After persistent harassment from my daughter, I finally surrendered and read The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. I devoured this book in one sitting and finally went to sleep after 3am.

What fascinated me about this novel? I think it was real and honest and truthful. I also think it struck a chord with any of us who have dealt with cancer and its lingering messiness.

When I wrote on social media about the book, one friend privately shared that she had survived the same cancer as one of the characters. I was shocked to hear this news.

So, while we peruse the same words, she sees the books through different eyes. The story resonates in her experienced soul.

As I sat in church this week, I was struck by the fact that this is how it goes with people of faith. We all come to God through different paths. We see the life of Christ through our own unique eyes. It doesn’t change the facts, but it changes how we relate to Him.

Leaving a mark on this world is important. But having my name in the Lamb’s book of life is imperative. That is about as real, honest and truthful as I can be.

Death is inevitable, but a life built on the reality of Christ is forever.

The birth of Christ was announced by a bright and shining star. Fear not my friends, for that is truly the beginning of great joy for all of us.

There’s a Song in the Air – “Holland and Harrington”

In the light of that star, Lie the ages impearled;
And that song from afar, Has swept over the world,
Ev’ry hearth is aflame, and the beautiful sing,
In the homes of the nations that Jesus is King!