What we bring with us this Christmas…
'The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favoured! The Lord is with you.” '
Luke 1:28 NIV
In this passage of scripture, the angel Gabriël addresses the young, pregnant Mary. There are quite a bit hidden in this…! Gabriël: The “strength of God” or “God is my strength” is referred to by some as an archangel. They were commissioned to protect Israel. He’s the one who helped Daniel in the interpretation of his Godly visions. He’s the one who announced the arrival of the greatest prophet Israel has ever seen – John the Baptist. He pointed to “the Anointed One” in the book of Daniel. His presence usually caused a sense of awe and even fear as he is an angel that “stands” in the presence of God. Being in Gabriel’s presence would make you count as one of the “greats” in Jewish folklore for sure. Then there is Mary…probably still having to combat the shadow of an improbable rumour that she was pregnant with God’s Son. In any culture, the explanation of her pregnancy would not necessarily help her gain sympathy. I can imagine her jealous cousin: “First you fall pregnant out of wedlock…then you identify God as the father…while still somehow engaged with Joseph…who somehow doesn’t make a beeline away from you! May it be that Joseph feels some sense of ownership over these events…? C’mon Mary…are you for real?”
Surrounded by controversy she is paid a visit…from an Angel that clearly positions her among the favourites of God in Israelite history. Gabriel the protector, helper, announcer, pointer then reveals something breath-taking: THE REASON FOR HER BEING IN FAVOUR!
The LORD >>>
is with you >>>
She missed it…completely missed it. Someone greater than her uncle Zechariah, her cousin John or even Gabriel is with her – the LORD himself. His presence brings God’s favour. That is the guarantee of God’s favour – when THE LORD IS WITH YOU! The child in her whom made this favour accessible to all man – Praise the Lord!!!
'I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. '
John 17:23 NIV
“In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. '
Ephesians 3:10-12 NIV
Go - >>>
Be His presence in every place this season! >>>
Newcomer’s Lunch | November update
We had another successful newcomer's lunch on Sunday, 21st November. It was very refreshing to meet new people after successive cancelations due to the lockdowns. Time was spent focusing on fellowship and informing people about the things that are important to us as a church. We even got to pray for one of the attenders! We are very thankful to our lunch volunteers who served us with a generous, delicious and free lunch! A big thank you to Stuart, Maria, Betty and especially to Nigel and Anna who have made the newcomer's lunch a wonderful event.
Food Pantry | In desperate need
At this time of year families are going through crisis and struggling to afford basic food. Next time you are doing your food shop could you please throw in an item below. Our stock is getting very low and we would love to support everyone who needs crisis support this Christmas. You can drop them into the Food Pantry basket located in our foyer. Thank you so much for your donation.
- Coffee
- Cake mixes
- Tuna – large plain flavoured
- Pasta and pasta sauce
- Peanut butter
- Cup of soups
- 2-minute noodles
- Sweet biscuits
Fuse Youth | Friday 3rd December
This week at FUSE Youth is Resilience #4 and we are finishing off this series with a bang! Come along for LIVE worship, a message, small groups and some good food! 7-9.30pm, $5. Booking Essential!
Kids Church | Sunday 5th December
Join us onsite. Book now for 9am fully vaccinated Kids Church.
Sunday Service | How to have enduring joy in the midst of a pressurised world and circumstances
9.00am | Fully vaccinated | Onsite
9.00am | YouTube & Facebook | Live stream
11.00am | Undisclosed vaccination status | Onsite – booking required
Seniors Ministry | Wednesday 8th December
Christmas celebrations! Let’s come together and rejoice as we sing carols and bring Jesus our praise. Please bring something festive for afternoon tea.
Details:
- Time: 1.30pm – 4.00pm
- Where: 446 Centre Road, Berwick, Vic, 3806
- Bring: please bring a platter for everyone to share
For more details visit the calendar here.
Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place!
BRAAM BOTHA
Senior Pastor
