Noel!
Published on December 21, 2020
It is that time of the year again. Christmas for many of us each year has become a long ’to do list’ and can leave us exhausted and wishing for 26th December! Whilst in many ways it feels the same this year, at the same time it is different due to Covid19 and lockdowns have made us slow down as we have had to stay at home. We however, in all of this, continue to tell the amazing story that took place more than 2000 years ago, against a backdrop of human misery and human atrocities. The Christmas story is timeless and is one of Hope.
Our lives have been shaken and each one of us has lost something. Most of all within The Girls’ Brigade around the world, we have lost the opportunity to get together face to face, which gave us fellowship and encouragement. At Christmas as we look back, we can see just how our routines have been disrupted and for some of us we have had to develop new ways of living each day. But God being God, has been with us every step of the way as we seek to Seek, Serve and Follow Him. He has given us a time to slow down and reflect, and the space to just listen to His voice in our lives.
Because of technology, we have been able to stay connected. We have found out that ‘the new norm’ is not so bad all the time after all. Within Girls’ Brigade we have been forced to do things differently and be innovative. For example, offering monthly equipping webinars which have for the first time brought together GB leaders from around the world. I am amazed and humbled how at all levels we have kept GB alive, relevant and exciting – even in the Pandemic.
The Divine Hope that has kept us all going, all started in the manger, with the Birth of Emmanuel, The Prince of Peace, Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father. (Isaiah 9:6.)
As we celebrate Christmas this year, let us be thankful to God for giving us His Son to light up our hearts and give us Hope.
Let me close off by sharing a common verse, Thessalonians 5:16 – 18: “Rejoice evermore. Pray without Ceasing. In Everything Give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus “.
On behalf of my husband Claudio and myself, and on behalf of the International President’s Committee’s Team – that represents our Fellowships from around the world – we pray that wherever you are, your homes be filled with joy, your hearts be filled with laughter and that may you find many reasons to be thankful this Christmas.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Peace, Love and Joy… and stay safe.
Priscilla P.
International President.
