Carol Purves

Overheard on the bus ‘Why does Christmas come as such a busy time of the year?’ OK we know the reason for that. But even as Christians in the rush and hurry of everything we can forget what it is all about.

‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will to all men on whom His favour rests. Luke 2:14

We pray that in this season of Advent we may be struck anew with the wonder of the Christmas message. Just because we have heard it year after year, may it still amaze us again.

‘Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace and goodwill to men on whom His favour rests. ‘ Luke 2:14

Much of life is spent waiting. Waiting for Christmas, birthdays, the train, next year. Sometimes the waiting has not been worth it, proving the proverb ‘It is better to journey than to arrive.’

We are now in the time of Advent, waiting for the birth of Jesus. Is the wait worth it? Most assuredly, yes.

‘I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits and in His word I put my trust, I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for he morning’ Psalm 130:5-6

When life gets busy I forgot to pray and then wonder why I get into difficulties. There are many little decisions which should be talking to God about. I also forget to give thanks as much as I should.

‘Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.’ 1 Thessalonians 5:16

Life lived with God is life at it’s fullness. There is the promise of no more suffering, no more pain and no more disharmony.

‘You are my sheep, the sheep of my pasture and I am your God, declares the Sovereign Lord.’ Ezekiel 34:31

I love a verse which has three ‘all’s’ in it. It really drives the point home. Our God is a hundred per cent God.

‘God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in ALL things at ALL times, having ALL that you need you will abound in every good work.’

2 Corinthians 9:8

He was a very rich man. When he died suddenly, the question was asked, ‘How much did he leave?’ Of course the answer was ‘everything.’ He couldn’t take his wealth into the next world.

Therefore we need to take note of the words of Jesus, ‘Do not store up for yourselves treasure on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is there your heart will be also.’ Matthew 6:19

These days there are many things which can disturb our peace – street crime, old age, death, poverty, sickness, bereavement. We can become worried and fearful. There is only one place where we can find true and lasting peace.

‘May the Lord of Peace give you peace at all times and in every way.’

2 Thessalonians 3:16

God never does things by half. When He blesses, He really blesses.

‘I will send down showers in season, there will be showers of blessings.’ Ezekiel 34:26

Angela lived life to the full in her 63 years. Because she abused her body she had no strength to fight in her final illness. But most importantly of all she trusted God as her Saviour. Now she is at rest in Him.

‘In my Father’s house are many mansions, if it were not so I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.’ John 14:2