Talking Addiction & Recovery

Episode 140: Can We Find Christmas (featuring Donna VanLiere)?

Dec 1, 2025
In this engaging discussion, bestselling author Donna VanLiere delves into her latest work, emphasizing the humility of the nativity scene and its vital message for today's outcast. She highlights how modern festivities can overshadow the true meaning of Christmas and invites listeners to reflect on gratitude and hope. Donna shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on embracing the spirit of the season. Through her heartfelt insights, she reminds us that even in hardship, we can find ways to shine light into the lives of others.
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ADVICE

Slow Down And Treasure The Nativity

  • Slow down and reread the nativity stories to treasure what Mary pondered and to refocus on Jesus amid holiday noise.
  • Donna purposely wrote a short book so readers can absorb the nativity without getting lost in a long read.
INSIGHT

God Uses Ordinary People

  • The nativity characters were common people, chosen to reveal God's love to the ordinary and outcast.
  • Donna highlights that God's plan uses ordinary lives and there is no 'plan B' for Jesus' mission.
INSIGHT

Outcast-Born Savior Reaches Outcasts

  • The outcast-born Jesus uniquely touches other outcasts because he entered the world as one of them.
  • Donna links Jesus' ministry to lifting the poor, sick, and marginalized through compassion and presence.
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