by Josh Waltz | Dec 19, 2021 | A Pastor's Heart
It’s an intriguing and enchanting story, that aspect of the nativity where the wise men visit the holy family in Bethlehem. Noble magi. Long journey. Mysterious star. Valuable gifts. From our perspective, it’s an enchanting story. But from the perspective of the...
by Josh Waltz | Dec 12, 2021 | A Pastor's Heart
In reading through Matthew’s account of Jesus’ birth a few years ago, I noticed what appeared to be an embarrassing mistake he made in applying a verse from Isaiah to Jesus’ birth. Here’s the passage: As Joseph considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord...
by Josh Waltz | Dec 5, 2021 | A Pastor's Heart
I love Luke 2:10. It’s a quote from the angel to the shepherds on that first Christmas night: “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy!” Just moments ago, the shepherds were utterly terrified. But now, great fear is replaced with great joy. How?...
by Josh Waltz | Nov 28, 2021 | A Pastor's Heart
One of our yearly traditions at Parker Hills is to observe Advent for the four Sundays leading to Christmas. Short readings, candle lightings, and a Christmas-themed sermon series are the central features of our tradition. It’s a special time, but we don’t do it just...
by Josh Waltz | Nov 21, 2021 | A Pastor's Heart
What is Christmas all about? When you get behind all the special traditions and tinsel and tunes, what does this season really represent? Of course, the short answer would be “the birth of Jesus.” But a more full answer can be found in Paul’s explanation in...
