The Tribune

By Bishop 
Dr Elgarnet 
Rahming
National Overseer Church of 
God of Prophecy

AT this special time and season of the year, we pause from our normal routine to reflect on the coming into this world of the Christ child over 20 centuries ago to bring life, light, hope and salvation to humankind.

I believe friends, it is that open reflection on the supernatural conception of the blessed virgin mary, and on the amazing incarnation and miraculous birth of our lord Jesus Christ that gives us all deeper spiritual focus, renewed hope and a clearer sense of perspective and purpose as we face these tough times of economic hardship, rising unemployment, the high cost of living, uncontrollable crime and the prospects of legalised gambling.

The peculiar and wonderful thing about the story of Jesus’ birth is its perpetual relevance. you see, in the course of time, many stories lose their appeal to succeeding generations. But not so with the Christmas story.

We who live in the beginning of this 21st century, find the Christmas story just as thrilling, just as intriguing, just as exciting and just as eventful as did those Christians of centuries past. You see friends, Jesus is the Christ who is eternal, whose love is boundless and changeless; and the hope he has brought to past generations is the same hope that he offers to all men today. That hope is the hope of deliverance from sin’s awful bondage and of a rich fellowship with him, not just for a few years but all for eternity.

Apart from Jesus there is no hope, and the future is dark and bleak at best. Such has been plight of every generation outside of Christ. But Jesus’ coming provides the opportunity for a turn around to occur in that sad situation.

The prophet of old Isaiah wrote: “ he people that walked in the darkness have seen a great light. They that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.” (Isaiah 9:2)

Yes, Christ descended into a world if darkness, but light breaks forth into the hearts of those who are willing to embrace them. Yes friends, immediately the spirit of heaviness was turned into a spirit of praise; mourning was replaced with joy and despair, with hope.

Just as sin had enslaved all people, the freedom offered by Jesus is for all people of all ages and all generations. On the night of his birth, the angel announced to the shepherds: “Fear not, for behold; I bring you good tiding of great joy, which shall be to all people.” (Luke 2:10)

The advent of Christ meant no more to the Shepherds, or to the wise men. To Simeon or to Anna than it does to those who love him today. It is a story which is at home in the heart in every age and dispensation.

Its repeated telling does nothing to diminish its appeal. It is ancient, yet it is new; alive, teal and relevant today in the hearts and lives of those who believe and trust in him.

And so friends, regardless to the challenges you may face this Christmas, I intreat you to believe, to accept and to trust in the lord Jesus Christ, who though invisible, still lives and moves among us today to meet our each and every need.

And so friends, as you encounter and embrace the Christ of Christmas, you too can join in the continuing chorus that began over 2,000 years ago in Bethlehem of Judea, “ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” (Luke 2:14)

My wife and family join me in extending to you and your family, best wishes for a joyful, merry,peaceful and bright Christmas, filled with the love of the Lord Jesus Christ shed abroad on that first hold night.