Merry Christmas!

Posted on Dec 24, 2015 in pastors pen |

Christmas2015

Celebrating Christmas in South Africa, where I grew up, is much different. Because South Africa is located in the southern hemisphere, the Christmas holiday falls right in the middle of the summer break. Needless to say that Santa wears shorts in that part of the world. I remember us being at the coast, or gathered around the swimming pool during the festive season. On Christmas Eve we used to have a big barbecue outside and then open the presents around the Christmas tree. On Christmas Day we would first go to church, and then sit down for a big meal with the family. The meal usually consisted of a roasted leg of lamb with mint jelly, cow tongue with mustard, chicken pie and deep fried potatoes. It was a feast of biblical proportions.

After about 20 years in the USA, we have become accustomed to and rather like a cold and snowy Christmas Season. As a matter of fact the last time we were in South Africa for Christmas, it felt kind of weird and not like the season at all. This year it is anything but cold of course and it just doesn’t feel the same, does it? We have kept some of our traditions from back home. After the Christmas Eve worship service we will gather around the tree, say a prayer, and then open up the presents. On Christmas Day we would get up lazily, call our family in South Africa and wish them a Merry Christmas, and then have a traditional meal. The meal normally consists of a roasted leg of lamb, deep fried potatoes, chicken pie, venison pie and then a baked pudding with vanilla ice cream for dessert.

What I probably miss most about Christmas in South Africa, is my family. This is the time of year when families everywhere gather together, except for us, the family is over there in Africa. Even though we have become used to it, Christmas does intensify the longing to be with your own people. So for those of you who are gathering with your loved ones during this time of year, don’t forget that it is a privilege and something to treasure.

My prayer for you this Christmas, is that the lights of Christmas you see everywhere will remind you of Jesus who came to be the light of the world. He said,

“I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” 

John 8:12 (NLT)

May the Christmas tree in your home remind you of another tree to which our Savior was nailed so that you can have the forgiveness of sins. 

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” 

John 3:16 (NLT)

And may the presents you open remind you of God’s greatest gift to you – his only Son who is your Redeemer.

“Thanks be to God for his gift that is too wonderful for words.” 

2 Corinthians 9:15 (NCV)

 May you indeed have a blessed Christmas and may you truly experience the joy, peace, hope and love of our Savior Jesus!

Pastor Albert