A New Hope! (Dec-Jan 2023)
Light shines brightest in darkness. That’s the heart of the Christmas story, an overriding message of hope that is articulated beautifully in the lyrics of “O Holy Night”: “O holy night, the stars are brightly shining; it is the night of our dear Saviour’s birth.” God didn’t come into our world at high noon. He entered our lives in darkness — showing us the way to light, guiding us towards love, and demonstrating how to overcome shadows and darkness. Christmas teaches us that even when things seem dark, we can trust the everlasting light- Jesus!
‘I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened… that you may know the hope to which he has called you.’ (Ephesians 1:18)
In a world that seems busy, confusing and sometimes uncertain, we are looking for something solid to build our lives on and people to do life with. As we move from a season of uncertainty, it is tempting to get busier and distract ourselves. But take a moment to consider- what do I hope for?
Maybe it is a thing- a house, or a car, or a surfboard?
Maybe it is a person- someone to love, or to be loved more?
Maybe it is change- something unknown that will give life more meaning?
Did you know you were created to have hope?
Whether you are reading this as you approach Christmas or after New Year, it is a season in which we remember the promises God has made. Promises that were fulfilled in the first advent (which means "coming") of Jesus Christ. In this season, we also remember the promises God has made to us, promises that remain to be fulfilled, promises that will come to pass in the second advent of Jesus.
In this changing of seasons, may I invite you to (re)connect with the God who loves and enjoys new beginnings? He wants to give us a hope that will never fade. A hope that gives purpose and can fill the biggest gaps in life.
Invitation
We want our churches to be a place for the whole community to feel hope and be at home, no matter our faith-journey or background. Consider this an invitation!
For families and children- there are opportunities to join in with some great activities, especially on Fridays and Sundays (look at our website for more info).
If you want to explore faith, hope, and who Jesus is and what he offers- please get in touch.
If you are reading this on the run-up to Christmas, we look forward to seeing you at one of our many Advent and Christmas events: www.padstowchurch.org/christmas2022
I wish you a joyful and hope-filled season.
Every blessing,
Revd Ian Gulland