MESSAGE FROM MARTYN

It’s been that time of year where for many it’s a mad rush, frantically trying to get everything done and pulled together for the big day! …. For others it can be a lonely time of year that they just wish would pass quickly so, “we can get on with life as normal!”

For Christians it’s a reminder of the birth of our Lord and “Saviour”, remember …

 “She [Mary] will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Mt 1:21

Even before he was born the Holy Spirit was pointing towards his purpose on Earth. Born as a baby so he could grow into a man,

 “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.” Luke 2:52

He came from heaven to Earth, showing us just what God is like; loving, merciful, powerful, fair, righteous, patient and generous to name but a few!  

This time of year people are open to a bit of “Good News.” The season of peace and good will etc. “

Whatever we think of Christmas, remember to be:

generous in spirit, (don’t be a grump even if you feel like it, be a joy giver … not a joy stealer!)

generous in love, (seek the best for others, that’s what love does! 1Corinthians 13

generous in kindness, (go the extra mile, it’s in the New Testament somewhere!)

generous in giving, (whatever you give, time, love, money, mercy, forgiveness .. do it generously, Jesus gave abundantly, he didn’t lose out, neither will you!)

generous in forgiveness, (let go of the hurts and be reconciled to family and friends, forgive and ask forgiveness for your part, whatever their part!),

generous in hospitality, (think of those who might be alone and invite them in, and if you are someone who might be alone .. invite someone else who might be alone then you won’t be alone, seize the initiative!!  Someone once said, “do unto others as you would want it done to you, only do it first!!),

generous with the Good News of Jesus Christ. (The good you tell today could be someone else’s eternal life tomorrow! People really can live through the word that God speaks out of our mouths!)  In this way we will be like him in this world that so desperately needs some good news!

What a great year that lies ahead, this new year can be the birth of something great in all of us!

Remember the purpose of our being born again … to be like Jesus in this world … how will you be like him, how will you fulfil his purpose in you in 2014?

Have a happy & a prosperous New Year.

Much love,

Martyn & Gill xxx