Merry Christmas from Kelly and Lael.

As we sang Hark the Herald Angels Sing in church Sunday I (Lael) was again deeply moved by the glory and beauty of our God:

“Hail the Heaven Born Prince of Peace, Hail the Son of Righteousness!
Light and Life to all he brings, risen with healing in his wings.”

I was also privileged to hear Handel’s Messiah last week, made more meaningful by re-reading Patrick Kavanaugh’s stirring devotional story of Handel’s inspiration in Faith and Culture. Tried to imagine the “Angels” section of Messiah suddenly exploding into the night sky to the shepherds’ shock.

If you’d like to share the Handel devo with a friend it’s posted on my blog at Bible.org. The music lovers on your Christmas list might enjoy Patrick’s book from which this was taken, The Spiritual Lives of the Great Composers. On the Tapestry home page you’ll find my top picks for other gift books and adventures in learning.

Enjoy the rest of the story of Frederick Larson’s devo on the night sky over Bethlehem at www.Bethlehemstar.net. I’ve always wondered why the wise men could see the star when Herod, his court and the rest of Judea seemed oblivious. Using NASA Star Maps and his legal skills, Rick ties together the clockwork movement of the stars, Matthew’s text, the star on a Roman coin and other clues to present compelling evidence for the story behind the star. He presents this story at churches across the nation and has produced a companion DVD.

Still looking for a gift for the learners on your list? A Faith and Culture Devotional might be much appreciated.

Kelly and I thank you again for your interest in our devotional and wish you Light and Life and Healing during this season and the year ahead.