December 24, 2024 • 46 mins
Join us for a heartwarming Christmas Spectacular as we reflect on the profound meaning of the season. Alongside my amazing co-host Lauren and special guest Jelena McClellan, we explore the rich tapestry of Christmas traditions, with a special focus on German customs like the Advent calendar. We recount the sacred journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, emphasizing the love, joy, peace, and hope that Christmas brings. Together, we share our gratitude for the blessings of the year, wishing you a Merry Christmas filled with the same peace and joy that Jesus' birth brought to the world.
Immerse yourself in a journey of spiritual reflection and cherished traditions. We discuss the profound symbolism of giving, the enduring significance of light, and the universal message of hope and salvation in Jesus' birth. Discover the festive spirit of German Christmas markets and the role of unity and peace in holiday celebrations. Our lively conversation includes humorous moments, such as the mix-up between Franz Gruber and Hans Gruber, adding a touch of levity to cherished carols and beloved films. Celebrate the season with us as we capture the hope and jubilation of this joyous time.
Listen to my friend Gayla at godslovingsacrifice.com or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Thank You. I Love You!
SEE YA!
Rick
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hello everybody and welcome to a very special
episode of Renewed Mindsets.
I'm Rick, and joining me todayis my wonderful co-host, lauren.
Speaker 2 (00:10):
Hey everyone, and Merry Christmas.
We are so excited to celebratethis joyous season with you, as
we gather around to reflect onthe birth of our Savior, jesus
Christ.
We want to extend our heartfeltgratitude to all of you who
have been with us throughoutthis incredible year.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
That's right, lauren.
Your support, your messages andyour encouragement have meant
the world to us.
We've been truly blessed toshare this journey of renewing
our minds and growing in God'swisdom together with each and
every one of you.
Speaker 2 (00:38):
And as we celebrate the birth of Christ, let's
remember the true meaning ofthis season.
It's a time of love, joy, peaceand hope.
It's about God's greatest giftto us His Son Jesus.
Speaker 1 (00:49):
So, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you for
being a part of the RenewedMindsets family.
We look forward to continuingthis journey with you in the
coming year.
Let's dive in today's specialepisode, celebrating the reason
for the season and reflecting onthe blessings of this past year
.
Speaker 2 (01:07):
And may your hearts be filled with the peace and joy
that comes from knowing ourSavior.
Speaker 1 (01:11):
Merry Christmas.
Speaker 2 (01:13):
I said Merry Christmas at the beginning, bye.
Speaker 1 (01:18):
Introducing the newest thing in snacking Doc
Brown's Nuclear Popcorn Popper,the popcorn popper that never
leaves a kernel unpopped.
This baby is nuclear.
And try it with our new flavorMeltdown Butter.
Doc Brown's Nuclear PopcornPopper, it's good.
Speaker 4 (01:53):
The following program is brought to you in living
color on NBC.
Speaker 1 (02:01):
From the frigid shores of Lake Smith in central
Alabama.
It's the Renewed MindsetsChristmas Spectacular, starring
Bob Hope and John Denver, withspecial guests Dean Martin and
(02:24):
Bing Crosby.
Featuring appearances by TB'sBenji, the man of a thousand
voices, rich Little From TB'sthe Brady Bunch, it's the Brady
Kids, music by GE Smith and theSaturday Night Live band, and a
very special appearance fromCharo and now your host of the
(02:49):
show, rick Juhasz.
Thank you, thank you.
You're so kind, you're so kind.
Welcome to the 2023 RenewedMindsets Christmas Spectacular.
We've got a lot of fun andsurprises for you today.
So why do I hear a wall phonefrom my grandmother's house?
(03:11):
Hey, is somebody gonna get that?
Hello, somebody.
Would you all please excuse me?
I need to answer this phone.
It doesn't look like anybodyelse is around here.
Merry Christmas, renewedmindsets.
(03:35):
Oh, hey.
Uh-huh.
Speaker 2 (03:39):
Uh-huh.
Uh-huh.
I see, yeah, uh-huh.
Speaker 1 (04:01):
Well, okay, then have a Merry.
Speaker 4 (04:02):
Christmas.
Well folks, bad news, sorryfolks park's closed.
Speaker 1 (04:04):
The Moose out front should have told you.
It looks like the Brady kidsdecided to have their own
Christmas special and the buswith all our guests won't be
coming Now now.
Now, everybody, calm down, calmdown, it's gonna be okay.
I've always got a plan B.
Let's go, boys.
Hey, welcome to the RenewedMindset's Christmas Spectacular.
(04:37):
In this special episode, wewill unravel the true essence of
Christmas.
My first surprise of this showis I have a co-host, jelena
McClellan.
She's here to keep me on trackas well as provide a different
perspective on Christmas from aninternational point of view.
(04:58):
Say hey to everyone, jelena.
Speaker 4 (05:02):
Hey everyone, Trying to keep you on track is going to
be a job, but I will do my best.
Yes, so I grew up in Germanyand Christmas was quite
different than what I'm used tohere in the United States.
We have a lot of differenttraditions and I'd love to share
some of those with you guys.
Speaker 1 (05:18):
Well, I know.
I'm looking forward to hearingsome of those To understand what
Christmas is really about.
Let's begin by going back over2,000 years ago.
Our story begins in a humblemanger in Bethlehem.
Speaker 4 (05:33):
Ah, Bethlehem.
So, Rick, did you know thatGermany introduced Advent
calendars?
You don't say you know thosecute little sometimes it's
pictures.
I like the chocolate versionactually, but anyway they were
used by German Protestantsduring the early 19th century as
a way to eagerly anticipate thearrival of Christmas, and it
became a really nice traditionthat I'm pretty sure is spread
(05:55):
quite far across the globe bynow.
Speaker 1 (05:58):
I did not know that, and, man, that was random.
I do like the ones withchocolate inside, though we
don't need a calendar toremember why we celebrate this
awesome holiday.
It all started when an angelvisited Mary with incredible
news.
As Mary listened intently.
(06:20):
You mean, I'm going to have ababy intently, you mean, I'm
going to have a baby and thusbegan a journey that would
change the course of historyforever, and we present to you
tonight the Road to Bethlehem.
Speaker 4 (06:49):
Joseph, Joseph, it's time for a rest.
Speaker 1 (06:51):
Yes, a rest.
Can you go a bit more?
Speaker 4 (06:55):
How much further, all the way to Bethlehem?
Perhaps it's time for a rest.
Speaker 1 (07:06):
Very well, joseph ties up the mules.
Mary finds a rock to sit on.
Speaker 4 (07:10):
You're quiet, joseph, am I?
Yes, are you angry?
You get quiet when you're angry.
Speaker 1 (07:18):
I'm not angry.
Speaker 4 (07:20):
Tired.
Yes, you wish we were makingbetter time.
Speaker 1 (07:26):
It's a long time to be on this road.
The sooner we get to Bethlehem,the better.
Speaker 4 (07:31):
I'm sorry I'm slowing us down.
I could try riding again for alittle bit.
Speaker 1 (07:36):
No, don't rush.
Don't mistake me, I want to getto Bethlehem for your sake, so
that you can rest, but we'll goat your pace.
Of course, I got no wish torush you or rush him, definitely
not.
Mary and Joseph sit together insilence.
Speaker 4 (07:56):
It has been a long road to get here.
Speaker 1 (07:59):
From Nazareth.
Speaker 4 (08:00):
Not the actual road, joseph, I mean these long nine
months To bring us here, justoutside of Bethlehem and ready
to Don't even say it.
Speaker 1 (08:10):
You gotta hold off until we at least get into town.
Speaker 4 (08:14):
Ugh, the thought of giving birth in a dirty inn
troubles me.
It is no place for labor.
I'd rather be home.
What?
Speaker 1 (08:24):
Nothing.
Speaker 4 (08:25):
You had that look on your face.
What are you not telling me?
Speaker 1 (08:29):
It's nothing.
You need to worry, joseph.
Tell me the census.
It's bringing a lot of peopleto Bethlehem and probably maybe
we won't get a room.
Speaker 4 (08:43):
Is that what you're telling me?
Speaker 1 (08:46):
I don't have any way of knowing, but the sooner so
what Shall I give birth?
Speaker 4 (08:50):
in the street, or on the back of that mule?
Speaker 1 (08:53):
God will provide something.
If not a room, then Perhaps apigsty?
Speaker 4 (08:57):
Yes, wouldn't that be perfect, mary.
I can see why you didn't wantto tell me.
Speaker 1 (09:03):
You do get worked up from time to time.
Can you blame me?
Blame, no, it's one of thethings I love about you.
Speaker 4 (09:11):
Oh, is that right.
Speaker 1 (09:13):
You have spirit, you have heart.
Few women could handle this theway you have.
Speaker 4 (09:19):
I must admit, it has not been easy.
Speaker 1 (09:23):
Hey, tell me about the angel again.
Speaker 4 (09:26):
Gabriel, yes, I have told you that many times.
Speaker 1 (09:30):
Well, I want to hear it again.
Speaker 4 (09:32):
You're like a child, joseph.
Fine, I was in my father'shouse getting things ready for
dinner.
Speaker 1 (09:43):
Through the power of technology, we're going to
transport you back to that time,and now we present Story of a
Messenger.
It summarizes an angel'sinvolvement in the biblical
narrative of Christmas.
For thousands of years I havedelivered God's messages to
(10:08):
earth.
At times his voice is gentlelike the whispering wind,
personal and sacred.
Gentle like the whispering wind, personal and sacred.
Other times he thunders, mightyand strong, to be heard far and
wide by anyone who would chooseto listen and change.
Every time his words are exact,true, perfect life itself, from
(10:32):
the very source.
When the maker of heaven andearth takes his moment to speak,
the very ground and sky, everyplant and beast stops to breathe
in and cry of their creator.
It is more wonderful, morebeautiful than anything or
anyone could possibly express.
(10:54):
And this is my purpose tohumbly proclaim the messages of
the King, with joy and honor ofhigh heaven, to a world waiting,
longing for his word.
Over time, he has chosen aspecific group of people to
(11:14):
speak to.
Israel is his loveth among allnations and the storyteller of
his plan on earth.
Beginning with Abraham, isaacand Jacob, continuing through
judges and prophets, priests andkings, the whisper of a bigger
promise is spoken and heard,remembered and kept Down through
(11:39):
time, through a young girl in alittle village of Nazareth,
mary.
Mary is her name, chosen amongwomen favored by God and oh so
very blessed.
The message God intended forher was the message of his heart
(12:00):
, not only for Mary but forevery person for all of eternity
.
This one message birthedmessages to shepherds and wise
men, men and women of every ageand tribe and tongue for
centuries to come.
This message is what heraldsevery other I have ever
(12:24):
delivered God wearing the fleshof humanity as a child Messiah,
born to save the world.
This portion of our program isbrought to you by Oxygen.
Remember, four out of fivedoctors recommend Oxygen to
(12:45):
their patients who enjoybreathing Oxygen.
It's good.
And now we pick up where weleft off on the road to
Bethlehem.
Speaker 4 (13:02):
I saw a bright flash, like a roaring fire, with this
radiating heat which seemed toburn my face.
Suddenly I was in the presenceof an angel.
He said Greetings you, who arehighly favored.
The Lord is with you, which wastroubling.
What kind of greeting was that?
But Gabriel the angel was veryperceptive and he told me not to
be afraid.
He said that I'd found favorwith God.
(13:24):
You will conceive and givebirth to a son and you are to
call him Jesus, he said.
He will be great and will becalled the Son of the Most High,
the Lord.
God will give him the throne ofhis father, David, and he will
reign over Jacob's descendantsforever.
Speaker 1 (13:38):
His kingdom will never end.
And you asked how could this be, since you're a virgin?
Speaker 4 (13:44):
I thought you asked me to tell the story.
Sorry, but yes, that's what Iasked.
And the angel said the HolySpirit will come on you and the
power of the Most High willovershadow you, so the Holy One
to be born will be called theSon of God.
Then he spoke about my cousin,Elizabeth and her child.
He said that no word from Godwill ever fail.
Speaker 1 (14:04):
I love that part.
No word of God will ever fail.
And you answered.
Speaker 4 (14:09):
What could I answer?
God saw fit to send me an angelme.
I said I am the Lord's servant.
May your word to me befulfilled.
Speaker 1 (14:18):
And then he left.
Speaker 4 (14:19):
Then he left.
Speaker 1 (14:21):
Sometimes I wish God would have sent angels to our
families.
Speaker 4 (14:25):
It would have made things easier.
Easier, not easy.
Speaker 1 (14:30):
You know, I didn't ask to be put in this situation.
Speaker 4 (14:33):
I didn't either.
We were chosen, joseph, chosenby God for this.
Speaker 1 (14:38):
Chosen.
What did he choose?
A simple carpenter, a girl, acouple of kids, with no money,
no resources.
It's God's plan, joseph, andit's a good thing too.
If it were anyone else's, Ishould think this whole
situation to be utterly hopeless, joseph.
I mean it Hopeless.
(14:59):
You question God's plan.
I'm just saying I don't see it.
We got very little money, we'retraveling by ourselves.
Speaker 4 (15:07):
God chose us for a reason, joseph, okay, but why?
Speaker 1 (15:12):
Why us?
Did you ever think about that,Mary?
Why did he choose usspecifically?
What do you mean?
I mean, why couldn't it havebeen somebody else, Somebody
more properly equipped for thissort of thing?
Why now?
Why in the middle of thiscensus?
Speaker 4 (15:31):
Listen to you.
Do you think we're the first toask that question?
Do you think Moses felt that hewas the best equipped to lead
our people from slavery?
Do you think Elijah felt likehe was the best person to
prophesy against the idols ofBaal, or that David was the best
warrior to face Goliath?
God chooses who he chooses.
Speaker 1 (15:48):
Now those men are heroes of our people.
Who else could have done thosethings but them?
Speaker 4 (15:58):
Only in hindsight, Joseph.
Speaker 1 (15:58):
Only after the fact is obvious why God chose those
men.
And so what are we supposed to?
Speaker 4 (16:01):
do Hope Hope in God, hope in his wisdom and his plan,
hope that God is with us.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
You know, that's what the angels said they would call
him Emmanuel.
Speaker 4 (16:10):
God with us.
Speaker 1 (16:12):
No word of God will ever fail.
Yep, it's almost too fantasticto believe this little guy.
Is God with us, just us, littleJoseph and Mary of Nazareth.
Speaker 4 (16:25):
And that, my husband, is why God chose us.
Speaker 1 (16:28):
Well, come on, dear wife, We've hung out here long
enough.
Joseph helps her up from therock.
Speaker 4 (16:33):
Perhaps there's room yet left in Bethlehem.
Speaker 1 (16:36):
Yeah, perhaps it does seem strange though, doesn't it
?
Speaker 4 (16:40):
What's that?
Speaker 1 (16:41):
The Son of God is going to be born sometime soon,
maybe tonight, and we'll be inthe sleepy little town of
Bethlehem.
How in the world would anybodyknow he was even born?
You know, they really had tolove each other and it shows.
Speaker 4 (17:03):
Aw love during Christmas.
It's just like all thoseheartwarming romantic comedies
on the Hallmark Channel.
But did you know that the truelove lies at the heart of the
celebration?
Speaker 1 (17:14):
Absolutely.
The Bible teaches us that Godso loved the world that he gave
his one and only son.
Speaker 4 (17:21):
That whoever believes in him shall not die but have
everlasting life.
Speaker 1 (17:25):
Well, that's later on in his life.
Right now, Christmas surprisesWoohoo.
Speaker 4 (17:33):
I can't wait for presents and unwrapping them.
But in today's consumer-drivenworld it's easy to get caught up
in materialism during Christmas.
But the true spirit of givinglies in love and generosity,
knowing that God gave us thegreatest gift of all.
Speaker 1 (17:47):
You know, in today's materialistic world it's far too
easy to lose sight of the truespirit of Christmas.
Yet at its core, gift-giving isall about expressing love and
generosity.
Speaker 4 (18:01):
And it should remind us of the gifts brought by the
Magi.
By the way, we call them thethree kings in Germany, just so
you know A little bit moretradition here To give the
newborn king of kings gold,myrrh and frankincense.
Speaker 1 (18:14):
You mean fronkincense .
Speaker 4 (18:19):
I was waiting on that .
Whatever you and your moviequotes, did you know that
Christmas itself is a surprisingtwist in history?
Speaker 1 (18:26):
How's that?
Speaker 4 (18:27):
Well, think about it.
Mary and Joseph were probablynot expecting an angelic
visitation or a miraculous birthin Bethlehem, but it happened
anyway A surprise package calledJesus.
Little did they know that theultimate gift would be cherished
by generations.
The act of giving became anenduring symbol, reminding us to
(18:48):
appreciate life's blessingswhile selflessly helping those
in need.
Speaker 1 (18:53):
And now we're proud to present the story of a seeker
helping those in need.
And now we're proud to presentthe story of a seeker.
It places the wise man in thebiblical narrative prior to the
discovery of Jesus in Bethlehem.
Some people spend their livessearching for wealth or
(19:25):
recognition or achievement.
Others search for beauty ormeaning or love.
I have spent mine searching thescriptures for whispered of the
promised Jewish Messiah and theskies for the new star that
will herald his birth.
The more I learn, the more I amconsumed with the pursuit of
this king.
There is no doubt he will begreat, carrying on the dynasty
(19:51):
of his father, david and thewonderful counselor to his
people.
Father David and the wonderfulcounselor to his people, he is
to be a savior and redeemer ofIsrael, the manifestation of God
himself with us in humanity, apromise of light that extends
even to the heart of the Gentile.
But for all I know, there isstill so much that perplexes me.
(20:17):
If the scriptures are correct,it appears he will endure much
hardship the betrayal of afriend, the unexplained hatred
of his peers, beaten andstripped for the very people he
loves.
Prophecy for prophecy, it seemshis calling will cost him his
(20:43):
very life.
How is it he will be bothexalted and persecuted, loved
and rejected.
What kind of child, what kindof Messiah is this that we are
waiting for?
The answer may come morequickly than I know.
(21:07):
There has been some movement inthe heavens, a star that must
signal his coming, and so thereare some making plans, getting
themselves ready, preparinggifts with hope that they will
be presented to thislong-awaited child king.
I too will be on this journeyto Jerusalem.
(21:29):
I don't know what answers mightbe found in him, still so
tender in his mother's care, butI must go, if only to see him
with my eyes and bow my knee inworship.
This is my life, this is myprayer.
(21:53):
Preya, you've heard of soap on arope.
Well, now, from the makers ofLiquid Drain Buster, it's pizza
on a string.
Yes, now you can enjoy adelicious meal of hot pizza even
when you take a shower.
Pizza on a string is definitelynot waterproof, but it tastes
great.
(22:13):
Go buy your own pizza on astring today and be on the
lookout for our newest productspaghetti shoelaces Pizza on a
string.
It's good.
Talk about an unexpecteddelivery service straight from
(22:35):
heaven.
It's just so magnificent.
I mean, the world was indarkness.
And then Jesus was born and heis the light of the world, and
now we can all see.
Darkness gave way as joyoustidings spread throughout
(22:58):
Bethlehem.
Speaker 2 (22:59):
Glory to God in the highest and on earth, peace,
good will toward men.
Speaker 1 (23:07):
And now we present the story of an outcast.
This story is about a shepherdthat has spent his lifetime in
the shadows of Jewish culture,living and learning from afar.
A spiritual hunger drives himto read the scriptures and
discovers a lengthy record ofshepherds just like him.
(23:29):
After the angelic visitationand visiting Jesus in the manger
, he is sure the good news isfor everyone, even outcasts like
shepherds.
All my life I've been invisible, as my father has been, and my
(23:51):
grandfather and his fatherbefore that.
We are shepherds, nameless,faceless, would-be thieves to
our countrymen and avoided atany and all costs.
It is true I've met with myshare of shepherds who live up
(24:11):
to the underwhelmingexpectations of my people, but
to say we are all despicable anduntrustworthy is as ridiculous
as saying every priest ishypocritical and power-hungry,
although at times I do wonder.
I may not be allowed into thesynagogue and God himself helped
(24:35):
me if I stepped foot inside thetemple.
But I have read the scripturesfor myself.
Many of my friends don't wantanything to do with God.
I can't blame them for the wayhis people treat him, but I've
always felt it was myunquestioned duty to rebel
against the system, if even insuch a tiny, private way.
(24:58):
This is what I have discovered.
I don't think God is like anyof them.
Over and over again he usesshepherds for his work Abraham
Isaac, jacob, moses, king David,the prophet Amos.
(25:21):
He even likens himself to ashepherd.
God says there is somethinginside of me that's like him.
The thought is so radical evenI have a hard time believing it,
but it's there, plain as day,spread throughout the scriptures
(25:43):
.
I've come to wonder if mypeople secretly cut these
passages out.
It must make them so angry.
But these are the parts thatmake me smile.
The events of last night make mecertain my suspicions about God
(26:03):
are correct.
An angel appeared to us late inthe fields, singing about good
news from God His son's beenborn to a young girl and a
carpenter in Bethlehem.
He's wrapped up in strips ofcloth, lying in a manger.
The Messiah is here and we haveseen him.
(26:26):
The birth of Jesus brought hopeand jubilation.
Light-filled celebrationsbecame a significant part of
Christmas traditions, as peopleilluminated their homes and
streets, symbolizing the triumphof light over darkness.
(26:48):
And even today, christmaslights brighten the streets of
cities and towns all across thisgreat nation and the world, all
because the shepherds saw thegreat light, the star in the sky
.
Hey, yelena, you want to helpplug in Christmas lights?
(27:09):
I'll put on some more music.
Nothing sets the mood forChristmas better than music and
lights.
Maybe we don't need any lights.
Speaker 4 (27:23):
There's a biblical significance of lights during
the Christmas season too.
Speaker 1 (27:27):
Ah yes, sparkly lights everywhere.
I love the blinky ones, theones that flash in time with
music.
Speaker 4 (27:37):
Okay, blinky lights for you it is.
But beyond the twinklingdecorations, Christmas
represents the birth of Jesus asthe light of the world.
Speaker 1 (27:47):
So we're not just talking about fancy LED displays
.
Speaker 4 (27:52):
It's about recognizing that Jesus brings
spiritual illumination to ourlives, guiding us through
darkness and showing us a pathtowards hope and salvation.
Speaker 1 (28:04):
Hey, here's one, I found one.
Here's one that can connectpeople across borders.
And, speaking of lights, I gotto get these things hooked up,
not again.
Speaker 4 (28:26):
So here's one that is dating back centuries.
It's a tradition is dating backcenturies.
It's a tradition with roots inGermany.
Before electricity becamewildly accessible, candles
served as an essential source oflight during the dark winter
months.
Right People would place smallflickering candles in the
windows or lanterns to guidetravelers home safely during
snowy nights.
So besides the fact that I loveflickering little candles,
(28:52):
beyond their practical use forillumination, these lights hold
deep symbolic meaning during theholiday season.
They represent the hope andwarmth amidst cold winter days,
while also symbolizing guidancefor those seeking spiritual
enlightenment or searching theirway back home.
Physically or metaphoricallyspeaking, the gentle glow
(29:15):
emanating from these lightsimparts a sense of comfort and
tranquility that resonates withpeople even today.
Speaker 1 (29:18):
Yeah, I like the blinky ones.
My goodness, is she ever goingto stop talking?
Did I say that out loud?
Can I do that?
Speaker 4 (29:33):
Again with the blinky lights.
Another beloved German custominvolving lights is showcased
through intricately craftedwooden objects called
Weihnachtspyramide or ChristmasPyramids.
These structures consist ofseveral tiers adorned with
figurines depicting traditionalnativity scenes or festive
(29:54):
motives.
As the tiers rotate, powered bythe heat generated from candles
placed at its bottom, themesmerizing display comes to
life.
The pyramids not only addbeauty and elegance to homes,
but also serve as a reminder ofChrist's birth.
And just for you, I broke myaunt's Christmas Pyramide every
single year trying to put thelittle wooden pieces together.
(30:15):
It was fun to play with, though.
Speaker 1 (30:17):
I just broke my tongue trying to say it.
Speaker 4 (30:20):
Weihnacht Pyramide.
Speaker 1 (30:24):
Weihnacht Pyramide.
Speaker 4 (30:27):
Moving on.
A fascinating aspect of thistradition is found in the
Schöpagens, commonly displayedin windows during Advent and
Christmas time.
It's a decorated wooden archilluminated by candles or
electric lights.
It comes from Germany'sErzgebirge region, and these
arches often depict intricatescenes from everyday life or
religious imagery, providing awarm and inviting glow that
(30:51):
welcomes family and friends intheir homes.
You know what I actually nowremember that my aunt also had
one of those, but she didn'tcall it a Schwabogen.
Speaker 1 (30:58):
What does she call it ?
Speaker 4 (30:59):
I have no idea.
Speaker 1 (31:01):
Candles Schwabogen.
Speaker 4 (31:04):
Candles?
I don't know, but she did haveone of those.
Speaker 1 (31:12):
Well, you Germans really know how to infuse warmth
and light into winter.
But with all these festivedecorations and presents, let's
not forget why we exchange giftson this special day.
It's not about materialpossessions, but rather about
sharing love and bringing joy toour loved ones' lives.
Nothing sets the atmosphere forChristmas better than music and
lights.
I love this song.
(31:34):
It is my favorite Silent Night.
Speaker 4 (31:38):
Well, did you know?
The Germans also introducedseveral beloved carols into the
festive season.
One of them is Stille Nacht, oras you call it, Silent Night,
which was composed by FranzGruber near Salzburg, Austria,
which is pretty close to Germany.
Speaker 1 (31:52):
Uh, correct me if I'm wrong here, but I thought Franz
Gruber took hostages and robbedNakatomi Tower in Christmas
1988.
Speaker 4 (32:02):
I didn't say Franz Gruber, I said Hans Gruber, and
that's from the movie Die Hard,du Volltrottel.
Speaker 1 (32:09):
I am not a weirdo, didn't call you that.
I don't know what you called me.
I don't speak.
Schwabagen and Die Hard is myfavorite Christmas movie Now I
have a machine gun, ho ho ho andwell, Silent Night is a great
(32:33):
choice.
Now let's explore the humblesetting of Christmas Cue the
nativity scenes and cozy barns.
Speaker 4 (32:42):
I love those little figurines with their adorable
clothes and the sheep.
We actually use a mangerinstead of a tree to celebrate
Christmas.
Speaker 1 (32:49):
You know a lot of people are doing that these days
, especially around centralAlabama.
I love it.
It helps us not to forget thatJesus wasn't born in a five-star
hotel.
It was more like a barnyard bedand breakfast situation.
Speaker 4 (33:07):
I can picture it now Jesus wrapped them in swaddling
clothes, while the farm animalscuriously watched from their
stalls.
Speaker 1 (33:13):
And it teaches us an essential lesson that God chose
to enter our world humbly,embracing all people, regardless
of social status or wealth.
Speaker 4 (33:24):
Jesus came for all people everywhere.
Speaker 1 (33:28):
You know, beyond all the glitz and glamour, Christmas
is a time for reflection on theimportance of unity and peace.
Speaker 4 (33:36):
Absolutely so.
This is one of my favoritethings and I really miss this
about Germany.
People come together at theChristkindlesmarkt.
You want to break your tongueagain trying that one
Christkindlesmarkt Eh no.
Speaker 1 (33:46):
A delightful Christmas market filled with
music and food and crafts inthat one, chris Kendall's market
Eh nine.
Speaker 4 (33:49):
A delightful Christmas market filled with
music and food and crafts andfunny banter between co-hosts
Rick.
It creates an atmosphere wherelaughter intertwines with
merriment as friends.
Speaker 1 (34:05):
I would just love to watch families enjoy each
other's company when they'relooking at beautiful handmade
crafts.
As people from all walks oflife celebrated joy to the world
.
The message reverberatedthrough generations Love your
(34:33):
neighbor as yourself.
It's a reminder that duringthis festive season, we should
embrace unity, spreadingkindness and joy to those around
us.
And there you have it.
And there you have it the truemeaning of Christmas, unraveled
through history, faith,traditions and even a little bit
(34:55):
of fun.
It's about celebrating thebirth of Christ With love and
generosity, while embracingjoyous traditions that bring us
closer together.
And who can forget thosemarvelous German contributions,
from advent calendars tobeautiful Christmas carols,
(35:15):
festive markets filled withlaughter, weinoctus, pyramids,
schwabogens, stille Nacht orSilent Night, christkindlesmarkt
, christkindlesmarkt,christkindlesmarkt.
I'll never get it.
We didn't have German in school, we took Spanish Nocho de paz,
(35:41):
nocho de amor.
That's all I remember.
The darkness was soonilluminated as joyous tidings
spread throughout Bethlehem.
Glory to God in the highest.
The birth of Jesus brought hopeand jubilation.
And now a reading of theChristmas story from the Gospels
(36:15):
of Matthew, chapter 2, and Luke, chapter 2.
In those days, caesar Augustusissued a decree that a census
should be taken of the entireRoman world.
This was the first census thattook place while Quirinius was
governor of Syria and everyonewent to their own town to
(36:37):
register.
So Joseph also went up from thetown of Nazareth in Galilee to
Judea, to Bethlehem, the town ofDavid, because he belonged to
the house in line of David.
He went there to register withMary, who was pledged to be
married to him and was expectinga child.
(36:57):
While they were there, the timecame for the baby to be born
and she gave birth to herfirstborn, a son.
She wrapped him in cloths andplaced him in a manger, because
there was no guest roomavailable for them and there
were shepherds living out in thefields nearby keeping watch
over their flocks.
By night, an angel of the Lordappeared to them and glory of
(37:22):
the Lord shone around them andthey were terrified.
But the angel said to them Donot be afraid, I bring you good
news that will cause great joyfor all the people.
Today, in the town of David, aSavior has been born to you.
He is the Messiah, the Lord.
This will be a sign to you.
(37:43):
You will find a baby wrapped incloths lying in a manger.
Suddenly, a great company ofthe heavenly host appeared, with
the angel praising God andsaying Glory to God in the
highest heaven and on earth,peace to those in whom his favor
rests.
When the angels had left themand gone into heaven, the
(38:04):
shepherds said to one anotherlet's go to Bethlehem and see
this thing that has happened,which the Lord has told us about
.
So they hurried off and foundMary and Joseph and the baby who
was lying in the manger.
When they had seen him, theyspread the word concerning what
had been told about this child,and all who heard it were amazed
(38:25):
at what the shepherds said tothem.
But Mary treasured up all thethings and pondered them in her
heart.
The shepherds returnedglorifying and praising God for
all the things they had heardand seen, which, just as they
had been told.
On the eighth day, when it wastime to circumcise the child, he
(38:45):
was named Jesus, the name theangel had given him before he
was conceived.
After Jesus was born inBethlehem in Judea, during the
time of King Herod, magi fromthe east came to Jerusalem and
asked when is the one who hasbeen born King of the Jews?
(39:08):
We saw his star when it roseand have come to worship him.
When King Herod heard this, hewas disturbed and all Jerusalem
with him.
When he had called together allthe people's chief priests and
teachers of the law, he askedthem where the Messiah was to be
born.
In Bethlehem, in Judea.
(39:29):
They replied for this is whatthe prophet has written.
But you, bethlehem, in the landof Judah, are by no means least
among the rulers of Judah, forout of you will come a ruler who
will shepherd my people, israel.
Then Herod called the Magisecretly and found out from the
(39:49):
exact time the star had appeared.
He sent them to Bethlehem andsaid Go and search carefully for
the child.
As soon as you find him, reportto me so that I too may go and
worship him.
After they heard the king, theywent on their way and the star
they had seen when it rose aheadof them until it stopped over
(40:09):
the place where the child was.
When they saw the star, theywere overjoyed.
On coming to the house, theysaw the child with his mother
Mary.
They bowed down and worshippedhim.
Then they opened theirtreasures and presented him with
gifts of gold, frankincense andmyrrh.
And, having been warned in adream not to go back to Herod,
(40:32):
they returned to the country byanother route Promotional
consideration paid for byBuddy's Almost Good Beer.
Remember?
Buddy's Almost Good Beer wasbrewed in God's country when God
wasn't looking.
Buddy's Almost Good Beer it'sgood, thank you, thank you,
(41:08):
thank you, you're too kind,thank you, thank you, thank you,
you're too kind.
It's all for God's glory.
We just hope you enjoyed it,thank you, thank you.
(41:34):
And now Deep Thoughts by JackHandy, from Rick Uhaus.
I think Santa Claus andSuperman are actually the same
guy, and I'll tell you why Bothfly, both wear red and both have
(42:02):
a beard.
I just love to produce this showfor you.
I don't know if you can tell,the Renewed Mindset Show is your
show.
My prayer is that you not onlyreceive the message, but that
you're entertained at the sametime.
I'm passionate about bringingyou valuable content each week.
Many of you have reached outexpressing a desire to support
(42:23):
our ministry.
If you resonate with ourmission, visit our website at
renewedmindsetscom support andyou can choose your preferred
method Cash app, paypal, buy mea coffee.
They're all there.
Your generosity helps uscontinue this journey together.
Thank you for being a part ofthe Renewed Mindsets community.
(42:47):
See ya Well, that's all forthis Renewed Mindsets Christmas
Spectacular.
I want to give special thanks toJelena today.
This was so much fun.
Jelena, thank you so much fortaking time out of your busy
schedule to help me get thisshow out in time, and thank your
family for me.
Come back and talk to us againsoon.
(43:10):
If you enjoyed thispresentation or any of our past
shows, tell someone about it.
You can find all of ourepisodes at our website,
renewedmindsetscom.
We also have a blog there foryou and multiple ways you can
support this ministry.
We appreciate you and send thehappiest and merriest Christmas
(43:32):
to you and your families.
Until next time, I'm Rick.
I love you.
A Merry Christmas to all and toall.
A good night, ho, ho, ho.
(43:52):
The music for the Renew MindsetShow is a song called Are you
Ready by Floodgate From thealbum Are you Ready?
Copyright 2002.
Offbeat Ministries Incorporated.
Floodgate is available on AppleMusic and iTunes Music used
(44:14):
with permission.
Hello everybody and welcome to a very special
episode of Renewed Mindsets.
I'm Rick, and joining me todayis my wonderful co-host, lauren.
Speaker 2 (00:10):
Hey everyone, and Merry Christmas.
We are so excited to celebratethis joyous season with you, as
we gather around to reflect onthe birth of our Savior, jesus
Christ.
We want to extend our heartfeltgratitude to all of you who
have been with us throughoutthis incredible year.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
That's right, lauren.
Your support, your messages andyour encouragement have meant
the world to us.
We've been truly blessed toshare this journey of renewing
our minds and growing in God'swisdom together with each and
every one of you.
Speaker 2 (00:38):
And as we celebrate the birth of Christ, let's
remember the true meaning ofthis season.
It's a time of love, joy, peaceand hope.
It's about God's greatest giftto us His Son Jesus.
Speaker 1 (00:49):
So, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you for
being a part of the RenewedMindsets family.
We look forward to continuingthis journey with you in the
coming year.
Let's dive in today's specialepisode, celebrating the reason
for the season and reflecting onthe blessings of this past year
.
Speaker 2 (01:07):
And may your hearts be filled with the peace and joy
that comes from knowing ourSavior.
Speaker 1 (01:11):
Merry Christmas.
Speaker 2 (01:13):
I said Merry Christmas at the beginning, bye.
Speaker 1 (01:18):
Introducing the newest thing in snacking Doc
Brown's Nuclear Popcorn Popper,the popcorn popper that never
leaves a kernel unpopped.
This baby is nuclear.
And try it with our new flavorMeltdown Butter.
Doc Brown's Nuclear PopcornPopper, it's good.
Speaker 4 (01:53):
The following program is brought to you in living
color on NBC.
Speaker 1 (02:01):
From the frigid shores of Lake Smith in central
Alabama.
It's the Renewed MindsetsChristmas Spectacular, starring
Bob Hope and John Denver, withspecial guests Dean Martin and
(02:24):
Bing Crosby.
Featuring appearances by TB'sBenji, the man of a thousand
voices, rich Little From TB'sthe Brady Bunch, it's the Brady
Kids, music by GE Smith and theSaturday Night Live band, and a
very special appearance fromCharo and now your host of the
(02:49):
show, rick Juhasz.
Thank you, thank you.
You're so kind, you're so kind.
Welcome to the 2023 RenewedMindsets Christmas Spectacular.
We've got a lot of fun andsurprises for you today.
So why do I hear a wall phonefrom my grandmother's house?
(03:11):
Hey, is somebody gonna get that?
Hello, somebody.
Would you all please excuse me?
I need to answer this phone.
It doesn't look like anybodyelse is around here.
Merry Christmas, renewedmindsets.
(03:35):
Oh, hey.
Uh-huh.
Speaker 2 (03:39):
Uh-huh.
Uh-huh.
I see, yeah, uh-huh.
Speaker 1 (04:01):
Well, okay, then have a Merry.
Speaker 4 (04:02):
Christmas.
Well folks, bad news, sorryfolks park's closed.
Speaker 1 (04:04):
The Moose out front should have told you.
It looks like the Brady kidsdecided to have their own
Christmas special and the buswith all our guests won't be
coming Now now.
Now, everybody, calm down, calmdown, it's gonna be okay.
I've always got a plan B.
Let's go, boys.
Hey, welcome to the RenewedMindset's Christmas Spectacular.
(04:37):
In this special episode, wewill unravel the true essence of
Christmas.
My first surprise of this showis I have a co-host, jelena
McClellan.
She's here to keep me on trackas well as provide a different
perspective on Christmas from aninternational point of view.
(04:58):
Say hey to everyone, jelena.
Speaker 4 (05:02):
Hey everyone, Trying to keep you on track is going to
be a job, but I will do my best.
Yes, so I grew up in Germanyand Christmas was quite
different than what I'm used tohere in the United States.
We have a lot of differenttraditions and I'd love to share
some of those with you guys.
Speaker 1 (05:18):
Well, I know.
I'm looking forward to hearingsome of those To understand what
Christmas is really about.
Let's begin by going back over2,000 years ago.
Our story begins in a humblemanger in Bethlehem.
Speaker 4 (05:33):
Ah, Bethlehem.
So, Rick, did you know thatGermany introduced Advent
calendars?
You don't say you know thosecute little sometimes it's
pictures.
I like the chocolate versionactually, but anyway they were
used by German Protestantsduring the early 19th century as
a way to eagerly anticipate thearrival of Christmas, and it
became a really nice traditionthat I'm pretty sure is spread
(05:55):
quite far across the globe bynow.
Speaker 1 (05:58):
I did not know that, and, man, that was random.
I do like the ones withchocolate inside, though we
don't need a calendar toremember why we celebrate this
awesome holiday.
It all started when an angelvisited Mary with incredible
news.
As Mary listened intently.
(06:20):
You mean, I'm going to have ababy intently, you mean, I'm
going to have a baby and thusbegan a journey that would
change the course of historyforever, and we present to you
tonight the Road to Bethlehem.
Speaker 4 (06:49):
Joseph, Joseph, it's time for a rest.
Speaker 1 (06:51):
Yes, a rest.
Can you go a bit more?
Speaker 4 (06:55):
How much further, all the way to Bethlehem?
Perhaps it's time for a rest.
Speaker 1 (07:06):
Very well, joseph ties up the mules.
Mary finds a rock to sit on.
Speaker 4 (07:10):
You're quiet, joseph, am I?
Yes, are you angry?
You get quiet when you're angry.
Speaker 1 (07:18):
I'm not angry.
Speaker 4 (07:20):
Tired.
Yes, you wish we were makingbetter time.
Speaker 1 (07:26):
It's a long time to be on this road.
The sooner we get to Bethlehem,the better.
Speaker 4 (07:31):
I'm sorry I'm slowing us down.
I could try riding again for alittle bit.
Speaker 1 (07:36):
No, don't rush.
Don't mistake me, I want to getto Bethlehem for your sake, so
that you can rest, but we'll goat your pace.
Of course, I got no wish torush you or rush him, definitely
not.
Mary and Joseph sit together insilence.
Speaker 4 (07:56):
It has been a long road to get here.
Speaker 1 (07:59):
From Nazareth.
Speaker 4 (08:00):
Not the actual road, joseph, I mean these long nine
months To bring us here, justoutside of Bethlehem and ready
to Don't even say it.
Speaker 1 (08:10):
You gotta hold off until we at least get into town.
Speaker 4 (08:14):
Ugh, the thought of giving birth in a dirty inn
troubles me.
It is no place for labor.
I'd rather be home.
What?
Speaker 1 (08:24):
Nothing.
Speaker 4 (08:25):
You had that look on your face.
What are you not telling me?
Speaker 1 (08:29):
It's nothing.
You need to worry, joseph.
Tell me the census.
It's bringing a lot of peopleto Bethlehem and probably maybe
we won't get a room.
Speaker 4 (08:43):
Is that what you're telling me?
Speaker 1 (08:46):
I don't have any way of knowing, but the sooner so
what Shall I give birth?
Speaker 4 (08:50):
in the street, or on the back of that mule?
Speaker 1 (08:53):
God will provide something.
If not a room, then Perhaps apigsty?
Speaker 4 (08:57):
Yes, wouldn't that be perfect, mary.
I can see why you didn't wantto tell me.
Speaker 1 (09:03):
You do get worked up from time to time.
Can you blame me?
Blame, no, it's one of thethings I love about you.
Speaker 4 (09:11):
Oh, is that right.
Speaker 1 (09:13):
You have spirit, you have heart.
Few women could handle this theway you have.
Speaker 4 (09:19):
I must admit, it has not been easy.
Speaker 1 (09:23):
Hey, tell me about the angel again.
Speaker 4 (09:26):
Gabriel, yes, I have told you that many times.
Speaker 1 (09:30):
Well, I want to hear it again.
Speaker 4 (09:32):
You're like a child, joseph.
Fine, I was in my father'shouse getting things ready for
dinner.
Speaker 1 (09:43):
Through the power of technology, we're going to
transport you back to that time,and now we present Story of a
Messenger.
It summarizes an angel'sinvolvement in the biblical
narrative of Christmas.
For thousands of years I havedelivered God's messages to
(10:08):
earth.
At times his voice is gentlelike the whispering wind,
personal and sacred.
Gentle like the whispering wind, personal and sacred.
Other times he thunders, mightyand strong, to be heard far and
wide by anyone who would chooseto listen and change.
Every time his words are exact,true, perfect life itself, from
(10:32):
the very source.
When the maker of heaven andearth takes his moment to speak,
the very ground and sky, everyplant and beast stops to breathe
in and cry of their creator.
It is more wonderful, morebeautiful than anything or
anyone could possibly express.
(10:54):
And this is my purpose tohumbly proclaim the messages of
the King, with joy and honor ofhigh heaven, to a world waiting,
longing for his word.
Over time, he has chosen aspecific group of people to
(11:14):
speak to.
Israel is his loveth among allnations and the storyteller of
his plan on earth.
Beginning with Abraham, isaacand Jacob, continuing through
judges and prophets, priests andkings, the whisper of a bigger
promise is spoken and heard,remembered and kept Down through
(11:39):
time, through a young girl in alittle village of Nazareth,
mary.
Mary is her name, chosen amongwomen favored by God and oh so
very blessed.
The message God intended forher was the message of his heart
(12:00):
, not only for Mary but forevery person for all of eternity
.
This one message birthedmessages to shepherds and wise
men, men and women of every ageand tribe and tongue for
centuries to come.
This message is what heraldsevery other I have ever
(12:24):
delivered God wearing the fleshof humanity as a child Messiah,
born to save the world.
This portion of our program isbrought to you by Oxygen.
Remember, four out of fivedoctors recommend Oxygen to
(12:45):
their patients who enjoybreathing Oxygen.
It's good.
And now we pick up where weleft off on the road to
Bethlehem.
Speaker 4 (13:02):
I saw a bright flash, like a roaring fire, with this
radiating heat which seemed toburn my face.
Suddenly I was in the presenceof an angel.
He said Greetings you, who arehighly favored.
The Lord is with you, which wastroubling.
What kind of greeting was that?
But Gabriel the angel was veryperceptive and he told me not to
be afraid.
He said that I'd found favorwith God.
(13:24):
You will conceive and givebirth to a son and you are to
call him Jesus, he said.
He will be great and will becalled the Son of the Most High,
the Lord.
God will give him the throne ofhis father, David, and he will
reign over Jacob's descendantsforever.
Speaker 1 (13:38):
His kingdom will never end.
And you asked how could this be, since you're a virgin?
Speaker 4 (13:44):
I thought you asked me to tell the story.
Sorry, but yes, that's what Iasked.
And the angel said the HolySpirit will come on you and the
power of the Most High willovershadow you, so the Holy One
to be born will be called theSon of God.
Then he spoke about my cousin,Elizabeth and her child.
He said that no word from Godwill ever fail.
Speaker 1 (14:04):
I love that part.
No word of God will ever fail.
And you answered.
Speaker 4 (14:09):
What could I answer?
God saw fit to send me an angelme.
I said I am the Lord's servant.
May your word to me befulfilled.
Speaker 1 (14:18):
And then he left.
Speaker 4 (14:19):
Then he left.
Speaker 1 (14:21):
Sometimes I wish God would have sent angels to our
families.
Speaker 4 (14:25):
It would have made things easier.
Easier, not easy.
Speaker 1 (14:30):
You know, I didn't ask to be put in this situation.
Speaker 4 (14:33):
I didn't either.
We were chosen, joseph, chosenby God for this.
Speaker 1 (14:38):
Chosen.
What did he choose?
A simple carpenter, a girl, acouple of kids, with no money,
no resources.
It's God's plan, joseph, andit's a good thing too.
If it were anyone else's, Ishould think this whole
situation to be utterly hopeless, joseph.
I mean it Hopeless.
(14:59):
You question God's plan.
I'm just saying I don't see it.
We got very little money, we'retraveling by ourselves.
Speaker 4 (15:07):
God chose us for a reason, joseph, okay, but why?
Speaker 1 (15:12):
Why us?
Did you ever think about that,Mary?
Why did he choose usspecifically?
What do you mean?
I mean, why couldn't it havebeen somebody else, Somebody
more properly equipped for thissort of thing?
Why now?
Why in the middle of thiscensus?
Speaker 4 (15:31):
Listen to you.
Do you think we're the first toask that question?
Do you think Moses felt that hewas the best equipped to lead
our people from slavery?
Do you think Elijah felt likehe was the best person to
prophesy against the idols ofBaal, or that David was the best
warrior to face Goliath?
God chooses who he chooses.
Speaker 1 (15:48):
Now those men are heroes of our people.
Who else could have done thosethings but them?
Speaker 4 (15:58):
Only in hindsight, Joseph.
Speaker 1 (15:58):
Only after the fact is obvious why God chose those
men.
And so what are we supposed to?
Speaker 4 (16:01):
do Hope Hope in God, hope in his wisdom and his plan,
hope that God is with us.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
You know, that's what the angels said they would call
him Emmanuel.
Speaker 4 (16:10):
God with us.
Speaker 1 (16:12):
No word of God will ever fail.
Yep, it's almost too fantasticto believe this little guy.
Is God with us, just us, littleJoseph and Mary of Nazareth.
Speaker 4 (16:25):
And that, my husband, is why God chose us.
Speaker 1 (16:28):
Well, come on, dear wife, We've hung out here long
enough.
Joseph helps her up from therock.
Speaker 4 (16:33):
Perhaps there's room yet left in Bethlehem.
Speaker 1 (16:36):
Yeah, perhaps it does seem strange though, doesn't it
?
Speaker 4 (16:40):
What's that?
Speaker 1 (16:41):
The Son of God is going to be born sometime soon,
maybe tonight, and we'll be inthe sleepy little town of
Bethlehem.
How in the world would anybodyknow he was even born?
You know, they really had tolove each other and it shows.
Speaker 4 (17:03):
Aw love during Christmas.
It's just like all thoseheartwarming romantic comedies
on the Hallmark Channel.
But did you know that the truelove lies at the heart of the
celebration?
Speaker 1 (17:14):
Absolutely.
The Bible teaches us that Godso loved the world that he gave
his one and only son.
Speaker 4 (17:21):
That whoever believes in him shall not die but have
everlasting life.
Speaker 1 (17:25):
Well, that's later on in his life.
Right now, Christmas surprisesWoohoo.
Speaker 4 (17:33):
I can't wait for presents and unwrapping them.
But in today's consumer-drivenworld it's easy to get caught up
in materialism during Christmas.
But the true spirit of givinglies in love and generosity,
knowing that God gave us thegreatest gift of all.
Speaker 1 (17:47):
You know, in today's materialistic world it's far too
easy to lose sight of the truespirit of Christmas.
Yet at its core, gift-giving isall about expressing love and
generosity.
Speaker 4 (18:01):
And it should remind us of the gifts brought by the
Magi.
By the way, we call them thethree kings in Germany, just so
you know A little bit moretradition here To give the
newborn king of kings gold,myrrh and frankincense.
Speaker 1 (18:14):
You mean fronkincense .
Speaker 4 (18:19):
I was waiting on that .
Whatever you and your moviequotes, did you know that
Christmas itself is a surprisingtwist in history?
Speaker 1 (18:26):
How's that?
Speaker 4 (18:27):
Well, think about it.
Mary and Joseph were probablynot expecting an angelic
visitation or a miraculous birthin Bethlehem, but it happened
anyway A surprise package calledJesus.
Little did they know that theultimate gift would be cherished
by generations.
The act of giving became anenduring symbol, reminding us to
(18:48):
appreciate life's blessingswhile selflessly helping those
in need.
Speaker 1 (18:53):
And now we're proud to present the story of a seeker
helping those in need.
And now we're proud to presentthe story of a seeker.
It places the wise man in thebiblical narrative prior to the
discovery of Jesus in Bethlehem.
Some people spend their livessearching for wealth or
(19:25):
recognition or achievement.
Others search for beauty ormeaning or love.
I have spent mine searching thescriptures for whispered of the
promised Jewish Messiah and theskies for the new star that
will herald his birth.
The more I learn, the more I amconsumed with the pursuit of
this king.
There is no doubt he will begreat, carrying on the dynasty
(19:51):
of his father, david and thewonderful counselor to his
people.
Father David and the wonderfulcounselor to his people, he is
to be a savior and redeemer ofIsrael, the manifestation of God
himself with us in humanity, apromise of light that extends
even to the heart of the Gentile.
But for all I know, there isstill so much that perplexes me.
(20:17):
If the scriptures are correct,it appears he will endure much
hardship the betrayal of afriend, the unexplained hatred
of his peers, beaten andstripped for the very people he
loves.
Prophecy for prophecy, it seemshis calling will cost him his
(20:43):
very life.
How is it he will be bothexalted and persecuted, loved
and rejected.
What kind of child, what kindof Messiah is this that we are
waiting for?
The answer may come morequickly than I know.
(21:07):
There has been some movement inthe heavens, a star that must
signal his coming, and so thereare some making plans, getting
themselves ready, preparinggifts with hope that they will
be presented to thislong-awaited child king.
I too will be on this journeyto Jerusalem.
(21:29):
I don't know what answers mightbe found in him, still so
tender in his mother's care, butI must go, if only to see him
with my eyes and bow my knee inworship.
This is my life, this is myprayer.
(21:53):
Preya, you've heard of soap on arope.
Well, now, from the makers ofLiquid Drain Buster, it's pizza
on a string.
Yes, now you can enjoy adelicious meal of hot pizza even
when you take a shower.
Pizza on a string is definitelynot waterproof, but it tastes
great.
(22:13):
Go buy your own pizza on astring today and be on the
lookout for our newest productspaghetti shoelaces Pizza on a
string.
It's good.
Talk about an unexpecteddelivery service straight from
(22:35):
heaven.
It's just so magnificent.
I mean, the world was indarkness.
And then Jesus was born and heis the light of the world, and
now we can all see.
Darkness gave way as joyoustidings spread throughout
(22:58):
Bethlehem.
Speaker 2 (22:59):
Glory to God in the highest and on earth, peace,
good will toward men.
Speaker 1 (23:07):
And now we present the story of an outcast.
This story is about a shepherdthat has spent his lifetime in
the shadows of Jewish culture,living and learning from afar.
A spiritual hunger drives himto read the scriptures and
discovers a lengthy record ofshepherds just like him.
(23:29):
After the angelic visitationand visiting Jesus in the manger
, he is sure the good news isfor everyone, even outcasts like
shepherds.
All my life I've been invisible, as my father has been, and my
(23:51):
grandfather and his fatherbefore that.
We are shepherds, nameless,faceless, would-be thieves to
our countrymen and avoided atany and all costs.
It is true I've met with myshare of shepherds who live up
(24:11):
to the underwhelmingexpectations of my people, but
to say we are all despicable anduntrustworthy is as ridiculous
as saying every priest ishypocritical and power-hungry,
although at times I do wonder.
I may not be allowed into thesynagogue and God himself helped
(24:35):
me if I stepped foot inside thetemple.
But I have read the scripturesfor myself.
Many of my friends don't wantanything to do with God.
I can't blame them for the wayhis people treat him, but I've
always felt it was myunquestioned duty to rebel
against the system, if even insuch a tiny, private way.
(24:58):
This is what I have discovered.
I don't think God is like anyof them.
Over and over again he usesshepherds for his work Abraham
Isaac, jacob, moses, king David,the prophet Amos.
(25:21):
He even likens himself to ashepherd.
God says there is somethinginside of me that's like him.
The thought is so radical evenI have a hard time believing it,
but it's there, plain as day,spread throughout the scriptures
(25:43):
.
I've come to wonder if mypeople secretly cut these
passages out.
It must make them so angry.
But these are the parts thatmake me smile.
The events of last night make mecertain my suspicions about God
(26:03):
are correct.
An angel appeared to us late inthe fields, singing about good
news from God His son's beenborn to a young girl and a
carpenter in Bethlehem.
He's wrapped up in strips ofcloth, lying in a manger.
The Messiah is here and we haveseen him.
(26:26):
The birth of Jesus brought hopeand jubilation.
Light-filled celebrationsbecame a significant part of
Christmas traditions, as peopleilluminated their homes and
streets, symbolizing the triumphof light over darkness.
(26:48):
And even today, christmaslights brighten the streets of
cities and towns all across thisgreat nation and the world, all
because the shepherds saw thegreat light, the star in the sky
.
Hey, yelena, you want to helpplug in Christmas lights?
(27:09):
I'll put on some more music.
Nothing sets the mood forChristmas better than music and
lights.
Maybe we don't need any lights.
Speaker 4 (27:23):
There's a biblical significance of lights during
the Christmas season too.
Speaker 1 (27:27):
Ah yes, sparkly lights everywhere.
I love the blinky ones, theones that flash in time with
music.
Speaker 4 (27:37):
Okay, blinky lights for you it is.
But beyond the twinklingdecorations, Christmas
represents the birth of Jesus asthe light of the world.
Speaker 1 (27:47):
So we're not just talking about fancy LED displays
.
Speaker 4 (27:52):
It's about recognizing that Jesus brings
spiritual illumination to ourlives, guiding us through
darkness and showing us a pathtowards hope and salvation.
Speaker 1 (28:04):
Hey, here's one, I found one.
Here's one that can connectpeople across borders.
And, speaking of lights, I gotto get these things hooked up,
not again.
Speaker 4 (28:26):
So here's one that is dating back centuries.
It's a tradition is dating backcenturies.
It's a tradition with roots inGermany.
Before electricity becamewildly accessible, candles
served as an essential source oflight during the dark winter
months.
Right People would place smallflickering candles in the
windows or lanterns to guidetravelers home safely during
snowy nights.
So besides the fact that I loveflickering little candles,
(28:52):
beyond their practical use forillumination, these lights hold
deep symbolic meaning during theholiday season.
They represent the hope andwarmth amidst cold winter days,
while also symbolizing guidancefor those seeking spiritual
enlightenment or searching theirway back home.
Physically or metaphoricallyspeaking, the gentle glow
(29:15):
emanating from these lightsimparts a sense of comfort and
tranquility that resonates withpeople even today.
Speaker 1 (29:18):
Yeah, I like the blinky ones.
My goodness, is she ever goingto stop talking?
Did I say that out loud?
Can I do that?
Speaker 4 (29:33):
Again with the blinky lights.
Another beloved German custominvolving lights is showcased
through intricately craftedwooden objects called
Weihnachtspyramide or ChristmasPyramids.
These structures consist ofseveral tiers adorned with
figurines depicting traditionalnativity scenes or festive
(29:54):
motives.
As the tiers rotate, powered bythe heat generated from candles
placed at its bottom, themesmerizing display comes to
life.
The pyramids not only addbeauty and elegance to homes,
but also serve as a reminder ofChrist's birth.
And just for you, I broke myaunt's Christmas Pyramide every
single year trying to put thelittle wooden pieces together.
(30:15):
It was fun to play with, though.
Speaker 1 (30:17):
I just broke my tongue trying to say it.
Speaker 4 (30:20):
Weihnacht Pyramide.
Speaker 1 (30:24):
Weihnacht Pyramide.
Speaker 4 (30:27):
Moving on.
A fascinating aspect of thistradition is found in the
Schöpagens, commonly displayedin windows during Advent and
Christmas time.
It's a decorated wooden archilluminated by candles or
electric lights.
It comes from Germany'sErzgebirge region, and these
arches often depict intricatescenes from everyday life or
religious imagery, providing awarm and inviting glow that
(30:51):
welcomes family and friends intheir homes.
You know what I actually nowremember that my aunt also had
one of those, but she didn'tcall it a Schwabogen.
Speaker 1 (30:58):
What does she call it ?
Speaker 4 (30:59):
I have no idea.
Speaker 1 (31:01):
Candles Schwabogen.
Speaker 4 (31:04):
Candles?
I don't know, but she did haveone of those.
Speaker 1 (31:12):
Well, you Germans really know how to infuse warmth
and light into winter.
But with all these festivedecorations and presents, let's
not forget why we exchange giftson this special day.
It's not about materialpossessions, but rather about
sharing love and bringing joy toour loved ones' lives.
Nothing sets the atmosphere forChristmas better than music and
lights.
I love this song.
(31:34):
It is my favorite Silent Night.
Speaker 4 (31:38):
Well, did you know?
The Germans also introducedseveral beloved carols into the
festive season.
One of them is Stille Nacht, oras you call it, Silent Night,
which was composed by FranzGruber near Salzburg, Austria,
which is pretty close to Germany.
Speaker 1 (31:52):
Uh, correct me if I'm wrong here, but I thought Franz
Gruber took hostages and robbedNakatomi Tower in Christmas
1988.
Speaker 4 (32:02):
I didn't say Franz Gruber, I said Hans Gruber, and
that's from the movie Die Hard,du Volltrottel.
Speaker 1 (32:09):
I am not a weirdo, didn't call you that.
I don't know what you called me.
I don't speak.
Schwabagen and Die Hard is myfavorite Christmas movie Now I
have a machine gun, ho ho ho andwell, Silent Night is a great
(32:33):
choice.
Now let's explore the humblesetting of Christmas Cue the
nativity scenes and cozy barns.
Speaker 4 (32:42):
I love those little figurines with their adorable
clothes and the sheep.
We actually use a mangerinstead of a tree to celebrate
Christmas.
Speaker 1 (32:49):
You know a lot of people are doing that these days
, especially around centralAlabama.
I love it.
It helps us not to forget thatJesus wasn't born in a five-star
hotel.
It was more like a barnyard bedand breakfast situation.
Speaker 4 (33:07):
I can picture it now Jesus wrapped them in swaddling
clothes, while the farm animalscuriously watched from their
stalls.
Speaker 1 (33:13):
And it teaches us an essential lesson that God chose
to enter our world humbly,embracing all people, regardless
of social status or wealth.
Speaker 4 (33:24):
Jesus came for all people everywhere.
Speaker 1 (33:28):
You know, beyond all the glitz and glamour, Christmas
is a time for reflection on theimportance of unity and peace.
Speaker 4 (33:36):
Absolutely so.
This is one of my favoritethings and I really miss this
about Germany.
People come together at theChristkindlesmarkt.
You want to break your tongueagain trying that one
Christkindlesmarkt Eh no.
Speaker 1 (33:46):
A delightful Christmas market filled with
music and food and crafts inthat one, chris Kendall's market
Eh nine.
Speaker 4 (33:49):
A delightful Christmas market filled with
music and food and crafts andfunny banter between co-hosts
Rick.
It creates an atmosphere wherelaughter intertwines with
merriment as friends.
Speaker 1 (34:05):
I would just love to watch families enjoy each
other's company when they'relooking at beautiful handmade
crafts.
As people from all walks oflife celebrated joy to the world
.
The message reverberatedthrough generations Love your
(34:33):
neighbor as yourself.
It's a reminder that duringthis festive season, we should
embrace unity, spreadingkindness and joy to those around
us.
And there you have it.
And there you have it the truemeaning of Christmas, unraveled
through history, faith,traditions and even a little bit
(34:55):
of fun.
It's about celebrating thebirth of Christ With love and
generosity, while embracingjoyous traditions that bring us
closer together.
And who can forget thosemarvelous German contributions,
from advent calendars tobeautiful Christmas carols,
(35:15):
festive markets filled withlaughter, weinoctus, pyramids,
schwabogens, stille Nacht orSilent Night, christkindlesmarkt
, christkindlesmarkt,christkindlesmarkt.
I'll never get it.
We didn't have German in school, we took Spanish Nocho de paz,
(35:41):
nocho de amor.
That's all I remember.
The darkness was soonilluminated as joyous tidings
spread throughout Bethlehem.
Glory to God in the highest.
The birth of Jesus brought hopeand jubilation.
And now a reading of theChristmas story from the Gospels
(36:15):
of Matthew, chapter 2, and Luke, chapter 2.
In those days, caesar Augustusissued a decree that a census
should be taken of the entireRoman world.
This was the first census thattook place while Quirinius was
governor of Syria and everyonewent to their own town to
(36:37):
register.
So Joseph also went up from thetown of Nazareth in Galilee to
Judea, to Bethlehem, the town ofDavid, because he belonged to
the house in line of David.
He went there to register withMary, who was pledged to be
married to him and was expectinga child.
(36:57):
While they were there, the timecame for the baby to be born
and she gave birth to herfirstborn, a son.
She wrapped him in cloths andplaced him in a manger, because
there was no guest roomavailable for them and there
were shepherds living out in thefields nearby keeping watch
over their flocks.
By night, an angel of the Lordappeared to them and glory of
(37:22):
the Lord shone around them andthey were terrified.
But the angel said to them Donot be afraid, I bring you good
news that will cause great joyfor all the people.
Today, in the town of David, aSavior has been born to you.
He is the Messiah, the Lord.
This will be a sign to you.
(37:43):
You will find a baby wrapped incloths lying in a manger.
Suddenly, a great company ofthe heavenly host appeared, with
the angel praising God andsaying Glory to God in the
highest heaven and on earth,peace to those in whom his favor
rests.
When the angels had left themand gone into heaven, the
(38:04):
shepherds said to one anotherlet's go to Bethlehem and see
this thing that has happened,which the Lord has told us about
.
So they hurried off and foundMary and Joseph and the baby who
was lying in the manger.
When they had seen him, theyspread the word concerning what
had been told about this child,and all who heard it were amazed
(38:25):
at what the shepherds said tothem.
But Mary treasured up all thethings and pondered them in her
heart.
The shepherds returnedglorifying and praising God for
all the things they had heardand seen, which, just as they
had been told.
On the eighth day, when it wastime to circumcise the child, he
(38:45):
was named Jesus, the name theangel had given him before he
was conceived.
After Jesus was born inBethlehem in Judea, during the
time of King Herod, magi fromthe east came to Jerusalem and
asked when is the one who hasbeen born King of the Jews?
(39:08):
We saw his star when it roseand have come to worship him.
When King Herod heard this, hewas disturbed and all Jerusalem
with him.
When he had called together allthe people's chief priests and
teachers of the law, he askedthem where the Messiah was to be
born.
In Bethlehem, in Judea.
(39:29):
They replied for this is whatthe prophet has written.
But you, bethlehem, in the landof Judah, are by no means least
among the rulers of Judah, forout of you will come a ruler who
will shepherd my people, israel.
Then Herod called the Magisecretly and found out from the
(39:49):
exact time the star had appeared.
He sent them to Bethlehem andsaid Go and search carefully for
the child.
As soon as you find him, reportto me so that I too may go and
worship him.
After they heard the king, theywent on their way and the star
they had seen when it rose aheadof them until it stopped over
(40:09):
the place where the child was.
When they saw the star, theywere overjoyed.
On coming to the house, theysaw the child with his mother
Mary.
They bowed down and worshippedhim.
Then they opened theirtreasures and presented him with
gifts of gold, frankincense andmyrrh.
And, having been warned in adream not to go back to Herod,
(40:32):
they returned to the country byanother route Promotional
consideration paid for byBuddy's Almost Good Beer.
Remember?
Buddy's Almost Good Beer wasbrewed in God's country when God
wasn't looking.
Buddy's Almost Good Beer it'sgood, thank you, thank you,
(41:08):
thank you, you're too kind,thank you, thank you, thank you,
you're too kind.
It's all for God's glory.
We just hope you enjoyed it,thank you, thank you.
(41:34):
And now Deep Thoughts by JackHandy, from Rick Uhaus.
I think Santa Claus andSuperman are actually the same
guy, and I'll tell you why Bothfly, both wear red and both have
(42:02):
a beard.
I just love to produce this showfor you.
I don't know if you can tell,the Renewed Mindset Show is your
show.
My prayer is that you not onlyreceive the message, but that
you're entertained at the sametime.
I'm passionate about bringingyou valuable content each week.
Many of you have reached outexpressing a desire to support
(42:23):
our ministry.
If you resonate with ourmission, visit our website at
renewedmindsetscom support andyou can choose your preferred
method Cash app, paypal, buy mea coffee.
They're all there.
Your generosity helps uscontinue this journey together.
Thank you for being a part ofthe Renewed Mindsets community.
(42:47):
See ya Well, that's all forthis Renewed Mindsets Christmas
Spectacular.
I want to give special thanks toJelena today.
This was so much fun.
Jelena, thank you so much fortaking time out of your busy
schedule to help me get thisshow out in time, and thank your
family for me.
Come back and talk to us againsoon.
(43:10):
If you enjoyed thispresentation or any of our past
shows, tell someone about it.
You can find all of ourepisodes at our website,
renewedmindsetscom.
We also have a blog there foryou and multiple ways you can
support this ministry.
We appreciate you and send thehappiest and merriest Christmas
(43:32):
to you and your families.
Until next time, I'm Rick.
I love you.
A Merry Christmas to all and toall.
A good night, ho, ho, ho.
(43:52):
The music for the Renew MindsetShow is a song called Are you
Ready by Floodgate From thealbum Are you Ready?
Copyright 2002.
Offbeat Ministries Incorporated.
Floodgate is available on AppleMusic and iTunes Music used
(44:14):
with permission.
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