Grow in Christmas cheer week 1

Who is God? Creator. The same – still cares. God is personally interested in everyone. Our Saviour. Fulfills long-term promises that may have been forgotten. Our father. God of the lonely and hurting, poor, giving hope to everyone – not just the “South islanders”. The light of the world. God is – justice – hope – mercy – love – peace – joy). He is achieving these things through Hope International, us and would use Freeset agencies, Oxfam, Trade Aid, Tearfund Opawa Baptist

What is God doing in the world? God is in us, using us to spread the word. Allowing people to care for others with real needs through different agencies. Opening our eyes to what is around us. Bringing people to Himself. Making Himself known. Drawing all people together, bringing comfort to the elderly. Working through us. Making it better. Making contact with us.

How is God achieving this? The Gospel story is the same now as it was in N.T. times. Allowing people to see Him through other’s obedience eg Christmas journey, Ballentynes Window, Christmas Float. Planting compassion in people’s hearts so they see the needs of others. Through His word and people. Being obedient to the Holy Spirits leading. Making us aware of poor, through organizations, through church, through Santa parade/peace Labyrinth. Through global culture and communication. Blogging, txt, internet, travel, teaching & preaching. By helping people out. Praying Through Jesus being born at Christmas so he could come (be re-born) on Christmas Day

Who am I? A student. We are women with a God given purpose. Special to God and he has chosen us/me. Somebody important to God. Somebody that God can work through. The chosen. Special. Loved, part of the promise – rich in resources to be shared with others, grateful for our fresh water! God’s instrument in his plan. Loved by God – worth being earth-resided.

Where am I going? To the land to live sustainably – to polytech – probably then heaven hopefully.We are anticipating the birth. Everyone is headed into eternity – one way or another. After life home. Towards Christmas

How am I supposed to get there? Sell my house. Through the Holy Spirit. Patiently – not always easy. Stillness (at least 5mins!). Walk. Visit elderly. With joy and thankfulness. Listening to His leading. Holy and pleasing to Him in all we do and say. Reading God’s word, acting on it. Having a personal relationship with our Creator. Be faithful. Walk. To look forward to God’s promises. To keep growing, giving, remembering the promises. Being faithful, spending time with God. By preparing spiritually as well as practically

How then should we live out our lives? Grow old with God! In a daily relationship with Him. In Celebration of what He has done in our lives. The more you read, the more you learn, the more you trust. Helping people. As good people who help others. Eat, drink, and exercise. Pray believe in God. Live, give, remember and look forward. Gratefully (emotion not cheese!) Generously!