Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

A king is born today,
within a stable full of straw—
This baby in a manger lay,
is who the shepherds saw.

He came to earth to breathe as man,
to live, to die for us all—
This was God’s own plan,
what shall I bring the Father’s son?

Worship in humble adoration,
to this child our offering bring—
Praise, love, faith and hope,
heavenly angels sing.

© Chrissy Siggee

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

It twinkles high above the earth
Once glistened on a royal birth—
Encircled by an angel’s choir
Proclaiming God’s desire.

Shepherds feared that dazzling light
Attending their sheep that holy night
It lured wise men from afar—
Vowed to follow this shining star.

Jesus was born in a cattle stall
Found wrapped in a shabby shawl
Beneath a clear night sky—
His mother Mary sits nearby.

No matter where we are
You can see the Christmas star—
Look within your heart He called,
It’s the brightest star of all.

© Chrissy Siggee

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Psalm 72:12-13 “For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death.”

Colossians 1:27 “To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

It’s sad to think that for many people Christmas means nothing more than parties, decorations, holidays, and time off work. I see more to this time of year; it’s a blessed reminder of the birth of Jesus Christ. My hope is founded in this baby; a baby that was born to save mankind. My hope in him is real.

In reality, though, it’s difficult for many people to find hope. We live in a misplaced world of social injustice, crime, poverty, homelessness, unemployment, disease, pain and loneliness. Jesus means hope to all mankind, but we have to grasp the promises of God and take them to the world – whether it be across the road or across the ocean.

When you find Jesus, you find hope, and there’s no false hope in Jesus. It’s not a fanciful fairy tale wishing for a happy ending. We as Christians need to spread hope; not just by preaching The Word but by doing The Word. Millions of people do not even know Christmas is just around the corner, or what the fuss is about. Many people don’t know where their next meal will come from, and wouldn’t know what turkey and Christmas pudding is. They don’t see any hope. They see nothing but despair…

As Christians, we are supposed to be the hands and feet of Jesus. As His hands and feet, we are to serve Him by serving others. Christmas is a renewal of hope. It reconfirms for us the revelation that Jesus is the reason for this season. It was settled long ago, so we don’t have to doubt it. Jesus is the fulfillment of our hope; our deepest longings come true.

Lord, let your hope and joy radiate through us. Help us to embrace the hope we have in you and share it with those less fortunate than ourselves, whether it be spiritually, emotionally, or by using our hands and feet for your glory. Amen.

© Chrissy Siggee

Scripture Verses used are from the New International Version of the Bible

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Luke 2:8-20 says: “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.”

At the time of Jesus’ birth, people who attended sheep were considered one of the least significant of the human race by other people. They lived quiet and humble lives, often spending their days and nights with their flocks. The sheep that they tended were probably bred as sacrifice animals for the temple in nearby Jerusalem. These shepherds were just doing their usual job when the angels appeared before them.

I think I would be shaking in my sandals too. The news the angel gave the shepherds would have surprised them too. Babies would have been plentiful during the census and specific descriptions were to help the shepherds find Jesus among the crowded town.

When they went down to Bethlehem, they found Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus. They worshipped the newborn king before returning to their flocks glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen. It had been just as the angel had told them.

I can imagine the shepherds telling their friends and families for weeks after the event. This incident would have made a significant change in their tedious lives. History tells how shepherds had become accepted and probably even admired by many.

Jesus refers to himself as the “good Shepherd”.

John 10:11 tells us, “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.”
John 10:14 says: “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.”

The next time you sing the Christmas carol While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night, take notice of the words and remember their significant place in the Christmas Story.

Father, thank you for sending your son to earth as a small baby. Thank you that lowly shepherds were among the first to greet Jesus and for the reminder of the significance of the birth. We praise you, just as the angels and shepherds did on that night so long ago. Amen.

© Chrissy Siggee 

First Published 2014

Scripture Verses used are from the King James Version of the Bible

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Luke 2:15-16 says: “And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger.”

I’ve often heard of women not making it in time to a hospital to give birth. Even a well-prepared home birth can be messed up if the expecting mother is caught across town in the supermarket. Taxi births are common, and so are babies born in elevators. But what would be more degrading for a mother in the modern world than to give birth in a tiny barn full of smelly animals?

It’s true that the birth itself is often quickly forgotten when the joy of holding your newborn baby in your arms follows. Your baby is the most beautiful princess or little prince, you have ever laid eyes on. It’s then time to show your precious new family member the nursery that you have so lovingly put together during the months of waiting. The cradle that took you forever to choose, and don’t forget the bunny rugs.

But wait a moment! I don’t remember reading that part in the Christmas story. The shepherds found the baby lying in a manger. A manger is kept in a stable. It’s used as the feeding trough for donkeys and milking cows! There would probably even be hens and a goat or two sharing the small space around the manger. Here is where the King of the Jews was sleeping. And, sitting close by with watchful eyes, were Mary and Joseph; a humble pair who had traveled many miles to find no room in the inn.

This cradle was made for royalty. Jesus was born in a manger because He was, and is, and will always be “Lord of Lords and King of Kings”.

This same Jesus was found by the shepherds wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger—a cradle made for royalty.

Father, thank you for sending your son to earth. Help me never to forget the wonder of that first Christmas morning when the King of Kings came as a humble baby who was given by you to be called Jesus our Saviour. Amen

© Chrissy Siggee

Scripture Verses used are from the King James Version of the Bible

Archived in: Christian Reads

Matthew 5:16 says: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Christmas is approaching fast and stores are filled with decorations and gifts for all ages. Christmas trees, real and fake, dazzle us with lights and baubles. Let’s face it; it gives us all a feeling of excitement that Christmas is just around the corner.

Celebrations of the birth of Christ may vary from family to family, from church to church, and from tradition to tradition. In reality, it doesn’t matter how we celebrate as long as the true message of Christmas is our main focus.

As a child, my favourite Christmas decoration was the Christmas Star. We placed the star on the top of our tree year after year. One Christmas, we visited cousins who used a fairy. A star was nowhere to be seen. As a nine-year-old at that time, I could not comprehend how a fairy could replace the precious tree-topper. Later in life when I had my own family the idea of a fairy tree-topper never entered my mind. Our own children were brought up knowing the true meaning of Christmas: The birth of Jesus. The brightness of that Christmas star reflected the announcement of royalty’s birth, Jesus—the light of the world and guided the shepherds and the wise men to Jesus.

In the same way, our hearts need to reflect the love of Jesus who resides in us. Our lives need to reveal the light that burns just like the Christmas Star. We can let our light so shine before men—and our families who don’t always see eye-to-eye on what Christmas is about. Live as Jesus would live. Speak as Jesus would speak; with love in our hearts that shines like the Christmas Star that can lead others to Jesus.

This Christmas, let’s show love and grace to those who see things differently from us.  Let your light shine so we glorify your Father, who is in heaven.

Father, let our light shine from within that we may lead others to Jesus, and let the true message of Christmas be seen by your love within us. Amen

© Chrissy Siggee

Scripture Verses used are from the New International version of the Bible.

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

David took a deep breath. The musty smells of the old town hall made his nose itch. This place still reminded him of community gatherings, nativity plays, and combined Easter services. An old plastic Christmas tree leaned against the wall; bent over and covered in cobwebs. He pushed aside the sagging stage curtain and touched one of the fifteen tarnished Christmas bells which hung in a neat row. He closed his eyes and tried to recall the familiar sounds. All he heard was the squeak of the front door.

‘Mrs Jessop, good to see you. What’s it been…?’

‘Twelve months’, she groaned. The old woman placed her scarf and handbag on a nearby table. ‘Where is everyone? I want to be home early tonight.’

‘Well, Teresa married in January and moved to the coast. Donald won’t be here… you knew his wife died from cancer a few weeks ago?’

‘Yes, I read the funeral notice in the obituaries but I was too busy to go.’

David was about to continue when a soprano rendition of Hark the Herald Angels Sing echoed in the empty hall. He turned toward the door and laughed as his star performer approached. The girl’s chubby face reflected the enthusiasm that oozed from her.

‘Meredith, you look um… colourful… as usual.’ He stepped back and gazed at her peculiar outfit.

Mrs Jessop stood with her hands on her hips. Her head moved slowly from side to side. ‘I hope we’re not dressing in florescent angel costumes this year to sing Angels in the Realms of Glory.’

Meredith giggled. ‘It’s been a fabulous year David. I earned an art scholarship in London.’ Her eyes sparkled. ‘I have always wanted to work in London. Perhaps this will be my big chance.’

The side door swung open and a middle-aged woman entered as she spoke. ‘David, I can’t believe it’s that time of year again.’ She smiled and offered a hug. ‘John won’t be coming. He’s still away at army training.’

Mrs Jessop frowned. ‘Well, well. That was a bit inconsiderate of your son, Joan. He could have at least waited until after caroling season before he joined the Army.’ With another shake of her head, she slumped heavily into a chair.

Almost simultaneously, two other choir members burst into the hall through the front and side entries. The commotion rose with reminiscing and laughter which now seem to brighten the dreary hall.

David glanced at his watch and whistled. ‘Okay everyone, you know the routine. We’ll have three practices before we start caroling. Let’s begin tonight with Meredith’s choice, Hark the Herald Angels Sing.’ He paused as the choir members took their places in a curved line, shuffling closer to fill gaps where others had once stood. David cleared his throat. ‘It’s sad to think that if we go on like this, within a few years our town’s caroling group will no longer exist.’

Smiles disappeared and expressions became solemn. Whispers betrayed their thoughts.

Joan, one of the older group members, broke the quiet chatter. ‘Oh please, don’t say that David.’

He straightened and coughed. ‘Well let’s not spoil our practice. Maybe we can have a meeting sometime and do some recruiting for next year.’

Mrs Jessop made a throaty gruff noise. ‘Oh, but we can’t have strangers singing carols with us.’

‘Why not?’ Meredith’s face flushed.

‘Well… because…’

David tapped his baton on his music stand. ‘Twelve years ago, we began with fifteen carolers. We all knew each other like family and regardless of which church we attended, we visited each other during the year. We shared each other’s joys and sorrows.’ He sighed heavily. ‘When was the last time we commenced our annual caroling practice with a party… or polished our bells?’

Meredith sat on the floor and crossed her legs; her head in her hands. The line dispersed. Joan’s husband Rolf, brought a chair over so Joan could sit.

‘So, it’s come to this?’ Mrs Jessop sighed.

The hall grew silent. The only sound was the occasional creaking of the rafters and the wood-rotted door rattling with the slightest breeze.

‘I still want to sing Hark the Herald Angels Sing’, Meredith whispered.

David tapped his baton again. ‘OK, let’s sing our best this year. We’ll polish our bells and let the whole town know that we want caroling to continue. Let’s announce the birth of Jesus like we haven’t done before.’

A gentle white snow began to fall outside and the words Hark the Herald Angels Sing echoed in the old town hall and throughout their little town.

© Chrissy Siggee

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Archived now in: Christian Reads | Riverside Peace

Luke 1:26-28 says “And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, to a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.”

The New Testament begins its account of Mary’s life with the visit of Gabriel the angel who was sent by God as His messenger. The Lord God himself selected Mary to be the mother of Jesus. The Bible records Mary’s role in key events of the life of Jesus from his virgin birth to his crucifixion.

Christians acknowledge Mary as “blessed among women” (Luke 1:42) but we do not all agree that Mary is to be venerated. She is considered to be an outstanding example of a life dedicated to God.

Luke 1:38 says “And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.”

Mary used the word “handmaid” which is usually translated as “bond-servant” or “slave”, which refers to someone whose will is consumed by the will of another—in this case, Mary’s will is consumed by God’s. From this I see her attitude being parallel with what John the Baptist said in John 3:30 “He must increase, but I must decrease” (KJV) or, “He must become greater; I must become less.” (NIV).

Whichever argument you choose, or doctrine you follow, Mary had to have been one special lady for God to choose her to be the mother of Jesus. She was a handmaiden of the Lord.

This Christmas let us remember that we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ who came to earth as a human child. It was Jesus who died for our sake and put our sins upon Himself. He is the Lord of Lords and the King of Kings.

He was born of Mary—a servant of the Lord.

© Chrissy Siggee

Scripture Verses used are from the King James version of the Bible unless otherwise stated.

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

We sing our Christmas carols
and pray our saintly prayers—
We decorate our Christmas trees
and share our Christmas cheer.

We are tempted to dispute
over wasted Christmas cards—
Buy a ten-for-a-dollar pack
and write some worthless words.

Do we ever take the time
to choose a better card?
Do we really want a Santa
who drives a flying sleigh?

There’s something more to Christmas
than dashing through the snow—
A message of the new-born King,
is what I want to see.

Scenes of Mary and her child
with shepherds kneeling near—
Angels in the realms of glory,
announcing Jesus’ birth.

Do you see the Christmas star
reflecting in the clear night sky?
Those tiny specks of glitter dust
brings gladness to my heart.

Treasures of the Saviour’s birth
displayed upon each card—
To decorate our mantle shelf
or hung in every room.

Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh
three very special gifts—
Each to honour our new-born King,
asleep within His crib.

I want to share the joy I feel,
with every card I send—
Each one affirms our Father’s gift
and hope to all mankind.

So precious is our Savour’s birth,
we need to spread the news—
It’s time we took a stand
and share Him with the world.

Take some time to choose a card
it’s really not that hard—
Perhaps you could design your own,
but make it from your heart.

Come; let’s rejoice in His birth,
spread the news, Christ is born—
Choose a card that declares the truth;
don’t waste those Christmas cards.

© Chrissy Siggee

Archived in: Christian Reads

Just a little
of Your Holiness,
Just a little touch
of Your gentleness
Brings healing to my soul.

Just a little
of Your inward peace,
Just a little
of Your purest joy
Brings freedom to my soul.

Just a little
of Your glory revealed,
Just a little
of Your Word of life
Brings knowledge of Your love.

© Chrissy Siggee

Under Copyright: https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/catalog/4537869

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Christmas trees and candy canes,
Holly wreaths and jingle bells—
It’s that special time of the year.

Giggles, secrets, and bon bons,
Decorated stores galore—
It’s that special time of the year.

Granny smiles and Poppy winks,
Sharing gifts and candy canes—
It’s that special time of the year.

Garland hanging on the door,
Sending festive Christmas cheer—
It’s that special time of the year.

Greeting cards to choose and mail,
Wishes sent to someone dear—
It’s that special time of the year.

Good times remembered and shared,
Love ones missed no longer here—
It’s that special time of the year.

Celebrate the virgin’s birth,
Carolers and Christmas plays—
It’s that special time of the year.

Glory to the newborn king,
Remembering the reason—
It’s that special time of the year.

© Chrissy Siggee

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Jubilance radiates tranquil moments,
Young lovers pursue tender embraces–
Neighbourhood children join in games
Sweet aromas saturate festive appetites
Families share in united harmony.

Midnight services fill the churches,
Choirs sing in joyous proclamation–
Nativity scenes and dramas unfold,
Ascended praises announce His birth
Jesus Christ, Saviour and Lord.

Silence falls before the dawn,
Morning excitement awakes the birds–
Gifts are exchanged and children squeal,
Doorbells ring by kith and kin
Celebrations unfold with a festive feast.

Church bells echo through the town,
God’s people gather near and far –
Scripture is read of our Saviour’s birth,
Mankind raises their voices with carols sung,
Christians celebrate the birth of Christ.

© Chrissy Siggee

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Beautiful Jesus, to you I sing,
My life and plans are yours
Let this life of mine
Be filled with gladness and joy
I sing praises and songs to you.

Wonderful Jesus, to you I pray,
My heart and my gifts are yours
Let this heart of mine
Be filled with love and kindness
I pray praises and songs to you.

Loving Father, to you I give,
My soul and my will are yours
Let this heart of mine
Be filled with images of your love
I give praises and songs to you.

© Chrissy Siggee

 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
From my book: Glimpses of His Glory

under copyright: https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/catalog/4537869

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Psalm 103:1 tells us “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.”

A recent visit by the coast had me reminiscing about the days spent writing my first book. As I breathed in the seaside freshness, it stimulated the desires that once beckoned me to explore the dream. Pale pink clouds caressed the sunrise like a morning hug. Birds sang praises to welcome the dawn.

My thoughts reached out as in a dream, capturing a peace within my soul. While the sun elevated slowly into a glowing sky, words surged forth like a shifting stream. My fingers moved quickly to keep up with the flow of thoughts. My heart was overwhelmed by the outpouring of phrases previously unknown. There’s something about the break of day that gives freshness to the mind and releases expression onto a page.

Immersed in my writing, I was still aware of the increasing brightness filling the sky beyond the open window, but I was also conscious of the glow within my inner being. If there is ever a place I feel in harmony with God, it’s when I’m absorbed in writing. To not write would create an empty cavern in my life.

My desire is to praise Him through words inspired by creation. My hopes and dreams rest in knowing that He is the only one I need to bring joy and delight.

Father, let Your Word penetrate my soul. You are the author of my faith. Allow me, Lord, to bring joy and delight to your heart in return. May the words I write be inspired by your love and grace. Amen.

© Chrissy Siggee 2012

Scripture Verses used are from the New International Version of the Bible

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Philippians 4:7 – And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (KJV)

The dictionary meaning of peace:
calm, quiet, stillness, tranquillity, silence, harmony, serenity.

My thoughts on peace:
When the storm is over, peace stretches like a rainbow.
Peace is the beautiful presence of my Saviour while in prayer.
When there are no more tears, peace surrounds me like a hug.
Peace flows like a river through my soul.

Philippians 4:7 – And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Colossians 3:15 – And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

John 14:27 – Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (KJV)

Peace isn’t always easy to find in the midst of stress, pain, and struggle.

Peace is not always found among those we love and care about.
Peace needs to be a desire of our hearts.
Peace can be our goal.

Peace be with you this time of year.

Father, thank you for the peace you bring to our lives. Guide our path through life and let your peace reign in our family and friends. Lead our enemies into a life of peace with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

© Chrissy Siggee

First Published 2009

Scripture Verses used are from the King James Version of the Bible

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

my soul awaits the  sunset hues…

                  dawn, so long ago—

troubles of the day, be gone

                  and let me feel God’s peace,

permit the setting sun to give this body rest.

© Chrissy Siggee
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
From my book:     Glimpses of His Glory – (the book)

Archived in: Christian Reads