Have you ever needed to hear that choir of angels to get you through a tough time? Kerryn shares how poignant God's gifts can be. “All the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures. They fell down on their faces before the throne and worshiped God” (Revelation 7:11). Many were praying for my precious mother-in-law, who was battling cancer for the second time. Nineteen years ago she had battled breast cancer, with great success, but then, eight months ago, it resurfaced throughout her lungs and spine. Two days ago we celebrated her life in a large and special funeral. This precious lady dedicated her life to the Lord through active service, as treasurer or committee member on … [Read more...]

Has the pain and weariness this month blocked your glimpses of the Lord? Bronlynn reminds us of how we have to look! “Do not I fill heaven and earth? declares the Lord.” (Jeremiah 23:24). We all want Christmas to be a joyful, happy time, but that may be difficult. Pain can dampen our spirits and limit activities. The self-absorbed mindset of our society tries to rob Christmas of its true meaning long before the month of December. Finances, relationships, or circumstances can contribute to a less than joyful mindset. When bombarded by these negative conditions, it is easy to feel not only a loss of joy but even a loss of God’s presence during this special time of year. I came across a quote from C.S. Lewis that prompted me to … [Read more...]

Do you have a special ornament you keep out all year long? Laura explains the preciousness of Christmas ornaments in her home. "When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route. (Matthew 2: 10-12) We bring the ornaments out every year since 1976 when my mother purchased them. There is Santa, snowman, mouse and dog; one for each of the four kids. When I was old enough to have my own home mom gave them to me for my tree. They bring both … [Read more...]

Do you ever feel like illness has caused you to lose your sparkle? Kerryn puts it all into perspective. “The Lord their God will save his people on that day as a shepherd saves his flock. They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown” (Zechariah 9:16). Excellent! Mum has gone to the neighbor's house for a cuppa and a chat and I have just enough time now, I thought to myself. The sparkle and lure of Christmas presents was too exciting to wait for. I knew exactly where they were, and now was my opportunity. Carefully unlocking the door to the back room, I sneaked in! The key to the cupboard was sitting on top of it. I remember my 11-year-old heart pounding in my chest from a combination of guilt, excitement and … [Read more...]

We can't always keep up with our Christmas traditions, but Fiona explains that it's about the reason for the season, not the activities. "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-12) As Christmas approaches, we realize that Christmas can bring so many different thoughts and feelings for people. Even when you “usually” do things one way, there can come a time when that has to change. As I approached Christmas last year, I knew it would be different for me. Having a time of treatment in hospital just prior to Christmas I actually didn’t know what I would be doing or feeling when I was … [Read more...]

Have you ever wanted both a silent night and yet to also be involved in the festivities? Laura shares her reflections. "When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, 'Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.' So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen Him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them." (Luke 2:15-19). Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright. . . As I listened to these beautiful words at my son’s school Christmas concert I couldn’t help but … [Read more...]

As children, we likely all crave the "biggest gift" but Kerryn explains how that big gift is something we can still rejoice for today. “And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:12). It was Christmas morning! Bouncing out of bed, wide-eyed and bursting with excitement, I hoped to be first to see the gifts. I was disappointed to find my two younger brothers were already pointing their fingers and clawing at the locked glass doors to our lounge room. They had first viewing, but that disappointment quickly disappeared. The twinkling lights on the Christmas tree shone majestically, highlighting the brightly wrapped presents that had multiplied under the tree … [Read more...]