Hi Everyone
So many things have been said over this Christmas that have brought good, positive headlines to Christian faith in this our country. David Cameron talked powerfully of the Christian nature of this country and how we should not be shy about our faith. Queen Elizabeth relayed again the model and example of Christ as we look to Him for leadership, comfort and hope. And our very own Bishop Jonathan Gledhill who spoke at Emmanuel a couple of years ago called his listeners to allow Christ room in their world.
It was great to see Lichfield on the map as the Christmas day service was broadcast live on the BBC but the phrase that caught me was the image of our hearts being a manger for Christ to be born in and a stable to welcome him. I love imagery like that, But! the child became a man and moved out of the manger and needed time, space and expansion as he grew in wisdom, stature and favour with God and man. The language of the new testament as the Apostle Paul seeks to establish Christ followers is the language of maturity and growth seeking to add to our faith and get nearer to the people God has destined us to be. And that flows out to us and is targeted to become our ambition too!?
This suggests that we allow Christ to ‘grow up’ in us which in turn causes a maturity in our faith and belief and gives even greater expression to our confession!
One of the common conversations this coming week will centre around the new year and those resolutions that many people make, with the added joke of them lasting beyond the initial 24 hours of 2012. Whatever you think about this practise you cannot deny that this s a great opportunity to take stock, reflect and make some positive decisions about life, home and experience and commit yourself to the goal of growth this year.
Allow Christ to grow up this year remembering that He lives in you so expansion will be required.
Steve
Steve Speight (Rev)
Emmanuel Christian Centre
Lichfield
steve@emmanuellichfield.com
www.emmanuellichfield.com
