By David Dawson
ddawson@tnbaptist.org
FRANKLIN — In addition to creating smiles on Christmas morning, the true impact of the Christmas Backpacks ministry often extends well beyond Dec. 25.
In some cases, in fact, the impact literally lasts for eternity.
Since its inception, the ministry — which provides backpacks filled with toys, clothes and other items to children in low-income families — has served as a gateway for children to come to know the Lord in a personal way.
Through the distribution of backpacks, children are able to see the love of God on display through the kindness and generosity of people they are unlikely to ever meet in person.
Those types of “after-effects” are at the heart of the ministry, said Beth Moore, compassion ministry specialist for the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board. [Read more…]
Several years ago, I watched a group of kindergarten children sing “Silent Night” in an assisted living center. With angelic faces and sparkling eyes, these 5-year-old little ones had memorized the first stanza of this beautiful old Christmas hymn. Watching the faces of those in the audience, I saw eyes brimming with tears … perhaps remembering Christmas past when their own children had been in a church program. Or, recalling their own childhood when their family had gone out together and cut a tree from the family farm. 
One of the great words in the English language is the word “hope.” I Peter 1:3 says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
NASHVILLE — Almost all Americans celebrate Christmas, but most say COVID-19 will cause some changes to their usual holiday habits.
Christmas celebrations may look a little different this year for many Tennessee families as they deal with the reality of COVID-19.
Who hijacked Christmas? I went to the store recently and was greeted by aisles of Christmas trees, toys, decorations, lighting and yard displays. In one small section there were a few mangers with baby Jesus along with Joseph and Mary and some sheep. Another with the wise men offering gifts to the messiah.
Last year a friend gave me a copy of Lee Strobel’s book, The Case for Christmas. The book is not new, having been written in 1998. I had heard of the book but this was the first time I actually held it in in my hand and began to read through it.