The Origin of Christmas Bells

Submitted by: Steven Sawyer

http://stevensawyer.wordpress.com/

Jingle Bells

Christmas Bells

One of the more pleasant sounds we enjoy at Christmas time is the tinkling of Christmas bells.  The little metal music makers adorn Christmas trees, mantles, wreaths, Christmas cards and other Christmas decorations.

You can hear them peal from church steeples. Or ambiance department stores and malls feature bells ringing softly from speaker systems for their shoppers. Sometimes you can hear bell choir concerts in mall food courts, airports, and other places where large crowds gather at Christmas. 

Many Christmas songs include lyrics with or about bells such as Silver Bells, Jingle Bells, Ring the Bells, Carol of the Bells, Jingle Bell Rock, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's classic, I heard the Bells on Christmas Day.

Bells and the atoning of Christ

Bells are an integral part of worship and celebration at Christmas. They remind us of the atoning blood of Christ that cleansed us from all unrighteousness. We find the origin of their significance in the Day of Atonement performed once each year by the High Priest in the Holy of Holies in the Temple of God.  When the High Priest entered the temple he wore elegant robes and expensive materials--garments made by skilled craftsmen especially (and only for) the day of atonement.

Bells in the Bible

High Priest Blue Robe

The Bible says that bells were a part of the High Priests sacred garments, “Make the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth, with an opening for the head in its center. There shall be a woven edge like a collar around this opening, so that it will not tear. Make pomegranates of blue, purple and scarlet yarn around the hem of the robe, with gold bells between them. 

The gold bells and the pomegranates are to alternate around the hem of the robe. Aaron must wear it when he ministers. The sound of the bells will be heard when he enters the Holy Place before the LORD and when he comes out, so that he will not die. Exodus 28:31-35.

Christmas Bells and Christ

As the High Priest walked around in the holy of holies, sprinkling blood on the mercy-seat, the priests and people outside the Holy of Holies heard the sound of the bells and knew that the High Priest was performing his sacred duties to atone for their sins.  When we hear Christmas bells today, we can remind ourselves of the sacrifice our High Priest, The Lord Jesus Christ, made on the cross to atone, once and for all, for all our sins like the High Priest did once a year.

God is good and perfect. Who knew, besides Him, that the small bells sown into the hem of the high priest's garments for the Day of Atonement would become such a beautiful part of our Christmas celebration?

We celebrate the birth of Christ at Christmas. But the next time you hear the beautiful sounds Christmas bells make, think of Jesus and His sacrifice on the cross that atoned for all our sins.

In Jesus' precious name

Steven Sawyer

Part II - Pimping God for Seven minutes …Do You Know How to Pray?

Part II

It came to pass, that as He was praying one of the disciples said Lord teach us to pray as John taught his disciples Luke 11:1-4

Pimping God

Most Christians cannot pray to God seven minutes.  Being honest, there was a season I could not either. There was a preoccupation with me, myself, and I.  Yet, when the going got tough I was first in line hustling and bargaining with God.  “Lord I will do this if you do that.”

What is prayer?

People don’t know how to pray. We are a society filled with greed. Anxious, impatient and want what we want now.  We wish or rub lanterns and hoping Jesus pops out - poof! That is not prayer.

·        Prayer is communication with God

·        Prayer is an action – praying without ceasing Thes. 5:17.

·        Prayer is supplication – not being anxious  Philippians 4:6

·        Prayer is NOT vain repetition – stop babbling Matthew 6:7

I don’t know how to pray

how to pray

There was a woman who was learning how to pray.  She started with prayers she knew – The Lord’s Prayer and The 23^rd Psalms. On her daily commute she prayed two Lord’s Prayers and three 23^rd Psalms. Her petitions were about God and not self. In return her life was filled with joy and closeness with God. Jesus told His disciples enter your closet and pray in secret Matt.6:6. After entering your private closet your prayer can be as simple as reciting the Lord’s Prayer.

What to pray for

As my understanding and relationship matured in Christ so did my prayer life. Opposed to egotistical prayers I started giving thanks for everything – life, health, home, job and family. I graduated to praying for the sick, shut-in, friends and strangers. Most important I sought God’s will and welcomed the Holy Spirit into my life.

Dear Christian, there is no set amount of time required to pray but if you are not giving God seven minutes make the time. If your prayers are self-absorbed it time for a paradigm shift! Give Thanks to God because he is good in all things!

Dear Father God, help me to become more conscious of giving you thanks, praise and less selfish desires. Help me to grow spiritually and conform to your will. This I pray in your son Jesus Christ name – Amen.

God is Not Afraid of Your True Emotions

Submitted by: Justina Page

www.thecircleoffirebook.com 

Lost in the fire

...When you walk through the fire you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.For I am the Lord your God the Holy One of Israel, your Savior... Isaiah 43:2-3 

On March 7, 1999 at the crack of dawn something goes terribly wrong. I awake to explosions, smoke, and darkness. Oh my God. The house is on fire. Our family is jolted from peaceful bliss and thrown into chaos – our home is totally engulfed with flames. In complete darkness, desperate to save the family, my husband begins frantically jumping in and out of windows.

Like precious obedient lambs, the three oldest boys grab their younger autistic brother and wait at the designated point for their father. Their obedience to the fire escape plan is rewarded with life and merciful 1st and 2nd degree burns. I am thrown out first but hysterically reenter the inferno—determined to reach my precious bundles – 22 month old twins. A large burning oak bookshelf falls on me. I am trapped, burning, and unable to speak above a whisper.

Shouting from the edge of the street a neighbor embraces me by pressing her head to mine—“I have six sons, get my babies.” The count never reaches six. Despite our greatest efforts, everyone did not make it. Tragically the house collapses before my husband is able to get our twin son Amos. I and the other twin are severely injured in the process. All earthly possessions lost in a matter of minutes. 

In the garden of my heart weeds of bitterness, fear, and most potent, unforgiveness had taken root. Friends counted on my faith. Many people leaned on me for support and encouragement. Even in my hospital bed at my weakest point people came to confide in me and draw strength. The dilemma was bewildering. Who could I talk to? Who would understand the intensity of the faith crisis I was in? Only God.

Through the fire

God lost a son, his only begotten son to a tragic, unjust death on the cross. “Show me,” I said, “how you dealt with the loss of your Son.” The scriptures stir in my spirit. For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son John 3:16. You gave your Son to me and all things work together for good to them that love God. “But God,” I say, “even this? I cannot sit, stand, walk, or use my hands. I hurt physically and emotionally, my twin son is hurt—my other dead.” God answered me—he is not afraid of my true emotions. “My son died yet he rose and lives again—your son lives.” he says. I am challenged.

I had accepted Christ many years ago and firmly believed in the hope of eternal life. Now my son has slipped into that eternal place where I had prayed for him to be one day since his birth. I choose to embrace my faith and not abandon it. God had saved Amos. God had loaned him to me for a season and now he had taken him back. This was God’s choice. Out of faith blossomed the tender seed of hope. Hope is the heartbeat of survival. 

Part I - Unanswered Prayers… When God refuse to hear

Doubting prayer

Part I

...I cried out with my mouth his praise was on my tongue. If I cherished sin in my heart the Lord would not listen; but God has listened and has heard my prayer... Psalms 66:16-20

All knowing God

God is omnipresent. He knows, sees and hears all prayers.  So why does God refuse to answer? Do people annul their petitions to God?  Are their actions, stubbornness or refusal to adhere to God’s word the cause of ineffective results? 


The Bible mentions several viable reasons why.

• Sin – 
• Don’t wander, restrain from evil – Jeremiah 14:11-12  
• Don’t harbor wickedness in your heart – Psalms 66:18  
• Don’t believe God is too busy to hear your prayer and refuse to         ask for forgiveness – Isaiah 59:1-2

• Disobedience – 
•  Don’t turn away from God’s word – Prov. 28:9

•  Lack of faith – 
• Can’t please God without faith – Hebrew 11:6                          
• Ask and don’t doubt God’s ability James 1:6 

• Insincerity - 
• No lip service give God your heart – Isaiah 29:13

•  Pride – 
• Don’t exalt yourself like the Pharisee – Luke 18:9-14

• Wrong motives – 
• Praying for self gratification – James 4:3     
• Don’t be boastful pray in the closet – Matt 6:5-6 

         

• Unloving attitude – 
• Spouses honor each other – 1 Peter 3:7

  

The Broken Covenant

Jeremiah was chosen to turn Jerusalem away from their immoral behavior of worshiping false gods, idolatry, and doubting God’s ability. He saw his nation being destroyed because of disobedience. Jeremiah’s plea to obey the covenant and God’s warning signs all fell on death ear. When they refused to hear and obey God’s covenant He brought disaster and told Jeremiah not to pray for them. Though they cry out to me I will not answer Jeremiah 11:11.  

I am the man in the mirror

The man in the mirror is you

During a season I was guilty of several of the seven deadly sins and questioned God. "Do you hear me Lord?" I took a look at the man in the mirror and asked – "Show me your ways Lord teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me" Psalms 25: 4-5. I finally realized God’s hearing was not dull but my behavior had separated me from His love – Sin, disobedience, Lack of faith, Insincerity, and Pride.

Once I shifted my paradigm and trusted God the more he revealed himself.  Through prayer, action, and deed God is now present. Was it clear as a glass of water? No. There were days like Moses - asking for multiple confirmations and other days like David - it was no doubt God was present.

God's Delayed answer

Many of you are totally connected with God yet you still question. What appears to be an unanswered prayer could be a delayed answer. Our God’s deny of a desire could mean He has something better! Either way, always humble yourself, pray, and seek God’s face. Know that your prayers are heard and will be answered in God’s time.

Tigner Rand 

Waiting on God

Submitted by: Patricia Manns
 www.treasurechest.moments.com

Wait for the Lord – be strong, and let your heart take courage – wait for the Lord! Psalms 27:14

I have mixed emotions right now.  A dear friend is facing a tremendous mountain. For the past few weeks I have encouraged her along the way. But quite honestly, unless God moves on her behalf, there is no way things will change.

When God is far away

the pain of being alone

I know it is not about me but I feel helpless.  I am lifting her up in prayer yet realize my faith is also being tested.  How would I handle the situation? Would I question God? I probably would. “Where are You, I have tried everything I know to do and nothing works!” Don’t you see my situation? I can’t sleep – I sit alone, wondering when you are going to move? What is taking You so long?

We all felt that way before. Remember how you felt thinking God had abandoned you?  Everybody’s prayers appear to be answered but yours. So many good reports… so many testimonies of victory… but not you.  What have you done to deserve this?  Why God are you working for everybody but me? When will it be my turn? You are exhausted and feel like curling up in a ball and cry. Maybe you have done that and now find yourself depressed. “How did I get here again?”

Songs of faith

Praise God

I hear the song I’ll wait for You! I’ll wait for You!  A gentle voice reminds you that you are not alone. You have not been forgotten.  God, your Father, sees you. He is singing and holding you. He is ever the God who understands how we all feel.  He will see you through even if you don’t know when or where.  He knows your name – He whispers words of encouragement and wipes away your tears.

God hears our prayers

“My Child, I am here. I love you. I am holding you in the palm of my hand. Look at me and not the storm. Lay your head on my chest, it is a safe place. I will cover you with my wings and you will find rest.  Go ahead take a deep breath – once more.  Hear me say your name and then say mine. Anytime you need me, whisper my name. Jesus – Jesus – Jesus.  Rest my child I am leading you through the storm.

I now hear another song - “Where He leads me I will follow. I go with Him all the way.”

Release your burdens

Friends, even when we cannot see beyond our nose God is there waiting on us to trust Him. I know He is Love and that he loves my friend.  Though I cannot help my friend I feel her burden, but I must also release that burden to God.   He is the ultimate burden bearer.  “Great is Thy Faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see!

So I choose to trust and praise God even if I don’t know what tomorrow may bring.  God is my tomorrow. All is well with my Soul.

Stepping Out on faith…especially when you have no choice

Submitted by: Rev. Clyde Corbin, II

Now without faith it is impossible to please him, for the one who approaches God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. Hebrews 11:6

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 

Life Decisions

 Downsizing Decisions

Very recently, my previous employer informed us at the end of September our department will no longer exist. I could join another department or take the severance package.  I was forced to make some very strong decisions in a limited amount of time.  I decided to take a look at my options and see which ones would give me access for growth.

The available positions meant that I would continue going through the same motions. The problem with leaving I had responsibilities; a wife, child, and a mortgage to be concerned about. My risk taking becomes my family’s risk too. It is so easy to stay with a company that I had been with for seven years and not risk something new. But where and when do I grow?

It is easy to walk on water

walking in faith

My situation reminded me of the story of Peter walking on water Matt 14:22-33. In the midst of the storm, Peter asked Jesus to bid him to come so that he too may walk on water. Jesus said “Come”. Peter walked toward Jesus, and got afraid when he saw the wind and began to sink.

It is easy to remain where you are comfortable and not happy or using your gifts and talents to its fullest. But where do you get to grow your faith? Believer, in order to walk on water, you must first get out of the boat. So I took the severance and begin job hunting.

 The value of faith

•          Based on experience my value was worth far more than the salary
•          I learned not to panic
•    I walked in faith 
•         I’m a “prime candidate” for almost any career It’s my choice to choose the path

God has somethiing for you

 When I think about my career over the years God brought me a long way. He never let me be in a situation where I was struggling to make ends meet. Knowing this, I had a sense of peace. While others around me stressed and worried, I remained calm.

I have such a belief that God would bless me that I was not concerned, but excited about what He had ordained for me.

You cannot have open arms to receive your new blessings if you are still holding on to old stuff. So do not panic, God has something good for you! Until God opens a door, praise Him in the hallway.

The final decision

So, what was the end game? I did my part. I updated my resume and LinkedIn. I got out there and interviewed. I hung out, spend quality time with my son for two weeks, and refocused.

 I was unemployed for only two weeks. Now, I am writing this to you from my new job! Believer, your promise is bigger than your past. Walk into your season!

Believer, do you know your worth? Through your storms in life you held on to your faith. Remember, you are worth it all because Jesus paid it all for you!

My life as a child I reminisce

Life as a child is care free

I Reminisce my days as a child

How time seem to never end

And every child stranger met was a friend.

There were never any times of sad

All things were simple like nursery rhymes nothing was never bad.

No fear to climb a tall tree

Nor imagine swimming across the sea.

You reminisce your days as a child because life was so care free!

As new chapters of existence begin 

the care-freeness of a child comes to an end.

 Every adult stranger met one wonders if they are a threat.

Those never ending Happy Days are no longer found

What use to be a smile is now a frown?

 What is so different between a child and me? Nothing my mind’s eye can see.

As I compare life with a child and wonder how I can be once again carefree one must be willing to love others and not just self.

To reminisce days as a child is not hard to do

Remember not too long ago you were one too!

Keep the change even when it’s not yours: Monetary Temptations

Keep the change even when it's not yours

Blessed is the man that endures temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to them that love him. James 1:12 

One man’s loss

On a recent visit to the ‘Golden Arches’ I took advantage of their sausage egg and cheese ‘what-cha-ma-call-it’ special. My total was $3.21. I tendered $5.21 to the cashier.  In a rush the manager gave me $3.00.  I was faced with a dilemma; perceive this as a blessing of sorts “one man’s loss is another’s gain?” Or demonstrate honesty and return the funds?

God’s daily quiz

Daily I am tested. Do I choose to eat sausage, eggs, grits, and toast or a bowl of oatmeal? Run a yellow light or stop? There are also family related decisions seek higher paying employment which includes traveling or stay home and enjoy family?  How I adapt, adjust or endure is the quagmire.  Life flings situations everyday; albeit a meal, stop light or job decision.  Yet each example displays how choices can interfere with life.  Do I succumb to my temptation’s grasp or allow God’s Spirit to lead?  More often than not man follows his mind’s desire oppose to God’s.

Trials and victories

According to scripture, the man who is tried and fight through shall receive the crown of life!  Based on these words being kicked around mentally and physically is commonplace. In some form or fashion, large or small anticipate a per Diem of trials. Situations will manifest, and when they do, it is imperative to be equipped with God’s knowledge in order to claim victory. The word ensures a greater chance to prevail. 

God does not tempt

I had to learn temptation is not of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempts he any man Jam 1:13.  So, a question rose, “are temptations exams to strengthen my faith?” Jesus’ albatross was Satan. He attempted to seize a moment of ‘weakness’ to tempt Jesus. It was faith and knowledge of Abba Father’s word that sustained Jesus.

Christian situations

Resisting Temptation

For each day I live, there will be crossroads to face. How strong my faith is will be exemplified based on the response.  God does care how I counter them even little things such as returning my so called blessing. Sure I could easily pocket the dollar and Mickey D’s could have written it off as a miscellaneous petty funds lost. But what would I have gained? Or lost? So as a Christian it was my responsibility to give the dollar back.

How to respond

When facing temptations how do you retaliate? Do give in or learn to resist. In the end by resisting, the dividends will be spiritual growth which allows your Christian light to shine for others to see.

It was apparent the manager was hastened that day. Before driving off I noticed a puzzle look on his face while handing him the dollar. “You gave me too much change.” A sigh of relief was seen and a heart felt “thanks I really appreciate you giving this back” made me realize that God was pleased with me for being honest.  Blessed is the man that endures temptation.

Smartphones are made for talking not praying

Don't forget to pray

It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning and your faithfulness by night Psalm 92:1-2

Smartphone infatuation

Smartphones dominate our world. People are addicted to these gadgets. Junkies compulsively refresh and check email, Facebook, and Twitter status. They download copiousness phone apps to Galaxy, iPhone 6, Droid Razr Maxx, HTC One X, or worthless BlackBerry.

This obsession is immense and companies are capitalizing on society’s dependence of technology by offering phone apps. For a nominal fee thousands of applications are downloaded daily. Addicts can pick from Instagram, Facebook, games, Spotify, NPR news, politics, Pandora, and Everyday Pray.  

Prayer apps

Everyday Pray is a new iPhone app to remind smartphone ‘babe’s in Christ’ when to pray.  This app creates a personal prayer journal capable of setting random prayer reminders, 60-day suggested prayers helping parents pray for their children,  and of course calendar updates to remind you when to pray.

Communicating with God

Praying for family friends church nation

People struggle with praying. It has become a chore oppose to a joyous habit. What is prayer? It is communicating with God.  Prayer does not have to be formal. Just open your mouth and freely speak from the heart.  Prayer can be on your knees 1Kings 8:54, standing 1 Kings 8:22, eyes open or closed, out loud or to yourself.  When true thanksgiving comes from the heart no smartphone reminder apps are needed.

No need for a prayer app

Life is a rat race. There's a host of ‘to-do’s’ daily; children, school, spouse, Fido, little kitty, and managing work. Those Goals to obtain the ‘American Dream’ (whatever that is) consumes time making it understandable why there is a need for Smartphones and nifty apps that can manage the social order of a person’s life.

I argue the Everyday Pray reminder app is insignificant. If God has blessed you that should be the reminder! Did you wake up this morning? A great time to pray! A roof over your head, food on the table, clothes on your back, children safe out of harm’s way? It’s praying time! God’s daily blessings should be the remembrance to pray!

Smartphones and prayer

No time to pray

• Prayer is routine - A set time daily. When eyes open mouth should open to praise and thank God. While commuting to work partition God and through out the day keep Christ top of mind.
•  Prayer is spontaneous - Shout out thank you because life is great, praises after outstanding news, or praying before decision making. Pray just because you love God!
• Pray without ceasing –Paul encouraged prayer. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks. This is God’s will in Christ Jesus1 Thessalonians 5: 17-27.
• Pray continually - Is praying regularly but it also means to live of prayer. Praying is more than verbalization it is acknowledging God’s presence and dependence of Him.

The combination of routine and spontaneous prayer was Paul’s desire for the church of Thessalonica. It was a time similar to what is faced today; nations filled with seductive images, greed, with Christians struggling to maintain Christ like behavior in a freewheeling society. Once recognized, all actions and communication should include God there is no need for any application reminders on Smartphones.

Begin each day with prayer and thanksgiving on your heart.  Praise throughout the day declaring God’s love and utilize your Smartphones for talking and games not praying.

Norris J. The coolest living sacrifice Kingdom builder for Christ

Norris J. - INJ

...Present your bodies a living sacrifice Holy and acceptable to God which is your reasonable service. Romans 12:1

 rapping for Christ

A stereotypical myth, fathers are not extinct. Men amply uphold their duties; working, raising their children, and being good husbands. A few exceptional men also sing praises unto the Lord.  Norris J. is that exception. A dedicated husband, dad and musician juggling between his music hustle, daddy taxi, and chef.  He personifies being a living sacrifice Holy and acceptable. “It is all in a day’s work.” 

Gospel rap artist, Norris J., has methodically layout an action plan to orate God’s message. His mission is dual purpose; effectively grinding for The Kingdom and shaking the music industry’s foundation with his stimulating passion for the Lord.

Atlanta GA

DJ J-Squared & Norris J.

The room was hot. Music bumping complements of DJ J-Squared. But all eyes were affixed on Norris J. Natty from head to toe; trade mark hat, creased shirt, fly jeans, and fresh kicks.  The ‘swag’ was in full effect.  I caught up with Norris J. during a pit-stop in Atlanta, GA. In between studio time, interviews, gigs in Nashville, Memphis, Houston, plus performances with Urban Soul Café and a brief stent on the MOVE TOUR which featured songstress Jessica Reedy, Jai, the soulful B. Reith.  Norris J. was the coolest.

INJ – The Kingdom

The debut album is entitled INJ. “The title [INJ] stands for I Need Jesus. Ultimately meaning we all need Jesus everyday of our life.”

A  blend of spirit driven lyrics, live instrumentation and original beats can be witnessed on all twelve tracks. Each song unleashes a rapture of soul saving poetry and good music, the perfect ingredients. “INJ is synonymous to Norris J., when you hear one the other is automatically associated.

Anointed accolades

The process is slow but Norris J is being noticed.  The airwaves are inundated with radio interviews to concerts. He states, “anything to do with Gospel I am on it trying to get exposure.” Norris recently received KHVN – Heaven 970’s Gospel award: Artist Making the Largest Impact and The Gospel Announcer’s guild: Artist of the Week. Wearing his trade-mark smile, “All these awards help get me exposure not only in the Christians arena I’m getting a buzz throughout the music community because it is hip-hop.”   This all translates to more exposure not only in the Dallas-Fort Worth region but across the country.

The future

2012 is earmarked a stellar year. The video release party and concert for The Kingdom received rave reviews, followed up by more critiques from Holy Culture, Black Gospel Promo, and Gospel South. The future looks promising. Currently working with local artist Chelse Mone’ as well as laid a few lyric tracks on an upcoming project for American Idol’s second season finalist George Huff.

Norris J. is deeply rooted in the Lord and failing is not an option. “Since my wife is putting her trust in me so I must trust in the lord even more."

The vision is clear; spread God’s word, bless others and save souls. Through music Norris J is planting seeds in people’s life. If he cannot find a way to uplift people through his music, they will never get to the point of hearing a message or receiving a blessing from God through song.