Dear Friends,
This is the final letter of the year and I hope it finds you in good health.
We have today had to change our plans around Christmas and will now be staying in Colchester separated from our families. Whilst we are all extremely sad we know that we are doing if for the good of the country and accept that in times like this sacrifices have to be made. We are not alone in our frustration and sadness. This year others have suffered more than us and many continue to do so. We know this is no game and although a vaccine is being rolled out we are still called to be vigilant and follow health guidelines.
Whilst many of us suffer with all that is going on we remember we are this week celebrating the birth of Jesus. The saviour of the world. In our sadness we are called to turn to God. Hebrews chapter 5 says:
During the days of Jesus ’life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.
In our sadness we can choose to cry out to God, to internalise our sadness, to shout out in a desperate hope that somebody, somewhere may hear us or to just give up. Jesus cried out to his father who heard his prayer. Let us do likewise and turn to God.
The Christmas message is one that declares God draws near through Emmanuel, God with us. No government policy, virus or last minute change of plans can alter that. So we can still celebrate with joy the coming of the saviour of the world.
Just remember at this time of year it’s not how we celebrate that matters it’s who we celebrate.
Wishing you a happy, blessed and peaceful Christmas time.
Finally just to let you know there will be no service on Sunday 27th December as we are encouraging everyone to come along and share communion on Christmas Day at 10am on our Facebook page.
Happy Christmas and God Bless you,
With love,
Geoff Felton.
Minister Letter Christmas Day 2020