Waiting – Living the Not Yet Life

‘Twas, the Night Before Christmas, was first published in 1823 anonymously, but then attributed to Clement Clarke Moore. Some critics acclaim that it is one of the best-known verses ever written by an American. The poem has had a significant impact on our conceptions of Santa Claus and Christmas gift giving in America. Over the generations, it has become synonymous with the anticipation that children have for the presents they are so eager to unwrap on Christmas morning. Indeed, this little rhyme is the enduring metaphor of the Christmas spirit in our culture. Read more

Have you ever felt stuck in neutral? Maybe it was a dead end job with no upside. Or did you grow up feeling trapped by living on the wrong side of the tracks? Maybe you have walked alone through the daunting challenges of being a single parent. Or has an injury, illness or tragedy put life on pause for you or a loved one?

Regardless of the specifics, many of us have faced seasons in our lives that have left us feeling stranded. Jesus of Nazareth was no different.

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Mozart was composing symphonies at age 6. Beethoven was 8. Augustus was leading the Roman forces and King of the Roman empire at 18. Joan of Arc was leading the French army into battle at 17. Alexander the Great was ruling Macedon at 16, became king at 20 and had conquered most of the known world by his death at age 32. Most recently, the likes of Justin Beiber, who became a YouTube sensation at age 14 and Mark Zuckerberg who launched Facebook from his college dorm at age 19 have found success, purpose, and fortune early in life. None of these people had to wait to find their purpose after 40. Read more