RECTORY RAMBLINGS
The startling fact is that at some point during the 1950’s a music teacher in Liverpool had a couple of boys in his class, whom he said were disruptive and showed no musical prowess at all. The two boys just happened later on in life to come into fame as half the Beatles. [Paul and George.  As verified by good old Radio 4.] So often in life, potential is not recognised or appreciated by others.
This little interlude set me thinking about the imminence of the coming season and its significance to us as Christians. After all it is Advent, a time when the Church makes ready to celebrate the inauguration of its founder, Jesus Christ who was born in circumstances of poverty and turmoil some two thousand years ago. He was just an ordinary bloke who understood fully the implications of having Almighty God as his Father and friend. He called God Abba – Dad. Now that really did set the critics alight!  It was through the depth of that relationship Jesus found his motivation for all his living, his friendships, his miracles, his healing ministry and compassion, his brilliant teaching and his informed knowledge, everything that makes him such an example for Christians to follow. Jesus was secure in his personality because he was valued as a human being, God thundered at Jesus’ Baptism, ‘This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased.’
So many folk today long for a sense of significance and affirmation to bring peace into troubled lives and you know the amazing thing is that it is the ‘Special Offer’ of Christmas. That is what the angels told the shepherds about the night that Jesus was born. Peace on earth and to all humankind – goodwill. That’s all humankind – everyone, including you and me!
God values each person enough to send his Son Jesus, knowing that the ultimate price would be the cost of Crucifixion: because you’re worth it!
Relationship with this God of Love is the key to accessing the whole package of peace, satisfaction, and fulfilment in life. It means we are never alone because God is always with us.
My prayer for you all is that you will meet up with the God of Love as you enjoy a very Blessed Christmas, and that he will go with you daily as we go on into another New Year.
Wishing You All The Christmas Joys                            Rev. Jeanette
p.s. Watch out for our Special Christmas services – there will be one in your village and it will make my Christmas if you are there!