Christmas Family Devotional 2025, Week One: God Shows His Heart – “The Gift in a Manger”

The period of preparation for Christmas Day has always seemed to us the right time to try new ways of drawing our kids to Jesus. This happened year round too, but seemed so much more relevant when the season is sometimes focused on everything but what is most important and eternal. We realized that all too often, our kids would see us busy with activity and busyness. Shopping, decorating, and cooking, in addition to all the parties and gatherings we attend, kept us very busy. Although it was all fun, it was a lot of work- especially for the Moms! 

Taking our eyes off the true reason for family celebration, we often fell into a trap of anger, impatience, and frustration. There was a sense of deep struggle as we tried make sure our kids really understood that all these things only point to a greater event- the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. We thought, "How can this change?", so we put together this Family Devotional. We've been sharing these on line now for many years as a source of encouragement to you.

We've set this up so that the devotional is split into four segments, with the final one giving you many days before Christmas morning to complete it all. Part Two will arrive here on the blog December 8. Part Three hits a week later on the 15th, and the final part December 22.

Our goal as parents is to train our children in the ways of the Lord and to see our children own a personal, ongoing, life-changing relationship with God. If you want to use this with your children, grandchildren, or children you love, consider these suggestions:  

1.  Make this doable. Try to commit to a family devotional time.  Decide on a practical time. Avoid setting yourself up for failure. Adjust it as necessary so they enjoy the time- but also expect some “pushback”.  Remember, it’s about the relationship not the accomplishment. Guard against any discouragement if it doesn’t go as well as you wish, and be sure to guard against pride if it does.

2. Print this and keep this devotional on the dinner table. Explain to your kids why the book is there. Someone is bound to remember.

3. Model praying for your kids. It will be easier for them if they follow your lead. Praise and confession may be vague terms for younger ones. Explain the words. Start simply: “Lord, I praise you for being the God who loves us”, or   “I confess  I was mean to my sister today. Forgive me for hurting her feelings”.

4. Be honest with your family what you are praying for including your own sin and weakness. It models prayer to them as well as keeps you accountable.

5. If you have older children, allow them to share the responsibility of reading the verses. Leading them to Him is the goal. 

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Week One of Four

God Shows His Heart – “The Gift in a Manger”

Scripture: Luke 2:10–11

“And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’”

Imagine you’re one of the shepherds that night. You're just out there doing your job, looking after sheep. You think no one is paying attention to you or even appreciates your hard work. Suddenly the sky lights up with angels announcing good news of great joy. That’s not something that happens every night!

This “Good News” wasn’t just about a baby being born—it was about what that baby meant and the mission He came to accomplish. He was a touchable God! Through Jesus, God was showing His heart. He wasn’t distant or angry. He wasn’t unreachable. God the Father wanted the world to know that He cares deeply, loves completely, and came to pay the price for our sin. My sin. Your sin. All this so we can live in harmony with Him now. And we can spend eternity with Him instead of being separated from Him.  

Think about that! The Creator of the Universe came to us in the most gentle, humble way possible. If we were the ones to choose how God would make his presence on the earth known, we might want Him to come in a great show of power. But not the God who created all things. He had a different and much better idea! That’s what God is like—He comes close when we need Him most- and His ideas are always better than ours.

When we look at Jesus, we see what God the Father is really like too. Jesus is kind, patient, forgiving, full of compassion and willing to sacrifice on our behalf. That’s God’s heart too.

Discussion Questions

• Why do you think God chose to send Jesus as a baby instead of as a powerful king or warrior?
• What does it show you about God’s character that He wanted to be close to us?
• How can you show God’s kindness to someone who might feel left out or overlooked this week?
• Who can you tell about Jesus and his wonderful plan for us?

Prayer

Stop and pray together as a family. Thank God for who he is. Then, stop and thank him for his wonderful gift! 

(All content copyright Mark Taft.)

An Epic (Universe) Decision

Ever since our visit to Universal Orlando Resort in 2021- the one where surprisingly I declared the Studios' incredible Diagon Alley to be the best themed land in any of the Florida parks- I have been staying on top of the construction of Epic Universe. Now, that it is open, my enthusiasm for seeing the park has only gotten stronger. A recent turn of events means I'll have to delay my trip even more. My son and his bride to be have decided to make Orlando the location of their honeymoon. I think it's only right that the man who introduced me to the worlds of Harry Potter gets first right to see Ministry of Magic in person. Don't you?

Memories of Chester and Hester's Dino-Rama

Early next year, Dinoland U.S.A. is fully set to close. Dinosaur aka Countdown to Extinction bites the bullet as the suits at the Walt Disney Company concede that the world of dinosaurs belongs to Universal's Jurassic Park franchise. This includes the earlier closure of  Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama.

 

While I consider this area a total failure solidly on the same level as California Adventure 1.0 to the Walt Disney Studios Paris at opening,  I do have some happy memories. The top photo on TriceraTop Spin is a family favorite. 

The photo directly above is a funny one. Our wonderful friends took a ride on Primeval Whirl, a cheap carnival ride that made us laugh while we slammed into each other at every curve. 

No, I won't defend this as the art of Imagineering, but the land had some clever elements to make up for the unimaginative rides. Still, glad to see it go in favor of Tropical Americas. The beautiful Disney's Animal Kingdom may just remain the best Imagineered and most consistent park in Disney's Florida kingdom. 

(Photographs by Mark Taft.)

First Snowfall of the Winter

I certainly do not love winter, but I was wondering when it would arrive. Today was the day, much later than it's ever been!
 

Snow Buddies

Just sent to me by our old next door neighbor, a photo time stamped March 2000. Now, she has a family of her own. My, how times goes by!

The Grandsons Call the Shots

What's Thanksgiving and family time without some football? When two of my grandsons are fans of opposing teams, it is a crackup to watch them interact. Dallas Cowboys or Cincinnati Bengals. Just listening to them recite stats, critiques plays, and disagree with the refs made it a day to remember.

Making The Perfect Thanksgiving Even Better

Sometimes, not often enough, we reflect upon the good things. And those thoughts always center around those we love, and I think about those people who mean so much to me. And for so many years have made me so very happy. And I count the times I have forgotten to say "Thank you", and just how much I love them.

Those lyrics above as recorded by Richard and Karen Carpenter on their "Tan" album sadly but accurately reflect so much of the world around us today.  Want a Thanksgiving that is truly different? Try reflecting on these lyrics from a different songwriter: "I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds." The Psalmist writes this as a prayer, recalling all the great things God has done in his life. Oh, how much better my life would be if I'd stop and recount my blessings! How about you?

Sting and Adam Reader- the Professor of Rock: A Must Listen

Every fan of Sting and of Professor Rock must listen to this one hour long interview! The man behind the hits of The Police and his own solo career talks in a surprisingly intimate and humble manner. 

As always, Adam Reader makes good use of his time. Equally transparent and clearly a fan, his heartfelt questions bring out the absolute best of this singer, songwriter, rock star. Catch it before it is removed again. 

If you want to turn the tables and listen to Adam and his band, Adam Reader and the Turks, watch him swing to "True" below!

Disneyland's Main Street As You've Never Seen It!

Newly released concept art for Disneyland- right from the Walt Disney Family Museum! This beautiful piece shows Imagineer Harper Goff's vision for Main Street U.S.A. It's a different take then what we finally got when the park opened in 1955. A bit more quaint, a bit more rustic, and totally charming. You should see the rendering by Imagineer Bruce Bushman for a new vision of Fantasyland! It actually includes a Ferris Wheel and a very undisguised roller coaster. Incredible what could have been. Certainly there's more in the archives waiting to be uncovered.

(Concept art copyright The Waldt Disney Company.)

Disneyland Paris A One and Done?

Have you ever heard someone say that the beautiful French parc is a "One and Done"? Not me! Disneyland Paris is perhaps the most visually stunning of all castle parks. It's got the depth and charm of Disneyland built on a scale that rivals Florida's Magic Kingdom.  

I was excited for some of our Disney World loving friends to go to London and Paris and of course for their day trip to Disneyland. That said, I was surprised by their assessment of the French park: Although it is extremely beautiful, for them it is a one and done. What? I asked for further explanation.

The castle was a hit and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad a standout, Pirates of the Caribbean solid, but in their mind, there were not enough of the classic attractions that they found in the California and Florida parks. They could see the Studios park had potential, but it didn't impress them in its current state. (Not that many would disagree at this stage.)

As a huge fan of Disney Imagineering, the art of theme park design detail, and Tony Baxter in particular, even objectively, I find the park to be a work of art. I go into great detail why I do here. Read it and tell me if you agree.

As for the French resort, I can't wait to go back! The only question is when!

(Photograph from DLP Welcome.)

Islands of Adventure's Port of Entry Tops The List of Florida Theme Park's First Acts

Sorry, Walt Disney Imagineering, but even the beautiful Main Street U.S.A. at the Magic Kingdom or the iconic Spaceship Earth at Epcot can't compare when it comes to the grandest, most intriguing "First Acts" of Florida theme parks. The winner of them all is found at Universal Orlando's powerful Port of Entry at Islands of Adventure. It's definitely not the biggest or even the one studded with attractions. It is, however, the one that best captures what kind of day is to come.

 

The art direction, the design detail as I call it, shows what the artists at Universal Creative can do to create the mood, the atmosphere,  of a park that is like no other. You can feel the sense of adventure and excitement in the air. The anticipation of thrills, wonder, and discovery to be found beyond the mix of exotic and whimsical buildings, lush plantings and fountains, all set to a soundtrack that amps up the suspense. 

Watch this video to get the vibe.

At Epcot, Spaceship Earth used to set the stage for what was to come, but the attractions found within the front half of the park no longer deliver a look at the future, belying iconic structure's promise. At the Magic Kingdom, the real "First Act" is better seen once guests reach the hub and can see Cinderella Castle with the other land's entrances around it. The closest Disney competitor is really the grand reveal of the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom. Even though the park's entrance gardens are beautiful, they hit one note.

Universal Creative did not hit a home run at all of their Florida parks. Sadly, Universal Studios' entrance area feels barren, flat and rather  unimpressive. Beyond the turnstiles, the front of Epic Universe is lovely but doesn't come close in what's presented at the resort's second park. 

The winding path through Port of Entry furthers the impact. Guests can help but be drawn into whatever comes next. Yet, not every piece of Islands of Adventure scores so high. Beyond the entrance, the two lands to the left are nominal in its effectiveness and appeal even if their attractions are some of the strongest (and definitely wettest) in the park.  No matter. More is coming, and these three parks will only get even better, giving Disney's biggest competitor in Orlando a winning hand.

(Top photo copyright Mark Taft. Other images and video copyright Universal Creative.)

Disney Mansions and Manors- Frightfully Funny or Just Frightful?

The Haunted Mansion. Phantom Manor. Mystic Manor.  Each one certainly comes with its own plusses and minuses, but in their own ways, Imagineering has created a masterpiece that results in each being a true "E Ticket" adventure. Should a young child take a chance and explore what lies within?

One main consideration is the use of humor. When inserted into an attraction, it can take the edge off what could be a solely frightening experience. The levels of this vary greatly in each, making some a "safe" experience for younger kids, while for others, it may be much too dark, much too frightening. Let's focus on the humor levels as the main storytelling device.

At the Disneyland original, elements of lightheartedness come into play during the ride's third act, but not one single moment before. You find nothing humorous of the sort while waiting in line in New Orleans Square. We're talking serious business... particularly after dark. 

At Walt Disney World, a dash of humor begins in the queue, where cartoonish looking busts greet those waiting to enter the house on the hill in Liberty Square. That said, there's something about that eerie tombstone of Madam Leota that just delivers the shivers. 

In Phantom Manor at Disneyland Paris, there's really no humor at all until the graveyard in the outside gardens upon exiting the home. It's a very dark, quite sinister presentation while riding your Doom Buggy, giving a gruesome twist to the story that binds together all the elements of Frontierland as tightly as the noose in the opening scene. Parents should take serious caution before allowing their young children to ride. Snarling skeletal dogs and the Phantom himself keep the edge. The manor in serious disrepair has not taken its inspiration from the movie Psycho without reason. Beware.

On the flip side, Hong Kong Disneyland's Mystic Manor is full of fun and mischief from the very beginning! The colorful exterior gives guests a cue. Who cannot love Albert the adorable little monkey who puts the upheaval into motion? From any angle, the attraction is a winner that is repeatable visit after visit- and I've only seen the videos. Families of all ages should not miss this!

Will there be another incarnation of the Mansion / Manor at the soon to come Disneyland Abu Dhabi? Your guess is as good as mine.

(Concept art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Attraction Poster for Disneyland's Tiana's Bayou Adventure

Love it, hate it, or somewhere in the middle, Tiana's Bayou Adventure is a popular attraction due to wonderful music, memorable characters, and an incredible ride system. Sure, the storyline is forced and rather ridiculous even unnecessary, but this is modern Disney we're talking about. 

For Disney theme park historians, the attraction will stay somewhat controversial due to it replacing Imagineer Tony Baxter masterpiece Splash Mountain. I have not been able to ride it yet at either Walt Disney World or Disneyland. When it comes to the Magic Kingdom, I'm very curious how it will fit into Frontierland's soon and coming Piston Peak and Big Thunder  Mountain Railroad. 

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

My Wonderful In-Laws!

My wonderful in-laws! God bless them! They loved this son-in-law even when it looked like there wasn't much to love or appreciate, and they welcomed me into their family many, many, years ago. Our vacations to California were made so stress free because of their love and hospitality. My wife is the gentle, kind, woman of faith that she is because of how she was raised. We're all blessed because of her and her folks. Man, I miss these two today!

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Design Detail: Walt Disney World's Jungle Cruise

With the "Jingle Cruise" already in operation at the Magic Kingdom of Walt Disney World, it's easy to focus on this rather hokey overlay versus the brilliance of the original. It's even harder as less and less of the original is left. Regardless of all the changes, the queue remains a brilliant example of design detail. Disney Imagineering doesn't have to do what they do when they go this deep. They do it for the love of the art of theme park design. Yes, when it is in the queue, it helps set the story and makes the wait time more bearable. But it is also just plain fun as this photograph proves.

(Photo copyright Mark Taft.)