Monday, December 24, 2007
My friend always tells the best Christmas story. One year when he was a kid, the only thing he asked for was a certain toy car that talked. Well, his parents looked and looked and looked for this popular gift. Finally, they found it. However, it wasn't exactly what he wanted. Still, his mom and dad knew it was the closest they'd be able to get, so they bought it. On Christmas morning, he excitedly opened it. So thrilled to finally have it, he pushed the button for the car to talk.
And it spoke Spanish. He didn't.
That car is probably long gone now, but my friend will always have the memory of his parents so badly wanting him to have his one Christmas wish. That's what I love the most about Christmas: creating memories with my family. I hope you create some good memories this week, too.
To get you in the Christmas spirit, we have two new Christmas stories on our main page today. First, we look at the stories behind why we have some Christmas traditions like candy canes and lighted trees. Then, the guys from Jars of Clay share some of their favorite Christmas memories.
I also thought I'd share some other IYF stories with you about Christmas movies, being selfless at Christmas, having a Christmas attitude, a girl who re-gifted her favorite gift, and ways to help others this season. Enjoy.
We wish you a very blessed Christmas.
Todd Hertz
for IYF
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 The Secret Behind the Candy Cane
… And five other holiday traditions.
by LaTonya Taylor
Did you know you wouldn't be munching on candy canes this Christmas if it weren't for a bunch of squirmy little kids? No kidding. Ancient rumor has it that in 1670 a German choir director got ticked off when kids wouldn't sit quietly through his holiday program. But instead of wrapping them in duct tape, he gave them candy.
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 BANDS & ARTISTS
Christmas Memories with Jars of Clay
The band shares their favorite holiday tunes and family stories.
Christmas Songs is the first full-length holiday release from band Jars of Clay in their 12-year career. The band includes new takes on memorable Christmas songs such as "O Little Town of Bethlehem" and "In the Bleak Midwinter," and breaks new ground with their own original holiday songs such as "Winter Skin" and "Evergreen."
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| More Bands & Artists |
 NIV Teen Devotional Bible
You've got a lot of questions about God, dating, sex, faith, drugs, friends, your family, popularity … the list goes on. Here's a devotional Bible written by teens and for teens! |
 All That Is Within Me, CD
With both energetic and intimate moments, MercyMe are sure to engage believers in a very authentic and personal way on their latest batch of hook-filled and engaging songs. |
 WOW Hits 2007, DVD
The must-have collection of the year's top Christian music video hits. Features videos and concert footage from Hawk Nelson, BarlowGirl, Natalie Grant, Jeremy Camp, and more. |
 PAYING FOR COLLEGE
How to Handle Your Money
What you need to know about credit cards, checking accounts, and debit cards.
by Jon Watters
I'll admit it right off: I'm not a money whiz or one of those "experts" from an infomercial who can tell you how to turn a buck into a thousand overnight. But I do know a few things about late-night pizza runs. I've had to buy books for a few semesters. And I've also been hit up for pocket change by "needy" roommates.
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| Ready-to-Download Bible Study |
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What IYF feature are you enjoying the most right now?- "The Secret Behind the Candy Cane"
- "What a Horrible Friend!"
- "Christmas Memories with Jars of Clay"
- "5 Ways to Share God's Love"
- Paying for College
- Heroes of Rock! video
- Everything!
- Older stories/archives
- Other
Vote here, and see how your answer compares to others'. |
| Results of Last Week's Poll |
As Christmas approaches, what's your attitude?- Stressed out by school: 25%
- Excited for time off school: 18%
- Generally content: 16%
- Excited for family time: 12%
- Stressed out by family issues: 8%
- Praise-filled: 8%
- Stressed out by gift-buying: 4%
- Excited to serve others: 3%
- Generally discontent: 3%
- Excited for gifts!: 2%
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Psalms: Managing Emotions