Monthly Message (November 2009) - Rediscovering the spirit of God’s gift at Christmas

Dear Friends,

I recently came across a book called, “Do nothing .... Christmas is coming!” .... a book about slowing down .... and it sounded like such a good idea.

Now, before the rush of preparations takes hold, is the time for clear thinking about the Christmas ahead. I am sure that I am not alone in detecting a certain tiredness ... ‘festive fatigue’ we might say ... as December approaches. But always wanting to turn a crisis into an opportunity ... maybe it’s time for weighing up our time worn traditions and the clutter they gather, and rediscovering the heart and soul of simple celebration.

As a Christian community we have a story to tell, a hope for humanity to share, a gift beyond measure to cherish and offer as the year turns towards Christmas. And such things are too precious to lose in the hussle and bussle. Maybe this year, when so many of the underlying values of the society we live in have been brought into question by the changed circumstances of a recession, here is an opportunity to rediscover the sacred centre and spirit of God’s gift at Christmas.

As Advent dawns the second year of Vision4Life will begin in United Reformed Churches across the land, including ours. Having focussed on engaging with the Bible in fresh ways for the first year ... we will, in the second, to explore PRAYER. Advent, the time of waiting and preparation, is a good place to begin with Prayer ... not only prayer for the world and its many needs, but the kind of reflective prayer that searches out and reflects upon our priorities, rediscovers the important things and focuses upon the riches that God encourages from deep within us for the living and shaping of life. A prayerful advent ... leading to a prayerful Christmas ... I hope.

Last year we held a Candle Lit service of Carols, readings, reflections and prayers on a Sunday evening just before Christmas ... and this year we’ll do so again. This year the evening carol service will support the Christian Aid “BIG CHRISTMAS SING” appeal on the evening of

Sunday 20th December at 7pm. The idea is to enjoy singing Christmas songs and hymns together ... and in the process, by taking up an offering at the service, support the creative life changing work that Christian Aid can do to fight poverty in some of the poorest communities on earth.

You might like to take part by requesting your favourite carol or song (a request list will be put up on the notice board in Church) ... and this could be an excellent opportunity to invite friends, family and neighbours to come along and join in.

My hope is that we’ll rediscover the sacred centre and the real cause for celebration as we look forward to Christmas this year.

Yours,

Tracey.