The Nativity

Just thought I would write a quick Christmas blog-as I am sitting here watching the Nativity and am reminded that Jesus is the reason for the season! I am a sucker for Christmas carols but only recently took time to find out what the lyrics were for some of them. One of my favourites has got to be Tidings (God rest ye merry gentleman). This season in particular are we reminded of the prophecy spoken in Isaiah 9. Joy is spoken of entering the world as the birth of a child will bring peace- that child will be Emmanuel (God with us). 

In the midst of this season, be it a joyful or possibly a mournful season we must remember that God is with us. For many families this is a hard season- but hold onto the promise that God is with us- He has sent Jesus to give us life and life more abundantly.

Mary and Joseph also greatly encourage us to be people of faith! In a culture where you were stoned if you were adulterous and ostracised if you did anything wrong, Mary and Joseph sacrificed a lot. They had to let go of their reputation. Would we be so willing? Despite the obstacles of 2012 and the shaking that has taken place in our lives a lot of us, if not all of us, are carrying something God given just like Mary. Something that separates us from the people we are around that may even cause us to be rejected. But we are to bring God's Kingdom here to earth - the earth awaits for what we have to bring - that which is of joy peace and righteousness in the Holy Spirit, and as we carry these things in 2013 we need to walk by faith. Just as Mary responded  to the angel "Let it be to me according to your word". We need to walk with the same faith. God has planted many things in our lives that are able to come to fruition in 2013. Are we willing to accept God's Word and not focus on the what if's. Mary could have wondered "What if I end up stoned?" "What if I am rejected?" "What if Joseph leaves me?" But Mary accepted the word. And we see Romans 8:28 - things working out for their good. Mary could have easily been ostracised and left to raise a baby on her own after escaping stoning. But God had it that He would divinely position Mary in a relationship where she would be protected and enabled to nurture her gift in a safe environment as Joseph stood by her.

I pray that Christmas will be a time of inexpressible joy for we are reminded of the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world! In the hard and good times of this season you will remember that God is with us and as you hold onto the confession of your faith you will see God do exceedingly and abundantly more than you can ask or think. I also pray that just as God positioned Mary in a safe environment to her nurture her gift- I pray that God will do the same for you in 2013. Surround you with relationships that help bring out who God created you to be! 

Merry Christmas to all! And to all a good night!