Dear BRMC family,

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness— on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this”. (Isaiah 9:2-7, NRSV)

Isaiah speaks prophetically of a great light piercing through the darkness. This promise was given to a people who lived in tumultuous times, filled with uncertainty and fear. Yet, in the midst of their struggles, God assured them that a Saviour would come—a child who would be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

As we reflect on these verses, let us consider the darkness that may touch our own lives and the world around us. There are times when we feel lost, overwhelmed or burdened by the weight of our struggles. The news often seems filled with despair, and personal struggles can lead us to despair. Yet, Advent reminds us that hope is never beyond our reach. This season, I encourage us to remain focused on the light that has come. Jesus came to earth in humility as a child, bringing with Him the hope of redemption and the promise of God’s unfailing love. He invites us to cast our cares upon Him and to trust in His perfect plan, knowing that He walks with us through every valley.

As we prepare for Christmas and the close of a year, it is opportune for us to examine our hearts by asking ourselves – what areas of my life feels dark or uncertain right now?

Respond by inviting the light of Christ into those spaces. Then ask the Lord Jesus to help you and show how you can be a source of hope and light to others at this time.

You might want to wrap your time of reflection with this prayer:

Dear Lord, as we journey through Advent into Christmas, help us by the power of your Holy Spirit to open our hearts to the hope that comes from You. Remind us that no matter the darkness we face, Your light shines brightly. May we reflect that light to others, sharing the hope of Christ in our words and actions. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

My fellow pastors Ben, Daniel, Gilbert, Joshua, Kai Ming, the staff team and LCEC members join me in wishing you a Christmas filled with hope and a New Year brimming with peace.

Blessing of peace,

Wendy

*Please do join us for our Christmas Day and Watchnight Services.