Archive for December, 2006

There is something about new things! They look different and sometimes even smell different. There is a freshness, new expectations and opportunity associated with something new. A new year can offer a similar sensation – hence the celebrations. How can we ensure that next year is an improvement?

1. REMEMBER

As we complete 2006, call to mind the grace God showed you in 2006 and the good things He provided. No doubt most of us had our shares of struggle, but God owes us nothing and yet chooses to love us no matter what. Being thankful for the mercies received (rather than lamenting of what might have been) puts us in a good place in relation to God.

2. REJOICE

All through the Bible God desires that we enjoy the good things He showers on His people. He insisted that 1/10th of an Israelites income was spent on the spiritual community’s celebrations. God loves us, appreciates the relationships and fun we can share.

3. RESOLVE

Rather than a list of new year’s resolutions that usually fail to last beyond the holiday period, why don’t we all resolve to hold God nearer and love each other dearer in 2007.

Stephen Semenchuk

What a relief! The shops are shut and finally a chance to relax… until the relatives arrive! How can Christians make the most of Christmas?

1. QUIET

Plan to spend at least a few moments this Christmas to ponder the real message of Christmas. When the shepherds found the baby Jesus there was a serenity in the scene. Truly, a special child had been born who would change human history and yet there was something simple, natural and accessible about Jesus and his family.

2. QUALITY

The best gift God gives us is relationship, with Him and each other. We need to set aside time for the special people in our lives. Jesus was willing to devote 3 intensive years to his disciples. Let’s appreciate the people God places around us.

3. QUAKE

The Shepherd’s were shaken by the appearance of the angels. They quaked and trembled before the awesome events of the first Christmas. Don’t take Jesus for granted. He is the reason for the season. Take time to celebrate what God has done for you!

Stephen Semenchuk

How do we know that Christmas is getting close? Parking spaces are almost impossible to find in shopping centres. People seem to be in a perpetual state of busyness. We wish friends peace in the midst of our own turmoil.

How do we better survive Christmas shopping?

1. PREPARE

Given how crowded shopping centres become – limit how many times you have to go there . Even better buy presents months in advance (oops, too late for this year). Be prepared!

2. PATIENCE

The crowds at checkouts are a real test of our godliness. No matter which queue I pick, I always end up with the most price checks occurring in front of me. The people of Jesus’ time had waited for 100’s of years for the Saviour to come. John was the prophet who announced that the time had come! Please leave time for people to encounter Jesus with you this year.

3. PROCLAIM

Our world is clearly lacking in peace. Without Jesus there is no hope. Like John, proclaim Jesus as the Prince of Peace!

Stephen Semenchuk

Awesome opportunities! Thousands turn out for our annual outdoor carols. Jesus is honoured at Christmas time in Dapto.
We need to thank Peter Hutchinson, Lyndall Bailey and their teams of volunteers for the great witness provided to our local community last Friday Night. Our events major sponsor also contributed greatly to our success through their comprehensive advertising.

The owner of Dapto McDonald’s, David Eldridge made an interesting observation, … “In Psalm 50, God makes the point that he owns the cattle on a thousand hills. It’s good to see the cattle that McDonalds uses making a contribution to extending God’s kingdom.”

Please pray that many of the families we encountered on Friday are moved to attend the next of our Christmas activities and choose to become part of God’s kingdom.

Stephen Semenchuk