside until cool; stuff in turkey
Luke 2:13-14
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
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L
uke 2:7: "And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." The image of baby Jesus laid in a manger in a stable has been used to promote the typical Christmas nativity scene for generations. Originally, the New Testament was written in Greek and the Greek word, kataluma, actually means a place of rest, as in a 'guest room.' The same Greek word was used in Luke 22:11, where Jesus said to His disciples, "Then you shall say to the master of the house, 'The Teacher says to you, "Where is the guest room {kataluma] where I may eat the Passover with My disciples?"" The Arabic and Syriac versions of the New Testament have never translated kataluma as meaning an 'inn,' but instead as a 'guest room.' The translation of this Greek word as an
Merry Christmas!
Luke 2:7
'The Nativity'
'inn' is a product of our Western heritage. We have to keep in mind that even inns of Jesus' time often did not have individual rooms. They were far from anything like typical motels we have today. And because inns usually were found along major roads for commercial reasons,
the benefit of strangers. In Christ's day, hospitality was essential; denial of hospitality was an outrage. Even today, hospitality toward visitors is still important throughout the Middle East. Joseph would have been returning to his ancestral home for the census. He probably had
it's doubtful that an inn even existed in a small town such as Bethlehem. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus mentions that the injured man in the story was taken to an 'inn,' using the Greek word, pandokheion, the normal word for an 'inn.' The Semitic spirit of hospitality led the Jews and early Christians to keep an open house for
relatives there, and being a descendant of King David, he would have been highly respected upon his arrival. Luke 2:4-6 reads: "So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary,
December 2021
who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born." Mary and Joseph must have already been lodging somewhere in Bethlehem when her birth pangs began. More than likely, they found a house in which to stay in Bethlehem, probably that of Joseph's relatives. And a manger could very well have been found within a first-century home. A typical Judean house of that day consisted of an area near the door, often with a dirt floor, where the family's animals were kept at night so that they wouldn't be stolen and they would also be kept warm. The family lived and slept in a raised part of the same room set back from the door. There was usually a guest room, either upstairs on a second floor or adjoining the family common room on the lower floor. Typically, the lower area near the door had a manger for food and water for the animals. This scene of an ox or donkey in the house at night might
December 2021
go against our Western ideals, yet it is us in the West who have decided that life with these great gentle beasts is culturally unacceptable. The raised terrace, where the family ate, slept and lived, was not soiled by the animals, which were taken out each day and during that time, the lower level was cleaned. According to Eric F.F. Bishop, an expert in Middle East culture, the birth of Christ probably took place in one of the Bethlehem houses with the lower section provided for the animals, with immovable mangers filled with crush straw, serving well as a cradle. Considering all the women who would be going in and out of the room during the birth,
Merry Christmas!
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The Nativity there probably wouldn't have been enough room in the guest room; it would only make sense to move Mary into the main room for all the activity at birth. Another authority on Middle Eastern life, Gustaf Dalmann, stated that the dwelling place of man and beast is often in one and the same room. It is quite normal among peasants for the family to live, eat and sleep in the one room of the house, while the cattle, particularly donkeys and oxen, have their place below on the actual floor, near the door. On this floor the mangers are fixed, either to the floor, or to the wall. This translation now gives us a better understanding to the
story of Jesus' birth. It is more realistic to view Christ's birth of that in a manger, in a house, and not in a stable. Joseph and Mary arrive in Bethlehem. They find shelter with a family whose separate guest room is full, and are accommodated amongst the family in acceptable village style. The birth takes place there on the raised terrace of the family home, and the baby is laid in a manger. Another interesting point is the announcement of the birth of the Savior to the shepherds. As men of lower ranks in society, the shepherds may not have felt they would be received well in visiting a king, but the angel told them they would find the Christ child lying in a
manger. Upon arriving, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this Child, and when they left, they left praising God for all they had heard and seen. Obviously, they found the holy family in perfectly acceptable accommodations. Even though Jesus was conceived of God the Father through the Holy Spirit, His birth was a typical birth for the common man of His day. Begotten by God, He truly came as one of us. The Bethlehem shepherds and the City of David welcomed Him with great joy and the village community provided for Him. He was born among them, surrounded by helping hands and caring people.
The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14
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Merry Christmas!
And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins
Matthew 1:21
December 2021
Celebrations...November
December 2021
Merry Christmas!
& December
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Happy Birthday! November Mary Reid David Leach Julie MacDonald December
The Reason for the Season Jesus Christ Late - Donald Reid Lena Droujko Mike Touchette Brian Robb
"Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you..." Jeremiah 1:5
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Movie in Review...Christmas for a Dollar Merry Christmas!
December 2021
“Gifts that come from the Heart”
T
his Christmas movie is about a poor country family that has barely enough food to eat. Christmas for a Dollar is a wonderfully made movie that is heartwarming to watch. The family Kamps have had a rough go and they are trying to cope after losing their mother/ wife. The Kamp children all have different rolls in the family...Verna who is the oldest, takes care
of the family while their dad is working, so much so that she has decided not to chase her dream of being a nurse. This way, she is able to stay home and help with the children. Verna's friend likes Verna's brother, Warren, who wants to go to work to help out his dad money wise to help the family. He really wants the job at the garage in town so he can work as a mechanic,
but his dad is against it because he thinks he is the only one that should be working providing for his family. The youngest child is Norman who is crippled and has braces on his legs, he really wants to ride horses and be a cowboy. Ruthie is the youngest of the girls. She is a tomboy that has a hard attitude, but she will not back down and will stand up for her family no matter what. Miss Mayfield is the new teacher in town, and she is totally different from the last teacher that they had. Miss Mayfield is a very strict teacher and doesn't like the Kamp dog in her schoolhouse. Miss Mayfield decides to have a competition with the students to see how many nice deeds the children can perform before Christmas. When a student does a nice deed, they are allowed to put one marble into the nice box on Miss Mayfield's desk. Whoever collects the most nice deeds will get to keep the box as the prize. Ruthie really wants to win the box and she starts to do many nice deeds for people. Now the Kamp's don't have a lot for Christmas,
but their father puts coins down, to make one dollar to split between the family so they will be able to get gifts for each other, so the whole family will have a gift for Christmas. A problem arises when Norman wants to care for Mrs. Rathbone's horse who is an unhappy neighbor. She doesn't want Norman with her horse, thinking Norman could get hurt. But Ruthie goes and visits Mrs. Rathbone to talk to her about letting Norman come over to take care of her horse. Mrs. Rathbone sees herself in Ruthie and allows it. Will Norman be able to see the horse? Will Ruthie win the box for Christmas? Will the Kamp's be able to help each other out and get gifts for Christmas? The move, Christmas for a Dollar portrays a loving family that will not stop for anything, but they keep fighting to stay together and it has a touching ending. It has a strong, positive and inspiring message and this is what makes Christmas for a Dollar so wonderful for the whole family to watch together.
December 2021
Merry Christmas!
Grace His
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New stories every month! Interesting Christian topics, Great Movie, CD and Book reviews! Get your FREE copy of His Grace magazine today! Call 905-380-4489 wood.ministries.2020@gmail.com or check out our magazine on-line @ Ministries www.issuu.com/His-Grace
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His Grace Magazine!
December 2021
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PLEASE SHARE GOD'S LOVE
