Photo by Chrissy Siggee

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: Christian Reads

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.  Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4 (NIV)

How should we view the trials that we go through?  First, we should reflect on the reasons why we are facing them. Unfortunately, for most of us, our questioning comes from our human form of questioning of the— ‘why me?’ aspect.  This is of course just questioning God. Often this type of thinking easily moves into anger. This is the exact opposite of how we are directed to respond.

We are told to “consider it pure joy.” Now that seems a strange statement. If someone were to teach me to do that when facing trials, I would be tempted to call him an idiot. This would of course reveal only an immaturity and the unbiblical nature of my biblical and spiritual thinking.

We should view our trials with joyfulness, knowing what is really happening. That is, when we are being tried, our faith is being tested. What does that mean? When we face a challenge, do we respond by what we see and feel—or by what we believe to be true? If we are being tested it should increase our stability, our steadfastness, and our faith.

Father, help me to count all things as pure joy, whatever we face today. Give me the faith that is unwavering in all trials and let me found tested and true. Amen.

© Chrissy Siggee

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

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Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: Christian Reads

Psalm 32:8 – I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. 

Seeking wisdom should be a part of life. Wisdom should be sought when making decisions for a lifetime partner, parenting wisdom (from newborns through school days) teens, their wedding plans, etc. Wisdom is so important for guidance. Of course, there’s an assortment of classes, counseling, and generational pass-downs of valuable experience. Wisdom is also needed during times of crisis and when under financial pressure.

Where do we find such wisdom?

James 1:5 says: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” 

So why do we allow ourselves to stress out, panic, or worry in times like this? How often do we seek wisdom from the Lord?

In the early years of my marriage, I used to stress over every minor crisis, especially when my husband was interstate with work or on a course where I couldn’t contact him. When it came to a serious dilemma, I was panic-stricken. It took sheer willpower to seek wisdom through His word and be strengthened by His truths. By seeking wisdom when a situation arose, I could take my concerns immediately to the Lord in prayer.

The next time there’s a crisis or situation that requires wisdom, pray and seek out God’s wisdom in your circumstances. Through His Word and prayer, He will guide you through.

Father, show us wisdom in all situations that arise in our day-to-day lives. Teach us to trust you, seek out insights through your word, and prompt us to pray through every crisis. Strengthen us so we may stand firm when things happen that need your wisdom to see us through.  Amen.

 © Chrissy Siggee 

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

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him Psalm 37:7a 

When an answer to prayer is not quick in coming, we often find ourselves focusing on the prayer itself and on the answer we desire to that prayer. While we know it’s well to be positive, and we know God will answer in His time, we need to wait on Him, the one who meets all our needs—and He’s never late.

It’s while we wait that we need to keep our eyes fixed on the Lord, study His Word, and find instruction, comfort, and encouragement. We need to trust Him and know that He can and will do what He considers best for His children.

There’s one thing I have learned through waiting; it gives me the opportunity to give God the glory for an unwavering assurance that He has all things under control. Everything is in His hands and there is a time for everything.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 says: There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. Verse 11 – He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. (NIV)

Wait in hope, perseverance, patience, and joy because His grace is sufficient for me.

Father, help us to be patient with answers to prayer. Keep our eyes fixed on You knowing all things will come to pass in Your perfect timing. Amen

© Chrissy Siggee

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

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

silence captures a moment in time—

                  an owl sounds the close of day,

a hush falls over the darkening sky

                  and the world closes its eyes to sleep.

© Chrissy Siggee

From my book:   Glimpses of His Glory

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

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: Christian Reads

Isaiah 41:10 says: So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. 

Are you afraid of anything or someone? I’m afraid of answering machines. You know, when you are all ready to speak to someone over the phone and suddenly you’re listening to a recorded voice that says something like: Please leave a short message and we’ll get back to you.

Your fear may be going to the dentist, speaking in front of an audience, or even the fear of spiders. Mmm…I have to admit I don’t like spiders. Whatever your fear is, we all have experienced times in our lives when we are afraid.

Today’s Bible verse gives us some hope when it comes to fear. It tells us to “not be afraid”. We don’t have to be afraid because we have a hope that others do not have. We know that God will strengthen us and help us in each situation that we face.

Our Father knows the future and the past and has boundless amounts of wisdom to help us in even the most difficult of times. God is on our side and He is always walking with us and through any situation that we might face we can see why He tells us to not be afraid. God won’t let us down, so we have no reason to be afraid.

Simple? No not at all but when you come face to face with your fear, remember that our Father is always with us.

 Father, we thank you that you are with us even in times we have to face our fears. Help us to remember the words of promise that You are our God and that You will strengthen us and help us. Amen

© Chrissy Siggee

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

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Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

There isn’t time to change her mind 
They told my mother lies,
Restricted by these clamps that bind 
I hear her inward cries. 

There isn’t room to shift and squirm 
Please take that thing away,
I was made to grow full-term
My hope you did betray. 

Before I formed you in the womb, 
I knew you…

There isn’t time to understand 
No time to move aside,
Save me from this glove-swathed hand
I need a place to hide. 

There’s no time to shun the tomb 
This fear has taken hold,
My heart beats strong within her womb 
I’ve never felt so cold. 

I will never leave nor forsake you, 
Don’t be afraid… 

There isn’t time to know my name
My face she will not see,
All I feel is my mother’s shame 
My life will never be. 

There isn’t even time to cry 
All I can do is pray, 
No! I do not want to die
Please just go away. 

When you walk through the valley,
Fear no evil… 

There isn’t time to hug you, Mum 
Or look upon your face,
Listen to you sing or hum 
And know your true embrace. 

I’ll never walk upon the earth 
It’s time to say goodbye,
This wasn’t meant to be my birth
Mother…it’s time for me to die. 

I have called you by name,
Take my hand…

© Chrissy Siggee

Archived in: Christian Reads

Archived in: Christian Reads

Matthew 18:4 –  Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. (NIV)

Humility speaks to me of meekness and being humble. I often think I’m not as humble as I ought, yet humility is a requirement of our faith.

I have seen the way the Lord works in the lives of those who show humility in what they do and say and, quite often, how they demonstrate their kindness to those around them. I see the rewards of their actions and the gentleness they demonstrate in their everyday lives. In whatever they do, their actions speak the humility they possess.

I’ve also witnessed the fall of the arrogant and proud.  Too many successful leaders fall because of pride. They allow success to be their ambition rather than Christ their goal.  They begin to believe in their own ability rather than Christ’s through them.

So how do we keep a balance?

Without Christ we are nothing and because we have Christ in our lives, we have worth and purpose. There is nothing wrong with feeling good about what Christ has done for us but we need to realize he doesn’t make us great.

Be willing to live the success that God has given us through humble acknowledgment of the source.

Father, show us how humility can speak through us by our actions. Help us to live humbly and to your purpose and keep from being proud and haughty, but demonstrate the true source of our abilities. Amen.

© Chrissy Siggee  

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

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Psalm 27:14 says: “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.”

Philippians 4:12: “I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things, I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.”

Are there times in your life when you have felt overwhelmed by pain, tiredness or just with the busyness of life itself? 

There have been times in my life when I felt overwhelmed. My health issues often cause physical pain and tiredness. I also feel the pain family and dear friends go through. It’s something that’s part of me and I can’t change it. 

Father, I am weak but you are strong. Through the struggles of day-to-day busyness, pain, and weariness, I look to you for the courage to go on. Help me to do what I need to do in your strength. Amen

© Chrissy Siggee

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

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Breathe in.
Breathe in His presence.
The Holy Spirit is here.

Seek now.
Seek now and listen.
Holy blessings are given.

Be still.
Be still in the now.
Receive all that He gives you.

Submit.
Submit fully.
His grace will sustain – always.

Chrissy Siggee

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

1 Corinthians 15:14-22 “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.  But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.” (NIV)

Christians worldwide celebrate the resurrection of their Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, on Easter Sunday. Christianity teaches that the author and creator of the faith are alive today. No other religion in the world makes such an amazing claim. Other religions may claim that the “spirit” of their founder lives in his religious teachings, but Christians declare that Jesus Christ lives today — bodily.

True biblical Christianity teaches that Jesus really died AND really rose from the dead – physically. Jesus rose bodily as well as spiritually from the grave. He then appeared alive to a variety of people at many different times over a period of forty days. Christianity further teaches that after these indisputable “physical” appearances, Jesus Christ “physically” left this earth and promised to return “physically” one day.

John 14:1-3 says, “Let not your heart be troubled. Ye believe in God; believe also in Me.  In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto Myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.”

Acts 1:9-12 describes what the disciples saw on the Mount of Olives: “After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. ^“Men of Galilee,’ they said, ‘why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.’ Then they returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk from the city.” (NIV)

If there was no foundation for the Christian faith, if Jesus Christ did not die on the cross, if He didn’t rise from the dead, then the whole basis of the Christian faith would be — empty.

The Christian faith holds that Jesus was resurrected from the dead bodily, ascended into heaven bodily, lives today in glory in a body, and will someday return to this earth bodily.

1 Corinthians 15:3-8 “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. After that, he was seen by James; then of all the apostles. And last of all, he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.”

Father, thank you for dying on the cross for us so that we may be saved from eternal death. We praise you this Resurrection day for the faith of the Christian church and the hope of your return. Amen

© Chrissy Siggee 2011

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

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Both Matthew and Mark recorded these words cried out by Jesus on the cross. These same words occur interestingly enough in the opening verse of the Twenty Second Psalm. Yet neither Matthew nor Mark referred to them as a fulfilment of prophecy and after six hours of agony in body and soul on the cross, this cry escapes from our Saviours lips.

There were not many words spoken by Jesus while he was on the cross. The words He did say are recorded specifically.

His first words were “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do”—-a prayer for pardon.

His second proclamation made was a promise of peace.

“Today you shall be with me in Paradise”

His third decree was one of kindness to and for his mother.

“Woman behold thy son….Son behold thy mother.” 

When the darkness had fallen, three last announcements where uttered. They followed in rapid succession.

“I thirst”

“It is finished”

“Father into thy hands I commend my spirit”–

Then, there was this cry of sorrow.

“My God, my God, why Hast Thou Forsaken Me?

There is something of extraordinary power and feeling in these words of Jesus on the Cross. This is obvious from the fact that both Matthew and Mark have diligently given the words in the language our Lord used.

“Eli Eli, lama Sa-bach-thani”

Nowhere else in Scripture do we find recurrence of these words except in the Twenty Second Psalm. When Jesus cried these words, he was expressing suffering that was never at any other time felt in this world and I believe, never will again.

To the historian, to the poet or to the theologian, the description and the language of these words in Psalms 22 might suggest it could have been either history or prophecy.  However, the context of Psalm 22 is not clear either way.

Matthew and Mark may not have recognised the connection.  However, Jesus, a learned scholar of the Scriptures from a very young age, would have known the Psalms well.  He said many times through out His ministry “it is written”.

To the believer, nevertheless, this cry is a revelation of the deep suffering and anguishes our Saviour bore, and a proof of His infinite love for sinners.

It challenges us, with all the saints, to be strong to understand what is:

“..the length and breadth and height and depth of the love of God”…

Ephesians 3 verses 18 & 19 KJV

If the cross is the fundamental Truth of the New Testament, this cry is the heart of this truth and its inmost expression.  This is the Holy of Holys to the reverent reader of the story of the passion.

© Chrissy Siggee

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Beaten and humiliated,
they led my Lord away
to the mount of death—
He was nailed and hung
on a wooden cross—
Naked and shamed
like a common thief.

They mocked.
They cursed.
They laughed.

Bleeding head hung low,
nails ripped hands and feet
A body slashed and torn—
Blood flowed down
onto the rugged ground—
Pain and dread
etched on His face.

Shame.
Sorrow.
Shunned.

Blamed and disgraced,
all purity discredited
Guilt and sin He bore—
My beautiful Jesus,
You did this for me—
You bled and died
So I could live.

They seized His clothes.
They pierced His side.
They crucified my Lord!

© Chrissy Siggee

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take. Mark 15:24

This stripping of Jesus was so appalling that it was referred to in all four Gospels.

Matthew observed that this occurrence was a fulfillment of Psalm 22:18 “They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture.”

Mark also fled naked from the mob in the garden.

Luke 23:34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment and cast lots.

John also refers to the Psalm, as Matthew did, but also gives the most detailed and accurate description of the whole agony of the crucifixion.

The Christ lived in purity and dignity of manhood. Almost all pictures of the crucifixion give us the view of a dignified Jesus. But one gospel records the scene — “They stripped Him,” John said. Naked He came from His mother’s womb, and naked He hangs from a tree.

Adam experienced the shame of nakedness in Eden because of his transgression. So too, the Son of God took our sinful flesh and the shame of our nakedness upon Himself.

I believe there were two elements to the crucifixion; one of the physical and the other of the mental suffering. Jesus was despised and rejected, even by His own friends. He was oppressed by sinners, held in contempt by the soldiers, cursed by men, and stripped of His garments.

His garments. His seamless robe. A garment fit for a king. His clothing wouldn’t have been a beggar’s rags.

But when I read Psalm 93:1 “The LORD reigneth, he is clothed with majesty; the LORD is clothed with strength, wherewith he hath girded himself: the world also is established, that it cannot be moved.” It puts a put a whole new perspective and horror into the story. They parted His garments and cast lots…

© Chrissy Siggee

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

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Mark 15:25-28: And it was the third hour, and they crucified him. And the superscription of his accusation was written over, THE KING OF THE JEWS. And with him, they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left. And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, and he was numbered with the transgressors.

We have read about the cruelty of inhuman treatment of Jesus by the soldiers, servants, and the people, who assembled to witness his beating. Much can be said again about the unwarranted punishment our Lord received prior to His crucifixion. We have also read and heard repeatedly of the death of Christ. Many of us have seen the “Passion of the Christ” movie. Without playing down the significance of the crucifixion itself in any way, let’s move on to the mysteries of His death.

The message of the cross is indeed a mystery. The message can be learned through the Scriptures, movies, and witnessing. Prophecies and teachings were recorded throughout the Old Testament; including the Psalms.

‘I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; That in everything ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.’ 1 Corinthians 1:4-10

Yet…it’s not only that we see in the death of Jesus the highest demonstration of God’s love, but also of His infinite sorrow and compassion. “But as far as the east is from the west, so shall he remove our sin”. (paraphrased) Not even an earthly father can pay the penalty of his child’s transgression, nor can any man pay the price of the sin of another.

When Paul speaks of the suffering of Jesus on the cross, he deals with facts so awe-inspiring that he calls them: “the depths of God”. (1 Corinthians 2:10) These mysteries are so deep that they are unfathomable of all human thinking – even more unfathomable as the deepest, unreachable, bottomless ocean. This act of love is beyond measure. But, by His Holy Spirit, God reveals it to even the youngest of children, the simplest-minded, and the uneducated. His love for us is infinite. Although we cannot understand these mysteries, we thank Him with absolute gratefulness and humility.

My hope, my strength, my redeemer, my God, my King, and my all…they crucified my Lord.

© Chrissy Siggee

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Archived in: Christian Reads

Today’s Thoughts

All sins, including the generational consequences often referred to as the “sins of the fathers” (Exodus 20:5), were paid for and forgiven through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.

Did you know while the results of generational sins might persist, the spiritual guilt and curse are broken for those who turn to Christ. The cross provided us with His grace so the guilt and the cycle of generational sin is broken.

By accepting the cross, we are forgiven, and the record of sin is removed, leading to a state of “no condemnation”.

While some Christians feel the need to judge those who are already forgiven, I believe that Salvation is a gift of God’s grace received through faith, “not earned by personal works” or by human judgmental intimidation.

Just my thoughts.

– Chrissy

Archived in: Christian Reads

Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads

Photo by Chrissy Siggee

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

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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