Opinion

Dear Editor: The Democrats started the Civil War of 1861-1865, resulting in the deaths of 620 thousand Americans. They backed slavery.

This year our world has been plagued by wars, threats, and rumors of more wars at any minute. Sadly, untold numbers killed and millions fleeing for their lives. Not counting floods and droughts besides all kinds of problems, difficulties, sickness with family, friends or loved ones. Remember we are not without hope because of a great event that took place many years ago. Some shepherds were camped out with their flocks when suddenly they were surrounded by a bright light and an angel stood before them. The angel told them not to fear that he had good news for them and also for the whole world. That day someone very special had been born and He was to be the Savior of the world, (Luke 2:8-14). He is Christ the Lord. He was also called Immanuel which means, “God with us.” (Matthew 1:23). Many prophecies were made about Him in the bible. Like, He can bring peace to the World, (Isaiah 9:6&7). He is called the anointed one, (Psalm 2:2). And one of my favorites, (John 1:29) “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” Later there were some wise men that came and worshipped Him, (Matthew 2:1&2). Let us try and be like those wise men this Christmas season and Worship the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ, (Revelation 19:16).

Following the angel’s instructions, the shepherds arrived in Bethlehem to find the newborn baby lying in a manger. Wondering why these strangers had come to see her child, the shepherds told Mary about the angels’ announcement. Luke says, “Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.”

GARDENER’S MAILBAG Dear Neil: We mowed our yard and forgot to replace the screen around our magnolia tree that I gave my wife several years ago. I discovered a buck deer had shredded the tree leaving only one inch of bark intact.

Atotal of $18 billion in property tax cuts were approved by more than 80% of voters in the November general election and should be reflected in property tax bills that are due by Jan. 31. The cuts come in the form of increased home exemptions, lower school district rates, and limiting the amount property appraisals can rise.

“The right place at the right time.” I realize that not everyone recognizes Jesus Christ as the Son of God (or even a real person); but for Christians, his birth, ministry, death and triumph over death fit the “right place at the right time” for fulfilling prophecies of the Messiah.

Dear Neil: I have a bed of liriope that I would like to use for new plants so that I can start another bed elsewhere in my yard. When and how should I do that? Start by trimming away any dead foliage left over from cold spells.