A Christmas message from Libby
Did we close the church door in March and say “Well, that’s it folks. God is in there and we will hopefully see Him again when we open up”? Of course not, we knew as we locked the door for the last time that God would be with each and every one of our little flock. Yes, we have been through dark times, losing loved ones, experiencing loneliness, being admitted to hospital, and having to receive bad news. The news on Saturday was a blow to everyone, turning Christmas plans into chaos and many having to accept they won’t be with their family on Christmas Day.
But it has been humbling to speak to so many people who have been affected by this ruling, and who have just accepted it with humour and resilience. I could say they could see that little light shining in the darkness, but that sounds daft, and for many the light is dim. But (there we go again, I love this little word that turns a sentence upside down), in the souls of all of us, we know Christ is with us.
I leave you with one of my favourite poems. It is about about hope.
Hope is a thing with feathers that perches in the soul
and sings the tunes without words and never stops at all.
And sweetest - in the gale- is heard, and sore must be the storm
that could abash the little bird that kept so many warm.
I’ve heard it in the chillest land and on the strangest sea,
Yet never in extremity, it asked a crumb from me.
Emily Dickinson
Hope of the Spirit, perch in our souls, give light to the chaos we see around us, and give us courage to face whatever the year brings. We carry you in our hearts Father, knowing we will see this through with your help.
Wishing you all a happy and blessed Christmas.
Libby
WELCOME to our church, which serves the community of Coal Aston on the outskirts of Dronfield. Since 1866 this building has been a focus of Christian worship and gospel preaching in the area. Today, if you visit us, you will find lively, heartfelt and reverent worship, warm fellowship, and a wide range of weekday activities involving the church members, the Coal Aston community and people from wider afield. Do come along – we would love to meet you.