Advent & Christmas

In our Advent service, we explored the profound significance of names, focusing on the many names of Jesus. Names hold deep meaning, shaping our identities and revealing our purpose. Just as our names carry stories, so do the names of Jesus.

We delved into Isaiah 7:14, where Jesus is called Emmanuel, meaning "God with us." This name reminds us of the extraordinary truth that God chose to dwell among us, sharing our human experiences. Through Jesus, we can personally connect with the divine.

We also reflected on Jesus as our Saviour, a name that encapsulates His mission to save the lost. His very name, Yeshua, means "God saves." This highlights the core of our faith – that through Jesus, we find salvation and redemption.

The name Prince of Peace resonated deeply, reminding us of the peace that surpasses all understanding. In a world often filled with turmoil, Jesus offers us His peace, a peace that calms our hearts and dispels fear.

As the Lamb of God, Jesus embodies sacrifice and forgiveness. He willingly laid down His life, just as the sacrificial lambs of the Old Testament. His sacrifice bridges the gap between humanity and God, offering us reconciliation and new life.

Jesus, the Good Shepherd, exemplifies protection, provision, and care. He guides us, watches over us, and even laid down His life for His flock. We find comfort and security in His loving care.

Ultimately, we recognised Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of the living God. This confession is the cornerstone of our Christian faith, setting us apart and affirming our belief in His divinity and saving power.

As we journey through Advent, let us meditate on these names of Jesus, allowing them to deepen our understanding of His love, grace, and the profound impact He has on our lives. May we embrace the invitation to a personal relationship with Him, finding peace, salvation, and purpose in His many names.

The season of Advent is upon us, a time of reflection, anticipation, and preparation for the coming of Christ. It's a time to step away from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and focus on the true meaning of Christmas.

Advent invites us to embark on a journey of faith, a pilgrimage of the heart. We light candles, each representing hope, peace, love, and joy, illuminating our path and reminding us of the promises fulfilled in the birth of Jesus and the hope for his second coming.

The candle of hope signifies the fulfilment of prophecy and the anticipation of Christ's return. We are reminded of Isaiah's words, "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light." This light shines on those living in the land of deep darkness, offering hope for peace, healing, and the well-being of all creation.

The candle of peace reminds us of the angels' message to the shepherds, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his u rests." In a world often plagued by conflict and discord, we are called to be bearers of peace, reflecting the presence of God who gently guides us on the path of reconciliation and harmony.

The candle of love symbolizes the boundless love of God, revealed in the gift of his Son, Jesus Christ. This love, stronger than any force, led to the miraculous birth of Jesus and continues to surround and fill us. As we celebrate the birth of Christ, we are reminded of the ultimate act of love and are called to share that love with others.

The candle of joy signifies the exuberance and delight that the coming of Christ brings. We see this joy reflected in the excitement of children, the warmth of gatherings, and the spirit of giving. Even in times of sorrow and grief, the joy of Christmas can break through, reminding us of the hope and love that sustain us.

As we journey through Advent, let us embrace the hope, peace, love, and joy that this season offers. Let us share the good news with others, just as the shepherds did, and let the light of Christ shine brightly in our hearts and in the world. 

The Christmas season is a special time in the Christian calendar, a time of joy, reflection, and celebration. But when does it truly end? For some, it might seem like the decorations are barely down before the festive spirit fades.

Yet, as we explore in our services, the Christmas story extends far beyond December 25th. It encompasses Epiphany, when we remember the wise men's visit to Jesus, and even Candlemas at the end of the month. In many cultures, Epiphany is a more significant celebration than Christmas Day itself.

The heart of Christmas lies not only in the carols, presents, and feasts but in the enduring message of the Gospels. It's about the birth of Jesus and the good news he brought to the world. This message is not confined to a single day but is meant to permeate our lives throughout the year.

Even as we exchange gifts and enjoy the festivities, let's remember the true meaning of Christmas. Let's share the gospel story with those around us, so that they too may understand the reason for the season.

Christmas may be over, but the good news of Jesus is just the beginning. It's a story of hope, love, and redemption that continues to unfold in our lives today. As we journey through the Gospels, may we discover the greatest gift of all: the gift of Jesus' love and salvation.

This Christmas season, as we're bombarded with advertisements and the pressure to find the perfect gift, it's easy to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. We get caught up in the frenzy of shopping, decorating, and preparing for the festivities, and we forget what it's all truly about.

Amidst the hustle and bustle, I'm reminded of the John Lewis Christmas advert this year, where Sally searches for the perfect gift for her sister. It beautifully illustrates the idea that the most perfect gifts are often found in unexpected places. And as the advert concludes, "The secret to finding the perfect gift is knowing where to look."

This message resonates deeply with the Christmas story. The birth of Jesus, the Son of God, in a humble stable, was an unexpected entrance for the King of Kings. God's gift to the world, His one and only Son, was not wrapped in expensive paper or adorned with a fancy bow. He was found in a manger, in a place where no one expected to find a Saviour.

The true meaning of Christmas is found in this unexpected gift - the gift of God's love, forgiveness, and eternal life through Jesus Christ. It's a gift that's available to everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from.

So, as we celebrate Christmas this year, let's remember to shift our focus from the material gifts to the true gift of Christmas – Jesus Christ. Let's take time to reflect on His birth, His life, and His sacrifice for us. And let's share this good news with others, so that they too may experience the joy and peace that comes from knowing Him.