Dear Friends,

A SEASON TO REFLECT, CELEBRATE, AND SHARE CHRIST

As winter approaches, the days grow shorter and the evenings colder, reminding us of the natural rhythms of life. This season, while beautiful in its quiet evenings and festive lights, often comes with its own pressures and busyness. Preparing our homes, planning celebrations, buying gifts, and sending cards can leave little time for the deeper reflection that the season calls for.

Yet, winter and Christmas also invite us to pause—to prepare not only our homes, but our hearts. The birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, centuries ago is the reason we celebrate. He came as the Prince of Peace, bringing hope, salvation, and the promise of God’s unending love. This reminder is timeless: the true gift of Christmas is not wrapped in paper or tied with ribbons, but lives in the joy, peace, and love that Christ brings into our hearts.

Amid the busyness, this year we are called to slow down and reflect. How often do we get caught up in pleasing everyone, buying presents, writing cards, or arranging festive gatherings, and forget the deeper meaning of Christmas? What if, instead, we made room to reflect on the Messiah who came to bring light into a world in need of hope and peace?

Christmas is also a season to share Christ with others. It is an opportunity to invite friends, family, neighbours, and even strangers to meet Jesus and experience the love of God. Some may already know Him, while others may be encountering Him for the first time. Our words, our acts of kindness, and even our prayers can be instruments of introducing people to the hope and salvation Christ brings. As Isaiah reminds us: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… and he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

This winter, as we celebrate the birth of Christ, let us also take the time to open our hearts to His presence and reflect on His promises. Let us offer grace, patience, and love to others, remembering that the greatest gift we can give—or receive—is the love of God revealed in Jesus. In doing so, we not only deepen our own faith but also share the light of Christ with those around us, bringing hope, joy, and peace to our communities.

May this season of preparation, reflection, and celebration be one where we pause amidst the busyness to behold the wonder of the Messiah’s birth, allowing His love to shine through us and drawing others closer to Him.

With prayers and love,
Revd David Jebb – Superintendent Minister of St Albans & Welwyn Circuit