It’s certainly not too early to mention Christmas. November 27th is Advent Sunday when younger members of the family open the first window of the Advent Calendar. It’s the start of the countdown to Christmas day when at last we can open the presents!
Traditionally it’s the Sunday Christians get ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the king who came in disguise to sacrifice His life for us, so we could be ready for His return as judge.
Paul puts it like this in his letter to Titus 1:11-14 …
‘For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope – the appearing of the glory of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.’
For us older members of the family, it’s a green light for singing the great Christmas carols at Church and, why not, at home? Why not join the choir? That God became one of us so we could become His sons, His daughters and His heirs is something to sing about!
It’s the starting flag for looking out the lights and candles to remember Jesus is the light of the world. When the days are short and the green shoots of spring are distant, it’s a good way to remember Him.
It might be a time to reach for one of the great advent books that have appeared over the last few years. You might already have one on the shelf. If not you might like to try Jared Wilson’s ‘Gifts of Grace’. Through scripture and carols he shows us the beautiful diamond of Christmas through 25 great truths about Jesus.
With the world in gloom, we’ve good news to share. It’s the easiest time of the year to talk to friends about Jesus, and invite them to things at Church. It’s certainly not too early to pray for those opportunities.
Every blessing in Christ,
Ian
