Laughter, excitement, conversation, a jumping castle, donkey rides, BBQ lunch, Christmas pudding, gifts – all saying “Thank you”! Truly, a fun filled ‘Bishop’s Christmas Party’.

This annual event, initiated by my wife, is an occasion to thank and honour the Tasmanian Anglican Ministers.

In providing a Christmas celebration for the whole family, and especially the children, we seek to recognise the dedication and sacrifice of the families throughout the year. This honours the adults in front of their children and gives opportunity amidst the excitement to publicly say, “Thank you.”

Saying, “Thank you” builds one another into the individuals and community that God desires.

The Christmas season is a ‘Thank you Season’. We thank God for coming to live among us.

The enormity of God’s love is overwhelming. I cannot begin to imagine such love: love so amazing, so divine, unmerited favour, amazing grace. How privileged to be so honoured by the Divine Lover, God Himself!

I do not know if God’s decision to come to earth as a baby was an easy or a difficult decision. What I do know, however, is that it was a very costly decision for God. Moreover, I know that I am grateful beyond words to God for this act of love.

It takes time and planning to say “Thank you” (just ask my Bride about the Christmas Party!) and so we, too, must plan and take time to thank God.

In my Christmas schedule, I have set aside time to thank God for coming into this messy world. I place “Thank you, God” time in my schedule.

Please join me in setting aside time this Christmas to thank God for the miracle of Divine Love in the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem.

Shalom,

Bishop John 🙂

PS Also take time to say “Thank you” to one another. 🙂