Zetland Park Methodist Church Pastoral Letters
13 December 2009
Mary waves madly at her mum …………..
an angel picked his nose …………. A shepherd has 'stage fright' ………. A 'Wise Man' missed his cue …………The paparazzi had a field day: and the baby was born in Bethlehem.
There is both a 'magic' and an 'innocence' about school Christmas plays; as they tell that wonderful, ever-fresh story in their own, particular way. The words were familiar, to me at any rate, but I wondered, as the mums, dads, and all the rest saw; heard; cheered and flashed their off-spring if this was a 'new' experience and what it meant to them?
The startling nature of the angel's announcement still makes folk sit up and listen; the appearance of the shepherds and the wise men still seem out of place, yet integral to it all: the paradox of Immanuel … God with us, remains.
In these darkling days, these young folk blissfully unaware of what is around take us all into that comfort which is God's love, but also a sharp reality that the King: the 'special baby' started life 'on the margins of society'.
Many people even today seek to keep Him there, and have neither the courage nor I believe the understanding to bring Him closer even into their own lives.
'LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS'If ever a message is pertinent to this day and age, and to this region, this coming of God into a world of darkness rings massive bells, or it should. So, how do we ensure that the 'message of hope; love; justice peace' is shared? Word of the 'Christ-event' soon got round because ……… people told the story and were excited about it: for it was new; challenging; innovative; life-changing and that it still is! But the story-telling isn't!
The 'remnant' has the story in our hearts; don't keep it there.
Jesus in His ministry didn't drag people to a place of worship, nor did He insist that they 'jump thro' many hoops', but He did show love and concern in all He sought to do.
'Love came down at Christmas ……. Love be yours and love be mine'We are the stars of hope as well as light; for as 'Kingdom people' this is indeed our task, to show others the way to the Living God, as shown in Christ, born in that manger. So, let our lights shine and be ready to answer the questions with faith.