Instead of aiming to reject every pagan influence, let’s keep our focus on Jesus. The radically humble and loving way that God came into this world remains significant. While we should affirm biblical teachings and be grateful for the special revelation God has given us, we should recognize that God shines light on others—even heathen outsiders—who may have something to teach us.
We all engage in many pagan customs every day, not just on Christmas. If we eradicated every pagan element from our society, we would be left without any culture at all. So what are we to do?
Deep emotional closeness with an absent God is not easy to achieve. How can we forge a relationship with a distant God as we continue to wait for Him?
If Jesus walked through and examined the courts of our lives today, what tables might He flip over? I want Jesus to enter my courts, driving out everything that hinders a close relationship with Him, because life’s most important goal is dwelling in His presence.
As a vegetarian, what do I eat for Thanksgiving? Our family table is spread with a variety of delicious and flavorful dishes
The symbolism associated with celebrating a meal with all people reaches beyond the menu to God’s banqueting practices, which are filled with love and generosity towards all the people of the world
I find it absolutely fascinating that God’s presence in the cloud was perceived as darkness by the pursuing Egyptians and as fire and light by the Israelites
When God hears the cries of His people, His heart is triggered to rescue and redeem.
Understanding that God’s presence is often hidden in a spiritual cloud is perhaps the greatest realization possible. Like the Israelites at Sinai, most of us can’t bear more than a mere shadow of God’s glory. We prefer “dark sayings” over the most spectacular encounters.
When I experience the beauty God’s character, I find that faith is an experience that happens to me, not something I make happen.
Theological InTents 