Recently, an aged house-church pastor died in one of China’s global cities. Unlike the many famous Christians whose obituaries you read, you’ve never heard this pastor’s name. But his name is known by the Lord who gave him life, called him to ministry, and has now welcomed him into eternity. Pastor Wang lived during a tumultuous time in China. Over his lifetime, China endured invasion by Japan, the Second World War, the Chinese Communist Party’s victory, the Cultural Revolution, China’s reopening and economic rise, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Against this backdrop, Wang witnessed the explosive growth of the Christian church in his homeland. Formed Through Suffering Born into a Christian family in the 1930s, Wang experienced renewal and conversion as a teen and participated in Christian student movements and retreats. He entered medical college after the Chinese Communist Party came to power but refused to cease his Christian activities. As a result, he was labeled a “backward element” and frequently criticized and excluded. During this time, he met another student—a young woman who was also a Christian—and they were married. They had two sons. From a young age, Wang felt called to pastor; however, China’s political and social environment didn’t allow him to pursue this calling as a young man. Instead, he found meaning and purpose in serving people as a doctor. With the advent of the Cultural Revolution, Wang and his family faced significant hardship. Wang’s wife had already been sent to work in a hospital in another province, dividing the family geographically. In the 1970s, the family was further separated when Wang’s openness about his Christian faith led him to be imprisoned for five years for “counter-revolutionary” activities, leaving his two young sons in the care of their grandparents. After his release, Wang was reinstated in his medical profession and his wife was finally reassigned to work in the same city. As a young college student facing public criticism under the Communist regime, Wang had learned the most important lesson of his spiritual life—for every Christian, to walk with Christ is to participate in his earthly suffering. This belief shaped Wang’s entire life and sustained him during his many struggles during the Revolution. Yet, according to those who knew and loved him, this conviction wasn’t expressed with a dour attitude toward the world or withdrawal from society. Instead, Wang was empowered to do good work by this understanding of the Christian’s call to suffer with Christ. Fruitful in Obscurity In the 1990s, Wang battled severe stomach cancer. After making a full recovery, he volunteered every year as a doctor in one of China’s most impoverished provinces. Wang and his wife also began hosting a group of Christians in their home during this time. This regular meeting eventually grew into a church, fulfilling Wang’s long-held call. He pastored faithfully during the final three decades of his life and led countless neighbors, colleagues, friends, and strangers to the Lord. Wang was empowered to do good work by this understanding of the Christian’s call to suffer with Christ. In a reflection on his life that has been circulating on the Chinese internet, Wang’s son wrote, “The message of ‘Jesus Christ and Him crucified’ that he conveyed and preached with his life was powerful, piercing hearts, yet also bringing people to the Lord in repentance and rest. The simple courtyard where he lived for 74 years witnessed countless people’s repentance, salvation, baptism, marriage, life transformation, and empowered service.” He calls his father “a hero living in the real world,” reminiscent of the imaginary heroes in the stories Wang was fond of telling his children and grandchildren, stories which no doubt had roots in Wang’s own experiences of living out his convictions amid hardship.  Substance of Christian Heroism Wang’s life invites us to ask, What’s the nature of a Christian hero? Does such a person exist? In the creation of heroes, humanity is prone to navel-gazing. Throughout history, men and women have been tempted to make more of each other than they deserve, and it doesn’t serve the persecuted church to put it on a pedestal. After all, there’s only one true Hero of the story. Only one man, Jesus, is worthy of our full admiration and devotion. Apart from him, there are no original heroes, only disciples who, more often than not, look like faulty copies of the template. Yet our churches are plagued by the temptations of celebrity. We ought to pay tribute to those Christians who die in obscurity, especially when their callings were marked by the cross. Their faithfulness isn’t counted by the number of people who recognize their name. It’s demonstrated by the quiet, determined fruitfulness of their lives and their persistence in reminding us that the Hero on whom we pattern ourselves was a hero marked by suffering and service, who “had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him” (Isa. 53:2). In Wang’s obscurity and afflictions, his heroism reflected the Hero better than did anyone whose name is in the headlines. Wang lived faithfully, as I long to. He had a successful secular career in a global city. He used his medical skills to serve his country’s poor and to bless his immediate neighbors. He was open about his Christian faith, despite the hostility it brought, and evangelized countless people. He was faithful to the church, becoming a bivocational pastor. He was creative and imaginative, known for his vivid storytelling and impressive poetry and calligraphy. He wrote beautiful hymns. His children and grandchildren walk with Christ and bless Wang in their memories of his dedication to his family and the godly example he set before them. Wang quietly embodied so much of what I hear Christians in America today trying to figure out: how to be in the world but not of it, how the imagination gives depth and meaning to our faith, how to take seriously the call to serve the poor. Wang quietly embodied so much of what I hear Christians in America today trying to figure out. When Wang was incarcerated in the 1970s, many thought Christianity may have died in China. Today, it’s safe to estimate there are 100 million Christians in mainland China. How did it happen? It happened without the trappings on which the American church can be so reliant. It happened without conferences; it happened without social media; it happened without celebrity. It happened without power. It happened because Pastor Wang, and the many like him, were faithful. They walked by faith and not by sight.

Christmas is coming, as your kids have undoubtedly reminded you. That means shopping season has arrived—with former forests worth of gift catalogs in the mail. Anything kids could want (and plenty they wouldn’t have known to want) is there for the ordering. We pore over the catalogs, thinking how happy these toys will make our kids; they pore over the same catalogs dreaming of newer, better, and more. It’s easy to be swept along in the commercial spirit of the season. If we’re not careful, the world will conform gift-giving parents and gift-loving kids to its pattern (Rom. 12:2), like fruitcake squeezed into a holiday mold. I’m not a curmudgeon. I affirm the goodness of giving gifts, especially to children. But even as we model God’s abundance for our kids, we must point them beyond material possessions to lasting joy. How can we do that? Generous God When we give presents, we remind our kids of the Giver of all good gifts, and of the greatest Gift, Christ himself. As Andrew Wilson notes, “The original Christmas present, wrapped in muslins and rags rather than decorative paper, does not merely come to give; he is himself a gift, the gift, the most outlandish demonstration of love that God could possibly offer.” Giving helps us remember and celebrate God’s generous grace in Christ. When we give presents, we remind our kids of the Giver of all good gifts, and of the greatest Gift, Christ himself. We imitate our Father’s bountiful goodness when we purchase extravagant gifts for our children. When each of my kids turns 12, I take him or her on a trip to a national park, just the two of us. I hope I image our good Father in giving my kids that trip. There’s a time and a place for abundant gifts like that—but even as we give them, we must tread carefully. In Abundance, Take Care God’s Word says, “Life does not consist in an abundance of possessions” (Luke 12:15, NIV). Those who live in “luxury and in self-indulgence” fatten themselves for the day of slaughter (James 5:5). Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matt. 6:21). Earthly treasure can function like a magnet, pulling our hearts away from the Lord. So when we spend money to give treasures to children, it’s worth remembering our parental responsibility to guard their hearts from greed. Consider this analogy. God commanded his people to feast on certain days. There was no concern those feasts might produce gluttony or drunkenness. Unbridled celebration has its place. But feasting was the exception, not the norm. Simplicity, moderation, and a daily-bread mindset reigned for most of the year, with days set aside for fasting too. We live in a culture that feasts more than it fasts. In a materialistic and gluttonous culture, it’s wise to temper our feasts and steward our gift giving carefully. Augustine’s Answer Kids aren’t wrong to seek joy in gracious gifts. But parents know they can grow bored tomorrow with what they received yesterday. The gift catalogs and endless commercials overpromise and underdeliver. So in our giving, we must teach our kids to seek the Joy beneath the joy. As Augustine writes, What do I love when I love my God? . . . It is true that I love a light of a certain kind, a voice, a perfume, a food, an embrace; but they are of the kind that I love in my inner self, when my soul is bathed in light that is not bound by space; when it listens to sound that never dies away; when it breathes fragrance that is not borne away on the wind; when it tastes food that is never consumed by the eating; when it clings to an embrace from which it is not severed by fulfillment of desire. This is what I love when I love my God. It’s not the gifts that will delight our children eternally, for they’ll inevitably end up in a landfill or secondhand store. Instead, our kids need gifts that move their affections to the Gift and Giver. Gifts That Point to the Giver Are such gifts possible? I think so. Here are a few ideas. 1. Gifts of (Near) Necessity Give helpful items that don’t fit into your normal budget. In a season when purse strings are tight, you might give your child the new shoes, jacket, or backpack you weren’t able to buy earlier in the year. In lean years, gifts like these can be more appreciated than a luxury item, and they lead our families to thank God for his unfailing provision. 2. Gifts for Stewardship Give gifts that help your children steward their God-given talents, such as a new musical instrument for a budding musician who wants to play for the church. Gifts like these can point our kids beyond selfish desires toward serving others in Christ’s name. 3. Gifts of Love An aunt who lives far away may only know enough of her nephew to give a gift card. But a thoughtful gift—one that shows you’re watching, listening, and paying attention; perhaps one that took time and energy to make—can help kids remember and praise the God who knows, loves, and pays close attention to them. 4. Gifts of Compassion For years, I’ve donated to a Christian compassion ministry in lieu of buying some wealthy family members “one more thing.” They’re deeply grateful for it. In our giving, we must teach our kids to seek the Joy beneath the joy. As parents, talk with your kids about ways you might use some of your Christmas funds to provide for others. We give gifts like these because our God had compassion on us when we were in need. This Christmas, will your kids find delight in the One who is the Treasure (Matt. 13:44), or will they only exchange treasured trinkets? In your gift giving, help them to treasure not only the gift but the Gift and Giver more. Lasting joy is found in him.

In this lecture, Don Carson contrasts false prophets, who lead others astray, with genuine prophets who speak truth grounded in God’s revelation and call people to repentance. He emphasizes the importance of discernment in times of cultural decay and highlights the vitality of remaining faithfully rooted in the Scripture and committed to moral uprightness despite the pressures of a confused world. He teaches the following: Genuine prophets speak from God, while false prophets speak from imagination False prophets will face divine judgment for their deception Genuine prophets call people to repentance and biblical knowledge What’s spoken by genuine prophets aligns with revealed redemptive history God’s sovereignty embraces both good and evil False prophets are accepted by many, while genuine prophets are accepted by few Faithfulness and discernment are necessary in a world that promotes moral relativism

When it comes to holiday hosting, making guests comfortable doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Simple planning and a few thoughtful details can transform your guest room into a more welcoming space. These tips will help create a memorable experience that ensures your visitors leave impressed and well cared for. Let’s explore how to make this holiday hosting season seamless and special! Snuggle-Worthy Linens for Maximum Comfort A great stay starts with a great night’s sleep. Preparing the bed with care ensures your guests feel relaxed and refreshed. Layer the bedding: Use soft sheets, a plush comforter, and a seasonal throw blanket. Choose rich colors like deep reds or earthy greens for warmth. Layering textures, such as cotton sheets with a knit blanket, enhances both comfort and style. Upgrade pillows: Provide a selection of firm, soft, and memory foam pillows that guests can choose from.  Throw in a decorative holiday pillow for a thoughtful, festive touch. Add texture: Opt for flannel sheets, velvet pillow covers, or faux fur throws. These fabrics feel luxurious and make the bed look inviting. These thoughtful touches create a bed so comfortable that your guests will feel at home immediately. For more bedding inspiration, visit Better Homes & Gardens. Toiletries That Make a Difference Stocking the room with toiletries shows your guests that you anticipated their needs. These small gestures set excellent hosts apart. Essentials basket: Include items like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and hand lotion. Choose travel-size products with festive scents like vanilla or pine. Arrange them neatly in a basket or tray. Fresh towels: Provide bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths in neutral or seasonal colors. For added luxury, include a bathrobe or warm slipper socks. Embroidered towels can also make the setup feel upscale. Extras: Add useful items like a stain remover pen, a travel-sized sewing kit, and over-the-counter pain relievers. These practical additions often prove invaluable for guests. Providing these amenities ensures your guests are comfortable and well-prepared during their stay. Snacks and Drinks for Every Craving Offering snacks and beverages is an easy way to make guests feel at ease. This thoughtful addition shows you’ve gone the extra mile. Organized display: Use a tray or basket to arrange treats like granola bars, chocolates, and holiday cookies. Fresh fruit, such as apples or clementines, adds healthy options to the mix. Beverages: Include bottled water, coffee pods, tea bags, and hot cocoa packets. Providing mugs and an electric kettle makes it easy for guests to prepare drinks on their own. Add festive touches like marshmallows or flavored syrups. Personalized welcome: Leave a handwritten note inviting guests to enjoy the snacks. A small menu card listing the available options adds a thoughtful touch. Having snacks readily available ensures your guests feel cared for and comfortable whenever hunger strikes. For more ideas, check out Apartment Therapy’s snack station tips. Subtle Seasonal Decorations Holiday decorations can make a guest room feel special. However, subtlety is key to avoid overwhelming the space. Miniature tree: Place a small, tabletop tree with soft lights and simple ornaments on a dresser or side table. Neutral decorations like silver or gold keep the look timeless. Fairy lights: Drape warm white lights along a headboard or around a mirror to create a soft, inviting glow. Colorful lights can also add a playful holiday touch if that suits your style. Holiday scents: Use a flameless diffuser with cinnamon or pine essential oils. Alternatively, include a travel-safe candle in a festive scent for ambiance. These decorations enhance the room’s holiday vibe without taking up too much space. Thoughtful Extras for Convenience Small, practical additions make your guest room more functional and enjoyable. Thoughtful hosts consider every detail to ensure their guests' comfort. Wi-Fi information: Write the password on a card or place it in a small frame for easy reference. Include step-by-step instructions for connecting to the network. Charging station: Provide a power strip with USB slots or a multi-port charger. An extra-long charging cable can make charging from the bed much easier. Entertainment options: Add books, holiday magazines, or puzzles for downtime. If possible, provide access to streaming services or include TV operating instructions. These extras leave a lasting impression on your guests and show that you’ve looked after their needs. Wrapping Up Your Holiday Hosting Holiday hosting doesn’t have to be complicated. Focusing on essentials like comfortable bedding, thoughtful toiletries, and convenient snacks can create a guest room that feels warm and welcoming. Add simple seasonal decorations and practical extras to elevate the experience further. In the end, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. A well-stocked room with heartfelt details ensures your guests leave with fond memories of your home. Ready to get started? With these tips, you can make this holiday season your best hosting experience yet! FAQs What if I don’t have a separate guest room? No problem! You can easily create a welcoming space in a shared area. Use an air mattress or a fold-out couch, and add cozy bedding. A privacy screen or curtain can provide separation for extra comfort. How do I prepare for guests with dietary restrictions? Check with your guests in advance about allergies or preferences. Stock your snack station with a mix of options like gluten-free crackers, dairy-free milk, or vegan treats to accommodate everyone. What’s the easiest way to keep the guest room clean during their stay? Provide a small laundry basket or hamper for used towels and linens. Encourage guests to leave any items they want replaced in the hamper for easy upkeep. How can I make a small guest space feel more inviting? A: Focus on details like soft bedding, subtle decorations, and a bedside tray with water and snacks. Adding a small rug or throw can also make the area feel warmer and more personal. Should I decorate with specific holiday themes? A: Keep decorations neutral to appeal to all guests. Simple accents like fairy lights, pinecones, or a small tree with metallic ornaments work well without being too specific. How can I ensure guests have enough privacy? A: Offer a door sign or let guests know they can close the door when they need alone time. If they’re staying in a shared space, provide a small lamp and blackout curtains for added comfort. What if I forget to provide something? Don’t stress! Let your guests know they can ask for anything they need. Keep essentials like extra towels, toiletries, or snacks in an easy-to-find spot. How do I make long-term guests feel welcome? For extended stays, add a few personal touches like a calendar of local events, a guidebook, or a list of nearby coffee shops and attractions. Rotate snacks and toiletries to keep things fresh. What’s a good way to manage multiple guests' Wi-Fi and device needs? Write the Wi-Fi password on a visible card, and provide a power strip with multiple USB ports to accommodate charging. If you’re hosting several guests, consider boosting your Wi-Fi signal to avoid slow connections. How do I politely signal it’s time for guests to leave? Be clear about your schedule at the start of their visit. Saying something like, “It’s been so great having you, and we have plans starting on [date],” sets expectations without awkwardness.

A hoard of 1,368 Roman and Iron Age silver coins dating to the reign of Nero has been discovered in Worcestershire, western England. Dubbed the Worcestershire Conquest Hoard because of it was buried just a dozen or so years after the Roman conquest of Britain, it is the largest hoard from the reign of Nero ever discovered in the entire territory of the Roman Empire. It’s one of the most important archaeological finds made in Worcestershire, which has few notable Roman archaeological remains and was still the borderland between areas controlled by Rome and ones controlled by Iron Age Britons when the hoard was buried. The hoard was discovered late last year by builders in the Leigh and Bransford area of Worcestershire. The coins were placed in a ceramic pot that was likely made in one of several pottery kilns in operation at the foot of the Malvern Hills. Most of the coins are silver denarii minted in Rome, the earliest dating to 157 B.C., the most recent to 55 A.D. There is one solitary gold coin, a stater minted for the local Dobunni tribe who lived in Worcestershire between 20 and 45 A.D. The most recent coins are in near-mint condition, indicating they cannot have been in circulation long, so the hoard was likely buried in 55 A.D. or shortly thereafter. In the late 50s A.D., Nero appointed governors Quintus Veranius and Gaius Suetonius Paulinus who aggressively pursued the conquest of Wales. Worcestershire was in the thick of the action. Dr Murray Andrews, Lecturer in British Archaeology, UCL Institute of Archaeology says: “This extraordinary new find is one of the largest early Roman hoards ever found in Britain. It gives us a glimpse of a brief moment in time 2,000 years ago, when the frontiers of the Roman Empire ran from North Africa and the Near East to the Malvern Hills and the River Severn. Our initial research suggests that the hoard relates to military expenditure – perhaps official payments to a wealthy local farmer or merchant, who was supplying grain and livestock to the Roman fort at Worcester. It was buried at a time of unrest in the Welsh Borders, when local groups like the Silures fought back against the advancing Roman army, so it’s possible that the original owner was trying to protect their money from the threat of conflict and border raids. The hoard unlocks an important window on the history and archaeology of Roman Britain, and further study will help us understand more about how and why these coins came to be buried where and when they were. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime find, and a real Worcestershire treasure.” It was declared official Treasure by the Coroner for Worcestershire in June 2024 and a valuation committee assessed its fair market value as £100,000. Of course Museums Worcestershire is most extremely keen to acquire the hoard for permanent exhibition. In order to apply for grants and funding for the whole sum, they have to show local interest is high. Worcestershire Heritage, Art & Museums charity has launched a fundraising campaign to raise £6,000 to show grant authorities that the people of Worcestershire want to keep it in the county where it has been for 1,945 years. The news only broke Monday, and it was a banner Cyber Monday for the crowdfunding campaign. As of Tuesday afternoon, they had raised £5,493, 91% of the target. The hoard is currently being catalogued and conserved at the Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum where it will go on temporary display in January. If the campaign to acquire the treasure is successful, the hoard will be moved to the Worcestershire County Museum at Hartlebury Castle

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