Christmas is a favourite time of the year for many - holidays, celebrations, family, friends, food and presents. So many things for children and adults alike to look forward to and enjoy (even if it does come with a little stress and chaos!). Of course, as much as we might enjoy these things, the real joy of Christmas is remembering and celebrating the news that God's promised saviour has come at last!
In Luke Chapter 2, in the well known story of the shepherds watching the sheep at night suddenly being woken by the blinding light of angels in the sky, we hear these words: "I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord." (Luke 2:10-11, NIV)
The birth of Jesus would have surely brought joy to his mother Mary (who needed a break after a long donkey ride as a full term pregnant mother!), but it could have seemed entirely insignificant to the rest of the world. The announcement from this messenger of God however makes it clear that the news of the birth of Jesus is good news, that will cause great joy for all people. Two thousand years later, we at Chatswood Baptist are living proof of the truth of this announcement. We are a community made up of many different cultures, with many different native languages, but we are brought together as a family to celebrate regularly with joy in the hope we have in Christ - a hope of eternal life and joy as the people of God.
Take the opportunity this Christmas season to join us at one (or all!) of our Christmas services and events to hear about, remember and celebrate the good news of great joy for all people that is Christmas.