Generally, I’m not a sentimental person, but that kind of changes in the month of December. I love Christmas lights, Christmas movies, Christmas carols, and all the other kitschy Christmas traditions that feel old-timey and familiar. One of my favorite features of the Christmas season, however, isn’t sentimental at all....

There was a time—not long ago—when almost all Christians were committed to attending weekly worship every single Sunday unless providentially hindered or engaged in necessary work. This is no longer typical. Sports, travel, recreation, “family time,” and a whole host of other activities keep us from gathering with the church. I don’t think this shift has been hea...