Christmas Video Message

See my video Christmas message here: http://www.rugbyadvertiser.co.uk/news/local-news/video-christmas-message-from-rugby-rector-1-5767570

This Christmas message comes to you from St Andrew’s Church where I am surrounded by Christmas trees. Some of you may have been in the church to take part in the Christmas tree festival this year. I wonder which Christmas tree you voted for?

There are so many wonderful Christmas traditions, including decorating trees, from carol singing and crib services, to Christmas food such as turkey, mince pies and Christmas cake, the giving and receiving of presents. Which traditions do you enjoy the most? These traditions are very comforting aren't they? And whether you are with family, on your own today, or at work, nearly everyone in our nation will be celebrating in a similar way. We are all united in this Christian festival.

But, behind these comforting traditions and rituals there is a deeper mystery for us to take part in, if we stop and listen. The carols that we sing and the Bible stories that we listen to, tell us of a God who comes very close to us, a humble God who comes to share in every part of our human life. It is a great mystery. But one that assures us of God’s deep and enduring love for us.

The other Christmas traditions that we sometimes forget are the ones that encourage us to reach out to others: to visit the lonely, give to the poor, care for the afflicted. Some people today will be doing just that. I wonder how you might share in that deeper tradition this Christmas? Maybe you are someone who needs to receive God’s love through the kindness of strangers. Trust that God does care for you. God cares for us all so much that he came into our world to be with us. He came as a tiny, vulnerable baby, born in a lowly stable.

So, as you share with friends and families in the great Christmas traditions, remember also to stop and listen; to hear the story of God’s love for you, to enjoy his closeness with you.

May God truly bless you and keep you, make his face to shine upon you and give you and those you love, his peace. From all of us here at St Andrew’s Church, Rugby a very merry Christmas.

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