18^th November

“Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Ephesians 5:18-20

For some, the Christmas season is one of the best times of year; the warmth in the atmosphere, echoing sounds of carols and songs, Christmas trees, lights and other festivities, Christmas markets, mince pies and so much more, make the festive seasons a truly joyous occasion. Of course, sadly all of the above also make for good marketing and business opportunities, for both shops and trades. Yet above all, even 2000 years after His birth, it is Jesus Christ who takes the centre stage in the lives of so many people across the world, as on the 25^th of December, although it may not be exactly the date Jesus was actually born, we remember and celebrate His coming nonetheless and rejoice in the ‘how’ and in the ‘why’ He came!

Yet what is astounding is that even after 2000 years, Jesus’ birth continues to bring unity to people everywhere. Isn’t it interesting that an extra effort is usually made during the festive season, for families and friends to meet up for fun and fellowship. That togetherness, that common reason to meet, the extra effort that is made, is why Christmas is more than just ‘Christmas Festivities’, but it is to rejoice in the unity that Jesus’ birth brings. Jesus’ birth, life and death, continues to unite us all bound by the love of the Spirit.

When we meet let us remember Paul’s wise words to the church in Ephesus, and be filled with the Spirit at all times, rejoicing in and giving thanks to Jesus, our Lord and King.