Dear Friends

Another year has come and almost gone and, by the grace of God, we are here to celebrate it. We think of those who have gone home to be with the Lord in this past year.  It is always a season of mixed feelings, lots of joy and peace when we think of what Jesus Christ did for us, Immanuel God with us, Matt.1:23.  I encourage you to be extremely sensitive this Christmas to those who are alone and have no loved ones and also to rejoice that, like Paul, we can say that for us to live is Christ and to die is but gain, Phil.1:21.

In fact as I write this letter I am still realising the brevity of life.  I was sitting at the Mall waiting for Jill who was doing some shopping when a 30 ton rig, obviously out of control, ramped over the circle and came straight at me.  The only thing separating us was a picket fence.  Fortunately the driver managed to straighten the truck at the last minute.  I realised that it is only by the grace of God that we can have this Christmas with our loved ones.  What I believe God is saying is to never take anything for granted, redeem the time and look forward with great anticipation to what next year has in store for us.

I leave you with that beautiful scripture 1 Cor.2:9, 'Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has entered into the heart of a man, the things which God has prepared for those who love Him'.

I know that God loves you very much and so I would encourage you to continue to walk by faith and not by sight, 2 Cor.5:7.  Believe God for the best, but at all times be prepared to go home when he calls you.

I really look forward to being with you in this coming year, 2012.  From all the team here at Shalom we wish you God's richest blessings and a peaceful Christmas.  The only true peace that we have in this world is when we put our trust in the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ.

Have a very exciting, faith-filled 2012!

God bless,
Angus & Jill and the Shalom team

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