Dare to Stand

Some have questioned whether Christians should celebrate Christmas, pointing to pagan associations or later traditions. Yet Scripture calls us to be careful not to dismiss what God has clearly marked as significant. The birth of Christ is one of the most important events in human history and is deeply rooted in biblical prophecy and the gospel narrative. Rather than asking whether we may remember Christ’s birth, the better question is how we should do so. The Bible gives clear patterns for joyful remembrance—through worship, storytelling, gratitude, generosity, and rest—so that our celebration honors the true meaning of Christ’s coming into the world.

The religious leaders approached Jesus to debate divorce, but He redirected the conversation to God’s original design for marriage. In a world confused and divided about relationships, His words call us back to the beginning—to God’s purpose, order, and intention for men and women. Jesus teaches that marriage is a sacred, God-created union: male and female joined together in a lifelong, intimate bond that reflects Christ and His church. To ignore or redefine this design is to work against God’s creation. His teaching reminds us that marriage is not merely a social arrangement but a divine gift meant to shape our lives and honor Him.

Forgiveness is harder than it looks. Jesus shows that real forgiveness begins with remembering God’s mercy toward us—the impossible debt He has wiped away. A thankful heart is the foundation of a forgiving heart. When we forget what we’ve been forgiven, we respond with harshness. But when gratitude shapes our view of others, we can forgive freely, trusting God and showing the same compassion He has shown to us.

Keeping peace among believers is challenging, yet Jesus reminds us how important it is. Conflict within the body is never something to ignore or accept. Because we are God’s children, our actions toward one another—especially when they cause hurt—carry real spiritual weight. Jesus teaches that when we sin against someone, we must pursue restoration with clarity, humility, and obedience. We go directly to our brother, seek reconciliation, involve godly help when needed, and freely forgive as we have been forgiven. This is the path to peace in a family of sinners.

We honor the men and women of our military who have shown what true sacrifice means—giving of themselves for the good of others. Their example points us to Christ, whose ultimate sacrifice defines the true measure of love and dedication.