May I start this letter by saying happy Christmas to you all. I know it’s only the beginning of December, but Christmas seems to start earlier and earlier each year. But for us as Christians it’s only Christmas Day that has the true meaning when our Saviour was born. I, for one, will be well and truly fed up cooking turkeys this year as I will have cooked quite a few in December, but I will have the chance on Christmas Day to dish up Christmas dinners for those who are on their own and will not be seeing anyone. If you know of somebody who would like a dinner please let me know.

Christmas is a time full of joy for some, but for others may be a time of sadness. We must remember those who are suffering for any reason, in our prayers, and if we can help in any way we must do so. Christ did not come to give us the Christmas season, holidays for family time, festive music, special food, parties, and gifts. Jesus came so our sins can be forgiven, and we can enter heaven. He came to give us the assurance of eternal life. Jesus came to do the Father’s will, and He did it! That is the first gift Jesus gave us! I wonder what Christmas would be like if we focused on our own humility and submission to God the Father just as Jesus did.

I would like to take this opportunity of wishing you all a very happy Christmas and New Year and I look forward to my favourite time – Easter. With every blessing,

Jill

PS Did you know? The first nativity scene is said to have been made in 1223 by St. Francis of Assisi to serve as a reminder of the real purpose of Christmas.