The first Sunday of Advent

 This is the first of four Sundays before Christmas and this morning a candle was lit in our church. Advent is a time of preparation for Christmas and today's candle is a symbol for our hope in Christ.

(Photo is borrowed from the internet). I am reminded of what Jesus has done for me. John 14 tells us that Jesus said "Do not let your hearts be troubled......." Words of hope as we face daily life. The singing was awesome this morning, with many voices raised in full volume.

One of the chorus' was Something Beautiful, and has special meaning for me. It was a song that I learnt many years ago at a time when I was going through a difficult time. And again today it had that same meaning. The words are.....

Something beautiful, something good,

all my confusion, he understood,

All I had to offer him, was broken-ness and strife.

But he made something beautiful of my life. 

As we head into the lead up to Christmas Day, I wish for you to know the hope, peace, joy and love of Christ in amongst the working, shopping, cooking and whatever else you do to "get ready" for Christmas Day. Remember the real reason for the season.

Blessings, From Jude