In this week's readings we see very different examples of encountering Jesus. The Gospel, Matthew 2:1-12. tells of the Wise Men from the east, kneeling before a baby in a manger with their precious gifts of great value. We imagine the scene each Christmas as we gaze at our Nativity. But in Ephesians Paul tells us we may approach the throne of Jesus with freedom and confidence. What a different picture! Not only is Jesus now seated on a throne, He is to be approached confidently- like one who we love and know well. Someone we can share our intimate secrets with, because there is a bond of love between us that knows no bounds. How amazing is the gift of God's grace, poured out for us through His Son! May you feel the same confidence as you approach Jesus this week.
The message was written and presented by Dr. Wendy Mayer.

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'Children run joyfully- Jesus is born. Tell all the mountains to sing!' This is the beginning of a Christmas song I sang in primary school. This week's Gospel Luke 2:41-52 tells the story of the young Jesus in the temple sharing about His Father in heaven, and asking questions of the temple leaders. Those who heard Him speak were amazed that someone so young could speak so well and have such knowledge. The Gospels joyfully record the life of Jesus and His teachings in a way that allows us to be astonished by Him, even today. We are truly uplifted by the Spirit as we learn more- perhaps our hearts even 'sing', just like those mountains! The song ends with, "Thank you- for Jesus is born!" May we carry the joy and thanks of Christmas forward as we journey into the New Year. God bless you.
The message was written and presented by Pr. Lassi of Sydney Finnish Lutheran church.

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Christmas Day message was written and presented by Howard Osland of the Sydney Norweigan Lutheran Church.

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Tonight's message for Christmas Eve was written by LCA and presented by Bridgette Wilshire.

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Throughout Advent we draw closer to the fulfilment of God's promise to His people- that He will send a Saviour and Redeemer for all the world. Can you feel the excitement building? This week's Gospel Luke 1:39-55 reading tells us about the baby in Elizabeth's womb 'leaping for joy' as Mary came to visit. Do you remember a time when a promise made you 'leap for joy'? Perhaps it was on your wedding day, or when Santa brought you the first toy on your Christmas list! God's promise is greater than any gift or blessed relationship we can have here on earth- in fact, God Himself is the source of all gifts, love, and blessed relationships. We should expect His promises to be GREAT! May you 'wait with joyful hope' for the coming of our Saviour and Redeemer this week- He is near!

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This week we hear about 'God's Amazing Plan' in our Nativity Service at St Paul's!
Come and hear of 'God's Amazing Plan'- and look forward to the ways it will ripple through your own life. God bless you this week!
The message was written and presented by Dr. Bruce Arnold.

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This week's Gospel message Luke 3:1-6 invites us to 'Prepare the way for the Lord!'. The people of Israel had great expectations about the coming King- he would rule in majesty and be a powerful ruler. They looked forward to the arrival of this King in glory- after all, the Son of God was coming! However, God often fulfils His promises in ways that people don't expect- indeed, perhaps instead of 'great expectations' we ought to 'expect the unexpected!'. Jesus was born of Mary- a human baby- just like you and I. His life contained simplicity, service, and great love for the poor alongside pain and suffering. There was a bit of 'pomp and ceremony' in his human life, but it was brief. However the revelation of this Son of God had a powerful, majestic and glorious message for all people of the world- for all eternity. May your heart be prepared, this week, to receive the ways of the Lord. May his power, mercy and love dwell deeply within you.
Amen.

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This week's Gospel reading Luke 21: 25-36 appears difficult; speaking openly of nations in anguish, terror and perplexity. The world around us often feels like this today. Considering the judgement each person will face when Jesus returns may feel heavy, and bring a spirit of fear. However, Jesus comes to bring us life and freedom with Him. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us that His Spirit gives us power. Let us look to Luke 21:28 and feel the gladness that comes as we recognise 'redemption is coming near'.
The Mesage was written and presented by Dr. Wendy Mayer.

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