For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)
The nights are long, the darkness seems to arrive each day almost before the daylight has had time to make its presence felt, and yet this is the time when we celebrate the coming of the King. Whether Jesus was actually born in December, July, or whenever is missing the point. At this moment in our year together we can all reflect that the one who was promised hundreds of years before his birth, came into our world and is still affecting and changing lives today. How amazing that God so loved the world that he gave his only son, and that he chose to come as a defenceless baby lying in the arms of humanity. How amazing! He will not force himself on us, he invites us to embrace him. As you travel through the busyness of December find time to consider the one who gave everything for you, who came in vulnerability to provide a way that heaven might touch earth.
All the festivities of December seem to fade and fail as we enter the somewhat quieter month of January and people are often left with the relics of over indulgence, whether that be in food or finances. And yet the message of Christmas remains, echoed in the old hymn: ‘Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide; strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!’
May the God of peace, the God of strength provide for us all as we look forward to a new year travelling on this adventure with him and with one another, sharing his love wherever he may send us.
Neil
To download a copy of our Family newsletter for December 2011/Janaury 2012 click on the link below;
