From the Manse  December 2001

Considering the world situation we have decided that the theme for this Advent and Christmas should be PEACE. It is the central message sung by angels at our Saviour’s birth. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to all men. In all our worship and activities we will seek to give the glory, which is rightfully due to God.

This is a time of year for singing, reading and hearing, as well as dramatizing the most wonderful story ever told.

When talking about the theme of peace, someone asked, "Peace for whom?" The prompt reply was, "For all men!" To which was added the retort, "And for all women, and for all children " It is an embracive and inclusive peace.

So we look forward through Advent to Christmas. In fact Advent means looking forward in anticipation. Through the four weeks of advent we will be getting ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus with a fresh understanding.

We know He has already come, yet we will grasp with both hands the opportunities to discover again how the ancient prophets, the Bible writers, John the Baptist and Mary were used by God to prepare the way for His Son. So at one and the same time we affirm that he is not only coming ,but is here with us now. Futhermore, our great hope of peace is grounded in the assurance that He will come again. All history will be brought to a completion and climax by His universal reign of peace. In the meanwhile we will continue to offer all the glory to God, and pray and work for peace for all.

May this Christmas season be a joyous and happy one for you, with you experiencing the peace of God in your heart.

Robin Davies