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2 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole empire should be registered. 2 This first registration took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So everyone went to be registered, each to his own town.
4 And Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family line of David, 5 to be registered along with Mary, who was engaged to him[d] and was pregnant. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 Then she gave birth to her firstborn Son, and she wrapped Him snugly in cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough—because there was no room for them at the lodging place.
The Shepherds and the Angels
8 In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people:11 Today a Savior, who is Messiah the Lord, was born for you in the city of David. 12 This will be the sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in cloth and lying in a feeding trough.”
13 Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying:
14 Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and peace on earth to people He favors!
15 When the angels had left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem and see what has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”
16 They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the feeding trough. 17 After seeing them, they reported the message they were told about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary was treasuring up all these things[j] in her heart and meditating on them. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard, just as they had been told.
Luke 2.1-20 HCSB
The Nativity of the Messiah
18 The birth of Jesus Christ came about this way: After His mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, it was discovered before they came together that she was pregnant by the Holy Spirit. 19 So her husband Joseph, being a righteous man, and not wanting to disgrace her publicly, decided to divorce her secretly.
20 But after he had considered these things, an angel of the Lord suddenly appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because what has been conceived in her is by the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to name Him Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.”
22 Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet:
23 See, the virgin will become pregnant
and give birth to a son,
and they will name Him Immanuel,
which is translated “God is with us.”
24 When Joseph got up from sleeping, he did as the Lord’s angel had commanded him. He married her 25 but did not know her intimately until she gave birth to a son. And he named Him Jesus.
MERRY CHRISTMAS, everyone!
Matthew 1.18-25 HCSB
Our final charge was stimulating, thought-provoking, challenging and gave us all lingering ideas. It was powerful enough to make us forget our eagerness to bolt to the exit door and catch the shuttle to the airport and our flights home. This work for all of us, but good work, very very good work.
Think about the shrinking number of our population entering college. Then, consider the even smaller number of college graduates who are going further and tackling graduate education. Finally, slice the numbers of those who venture into the world of postgraduate education in pursuit of their doctorates.
Of course that is not the end of my tracking. Now, consider that exclusive bunch who earn the credentials and amass the talent to teach those in higher education who pursue masters and doctoral degrees. Finally, wonder at those very few who have the honor to lead that faculty as Deans.
That was our group for three days in the wonderful city of Pittsburgh. Cloudy skies and drizzle shrouded the city of Steel. But, intellectual and scholarly conversation was flowing on the inside.
Heady ideas of the changing environment of our country entered our discussions. Challenges with trademark characteristics of our entering millennial students left us wondering. Collegiality of new friends expanded our thinking beyond our familiar ecclesiastical moorings.
Now, the airport stood before us. Thousands of travelers flooded the terminal. I didn’t see many who were carrying on our philosophical themes. But, these were without exception the very people that we were training seminary students to serve.
Then, a link appeared. First, it was beautiful sound. A youth choir was in the balcony singing, “God rest ye merry gentlemen”. Next, it caught my eye because of the sparkling lights. It was a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. Finally, the checker rang up my purchase at the news stand and smiled at me, “Merry Christmas!” she sparkled.
Traveling dulls the senses. It pushes us into a bizarre state of fatigue that few of us really understand and none of us enjoy. It has clear symptoms: sad affect, slow physical reactions and grumpy attitudes.
Yet, a Christmas tree with all of its sparkling lights, a clear sound of Christmas carols being sung by a choir and of course the cheery greeting of “Merry Christmas!” from a complete stranger makes the routine of a tiring travel day wonderfully special. Merry Christmas, everyone!
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
In the past three days I have been on the road for a total of ten driving hours. For professional drivers that’s nothing. But, for a guy like me, it’s bizarre.
Today I’m sore in places that I didn’t even know that I had nerve endings. Flying by plane just isn’t cost-effective. Afterall, once you get someplace by plane, how are you going to get around?
Necessity and a busy schedule jammed several appointments into a small window of time. I am not a road warrior. In fact I would rather not drive if other options were available.
But, as the old saying goes, “You gotta do what you gotta do.” That is some sort of Chinese saying, I’m sure. We who are committed to our promises keep them and do whatever it takes to fulfill them.
For me the driving was a simply a means to a great end. Getting there was an opportunity to do what builds integrity, keeping my word. Neither circumstances nor opposition will prevent me from making good on my promises.
But, no one ever said that the journey has to be boring or painful. Resourceful minds can make the drudgery of driving a pleasant experience. For me one of the creative additions is music.
My rig is equipped with satellite radio, a 6 CD player, external port for an iPod. We have a long list of favorite songs that we have purchased on i-tunes. My Country with my brides’ Pop makes for a splendid combination.
But, for this special time of the year, it’s Christmas music that we line up in our sound system to float the hours of travel away. Carried in the air of snow, tinsel and family we sing-a-long with classic favorites. Some are funny like “I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus” that is always a smile endorser.
Of course there are moving ones like “Christmas Shoes” that I posted a few days back. But, our most favorite Christmas songs of all tell the real story of Christmas, the birth of our Savior, Jesus born in a manger. That story gives real meaning to the celebration around the world.
I have my favorite artists from years-gone-by as well as modern composers and musicians. But, the ancient story is the true story and never gets old. Christmas is my favorite time of the year and the genuine story makes it so. Merry Christmas!
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
During this Christmas season we relived our blessings for 2012 in pictures: 
We said farewell to the Elders of Sunset Church, San Francisco after a wonderful stint on the pastoral staff. They led our pastoral and ministerial staff. It was a deep and meaningful fellowship that all of us shared together.
Finding men to disciple, pour yourself into so that you share life, ministry, tough times and blessings is marvelous. Saying good-bye to them is tough, but now, they have others to disciple and God has other men in a different city for me to pour into until Jesus comes.
Our family will miss Nemo. He was one of our Lhasa Apsos who had to be put to sleep this year. His ailments ended his life too early. We miss him.
We felt the love of the staff and church family as we said “Farewell” to Sunset Church and set our sights on Houston, TX. It was going to be a journey but God’s faithfulness was sure and full of promise.
Rick was waiting for us in Houston. He was our only friend when we started. It was an outstanding start. His faithfulness and friendship has meant a lot to us over the years.
We are Texans. Our newly adopted state has been hospitable, full of that welcoming Southern hospitality.
Students are enrolling at DTS-Houston in record numbers. During this New Student Orientation we didn’t have a room large enough to accommodate the incoming class. God is providing as He does. We dedicated a new classroom building with four new classrooms this month and look forward to putting it into service during the Spring Semester.
Those that God has called into His service and then brings to DTS-Houston are a blessing of enthusiasm, faith and eagerness to learn the Word.
This is our new home assigned by our most generous and gracious LORD above. He has directed us here. It will be our home. We embrace it and all of the faith adventures that come with it. No doubt we will grow in our trust in Him. Every ministry venture is configured similarly. We count it all joy!
Merry Christmas, y’all!
Each Christmas the lyrics of this song affect me:
It was almost Christmas time, there I stood in another line
Trying to buy that last gift or two, not really in the Christmas mood
Standing right in front of me was a little boy waiting anxiously
Pacing ’round like little boys do
And in his hands he held a pair of shoes
His clothes were worn and old, he was dirty from head to toe
And when it came his time to pay
I couldn’t believe what I heard him say
Chorus:
Sir, I want to buy these shoes for my Mama, please
It’s Christmas Eve and these shoes are just her size
Could you hurry, sir, Daddy says there’s not much time
You see she’s been sick for quite a while
And I know these shoes would make her smile
And I want her to look beautiful if Mama meets Jesus tonight
He counted pennies for what seemed like years
Then the cashier said, “Son, there’s not enough here”
He searched his pockets frantically
Then he turned and he looked at me
He said Mama made Christmas good at our house
Though most years she just did without
Tell me Sir, what am I going to do,
Somehow I’ve got to buy her these Christmas shoes
So I laid the money down, I just had to help him out
I’ll never forget the look on his face when he said
Mama’s gonna look so great
Sir, I want to buy these shoes for my Mama, please
It’s Christmas Eve and these shoes are just her size
Could you hurry, sir, Daddy says there’s not much time
You see she’s been sick for quite a while
And I know these shoes would make her smile
And I want her to look beautiful if Mama meets Jesus tonight
Bridge:
I knew I’d caught a glimpse of heaven’s love
As he thanked me and ran out
I knew that God had sent that little boy
To remind me just what Christmas is all about
Chorus:
Sir, I want to buy these shoes for my Mama, please
It’s Christmas Eve and these shoes are just her size
Could you hurry, sir, Daddy says there’s not much time
You see she’s been sick for quite a while
And I know these shoes would make her smile
And I want her to look beautiful if Mama meets Jesus tonight
lyrics by New Song
Time for a party! Yes, it’s Christmas and our team has worked hard all year. More importantly, our faith has its focus on the reason for the season.
We are all invested in theological education. Our team prepares people who are answering the call to Christian ministry. Something in common that is rarely known is how committed we are to our duties.
I know that because of how many have intentionally turned down much better professional options in order to be here. To me that is humbling to be colleagues with such selfless and self-sacrificing people. Some have agreed to work here for a fraction of the salary that they could be making else where.
They don’t whine. There is no complaining. Instead, they show up early for work, stay late and keep on working when they get home.
If duties call for services that intrude on their personal time, they show up. When, someone else needs extra help they are there. May their tribe increase.
There is so little self-concern for their own recognition. They don’t brag about their credentials, accomplishments or 
worry about promotions. Instead, they simply work hard, smile while they do it and praise God for the privilege of being on the team.
So, for an evening we set work aside. There is little “business” that is the topic of conversation. Instead, we laugh, talk, tease, embrace the children and of course enjoy the food.
I love this team. They make coming to work a joy. Celebrating with them is a treat. Merry Christmas!
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
On Thursday I left the office early. Travel back home then back into town necessitated it. We had an appointment for the evening that we did not want to miss.
A new friend had invited us to the Christmas program as the church that he called home. We were curious. Both my bride and I love this time of year; who doesn’t love Christmas?
Our expectations were totally dismantled. We have never experienced anything like this. The program engulfed us.
The house lights dimmed and then colors, music, action exploded on the stage, in the aisles, on the walls and above from the ceiling. Anchoring the music was the choir. It was full, powerful, full-ranging and lifted the audience to heights rivaling the best of theatrical performances.
But, something else added to the evening. The story, the simple story, the real story, the eternal story, the personal story of Christmas was unfolded. Here the Bible underpinned something spectacular for all but most importantly for each individual who would listen and believe.
Isaiah’s words came from the prophet in word and song. It was both haunting and hopeful. Powerful and personal that part of the Christmas story resonated deeply in my spirit.
Fulfilling the words of his prophecy, history unfolded with the birth of the Savior, the very Son of God. Simeon’s exclamation of his hope fulfilled was so clear. Shepherds, angels, live sheep, a live donkey added to the remarkable testimony.
Christmas was relived and experienced in real-time. I could not just see it but feel it, sense it and live it. The floor vibrated, the air was filled with sound and fragrance.
The Magi from the East came. Their entourage was resplendent. Besides the rich wardrobe of nations from exotic 
realms came the star of the show, an elephant, a real elephant.
It walked royally down the aisle that we had used to get to our seats. The gasps in the audience were in unison. This cast member was both stunning and fun.
But, Christmas is just the beginning of the story. This program kept the historic episodes flowing. Everything pointed to the most important climax of Easter.
Our Savior died for our sins and rose again to offer us eternal life. The resurrection was spectacular on stage and certainly in history and for all eternity. To see this depicted on the stage was sensational.
But, entertainment was not the end of the performance. Every detail was amazing but the invitation summed it all the best. Pastor Gregg Matte walked up to the stage with his engaging spirit and highlighted the key part of faith in the Savior.
He invited all who wanted the true Christmas story to personally be theirs. We all prayed. Eternities were changed that night. It was not just a brilliant performance, it was an eternally impactful experience. Merry Christmas!
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
Christmas is all about celebration. This is the time of year when everyone can find a reason to rejoice, be happy and get into the spirit of this most favorite season of the year. It’s odd when we have to tolerate a small number of loud humbuggers who are trying to eliminate Christmas.
Some call it a war on Christmas. I’m not sure who declared hostilities against something so good but it seems weird. It really doesn’t make sense to the vast majority.
I liked a comedy TV show that interviewed people on the streets. They asked people a simple question of identification. He stopped some pedestrians on the street for a simple survey.
What followed was remarkable and pointed. It was so simple that the war on Christmas took a major hit in a manner of moments on national TV. All it took from the host was a wry smile.
He pointed to tree in the town square. It was decorated with lights, ornaments and garlands. Then, he simply asked, “What is that?”
The unsuspecting pedestrians answered the obvious, “It’s a Christmas tree.”
“Are you sure about your answer?” the host pressed his guests.
“Yes,” they responded incredulously, “it’s a Christmas tree.”
“That’s correct!” the host exclaimed. ”Did you know that there was a war on Christmas? Some people are trying to get rid of the name ‘Christmas’,” he informed them.
“Why would anyone want to do that?” they shook their heads in disbelief.
Turning to the TV audience, the host rolled his eyes, “It seems overwhelmingly obvious that Americans still believe in Christmas.”
That suits me just fine. Reasonableness aside or in the middle of the discussion, why should a few complaintants impose their opinion that infringes on the opinion of others. I’m not offended when someone says “Happy Holidays” to me but I feel just as free to say to others, “Merry Christmas!”
No use getting all PC on each other. Just celebrate freely. Your individual joy will not be offensive to anyone. It might be someone else’s excuse to express their complaint. But, what can you do for people who are by nature sour and looking for a fight?
Christmas is special. Sure, Jesus is the real reason for Christmas. If people are offended by Him, then that’s between them and the LORD.
As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. We will also celebrate His birthday. We are into rejoicing. Merry Christmas!
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
While I am gainfully employed I am very well aware of the tough economic times that our nation is in. Most likely we will see worse times ahead long before our national fiscal health gets better. Spending is the primary culprit, buying habits have to change when the revenue is not being generated.
This Christmas season gift-shopping will have to be adjusted accordingly. We have made our list and checked it twice. The budget is much smaller.
There was a time when it was fun spending for family and friends. Those days are years-old. Now, we have to measure what we will do, find cheaper ways to do it and hope that everyone will understand.
In just about every instance I put any extras back on the shelves instead of tossing them into my basket. Before I chose an item that I was about to select, I did some serious price comparisons with competitive brands. Which one did I choose? The cheaper brand won out every time. Weird!
However, while what we buy with currency is being seriously curtailed, there is something about this season that will not be abbreviated. During this Thanksgiving season and Christmas celebration, a dominant feature will never be lessened. It was always there hidden among the gifts, decorations and activities.
This Christmas season will have the full measure of LOVE generously distributed to our family and friends. No matter how tough our national economy becomes, we will never be forced to give up on this offering. Instead, we can no only continue to distribute this priceless commodity at will, we can even increase it.
It’s all a matter of knowing the distributor. Once you are in good with the source of LOVE, He will ALWAYS give you as much as you request to give away to others. There is never a shortage.
For some we can share a greeting of appreciation when there are no resources to reward financially, a word of encouragement during tough times, a smile during dark days, a listening ear for those who are lonely, your presence for someone who is missing a loved one or favor when no else is there to help. These are priceless gifts, sorely needed in a time when so many are hurting, crushed by circumstances or broken due to tragedy. With less money to give, we can refocus on giving the priceless gift of LOVE that will ALWAYS lift someone’s spirit.
