Christmas is a time of joy and peace, of love and hope. Despite the current health crisis, we can still celebrate Christmas in a true spirit of joy, for Christmas does not rely on presents, parties and large gatherings. Instead it is centred on a lowly manger in the humblest abode, where we encounter the Christ-child.

We celebrate, because God is with us. The birth of Jesus brought Heaven to earth. God came to dwell with His people. The messiah came so that we might have life in all its fullness – life that continues into eternity with God. God has come to encounter us, so that we might encounter Him.

In the midst of all the celebration, hype and busyness of Christmas, Jesus offers each one of us an invitation: an invitation to ‘Encounter Him’. Not simply to bend down to peer into the manger, but to encounter the God of the Universe in a personal and life-changing way. Jesus has come to offer us the greatest gift, the gift of Himself for our salvation.

God loves you, like you were the only person … Think about that for a moment … You are of infinite value and dignity in God’s eyes and Jesus wants to invite you into a deep and meaningful friendship with Him. God knows and cares about all your joys and successes, your sorrows and pain, your trials and failures, your weakness and brokenness and still loves you unconditionally.

God wants an Encounter with you, will you open your heart to the Child of mercy: to the one who laid His head in the manger, died on the Cross and rose to bring you life? Will you let God encounter you and open your heart to ‘Encounter Jesus’ in return? This is the invitation of Christmas. May your encounter with Jesus this Christmas be a source of eternal hope, joy, peace and love.