Dec 25, 2011
Christmas is a unique time. For some it is a time for family and friends, festive cheer, gifts and a good excuse for a holiday.
For others, it is a time of sadness as they remember lost loved ones, or face deprivation and abuse. For yet others, it is regarded as just a fairytale.
For Christians, Jesus is the reason for the season - a precious time when believers all over the world pause, remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus who we believe to be the saviour of the world.
Not many at the time of Christ's birth realised its significance or anticipated its impact. The story is set in obscurity far from the seats of ancient power.
It is shrouded in mystery with accounts of prophetic predictions, angelic visitations, a pregnant unmarried virgin, a child placed in a humble manger, local shepherds and wise men from afar paying homage, a massacre of children, and more - this just begins the amazing story of Jesus. Thirty years later Jesus began his ministry preaching stunning words of wisdom, healing the sick, calling people to follow him to experience God's salvation and urging a radical ethic of love without prejudice for all people, even one's enemies.
This article was written by Church leaders and printed in the NZ Herald - Sunday 25th December 2011. Original article
Post Comment