Welcome to Christmas 2024. Another year has gone by. It is traditional to look back and acknowledge the differences the passing of 12 months has made. Most of us are a year older (and wiser?!), but many have also said farewell to loved ones or shared the joy of welcoming new life into the world. We look back on a year of change, but it is my hope and prayer that any change is seen as a development of the good things that are being built upon, and a rejection of those things that harm.
Across the land, the Methodist Church is adopting a theme for the Advent and Christmas Seasons once more: “Hush the noise, join the love song this Christmas.” It owes its origins to the words of a Christmas carol – can you spot which one?
The world is a very busy place. It is also a very noisy place. There is certainly a lot to attract our attention and take up our time. However, the words suggest that we stop for a moment, turn away from that noise and distraction, and consider the enormity of the event that is at the centre of the Christmas celebration.
This is, for Christians, the fact that God cared so much for creation and humanity, that Jesus was sent to live a human life of care, forgiveness, and compassion, in order to build a better future for the world and a better relationship with God. Central to this is love – the nature of God and that wonderful thing that ‘makes the world go round’ in every age. Singing Christmas carols is our response to God’s love in sending Jesus to show us that love in action. The words and advice that Jesus gave all those years ago remain relevant and applicable even to our modern lives today.
Shildon Methodist Church offers you a warm welcome at any time, but especially this Christmas for the Carol Service, Sunday 22nd at 10.30am and the Christmas Day service at 9.30 am. Further details can be found on the website: http://shildonmethodistchurch.org/.
It is in the love of God that I send best wishes to you for a happy Christmas, filled with joy, peace and love.
Rev’d David M Payne, Minister, Shildon Methodist Church
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
