“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.” - John 1.1-5

 
As these words ring out in carol services, Christmas Eve communion or Christmas morning family services – we are reminded again in John’s glorious poetry, that this story is as old as time. We are caught up in the story of God’s love for all beings and all creation and that without the Word of God – the Logos – Jesus Christ – nothing would exist.
 
In a world that, for many, seems darker and more frightening this Christmas than for a long time – we are reminded that we are part of a greater plan of love. Love that leads to a realm – God’s realm – of justice and peace. In churches and in Christian homes, people who are lonely, homeless or hungry will find warm hospitality on Christmas day and the world will seem a little brighter and more loving. There are many though who will not receive such care and we must continue to work together and pray together for a fairer world, a world as God intends it to be, a world full of light and love.

As we move from the glitz and the generosity of Christmas into a New Year – may we continue to be inspired by the story of God’s love poured into the world in Jesus and may we work for that fairer world that God longs for – that all might know love, justice and peace – not just on special days but every day. We are woven into God’s story – so let’s be bold and tell our story and God’s story with confidence and joy in 2020 and beyond.
 

Loving God
You made all creation through the power of love,
You save your people through the power of love,
You move in your church through the power of love,
May we live as those who are woven together by your love,
Sharing all we have with those in need,
Caring enough to work for change to systems that oppress
and loving our neighbours as ourselves.
In the name of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.

 

- From the District Chairs