Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above ourselves... Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another… Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:10-18 Not only have you demonstrated many of these qualities in caring for our ministry but also God has used this passage this past year to remold me. I have had many moments this past year when I have struggled with being devoted, honoring others above myself, blessing those who have hurt me and living in harmony in spite of my circumstances. Why you ask? Its simple – pride! In 2013, God has accomplished more in one year through the ministry than in past 5 years! So much so, we have decided to dedicate our December newsletter to share with you His mighty work and accomplishments. As a leader, minister and discipler, I give the credit to His accomplishments to my personal warring with the practical realities of the Romans passage stated above. Even though this past year has been filled with many successes of Christ, I have touch the face of darkness like never before. My personal struggles with embracing persecution, distress and difficulties has been at the core of these dark places—each time resurfacing with a renewed hope and abundance of Christ living through me. This Christmas is extra special to me. I believe I am leaving this year with a renewed heart, mind and vision for what God has called me to accomplish through IOM AMERICA. I want to personally thank you for praying, standing, and for many of you, financially supporting the Lord’s work here at IOM. Your commitment to caring for each of us is deeply felt. We are so thankful for each of you – we really are. Please remember to pray for us during the months of December and January. Due to the financial burden Christmas places on many families, our donations typically drop significantly during these months. I know it would appear there would be an increase due to our growth but the reality is—we still use the majority of our personal salaries to care for the ministry. As with most ministries, the demands are high, our outreach is far, the income is low and the struggles with the stresses of ministry is daunting. Please keep us on your prayer list! We would appreciate it. On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff and volunteers, we thank you for being there for His ministry! Dr. Stephen R. Phinney
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Reproduction permitted when entire publication remains intact. Digital view or copies can be obtained online at: click here All Scripture taken from the New American Standard Bible, © Copyright 1960, 1962, 1963,1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.
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Santa Claus & The Pope Did you know Santa Claus dates back to Old Babylon? How about that funny, overstuffed man we all call Santa Claus? I know we are accustomed to hearing the American story, but there is much more. The original “Saint Nicholas” (Nikolaos of Myra, or modern-day Turkey), was a strict, Greek Eastern Orthodox Christian. He was made a “saint” shortly after his death, in AD 343, by the leader of the Roman state church. He was declared a “saint” to be prayed unto, as well as shown acts of kindness and giving, and to assist in their “Christ-mass” conversions. Nicholas had the reputation for secret gift giving, such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him (our modern-day stockings). After the Roman church popularized his habits of giving, the new “Saint Nicholas” became the central figure and example in the church of the “reason for the season.” It was the Roman state church, in the Netherlands, which began using the name “Sinterklass” to describe the church’s high priest role in the 25 days of Mass, before the day of the Mass of Christ - “Christ-mass.” The Roman church would love, in fact they do, take the credit for the invention of Christmas. But, the truth being said; our old ancestors, the Babylonians, get the full credit. Santa Claus (the Roman Father of the Christ-mass or Father Christmas) was the figure of high church; the red robe (Cardinal’s robe), the white beard (second coming of Christ), the “pagan spirit beings” called Elves (altar boys), and was loaded with indulgences. But, the real story behind this red robed man is far more pagan. The drunken December pagan festival of Bacchus was originally celebrated in Babylon. It was a custom lasting five days. The masters of the house would serve their slaves and one of the slaves would become the “ruler on top of the house.” He would clothe himself in a purple garment, like a king. This “purple robed” servant was called “Zoganes,” the “man of sport and wantonness (debauchery),” and would answer only to “Lord of Misrule.” In the dark ages, this figure was known for revealing the Christ-mass. This “Lord of Misrule” evolved slowly into our modern-day Santa Claus. One of the most interesting facts to me is: before our blessed Savior was even born of a virgin birth; grew into the Tree of Life; died on that tree; then resurrected; (and soon to be returning in an authentic “second-coming”); Satan replicated the truth, through his little whore, in the old town of Babylon. No superficial church historian can convince me of the “symbolic insignificance” of the intimate relationship between Lady-day (Babylon), Christ-mass (Rome), and the Antichrist (Christ replica). Satan is not a lazy leader sitting on his hands, like most “Christians,” waiting for the end-times to unfold. He is the end-times and he knows it. In conclusion: Should you burn that Christmas tree in your living room or stop kissing under the mistletoe hanging from your door way? Well – that’s between you and God. As for me and my household: We will continue to enjoy the pretty lights draped on our “family tree,” which hold the cherished moments through hanging ornaments; and continue sipping on our hot cocoa; as we give thanks to Jesus Christ, for coming into this world to save us, from the tower of Babylon. Your Servant, Stephen
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