“There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light”.   John 1 : 6 - 8

Readings this week :  Isaiah 61; 1 Thessalonians 5 : 16 - 24 ; John 1 : 6 – 8, 19 – 28

John the Baptist breaks into these days before Christmas with his powerful message of repentance and faith. He has spent years in the wilderness preparing for his ministry. He lives a life of austerity and self denial, and lives out his message of turning back to the Lord. His faith in the Lord, and particularly in who Jesus is, is plain to see. His message is openly and dramatically clear.

As we come close to the celebration of Christmas, John’s message comes as a reminder to the true meaning of the coming of Jesus. We are called to live in Jesus’ grace, love and hope. As we look to Jesus’ Second Coming we are called to remember these are awesome events that define our lives.

As we prepare for Christmas, John’s message reminds us how we are called to witness to Jesus. We are called to live lives of faith. To believe and know that He is The Way, the Truth and the Life, come into our lives and into our world.

Singing the carols. Showing kindness. Praying for our neighbours. Celebrating our faith. Joining with the excitement of the angels and shepherds. Giving to others, all speak of the wonder of this time. That Jesus, our Saviour and King, has come to us. Good News indeed

Rev Paul

Prayers this week

O Lord Jesus Christ, who at your first coming sent your messenger to prepare your way before you:

grant that the ministers and stewards of your mysteries may likewise so prepare and make ready your way by turning the hearts of the disobedient to the wisdom of the just,

that at your second coming to judge the world we may be found an acceptable people in your sight;

for you are alive and reign with the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

God for whom we watch and wait, you sent John the Baptist to prepare the way of your Son: give us courage to speak the truth, to hunger for justice, and to suffer for the cause of right, with Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

People to pray for :

For all those witnessing to Jesus today.