Who loves special moments? Moments when you can’t help but smile inwardly and outwardly at what is occuring before your eyes? Shut your eyes for a moment and see if you can remember the last time you saw a newborn baby, gazed on a newborn lamb wriggle, or heard a baby chick cheep. Remember the smell of hay bales and other sounds that make you think you are on a farm.
Last week on 28 November we had the privilege of sharing some special moments together just like this around a mock up manger scene at school. The Primary students, the Pastoral team and an amazing team of gifted Year 5 actors went on a “Christmas Journey” around the College. Each grade was initially met by King Herod and his soldiers, then some wise men, a star to guide them, shepherds in the field, and angels to guide us to the manger whilst helping us to worship the coming of the baby Jesus. What a special moment it was for all who shared this journey. It will be one of those memories that will be forever etched in our hearts and minds. Everyone involved did such a sensational job and especially Mrs King and her support team who allowed us to enjoy their animals. We appreciate you all.
As I looked on I couldn’t help but think how incredible it was that approximately 2000 years ago God so loved you and I that He gave! I am not sure about you, but I am so grateful that He acted on His love and gave us Jesus. What a gift! He didn’t just talk about a religious belief, leave us to speculate about it or even just read about it, but He showed us the way by giving us His only Son Jesus! Jesus’ life showed us what it would be like to be like God. From a humble beginning, He revealed to the world through His life how we could live in humility, how we could live a sinless life on earth and how we could love everyone especially those we find hard to love. He showed us how to forgive everyone’s wrongdoing and what it means to sacrifice and put others first by giving up His life unconditionally for us. That is love folks! I’m so glad that God gave!
How good is it that we don’t have to wonder anymore what living a godly Christian life is like, but we have an unmatchable example in Jesus. He didn’t just remain a baby though, the bible says, “Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.” What’s even more amazing is that He is alive today and He promises to live in us forever. He assures us that if we confess our sin, ask for His forgiveness for our sin, thank Him for taking all of our sin in His body on a cross, and then ask Him to come inside us and make us new, He says He will (John 1:12,13 ; John 3:16 ). When we open ourselves up to God, He reveals to us that the greatest gift we could ever receive at Christmas is Jesus! I personally had a moment 40 years ago saying similar words to the bold italics above and my life totally changed direction and it has been a journey that leaves me blessed everyday enjoying every moment living this new fulfilled life that Jesus offers (John 10:10).
Our prayer this Christmas is that we would all continue to explore this relationship that Jesus offers. That we would all come to know Him personally in our lives and be thankful that this baby was given freely to us by God. Since day one of Jesus life on earth He has fulfilled His name that was given by the Angel at birth (Isaiah 7:14 and Matthew 1:20), “His name will be called Immanuel meaning “God with us.” That name lives today and can be seen in the hearts and lives of all who have believed and received His love for them. He is with us ….. forever! There is no greater gift.
May I encourage you to take a moment to reflect upon this Christmas moment that proudly portrays a giving God of love. Jesus reflects beautifully His Father. What’s the journey that God is continually taking you on to help you know Him more. Embrace this moment and you may never be the same again.
Thank you all for being a part of our amazing School and for all your support.
May God bless you all as you enjoy the gift of Jesus for you this Christmas.
Pastor Rob
GCC families can see all the photos on Pixevety.