There is something intoxicating about this time of the year. True, the smell of Delia Smith’s Christmas cakes does leave notes of brandy, whisky and rum in the air. However, there is so much more to the run–up to Christmas than over–fed fruit cakes.
The first Sunday of Advent has passed. The opening of calendars stuffed with chocolate, speciality cheeses or other knick–knacks that the house definitely doesn’t need before Christmas, have been opened for the first time.
Yet, the joy of Christmas is about more than giving and receiving presents. It’s a joy that, within the Christian’s faith, can uplift in times of sorrow, protect in times of trial and uphold in those rare moments between chaos and sleep.
O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant
This isn’t just a pretty carol, and isn’t limited to the extrovertly jubilant in our congregations. It’s a call to all who are faithful, joyful and triumphant. We are faithful of the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen*1, joyful in the good news that the Christ has been born*2 and triumphant in the knowledge that the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end *3, is coming soon.
Jesus Christ’s birth, life, death and resurrection are states of being. As Alpha and Omega He covers eternity; as I Am, he is the centre of our assurance and convictions, the one on whom we can rely in the rough and in the storm; and Immanuel, who is good news of great joy. The Son of God was born of a virgin, was tempted in every way without sin*4 and died so that whosoever believes in Him shall have eternal life *5. Alpha and Omega, I Am, Immanuel. Beginning through to the end, everything past, present and future, God with us forever more.
Over the weeks coming up to Christmas, we will be sharing excerpts from our books: Christmas devotionals, to ex–pro footballers, to the writings of Spurgeon, Owen and many more. We want to encourage you in this season. To give you a pause that will enable you to reflect on the truth around Christmas. This truth is our passion. It’s why we do what we do, and we are excited to mark the end of 2022 with this series of content.
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*1 Hebrews 11.1
*2 Luke 2.10
*3 Revelation 22.13
*4 Hebrews 4.15
*5 John 3.16
