By Rev. Andy Fleming, Associate Chaplain

The Season of Advent began last Sunday. The word Advent is derived from the Latin word, Adventus, which means coming or arrival. It is a time to reflect, and to prepare for the coming of the Messiah, the Christ child, at Christmas. At each of the four Sundays leading up to Christmas Day, we rejoice in God’s love for us by lighting a candle, each marking a different theme – hope, peace, joy and love.

In the Gospel of Luke, John the Baptist was mistaken for the Messiah when addressing a crowd which included despised tax collectors and soldiers. John explains that ‘the One’ is coming and that he is not even worthy to tie up his sandals. Staying in ‘his lane’, John does the good that is his to do. This comes as a result of his admonishing those in the crowd that treat others poorly for their own gain. When asked what they should then do, John’s answer is to correct the actions of those that are corrupt and to encourage those to share what they have with those who are in need. John must have spoken with such authority that the crowd felt he must be the Messiah.

We all come across opportunities to enrich the lives of others or in creation and the environment. Perhaps we can each hear the message of John this Advent and Christmas season, and, like John, do the good that is ours to do. Ordinary acts like opening a door for someone, greeting people as we walk past them, or being sustainable with our purchases, are all acts that can matter and make a difference. Each act may increase the hope, peace, joy and love for someone. We each have something to offer that others in our community can’t, just as they offer things we cannot. I wonder what is yours to do?

For those looking for a church to celebrate in the joy of Christmas, below are links to local Anglican church websites, each detailing Christmas activities and services:

• Holy Covenant at Jamison
• St Barnabas at Charnwood and Hall
• All Saints at Ainslie
• Christ Church at Hawker

As we finish our year,
May the God of Christmas fill your hearts with all joy and peace in believing!
The blessing of the manger, God's creation all around.
The blessing of the shepherds, God's people with feet on the ground.
The blessing of the angels, good news for all, and peace for the world.
Be with you all now and for ever.
May it be so!
Amen

May the love of God be with you and keep you safe this Christmas,

Rev. Andy