Advent
Advent Calendar thought - December 24
24/12/11
We made it! The last thought before Christmas morning. If you have enjoyed the series then please do contact me and let me know what you found enjoyable and helpful.
As we will be opening presents tomorrow, let’s finish with the gifts the wise men brought.
For me they were wise to the end in their devotion (Matthew 2:11)
When at last they had found the Christ, they bowed down and worshipped him. They presented him with gifts. To be truly wise is to recognise that it is not enough to discover who Christ is or even what he has done. We also need to give ourselves to him in faith and worship. With their gifts the wise men gave:
A Gift Worthy of His Lordship – Gold
Gold has obvious worth. It is a gift fit for royalty. God deserves the very best that we can bring in our hand and hearts.
A Gift Worthy of His Holiness – Frankincense
Frankincense is mentioned 17 times in the Bible. It was used as one of four sweet scents compounded together to make the ceremonial incense of the Jews. Frankincense was used in both sacrifices and prayer. Its aroma was always present in the Temple grounds.
So frankincense symbolised praise and worship of Christ as the Holy One of God
A Gift Worthy of His Sacrifice – Myrrh
Myrrh is an aromatic resinous gum obtained from several trees and shrubs found in both northern Africa and throughout the entire Middle East. It was used in Egypt in the embalming process of mummification. There are 22 references to myrrh in the Bible. Myrrh was used to anoint every part of the tabernacle in the
wilderness. It was myrrh that was poured out on the feet of Jesus just a week before his death. How prophetic to have myrrh as one of the gifts presented to him at his birth – this child was born to die. In Matthew 1:21 it says, “And she shall bring forth a son, and you shall call his name JESUS: for He shall save his people from their sins”.
Christmas is sharing our gifts, not purchasing gifts. It’s not wrapping presents, it’s being present and loving those who love you and those who have no one to love them. It’s not getting cards out on time. It’s sending any card, anytime, at the right time throughout the year. It’s not having the biggest and best display of Christmas lights, it’s displaying the light of Christ to lighten up others lives. It’s not Santa coming down the chimney, it’s Jesus coming down from heaven and giving us the gift of eternal life.
I pray that you may experience a very happy Christmas and a wise New Year.
Rosemary.
As we will be opening presents tomorrow, let’s finish with the gifts the wise men brought.
For me they were wise to the end in their devotion (Matthew 2:11)
When at last they had found the Christ, they bowed down and worshipped him. They presented him with gifts. To be truly wise is to recognise that it is not enough to discover who Christ is or even what he has done. We also need to give ourselves to him in faith and worship. With their gifts the wise men gave:
A Gift Worthy of His Lordship – Gold
Gold has obvious worth. It is a gift fit for royalty. God deserves the very best that we can bring in our hand and hearts.
A Gift Worthy of His Holiness – Frankincense
Frankincense is mentioned 17 times in the Bible. It was used as one of four sweet scents compounded together to make the ceremonial incense of the Jews. Frankincense was used in both sacrifices and prayer. Its aroma was always present in the Temple grounds.
So frankincense symbolised praise and worship of Christ as the Holy One of God
A Gift Worthy of His Sacrifice – Myrrh
Myrrh is an aromatic resinous gum obtained from several trees and shrubs found in both northern Africa and throughout the entire Middle East. It was used in Egypt in the embalming process of mummification. There are 22 references to myrrh in the Bible. Myrrh was used to anoint every part of the tabernacle in the
Christmas is sharing our gifts, not purchasing gifts. It’s not wrapping presents, it’s being present and loving those who love you and those who have no one to love them. It’s not getting cards out on time. It’s sending any card, anytime, at the right time throughout the year. It’s not having the biggest and best display of Christmas lights, it’s displaying the light of Christ to lighten up others lives. It’s not Santa coming down the chimney, it’s Jesus coming down from heaven and giving us the gift of eternal life.
I pray that you may experience a very happy Christmas and a wise New Year.
Rosemary.
Advent Calendar thought - December 23
22/12/11
(some of the thoughts today come from Michael Davidson)
There is so much about the wise men that remains a mystery. They appear to have been highly educated, wealthy men but as far as the Bible is concerned we have only two facts about them: they came from the east and they were wise. What was it that made them so wise?
They were wise in their decision to search for Jesus. They recognized God at work in the world surrounding them. They recognized God at work In The Word (the Bible). At the time when these wise men made their search the Old Testament would have been available to them. We have no way of knowing just how much they had actually read but they had to have enough knowledge of scripture to know that a “Messiah” was coming. They didn’t have all the answers, but they had enough to give them a desire for more. They had enough to decide to begin their search.
I think they were wise in their determination to complete their search. I discovered that they may have had to travel up to 1000 miles on their journey. In Matthew 2:16 we are told that Herod decided to kill all boy children 2 years old and younger so apparently from the time the star first appeared it took them almost two years to locate where Christ was. That means they were determined to search until they found the answer. This wasn’t a religious fad. Nor was it a whim of the moment – They would see their search through to the end.
Are you determined like that in your spiritual search? If you would like to know more then why not journey with us at the Watering Hole getting to know more about God?
(Picture from the Brooklyn Museum)
There is so much about the wise men that remains a mystery. They appear to have been highly educated, wealthy men but as far as the Bible is concerned we have only two facts about them: they came from the east and they were wise. What was it that made them so wise?
They were wise in their decision to search for Jesus. They recognized God at work in the world surrounding them. They recognized God at work In The Word (the Bible). At the time when these wise men made their search the Old Testament would have been available to them. We have no way of knowing just how much they had actually read but they had to have enough knowledge of scripture to know that a “Messiah” was coming. They didn’t have all the answers, but they had enough to give them a desire for more. They had enough to decide to begin their search.
I think they were wise in their determination to complete their search. I discovered that they may have had to travel up to 1000 miles on their journey. In Matthew 2:16 we are told that Herod decided to kill all boy children 2 years old and younger so apparently from the time the star first appeared it took them almost two years to locate where Christ was. That means they were determined to search until they found the answer. This wasn’t a religious fad. Nor was it a whim of the moment – They would see their search through to the end.
Are you determined like that in your spiritual search? If you would like to know more then why not journey with us at the Watering Hole getting to know more about God?
(Picture from the Brooklyn Museum)
Advent Calendar thought - December 22
21/12/11
When Jesus came to earth as a baby, God made sure that all sorts of people heard the good news in a variety of ways. Mostly these people were not the ones we would have chosen to receive the good news Those that we would expect to hear the news were too busy or too blinkered to do so and so they missed out on an amazing experience.
An unmarried teenager had a personal visit from an angel; Joseph, the future step-dad had the news given to him in a dream; the shepherds got a full on spectacular display in the sky. The angels sang about this good news being “for all mankind”. Wisemen from as far away as Persia discovered the news by studying the stars but then had to make a long, involved and potentially dangerous journey to understand the news more fully.
How did you first hear the good news that God cared enough for you to send Jesus to this world as a baby who would grow up to be a man passionately interested in people before finally giving His life for people everywhere?
God still speaks powerfully to people as they go about their everyday tasks. He wants to talk to you today. Will you have listening ears?
How did you first hear the good news that God cared enough for you to send Jesus to this world as a baby who would grow up to be a man passionately interested in people before finally giving His life for people everywhere?
God still speaks powerfully to people as they go about their everyday tasks. He wants to talk to you today. Will you have listening ears?
Advent Calendar thought - December 21
19/12/11
Continuing with our carol theme, I heard a really beautiful one the other day called “I heard the bells”. If you haven’t heard the carol before you can listen to it on youtube.com by clicking here.
The background to this carol shows how the words the angels sang to the shepherds all those years ago still have power to bring peace into our lives. This carol was originally a poem by Longfellow, written during the American Civil War and not long after his wife had been killed. In addition his son had been fatally wounded. If this wasn’t enough their house then burned down. In despair he writes this poem. I love the fact that in spite of it all he hangs on, knowing one day peace and goodwlll to the human race will come.
Once again the message of Christmas is especially relevant to us all but brings hope to those who are going through really rough times.
Once again the message of Christmas is especially relevant to us all but brings hope to those who are going through really rough times.
Advent Calendar thought - December 20
19/12/11
HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING continues with encouragement. "Do not be afraid”
The shepherds were fearful because they encountered the “glory of the Lord”. Knowing their sinfulness, the shepherds trembled in the presence of God. But Jesus came so that we might no longer live in fear of God’s judgment and condemnation, but so that we might have peace in our hearts as a result of knowing we have His forgiveness. When you experience this then what the angels say next makes a lot of sense. “GREAT joy to all the human race"
Advent Calendar thought - December 19
18/12/11
HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING.
The tune for this classic song was written by Felix Mendelssohn in 1840. The words were written by Charles Wesley. Charles and his brother John Wesley were pioneers in the Methodist Church. In his life time Charles Wesley wrote over 6,500 hymns. HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING has sometimes been named the most popular hymn in the English language.
Picture by R. Lyall (Used under Creative Commons Licence)
This hymn is based on the scripture from Luke chapter 2 where the Angels appeared to the shepherds. In the message the angels delivered to the shepherds on the night of Jesus’ birth, we discover what Christmas is all about. Christmas is all about God sending His Son to earth. Christmas wasn’t man’s idea, it was God’s idea. Christmas wasn’t man’s initiative, it was God’s initiative. Christmas came about because of God. Christmas came about because of God’s desire to embrace us with His love - "Good News that will be to all the people"
This world is filled with people who feel lonely and unloved. Pollsters say that one out of five of us say that life is meaningless. Who can you bring good news to this Christmas? Who can you help feel more loved and valued? It doesn’t have to cost the earth but you can make a difference.
The tune for this classic song was written by Felix Mendelssohn in 1840. The words were written by Charles Wesley. Charles and his brother John Wesley were pioneers in the Methodist Church. In his life time Charles Wesley wrote over 6,500 hymns. HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING has sometimes been named the most popular hymn in the English language.
Picture by R. Lyall (Used under Creative Commons Licence)
This hymn is based on the scripture from Luke chapter 2 where the Angels appeared to the shepherds. In the message the angels delivered to the shepherds on the night of Jesus’ birth, we discover what Christmas is all about. Christmas is all about God sending His Son to earth. Christmas wasn’t man’s idea, it was God’s idea. Christmas wasn’t man’s initiative, it was God’s initiative. Christmas came about because of God. Christmas came about because of God’s desire to embrace us with His love - "Good News that will be to all the people"
This world is filled with people who feel lonely and unloved. Pollsters say that one out of five of us say that life is meaningless. Who can you bring good news to this Christmas? Who can you help feel more loved and valued? It doesn’t have to cost the earth but you can make a difference.
Advent Calendar thought - December 18
18/12/11
The birth of Jesus was not just a difficulty, it was an impossibility. Mary was a virgin. Only God could breathe life into her womb. And just as God caused her to conceive the perfect Saviour both fully God and fully human He can accomplish through you, the things that seem impossible in your life.
Advent Calendar thought - December 17
16/12/11
One of the most familiar carols is, “ Away In A Manger”.
Of all the events that have shaped human history, one moment stands above the rest. The moment was not filled with fanfare or frills but fantastic nonetheless. It was the day when God became a man, a day when baby Jesus was born. That event has been marked by all historical events being classed as either BC or AD.
Jesus traded all of heaven for a human life. It was not enough for Jesus to come to earth, but He came to humble circumstances. Earthly royalty would have had specific circumstances: political power, privilege, position, prestige and possessions.
The following poem tells us why this Kings of kings had such an unroyal birth and life.
“Why Lord, why?
Why did you exchange the spaciousness of heaven
And the warmth of God the father’s presence
For the squalor of a manger on earth and the limitation of life as a man?
Why did You who made the heavens, the mountains, the stars, the sun
Strip yourself of your glory to become a helpless, homeless baby?
Why did you come here, to this little town of Bethlehem?
I came, my child, because I love you.
I have always loved you, I will always love you.
I came to rescue you from the clutches of the evil one.
To be your Saviour, to bring you life I enjoy.
I came as the prophets foretold: to Bethlehem, to a woman’s womb
To indwell in you as I did in her
To become - Emmanuel - God with you and God in you.”
(Author unknown)
Of all the events that have shaped human history, one moment stands above the rest. The moment was not filled with fanfare or frills but fantastic nonetheless. It was the day when God became a man, a day when baby Jesus was born. That event has been marked by all historical events being classed as either BC or AD.
Jesus traded all of heaven for a human life. It was not enough for Jesus to come to earth, but He came to humble circumstances. Earthly royalty would have had specific circumstances: political power, privilege, position, prestige and possessions.
The following poem tells us why this Kings of kings had such an unroyal birth and life.
“Why Lord, why?
Why did you exchange the spaciousness of heaven
And the warmth of God the father’s presence
For the squalor of a manger on earth and the limitation of life as a man?
Why did You who made the heavens, the mountains, the stars, the sun
Strip yourself of your glory to become a helpless, homeless baby?
Why did you come here, to this little town of Bethlehem?
I came, my child, because I love you.
I have always loved you, I will always love you.
I came to rescue you from the clutches of the evil one.
To be your Saviour, to bring you life I enjoy.
I came as the prophets foretold: to Bethlehem, to a woman’s womb
To indwell in you as I did in her
To become - Emmanuel - God with you and God in you.”
(Author unknown)
Advent Calendar thought - December 16
15/12/11
This is a lovely Christmas story.
On the night before Christmas, a young father was annoyed and told his 3 year old daughter off for having wasted expensive gold tasselled ribbon on a Christmas present. Christmas morning she proudly presents him the present, a box wrapped with the golden tasselled ribbon. When he opened the box, he saw there was nothing in it and once again began to tell his child off.
“You can’t give an empty box as a Christmas present” he said “It has to have something in it “His daughter started to cry and then sobbed: “Daddy, the box is full – it’s full of kisses for you”
It is so easy to miss the present if we are looking for something different.
The innkeeper in Bethlehem missed out big time. Inns in those days weren’t smart five star hotels. They were a bit more like campsites - rough and ready with no running water. Having made the difficult journey Mary and Joseph arrive in Bethlehem to discover the inn was full. There was no room for them.
If the innkeeper had known who was going to be born that night I am sure he would probably have found room in his inn. But he was too busy.
Please don’t be like the innkeeper this Christmas. Don’t be so busy with running a business, buying and wrapping gifts, enjoying parties and fun to spare a moment to recognise the baby Jesus at your door. Let’s spare a thought and put ourselves out for those who look tired, who are homeless, for those who for whatever reason feel hopeless and helpless.
On the night before Christmas, a young father was annoyed and told his 3 year old daughter off for having wasted expensive gold tasselled ribbon on a Christmas present. Christmas morning she proudly presents him the present, a box wrapped with the golden tasselled ribbon. When he opened the box, he saw there was nothing in it and once again began to tell his child off.
“You can’t give an empty box as a Christmas present” he said “It has to have something in it “His daughter started to cry and then sobbed: “Daddy, the box is full – it’s full of kisses for you”
It is so easy to miss the present if we are looking for something different.
The innkeeper in Bethlehem missed out big time. Inns in those days weren’t smart five star hotels. They were a bit more like campsites - rough and ready with no running water. Having made the difficult journey Mary and Joseph arrive in Bethlehem to discover the inn was full. There was no room for them.
If the innkeeper had known who was going to be born that night I am sure he would probably have found room in his inn. But he was too busy.
Please don’t be like the innkeeper this Christmas. Don’t be so busy with running a business, buying and wrapping gifts, enjoying parties and fun to spare a moment to recognise the baby Jesus at your door. Let’s spare a thought and put ourselves out for those who look tired, who are homeless, for those who for whatever reason feel hopeless and helpless.
Advent Calendar thought - December 15
14/12/11
Bethlehem is a Palestinian city in the central West Bank of the Jordan River, near Israel. It is approximately 5 miles south of Jerusalem with a population of about 30,000 people. The town is inhabited by one of the oldest Christian communities in the world, though the size of the community has shrunk due to emigration. 
Bethlehem has gone from being 90% to 30% Christian because the town has lost most of its land to Israeli settlements. Bethlehem has a Muslim majority, but is also home to one of the largest Palestinian Christian communities. (facts from wikipedia)
When Mary and Joseph travelled from Nazareth to Bethlehem they faced a journey of approximately eighty miles. Not the easiest thing to do, even today, for a heavily pregnant lady. So why attempt it? Joseph feared to leave Mary behind to face a hostile neighbourhood alone. He had to take part in the Roman census. So they travelled together. It had also been predicted hundreds of years previously that Bethlehem would be the place where Jesus would be born.
Today Bethlehem faces high unemployment, a lack of basic amenities and a lot of hostility. People are depressed, isolated, frustrated and lacking in hope in the very town where Jesus was born to bring hope, love and forgiveness. His birth brings us hope that this state of affairs, found not just in Bethlehem, but around the world will end. The angel instructed Joseph to call the baby, Jesus “for He will save people from their sins”. (Luke 2:21)
When Mary and Joseph travelled from Nazareth to Bethlehem they faced a journey of approximately eighty miles. Not the easiest thing to do, even today, for a heavily pregnant lady. So why attempt it? Joseph feared to leave Mary behind to face a hostile neighbourhood alone. He had to take part in the Roman census. So they travelled together. It had also been predicted hundreds of years previously that Bethlehem would be the place where Jesus would be born.
Today Bethlehem faces high unemployment, a lack of basic amenities and a lot of hostility. People are depressed, isolated, frustrated and lacking in hope in the very town where Jesus was born to bring hope, love and forgiveness. His birth brings us hope that this state of affairs, found not just in Bethlehem, but around the world will end. The angel instructed Joseph to call the baby, Jesus “for He will save people from their sins”. (Luke 2:21)
Advent Calendar thought - December 14
13/12/11
As Joseph hears the news he has to cope with a multitude of emotions. Pain, as he thinks Mary has been unfaithful; shame, as he considers the impact the news will have in a small village community; uncertainty, as he considers his future. I love the way Joseph is willing to listen and before he comes to a decision he takes time to pray about his problems.
In doing so he receives words from God that calm his fears and help him see things clearly.
Do you have some big decisions to make? Have you been hurt by someone recently? If so why not take a leaf out of Joseph’s book and have a chat to God about it.
Advent Calendar thought - December 13
12/12/11
All over the world Christmas is celebrated. Part of that celebration often comes in the form of carols. I hope you will enjoy this carol from the Middle East that I recently found, called “On the Eve of Christmas”.
On the eve of Christmas hatred will vanish
On the eve of Christmas the earth will flourish
On the eve of Christmas war will be gone
On the eve of Christmas love will be born.
When we offer a glass of water to a thirsty person
it is Christmas
When we clothe a naked person with a gown of love
it is Christmas
When we wipe the tears from weeping eyes
it is Christmas
When the spirit of revenge dies in me
it is Christmas
When in my heart I no longer want to stay apart
it is Christmas
When I am buried in the being of God
it is Christmas
This certainly echoes the song the angels sang to the shepherds announcing the birth of a baby. That was good news as it would bring about peace and goodwill to all men. At the moment that is far from the truth. More wars have been fought in the name of religion than for any other cause. In my own life I have discovered that whatever God promises DOES get fulfilled, even if it isn’t in my timescale. Jesus, also called Prince of Peace, that I mentioned earlier in these advent blogs passionately desires that there be peace; no more tears, pain, suffering or death.
I pray that God will give you strength this Christmas to bring about even a temporary halt to hostility, trouble and strife in your life and that you will experience the rest that comes form the Prince of peace.
On the eve of Christmas hatred will vanish
On the eve of Christmas the earth will flourish
On the eve of Christmas war will be gone
On the eve of Christmas love will be born.
When we offer a glass of water to a thirsty person
it is Christmas
When we clothe a naked person with a gown of love
it is Christmas
When we wipe the tears from weeping eyes
it is Christmas
When the spirit of revenge dies in me
it is Christmas
When in my heart I no longer want to stay apart
it is Christmas
When I am buried in the being of God
it is Christmas
This certainly echoes the song the angels sang to the shepherds announcing the birth of a baby. That was good news as it would bring about peace and goodwill to all men. At the moment that is far from the truth. More wars have been fought in the name of religion than for any other cause. In my own life I have discovered that whatever God promises DOES get fulfilled, even if it isn’t in my timescale. Jesus, also called Prince of Peace, that I mentioned earlier in these advent blogs passionately desires that there be peace; no more tears, pain, suffering or death.
I pray that God will give you strength this Christmas to bring about even a temporary halt to hostility, trouble and strife in your life and that you will experience the rest that comes form the Prince of peace.
Advent Calendar thought - December 12
11/12/11
A friend recently gave me a lovely homemade Advent calendar. In one window was this beautiful poem:
If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls, but do not show love to my family, I’m just another decorator.
If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family, I’m just another cook.
If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing homes and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing.
If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing in the choir but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.
Love stops cooking to hug the child.
Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.
Love is kind, though harried and tired.
Love doesn’t envy another’s home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.
Love doesn’t yell at the kids to get out of the way but is thankful they are there to be in the way.
Love doesn’t give only to those who are able to give in return but rejoices in giving to those who can’t.
Love bears all things, endures all things. Love never fails.
Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust, but giving the gift of love will endure
This was adapted by a person unknown from 1Corinthians chapter 13
If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family, I’m just another cook.
If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing homes and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing.
If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing in the choir but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.
Love stops cooking to hug the child.
Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.
Love is kind, though harried and tired.
Love doesn’t envy another’s home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.
Love doesn’t yell at the kids to get out of the way but is thankful they are there to be in the way.
Love doesn’t give only to those who are able to give in return but rejoices in giving to those who can’t.
Love bears all things, endures all things. Love never fails.
Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust, but giving the gift of love will endure
This was adapted by a person unknown from 1Corinthians chapter 13
Advent Calendar thought - December 11
11/12/11
What comes to your mind when you think of peace? Is it an absence of war, a blissful silence, a lack of stress?
The Hebrew word for peace is “shalom,” This phrase appears more than 200 times in the Old Testament. Basically it means calmness, quietness, freedom from anxiety, tranquility. The root meaning of shalom is “to be whole.” Shalom describes a “state of being at ease.” It pictures a condition in which people “feel at ease or comfortable with each other.”
That was the message that the angels sang to the shepherds, “peace on earth, goodwill to all men”. That is what Jesus offers as a gift for not just for Christmas but for life. No Jesus no lasting peace. Know Jesus, know peace.
Advent Calendar thought - December 10
09/12/11
What motivates you to buy a gift for someone at Christmas? I know I try very hard with my limited budget to get presents they either want or need. Have you noticed how many gifts often end up in cupboards or sold at car boot sales or on Ebay?
The ultimate gift is a gift that will meet such a deep felt need that it is not sold or hidden away in a cupboard.
Back at the start of the human race when Adam and Eve had sinned by taking of the forbidden fruit, they lost their closeness with God, and all of the blessings that God had given them.
As a result of their sin, from that day until now, humans have struggled with the hardships of life; a life always ending with death.
God promised that it would not always be like that. In the Bible book of Isaiah He says: I’m going to give you the ultimate gift. I’m going to give you a gift that will last forever: a child, a son. He goes on to say about this child, “Power and peace will be in his kingdom and will continue to grow forever.... ruling with justice and goodness from now on and forever.”
So you might say that the purpose for child being born, this son being given as a gift, was to establish a kingdom. A Kingdom of peace, and justice and righteousness, which won’t last a mere 40 or 50 years; not even a kingdom of 1000 or 2000 years. This Kingdom, ruled over by the Eternal Father - originator of life, peace and love, would last forever.
Now that sounds like a Christmas gift worth having. He’s giving are you receiving?
The passage referred to above can be found in the Bible in the Book of Isaiah 9:5-7
The ultimate gift is a gift that will meet such a deep felt need that it is not sold or hidden away in a cupboard.
Back at the start of the human race when Adam and Eve had sinned by taking of the forbidden fruit, they lost their closeness with God, and all of the blessings that God had given them.
God promised that it would not always be like that. In the Bible book of Isaiah He says: I’m going to give you the ultimate gift. I’m going to give you a gift that will last forever: a child, a son. He goes on to say about this child, “Power and peace will be in his kingdom and will continue to grow forever.... ruling with justice and goodness from now on and forever.”
So you might say that the purpose for child being born, this son being given as a gift, was to establish a kingdom. A Kingdom of peace, and justice and righteousness, which won’t last a mere 40 or 50 years; not even a kingdom of 1000 or 2000 years. This Kingdom, ruled over by the Eternal Father - originator of life, peace and love, would last forever.
Now that sounds like a Christmas gift worth having. He’s giving are you receiving?
The passage referred to above can be found in the Bible in the Book of Isaiah 9:5-7
Advent Calendar thought - December 9
08/12/11
Advent Calendar thought - December 8
07/12/11
Wonderful Counsellor, one of the names given in a prediction about the birth of Jesus was given to the people during a time when they lived in fear. They were stressed out about their future, unsure what to do for the best. Ever felt that way? Decisions to make and no one to talk through your best course of action? Then you will understand why this name of Jesus would have come as a great relief. Maybe there just might be someone who had power, insight and the ability to help. The Bible places a high premium on wise counsel. Wisdom and counsel are important.
In our society counsellors, lifestyle coaches and mentors are becoming more necessary as the pace and expectations of life become even more frantic. There is nothing wrong with seeking advice. However, the best advice of all comes from Jesus. He understands our struggles, cares about us and is such a wonderful counsellor that He offers what no other counsellor can give.
So this Christmas why not investigate further some of the advice Jesus has given others and see if any of those principles could improve the quality of your life in the months to come.
So this Christmas why not investigate further some of the advice Jesus has given others and see if any of those principles could improve the quality of your life in the months to come.
Advent Calendar thought - December 7
06/12/11
As I write these words we are still fighting in Afghanistan, there is trouble brewing with the Iranians, Egypt is still in crisis and the news reports of rising unemployment all make for grim reading. Ever wondered why we have a Christmas story at all? It was to put an end to tough times that Jesus came. The angels who appeared to the shepherds sang a song of rejoicing and hope predicting that with Jesus birth comes hope in peace on earth.
Jesus is called Wonderful Counsellor, Almighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace.
The first advent would be no good without the promise of a second Advent. A time when Jesus will come back again, not as a helpless baby, but as a powerful God to put a permanent end to suffering. What a Christmas present.
If you’ve got it why not listen to part of Handel’s Messiah or take time to download or buy it. As you listen to the hope in those words I am sure you will feel not only more positive about Christmas but about everything else as well.
Jesus is called Wonderful Counsellor, Almighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace.
The first advent would be no good without the promise of a second Advent. A time when Jesus will come back again, not as a helpless baby, but as a powerful God to put a permanent end to suffering. What a Christmas present.
If you’ve got it why not listen to part of Handel’s Messiah or take time to download or buy it. As you listen to the hope in those words I am sure you will feel not only more positive about Christmas but about everything else as well.
Advent Calendar thought - December 6
05/12/11
Mary was a young teenage girl when she was told by an angel that she had been chosen to be the mother of baby Jesus. So often Christmas cards and paintings depict Mary in a romantic way but there was nothing romantic about the situation she found herself in. Being pregnant and unmarried in her culture was to be feared and even came with a death penalty attached.
What I like about Mary was her trust in God in a difficult time of her life. Her trust in Him gave her strength to come through the problems that faced her and helped shape her into the ideal mother to be entrusted with the baby Jesus. If you are going through a tough time right now be aware that God knows your circumstances and offers help through these tough times.
Advent Calendar thought - December 5
04/12/11
We are not alone in having to prepare for Christmas. God too had much to do to get people ready that first Christmas and the birth of His Son Jesus. He knew that the Jewish nation was not yet ready to receive the saviour of the world. 
So He sent someone to prepare people’s minds and get them thinking. Before Jesus was born in Bethlehem another special baby was born.
You can read the story of how God intervened in the lives of an elderly childless couple giving them a son, John, who when he grew up would help people understand the importance of what happened that first Christmas morning. (Read it in Luke chapter 1).
So as you prepare the tree, the turkey and the mince pies let someone or something (such as this website’s Advent Calendar thought) prepare your heart for something quite special this Christmas time.
You can read the story of how God intervened in the lives of an elderly childless couple giving them a son, John, who when he grew up would help people understand the importance of what happened that first Christmas morning. (Read it in Luke chapter 1).
So as you prepare the tree, the turkey and the mince pies let someone or something (such as this website’s Advent Calendar thought) prepare your heart for something quite special this Christmas time.
Advent Calendar thought - December 4
03/12/11
God’s love comes to me most powerfully through people. That is why Christmas is such a special time for me. It is at this time of year that I make a special effort to ensure that my family and friends know they are loved and valued by me. 
I show my love through giving handmade cards and by trying to find gifts that will be appreciated. This is after all what God did by sending His Son Jesus as a baby into this world. A love gift from the designer and ruler of the universe reminding us that we are loved, valued and not alone.
So as you rush about baking, posting cards and buying gifts pause to give thanks for having people in your life that make it richer. Give thanks you are not alone. Be glad that because of His great love for us God gave Emmanuel - God with us. That’s a reason to celebrate.
So as you rush about baking, posting cards and buying gifts pause to give thanks for having people in your life that make it richer. Give thanks you are not alone. Be glad that because of His great love for us God gave Emmanuel - God with us. That’s a reason to celebrate.
Advent Calendar thought - December 3
02/12/11
What happened to you and the person I challenged you to speak to yesterday? Was it good?
Down through the centuries we have struggled to describe what God was like. Greeks thought of passionless gods who looked at humans in calm, unfeeling ways; seeing them almost as their playthings. The Jews thought about Him as a tyrant, a stern and demanding judge. But with the birth and life of Jesus we see a caring, compassionate,hard working, people-person God.A God who is so passionate about people that He is driven to do something about injustice, pain, heartache, loneliness and suffering. Christmas gives us hope as it connects us to Jesus who really understands the human race because He was a human being but it also reveals to us what God is really like.
This is not my opinion alone. In the Bible I found these words: “Going through a long line of prophets, God has been addressing our ancestors in different ways for centuries. Recently he spoke to us directly through his Son. By his Son, God created the world in the beginning, and it will all belong to the Son at the end. This Son perfectly mirrors God, and is stamped with God's nature.” (Hebrews 1:1-3)
So why not pause in your agenda for today and take a look at one of the incidents in Jesus life and discover something about Him that will help your situation today. My challenge to you today is to be honest with yourself and ask, “In what way has Jesus changed my personal view of God?”
Down through the centuries we have struggled to describe what God was like. Greeks thought of passionless gods who looked at humans in calm, unfeeling ways; seeing them almost as their playthings. The Jews thought about Him as a tyrant, a stern and demanding judge. But with the birth and life of Jesus we see a caring, compassionate,hard working, people-person God.
This is not my opinion alone. In the Bible I found these words: “Going through a long line of prophets, God has been addressing our ancestors in different ways for centuries. Recently he spoke to us directly through his Son. By his Son, God created the world in the beginning, and it will all belong to the Son at the end. This Son perfectly mirrors God, and is stamped with God's nature.” (Hebrews 1:1-3)
So why not pause in your agenda for today and take a look at one of the incidents in Jesus life and discover something about Him that will help your situation today. My challenge to you today is to be honest with yourself and ask, “In what way has Jesus changed my personal view of God?”
Advent Calendar thought - December 2
02/12/11
Glad you made it to day two - so take a deep breath, relax and think about these words.
I have found that no one thing, place or event alone helps me connect to God. I slowly get to understand what He is like through building up a jigsaw. I see Him through the love and thoughts of friends, when I am gardening and admiring the complexities and interconnection of plants and insects, or it might be a thought from the Bible when I am being still and quiet.
Christmas is also a time when I see a particular side of God - a more human God, a God who came as a baby and then experienced all the joys and troubles that we face as we grow up. Baby Jesus became child Jesus, then teenage Jesus before becoming man Jesus. People most got to know God through His Son Jesus- someone they could see, talk to and interact with.
What people make your life better? Consider who has helped you see things more clearly, someone who has shown you love and help. Why not also send a text, an email, a card or pick up the phone to tell someone in your friendship circle how much you love them and appreciate what they have done for you. If you did that everyday till Christmas - I wonder what would happen?
I have found that no one thing, place or event alone helps me connect to God. I slowly get to understand what He is like through building up a jigsaw. I see Him through the love and thoughts of friends, when I am gardening and admiring the complexities and interconnection of plants and insects, or it might be a thought from the Bible when I am being still and quiet.
Christmas is also a time when I see a particular side of God - a more human God, a God who came as a baby and then experienced all the joys and troubles that we face as we grow up. Baby Jesus became child Jesus, then teenage Jesus before becoming man Jesus. People most got to know God through His Son Jesus- someone they could see, talk to and interact with.What people make your life better? Consider who has helped you see things more clearly, someone who has shown you love and help. Why not also send a text, an email, a card or pick up the phone to tell someone in your friendship circle how much you love them and appreciate what they have done for you. If you did that everyday till Christmas - I wonder what would happen?
Advent Calendar thought - December 1
01/12/11
Over the next 24 days there will be a thought everyday on this website. Hopefully on more than one occasion there will be something that you find connects with what is going on in your life. Why not take a breather and make reading it part of your Christmas preparations. You never know you might just find something that will help you have a very happy Christmas.