From the Manse
Dear Friends,
One of the greatest passages of scripture is the opening verses of the first chapter of John’s Gospel.
Unlike the start of Matthew’s Gospel or Luke’s, who begin by telling us the story of Jesus’ birth, John provides us with a meditation upon the eternal significance of that wonderful event. He speaks of God as the one who gives life and light to the world, and proclaims;
“The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not put it out.” John 1:5
In the world today there is much darkness, and the continuing conflict in the Middle East, the place where Christ, the Prince of Peace was born, is a cause of great concern, as are the many other conflicts around the globe.
In such a world, it would be easy for us to lose heart, and to believe that this is how things will be, and that they will not change, not now and not ever.
While I can fully understand such thinking, I believe John’s words contain a magnificent truth that should not only give us hope at such a time as this, but inspire us to work to make the world a better and more just place, a place where the prophet Isaiah’s vision will become a reality;
“They will beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war any more. Come, O house of Jacob, let us walk in the light of the Lord.” Isaiah 2:4-5
Light has a magnificent quality. Even the tiniest flicker of light can make a difference and help dispel the darkness.
God gave the world the greatest gift ever when he sent his Son at the first Christmas. In and through Jesus, God has shown us how much he loves us, and as one of the names given to the Christ child makes known, Immanuel, God is with us! He is with us at all times, even when we might think he is distant, and the flame of his love cannot be quenched by hatred, nor can the light he gives be overcome by darkness.
Let us this Christmas and in the year to come, spread the love and light that came into the world when Jesus was born in Bethlehem, and let us through our service as followers of Jesus, endeavour to make the world a place where peace prevails and hope abounds.
“The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not put it out.”
I send you my very best wishes for a joyful Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
Every blessing,
Your friend and minister,
Gary