WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:20.000 Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King! Let every heart prepare Him! 00:00:20.000 --> 00:00:30.000 Hear heaven and nature sing! Hear heaven and nature sing! 00:00:34.000 --> 00:00:43.000 Joy to the earth, the Savior brings! Let men their songs implore! 00:00:43.000 --> 00:00:51.000 While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains, repeat the sounding joy! 00:00:51.000 --> 00:00:58.000 Repeat the sounding joy! Repeat, repeat the sounding joy! 00:00:58.000 --> 00:01:10.000 No more let sins and sorrows grow! Nor thorns infest the ground! 00:01:10.000 --> 00:01:20.000 He comes to make His blessings flow! Far as the curse is found! 00:01:20.000 --> 00:01:26.000 Far as the curse is found! Far as, far as the curse is found! 00:01:26.000 --> 00:01:40.000 He rules the world with truth and grace! And makes the nations prove! 00:01:40.000 --> 00:01:55.000 The glories of His righteousness! And wonders of His love! And wonders of His love! 00:01:55.000 --> 00:02:02.000 The glories of His love! 00:02:02.000 --> 00:02:04.000 The glories of His love! 00:02:04.000 --> 00:02:09.000 Welcome to a very different Carols by Candlelight here at Buclew. 00:02:09.000 --> 00:02:15.000 I'm James the Minister. It's a pleasure to welcome you as part of our Advent season. 00:02:15.000 --> 00:02:19.000 Advent, of course, is about waiting and about celebrating. 00:02:19.000 --> 00:02:27.000 For us today, we look back on the first coming of Jesus into our world. 00:02:27.000 --> 00:02:32.000 And we also look forward, anticipating His return. 00:02:32.000 --> 00:02:38.000 Our theme this evening is Jesus, Light of the World. 00:02:38.000 --> 00:02:44.000 Our hope is that after darkness, there would be light. 00:02:44.000 --> 00:02:49.000 Light. To use the words of Madeleine Longley, 00:02:49.000 --> 00:02:55.000 Maybe you have to know the darkness before you can appreciate the light. 00:02:55.000 --> 00:03:00.000 This year, it would be true that we have all known darkness. 00:03:00.000 --> 00:03:06.000 The darkness of pandemic. The darkness of fear and loneliness. 00:03:06.000 --> 00:03:08.000 Of uncertainty. 00:03:08.000 --> 00:03:13.000 There is a deep sense in all of us. A longing for hope. 00:03:13.000 --> 00:03:15.000 We are weary. 00:03:15.000 --> 00:03:19.000 And we want there to be light at the end of the tunnel. 00:03:19.000 --> 00:03:22.000 And that, in a sense, takes us to the heart of Advent. 00:03:22.000 --> 00:03:24.000 To the heart of Christmas. 00:03:24.000 --> 00:03:28.000 It's what the birth of Jesus represents. 00:03:28.000 --> 00:03:33.000 To borrow a lyric from one of our Advent hymns. 00:03:33.000 --> 00:03:35.000 O come, O come, Emmanuel. 00:03:35.000 --> 00:03:37.000 We have this. 00:03:37.000 --> 00:03:40.000 O come, bright morning star. 00:03:40.000 --> 00:03:42.000 And cheer our spirits. 00:03:42.000 --> 00:03:44.000 By your advent here. 00:03:44.000 --> 00:03:47.000 Dispel the long night's lingering gloom. 00:03:47.000 --> 00:03:51.000 And pierce the shadows of the tomb. 00:03:51.000 --> 00:03:53.000 So our hope, as we spend some time together, 00:03:53.000 --> 00:03:57.000 is that we'd be encouraged and we'd find joy. 00:03:57.000 --> 00:04:01.000 For a little while, we'd be able to push back the darkness. 00:04:01.000 --> 00:04:07.000 That we would see Jesus as that true light that God promised, 00:04:07.000 --> 00:04:10.000 who has come into the world to save us. 00:04:10.000 --> 00:04:14.000 So, wherever you are, grab yourself a hot drink. 00:04:14.000 --> 00:04:18.000 Sing out with your friends and your family, whoever you're with. 00:04:18.000 --> 00:04:22.000 And enjoy some time of worship together. 00:04:22.000 --> 00:04:29.000 Isaiah 9, verse 2 to 7 says, 00:04:29.000 --> 00:04:32.000 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light 00:04:32.000 --> 00:04:35.000 on those living in the land of the shadow of death. 00:04:35.000 --> 00:04:37.000 A light has dawned. 00:04:37.000 --> 00:04:41.000 You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy. 00:04:41.000 --> 00:04:45.000 They rejoice before you, as people rejoice at the harvest, 00:04:45.000 --> 00:04:48.000 as men rejoice when dividing the plunder. 00:04:48.000 --> 00:04:52.000 For as in the day of Midian's defeat, 00:04:52.000 --> 00:04:55.000 you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, 00:04:55.000 --> 00:04:59.000 the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. 00:04:59.000 --> 00:05:02.000 Every warrior's boot used in battle 00:05:02.000 --> 00:05:05.000 and every garment rolled in blood 00:05:05.000 --> 00:05:09.000 will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. 00:05:09.000 --> 00:05:13.000 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, 00:05:13.000 --> 00:05:16.000 and the government will be on his shoulders, 00:05:16.000 --> 00:05:24.000 and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 00:05:24.000 --> 00:05:29.000 Of the increase of his government and peace, there will be no end. 00:05:29.000 --> 00:05:33.000 He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, 00:05:33.000 --> 00:05:38.000 establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness, 00:05:38.000 --> 00:05:41.000 from that time on and forever. 00:05:41.000 --> 00:05:45.000 The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. 00:05:45.000 --> 00:06:06.000 O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel, 00:06:06.000 --> 00:06:12.000 who mourns in lonely exile here, 00:06:12.000 --> 00:06:18.000 until the Son of God draws near. 00:06:18.000 --> 00:06:27.000 Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel 00:06:27.000 --> 00:06:42.000 O come, O come, O come, great Lord of might, 00:06:42.000 --> 00:06:48.000 who long ago on Sinai's height, 00:06:48.000 --> 00:06:54.000 gave Israel's tribes the holy love, 00:06:54.000 --> 00:07:01.000 in cloud and majesty and all. 00:07:01.000 --> 00:07:06.000 Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel 00:07:06.000 --> 00:07:10.000 Emmanuel 00:07:10.000 --> 00:07:16.000 shall come to thee, O Israel 00:07:16.000 --> 00:07:24.000 O come, bright morning star and jeep, 00:07:24.000 --> 00:07:30.000 our spirits by your advent here, 00:07:30.000 --> 00:07:32.000 and hear, 00:07:32.000 --> 00:07:34.000 dispel the long night's lingering gloom, 00:07:34.000 --> 00:07:40.000 and pierce the shadows of the tomb. 00:07:40.000 --> 00:07:44.000 Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel 00:07:44.000 --> 00:07:52.000 Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel 00:07:52.000 --> 00:07:58.000 shall come to thee, O Israel 00:07:58.000 --> 00:08:04.000 O come, strong ye of David, come, 00:08:04.000 --> 00:08:14.000 and open wide our heavenly home, 00:08:14.000 --> 00:08:20.000 make strength the way that leads on high, 00:08:20.000 --> 00:08:26.000 and close the path to misery. 00:08:26.000 --> 00:08:36.000 Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel 00:08:36.000 --> 00:08:40.000 shall come to thee, O Israel 00:08:40.000 --> 00:08:46.000 Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel 00:08:46.000 --> 00:08:50.000 Emmanuel 00:08:50.000 --> 00:08:56.000 shall come to thee, O Israel 00:08:56.000 --> 00:09:02.000 O Israel 00:09:02.000 --> 00:09:06.000 O little town of Bethlehem 00:09:06.000 --> 00:09:10.000 O little town of Bethlehem 00:09:10.000 --> 00:09:14.000 O little town of Bethlehem 00:09:14.000 --> 00:09:20.000 O little town of Bethlehem 00:09:20.000 --> 00:09:26.000 How still we see you lie 00:09:26.000 --> 00:09:31.000 Above your deep and dreamless sleep 00:09:31.000 --> 00:09:36.000 The silent stars go by 00:09:36.000 --> 00:09:42.000 Yet in your streets is shining 00:09:42.000 --> 00:09:48.000 The everlasting light 00:09:48.000 --> 00:09:54.000 The hopes and fears of all the years 00:09:54.000 --> 00:10:00.000 Are met in you tonight 00:10:00.000 --> 00:10:06.000 How silently, how silently 00:10:06.000 --> 00:10:12.000 The wondrous gift is given 00:10:12.000 --> 00:10:18.000 So God imparts to human hearts 00:10:18.000 --> 00:10:22.000 The blessings of his heir 00:10:22.000 --> 00:10:28.000 No ear may hear his coming 00:10:28.000 --> 00:10:34.000 But in this world of sin 00:10:34.000 --> 00:10:39.000 Where meek souls will receive him 00:10:39.000 --> 00:10:48.000 Still the dear Christ enters in 00:10:48.000 --> 00:10:54.000 For Christ is born of Mary 00:10:54.000 --> 00:11:00.000 And gathered all above 00:11:00.000 --> 00:11:02.000 While mortals sleep 00:11:02.000 --> 00:11:04.000 The angels keep 00:11:04.000 --> 00:11:10.000 Their watch of wandering love 00:11:10.000 --> 00:11:16.000 O morning stars together 00:11:16.000 --> 00:11:21.000 Proclaim the holy birth 00:11:21.000 --> 00:11:24.000 And praises sing 00:11:24.000 --> 00:11:27.000 To God the King 00:11:27.000 --> 00:11:34.000 And peace to all the earth 00:11:34.000 --> 00:11:41.000 O holy child of Bethlehem 00:11:41.000 --> 00:11:46.000 Descend to us we pray 00:11:46.000 --> 00:11:49.000 Cast out our sin 00:11:49.000 --> 00:11:52.000 And enter in 00:11:52.000 --> 00:11:56.000 Be born in us today 00:11:56.000 --> 00:12:02.000 We hear the Christmas angels 00:12:02.000 --> 00:12:07.000 The great glad-tiding stare 00:12:07.000 --> 00:12:10.000 O come to us 00:12:10.000 --> 00:12:11.000 O come to us 00:12:11.000 --> 00:12:13.000 Abide with us 00:12:13.000 --> 00:12:17.000 Our Lord Emmanuel 00:12:17.000 --> 00:12:19.000 Our Lord Emmanuel 00:12:19.000 --> 00:12:29.000 Our next reading from Isaiah 49 00:12:29.000 --> 00:12:30.000 From Isaiah 49 00:12:30.000 --> 00:12:31.000 Verse 6 to 7 00:12:31.000 --> 00:12:33.000 Verse 6 00:12:33.000 --> 00:12:35.000 He says 00:12:35.000 --> 00:12:36.000 It is too small 00:12:36.000 --> 00:12:37.000 It is too small a thing for you 00:12:37.000 --> 00:12:38.000 To be my servant 00:12:38.000 --> 00:12:41.000 To restore the tribes of Jacob 00:12:41.000 --> 00:12:42.000 And bring back those of Israel 00:12:42.000 --> 00:12:44.000 I have kept 00:12:44.000 --> 00:12:46.000 I will also make you a light 00:12:46.000 --> 00:12:47.000 For the Gentiles 00:12:47.000 --> 00:12:49.000 That you may bring my salvation 00:12:49.000 --> 00:12:51.000 To the ends of the earth 00:12:51.000 --> 00:12:53.000 This is what the Lord says 00:12:53.000 --> 00:12:56.000 The Redeemer and Holy One of Israel 00:12:56.000 --> 00:13:00.000 To him who was despised and abhorred by the nation 00:13:00.000 --> 00:13:02.000 To the servant of rulers 00:13:02.000 --> 00:13:05.000 Kings will see you and rise up 00:13:05.000 --> 00:13:08.000 Princes will see and bow down 00:13:08.000 --> 00:13:10.000 Because of the Lord who is faithful 00:13:10.000 --> 00:13:12.000 The Holy One of Israel 00:13:12.000 --> 00:13:14.000 Who has chosen you 00:13:14.000 --> 00:13:20.000 Luke chapter 2 verses 28 to 32 00:13:20.000 --> 00:13:25.000 Simeon took him in his arms 00:13:25.000 --> 00:13:27.000 And praised God saying 00:13:27.000 --> 00:13:30.000 Sovereign Lord as you have promised 00:13:30.000 --> 00:13:33.000 You now dismiss your servant in peace 00:13:33.000 --> 00:13:36.000 For my eyes have seen your salvation 00:13:36.000 --> 00:13:39.000 Which you have prepared in the sight of all people 00:13:39.000 --> 00:13:42.000 A light for revelation to the Gentiles 00:13:42.000 --> 00:13:46.000 And for glory to your people Israel 00:13:46.000 --> 00:13:49.000 Thanks be to God for his word 00:13:50.000 --> 00:14:05.000 Silent night 00:14:05.000 --> 00:14:09.000 Holy night 00:14:09.000 --> 00:14:13.000 All is calm 00:14:13.000 --> 00:14:17.000 All is bright 00:14:17.000 --> 00:14:20.000 Round yon virgin 00:14:20.000 --> 00:14:24.000 Mother and child 00:14:24.000 --> 00:14:27.000 Holy infant 00:14:27.000 --> 00:14:32.000 So tender and mild 00:14:32.000 --> 00:14:39.000 Sleep in heavenly peace 00:14:39.000 --> 00:14:44.000 Sleep in heavenly peace 00:14:44.000 --> 00:14:49.000 Silent night 00:14:49.000 --> 00:14:54.000 Holy night 00:14:54.000 --> 00:14:55.000 Holy night 00:14:55.000 --> 00:15:01.000 Shepherds quake at the sight 00:15:01.000 --> 00:15:05.000 Glory streams from heaven afar 00:15:05.000 --> 00:15:15.000 Heavenly hosts sing 00:15:15.000 --> 00:15:16.000 Alleluia 00:15:16.000 --> 00:15:20.000 Christ the Savior is born 00:15:20.000 --> 00:15:22.000 Christ the Savior is born 00:15:22.000 --> 00:15:26.000 Christ the Savior is born 00:15:26.000 --> 00:15:36.000 Silent night 00:15:36.000 --> 00:15:37.000 Holy night 00:15:37.000 --> 00:15:39.000 Holy night 00:15:39.000 --> 00:15:41.000 Son of God 00:15:41.000 --> 00:15:43.000 Love's pure light 00:15:43.000 --> 00:15:45.000 God loves pure light 00:15:45.000 --> 00:15:54.000 Radiant beams from thy holy face 00:15:54.000 --> 00:15:58.000 With the dawn of redeeming grace 00:15:58.000 --> 00:16:01.000 Son of redeeming grace 00:16:01.000 --> 00:16:11.000 Jesus Lord at thy birth 00:16:11.000 --> 00:16:13.000 Jesus Lord at thy birth 00:16:13.000 --> 00:16:15.000 Jesus Lord at thy birth 00:16:15.000 --> 00:16:20.000 Son of God 00:16:20.000 --> 00:16:25.000 So have you ever had the sunny southern Christmas? 00:16:25.000 --> 00:16:28.000 It can be quite a slightly surreal experience 00:16:28.000 --> 00:16:30.000 So we had a couple years ago 00:16:30.000 --> 00:16:34.000 We were spending Christmas in the Philippines 00:16:34.000 --> 00:16:38.000 So it was one of those moments where it's your 30 degrees every day 00:16:38.000 --> 00:16:41.000 But there's inflatable snowmen everywhere 00:16:41.000 --> 00:16:46.000 Christmas was spent by the beach eating barbecue food 00:16:46.000 --> 00:16:49.000 One time we did do the traditional British Christmas dinner 00:16:49.000 --> 00:16:51.000 That was really bizarre 00:16:51.000 --> 00:16:55.000 But one of the great memories I have from those trips was 00:16:55.000 --> 00:17:04.000 Of being in a group being taught how to make the traditional Filipino parole 00:17:04.000 --> 00:17:05.000 And if you don't know what that is 00:17:05.000 --> 00:17:09.000 It's the traditional paper star lantern 00:17:09.000 --> 00:17:14.000 Actually a really nice family Christmas craft idea if you're so inclined 00:17:14.000 --> 00:17:22.000 But it's designed to help folks remember Jesus as the light of the world 00:17:22.000 --> 00:17:33.000 To remember from the Christmas story that star leading the wise men from the east towards God's newborn king 00:17:33.000 --> 00:17:35.000 But that's not for most of us anyway 00:17:35.000 --> 00:17:38.000 Our normal experience, our normal northern Christmas 00:17:38.000 --> 00:17:41.000 Is one that takes place in the darkness 00:17:41.000 --> 00:17:47.000 And every year about this time we begin to wage war against the darkness 00:17:47.000 --> 00:17:52.000 We set our houses and our trees aglow, don't we? 00:17:52.000 --> 00:17:54.000 With lights, with candles 00:17:54.000 --> 00:17:58.000 And we've really needed that this year 00:17:58.000 --> 00:18:00.000 To give us that sense of hope 00:18:00.000 --> 00:18:06.000 We want to see light shining in the darkness 00:18:06.000 --> 00:18:11.000 And our typical northern Christmas is actually really fitting 00:18:11.000 --> 00:18:17.000 Because when we read those key Bible texts about the coming of Jesus 00:18:17.000 --> 00:18:21.000 We find that Christmas comes in the darkness 00:18:21.000 --> 00:18:25.000 A darkness deeper than the weather 00:18:25.000 --> 00:18:30.000 A darkness that speaks to dark circumstances 00:18:30.000 --> 00:18:33.000 That speaks of despair 00:18:33.000 --> 00:18:39.000 That speaks of a people who are lost morally and spiritually 00:18:39.000 --> 00:18:41.000 And needing to find hope 00:18:41.000 --> 00:18:44.000 To find hope from God 00:18:44.000 --> 00:18:48.000 So let's review just for a few moments 00:18:48.000 --> 00:18:54.000 How often this theme of after darkness, light, features 00:18:54.000 --> 00:18:58.000 So as John introduces his gospel 00:18:58.000 --> 00:19:00.000 As he introduces us to Jesus 00:19:00.000 --> 00:19:02.000 We have these words in John 1 00:19:02.000 --> 00:19:05.000 In him was life 00:19:05.000 --> 00:19:09.000 And that life was the light of all mankind 00:19:09.000 --> 00:19:11.000 The light shines in the darkness 00:19:11.000 --> 00:19:15.000 And the darkness has not overcome it 00:19:15.000 --> 00:19:19.000 Jesus, the creator of all 00:19:19.000 --> 00:19:21.000 He enters into his creation 00:19:21.000 --> 00:19:25.000 As light in the darkness 00:19:25.000 --> 00:19:29.000 And then we have Zechariah 00:19:29.000 --> 00:19:33.000 Speaking about the birth of Jesus 00:19:33.000 --> 00:19:35.000 Words of prophecy 00:19:35.000 --> 00:19:38.000 Speaking of the tender mercy of our God 00:19:38.000 --> 00:19:41.000 By which the rising sun will come to us from heaven 00:19:41.000 --> 00:19:44.000 To shine on those living in darkness 00:19:44.000 --> 00:19:46.000 And in the shadow of death 00:19:46.000 --> 00:19:49.000 To guide our feet into the path of peace 00:19:49.000 --> 00:19:53.000 So there again is the picture of Jesus coming 00:19:53.000 --> 00:19:57.000 Like the sun bringing light and bringing peace 00:19:57.000 --> 00:19:59.000 Or Isaiah 00:19:59.000 --> 00:20:03.000 Speaking 700 years before the coming of Jesus 00:20:03.000 --> 00:20:05.000 Words that we have already heard 00:20:05.000 --> 00:20:07.000 The people walking in darkness 00:20:07.000 --> 00:20:10.000 Have seen a great light 00:20:10.000 --> 00:20:13.000 On those living in the land of deep darkness 00:20:13.000 --> 00:20:16.000 A light has dawned 00:20:16.000 --> 00:20:20.000 And this darkness for the people in Isaiah's day 00:20:20.000 --> 00:20:21.000 Was deep indeed 00:20:21.000 --> 00:20:23.000 They were facing exile 00:20:23.000 --> 00:20:25.000 From their own country 00:20:25.000 --> 00:20:28.000 They were facing the loss of home and place 00:20:28.000 --> 00:20:30.000 And most of all 00:20:30.000 --> 00:20:32.000 The loss of a living connection 00:20:32.000 --> 00:20:36.000 Of relationship with their God 00:20:36.000 --> 00:20:42.000 And into their social and moral and spiritual darkness 00:20:42.000 --> 00:20:44.000 There is a promise 00:20:44.000 --> 00:20:45.000 That a child would come 00:20:45.000 --> 00:20:49.000 A child who would come and pierce the darkness 00:20:49.000 --> 00:20:52.000 And what a child he would be 00:20:52.000 --> 00:20:56.000 As Isaiah goes on in those famous words 00:20:56.000 --> 00:20:58.000 For to us a child is born 00:20:58.000 --> 00:21:01.000 To us a son is given 00:21:01.000 --> 00:21:04.000 And the government will be on his shoulders 00:21:04.000 --> 00:21:06.000 And he will be called Wonderful Counselor 00:21:06.000 --> 00:21:08.000 Mighty God 00:21:08.000 --> 00:21:10.000 Everlasting Father 00:21:10.000 --> 00:21:12.000 Prince of Peace 00:21:12.000 --> 00:21:15.000 Of the greatness of his government and peace 00:21:15.000 --> 00:21:18.000 There will be no end 00:21:18.000 --> 00:21:22.000 This child of course is Jesus 00:21:22.000 --> 00:21:26.000 He will rule with the power and authority of God 00:21:26.000 --> 00:21:28.000 As God 00:21:28.000 --> 00:21:31.000 And his rule, his glory, his kingdom 00:21:31.000 --> 00:21:34.000 Will grow and keeps on growing 00:21:34.000 --> 00:21:38.000 In hearts and lives all around the world 00:21:38.000 --> 00:21:42.000 And then again to go to another passage we heard 00:21:42.000 --> 00:21:44.000 And we can think of the words of Simeon 00:21:44.000 --> 00:21:47.000 Who saw this promised child 00:21:47.000 --> 00:21:50.000 As an eight day old in the temple 00:21:50.000 --> 00:21:51.000 And Simeon said 00:21:51.000 --> 00:21:54.000 For my eyes have seen your salvation 00:21:54.000 --> 00:21:58.000 Which you have prepared in the sight of all nations 00:21:58.000 --> 00:22:01.000 A light for revelation to the Gentiles 00:22:01.000 --> 00:22:05.000 And the glory of your people Israel 00:22:05.000 --> 00:22:08.000 Let's think for a moment about the faith involved 00:22:08.000 --> 00:22:10.000 In Simeon's life here 00:22:10.000 --> 00:22:13.000 Looking at this tiny vulnerable child 00:22:13.000 --> 00:22:15.000 And seeing in the baby Jesus 00:22:15.000 --> 00:22:17.000 God's Saviour 00:22:17.000 --> 00:22:20.000 God's glory 00:22:20.000 --> 00:22:23.000 Jesus is the light 00:22:23.000 --> 00:22:24.000 As Simeon says 00:22:24.000 --> 00:22:28.000 He shines to reveal God's truth to us 00:22:28.000 --> 00:22:32.000 He shines to reveal God's glory to us 00:22:32.000 --> 00:22:35.000 So that we see the glory of God 00:22:35.000 --> 00:22:38.000 In the life of Jesus 00:22:38.000 --> 00:22:41.000 We see God's saving love 00:22:41.000 --> 00:22:44.000 That love not just for some 00:22:44.000 --> 00:22:48.000 But for all who will see and believe 00:22:48.000 --> 00:22:50.000 That Jesus is Son of God 00:22:50.000 --> 00:22:53.000 And Saviour of the world 00:22:53.000 --> 00:22:54.000 Here is Jesus 00:22:54.000 --> 00:22:57.000 God's light shining in the world 00:22:57.000 --> 00:23:01.000 He created as the eternal Son of God 00:23:01.000 --> 00:23:03.000 Who became one of us 00:23:03.000 --> 00:23:06.000 He isn't God at a distance 00:23:06.000 --> 00:23:09.000 But He's God with us in our tears 00:23:09.000 --> 00:23:11.000 In our darkness 00:23:11.000 --> 00:23:13.000 Bringing His hope 00:23:13.000 --> 00:23:15.000 And bringing His light 00:23:15.000 --> 00:23:17.000 But here's a question 00:23:17.000 --> 00:23:19.000 How does the light of Jesus 00:23:19.000 --> 00:23:22.000 Shine in the darkness? 00:23:22.000 --> 00:23:24.000 Well let me encourage you 00:23:24.000 --> 00:23:26.000 Perhaps over the holidays 00:23:26.000 --> 00:23:29.000 To read one of the Gospels 00:23:29.000 --> 00:23:32.000 Matthew, Mark or Luke or John 00:23:32.000 --> 00:23:33.000 And there you will discover 00:23:33.000 --> 00:23:37.000 The light of the beautiful life of Jesus 00:23:37.000 --> 00:23:40.000 You see it in His perfect love 00:23:40.000 --> 00:23:44.000 His incredible compassion and mercy 00:23:44.000 --> 00:23:47.000 To a whole variety of people that He met 00:23:47.000 --> 00:23:49.000 You will hear it in His wisdom 00:23:49.000 --> 00:23:51.000 In His truth 00:23:51.000 --> 00:23:54.000 You will see it in His servant leadership 00:23:54.000 --> 00:23:59.000 And in His self-giving sacrificial love 00:23:59.000 --> 00:24:03.000 But we also see the light of Jesus 00:24:03.000 --> 00:24:05.000 Shining at the cross 00:24:05.000 --> 00:24:07.000 And at the empty tomb 00:24:07.000 --> 00:24:10.000 As we come to the cross 00:24:10.000 --> 00:24:14.000 We discover that Jesus dies in the darkness 00:24:14.000 --> 00:24:18.000 Here is Jesus bearing sin 00:24:18.000 --> 00:24:20.000 And shame 00:24:20.000 --> 00:24:23.000 And experiencing the judgment of God 00:24:23.000 --> 00:24:26.000 For us 00:24:26.000 --> 00:24:27.000 For us 00:24:27.000 --> 00:24:29.000 Not for Himself 00:24:29.000 --> 00:24:32.000 And then we go to Easter Sunday 00:24:32.000 --> 00:24:35.000 And we discover Jesus rises in the light 00:24:35.000 --> 00:24:37.000 There is victory 00:24:37.000 --> 00:24:39.000 And there is new life 00:24:39.000 --> 00:24:41.000 On Easter Sunday 00:24:41.000 --> 00:24:43.000 To borrow from one of our carols 00:24:43.000 --> 00:24:46.000 Light and life to all He brings 00:24:46.000 --> 00:24:50.000 Risen with healing in His wings 00:24:50.000 --> 00:24:52.000 The great darkness 00:24:52.000 --> 00:24:54.000 Is the darkness of sin 00:24:54.000 --> 00:24:56.000 That leads to death 00:24:56.000 --> 00:24:59.000 And eternal separation from God 00:24:59.000 --> 00:25:02.000 And that darkness has been defeated 00:25:02.000 --> 00:25:03.000 By Jesus 00:25:03.000 --> 00:25:05.000 The light of the world 00:25:05.000 --> 00:25:07.000 So that by coming to Him in faith 00:25:07.000 --> 00:25:09.000 We can live in His life 00:25:09.000 --> 00:25:10.000 And His light 00:25:10.000 --> 00:25:11.000 And His love 00:25:11.000 --> 00:25:12.000 And His joy 00:25:13.000 --> 00:25:16.000 So why does all this still matter today? 00:25:16.000 --> 00:25:21.000 Well it matters because we know darkness 00:25:21.000 --> 00:25:25.000 We know the darkness of our circumstances 00:25:25.000 --> 00:25:28.000 And for some of you I'm quite sure 00:25:28.000 --> 00:25:30.000 There is that sense that the darkness 00:25:30.000 --> 00:25:32.000 Just will not lift 00:25:32.000 --> 00:25:34.000 And there's a sense of despair 00:25:35.000 --> 00:25:37.000 There's the deeper darkness 00:25:37.000 --> 00:25:39.000 Of living in God's world 00:25:39.000 --> 00:25:41.000 Without knowing God 00:25:41.000 --> 00:25:43.000 And the hope that He brings 00:25:43.000 --> 00:25:46.000 And in response to the darkness 00:25:46.000 --> 00:25:48.000 Of our sin and our circumstances 00:25:48.000 --> 00:25:50.000 Jesus said 00:25:50.000 --> 00:25:53.000 I am the light of the world 00:25:53.000 --> 00:25:55.000 Whoever follows me 00:25:55.000 --> 00:25:57.000 Will never walk in darkness 00:25:57.000 --> 00:26:00.000 But will have the light of life 00:26:00.000 --> 00:26:03.000 Maybe for some of us 00:26:03.000 --> 00:26:06.000 What Madeline Longley said is true 00:26:06.000 --> 00:26:09.000 Maybe we have to know the darkness 00:26:09.000 --> 00:26:12.000 Before we can appreciate the light 00:26:12.000 --> 00:26:15.000 The light who is Jesus Christ 00:26:15.000 --> 00:26:17.000 The Son of God 00:26:17.000 --> 00:26:20.000 And the Saviour of the world 00:26:21.000 --> 00:26:23.000 Okay, let's pray briefly 00:26:24.000 --> 00:26:25.000 Father God 00:26:26.000 --> 00:26:28.000 We recognise there is so much darkness 00:26:29.000 --> 00:26:30.000 In our world 00:26:30.000 --> 00:26:32.000 This has been a difficult year 00:26:33.000 --> 00:26:34.000 For so many 00:26:35.000 --> 00:26:39.000 We pray for those in our families 00:26:39.000 --> 00:26:41.000 Those in our workplaces 00:26:41.000 --> 00:26:42.000 And in our community 00:26:42.000 --> 00:26:48.000 Who have experienced suffering and loss 00:26:48.000 --> 00:26:52.000 Where that darkness will not lift 00:26:53.000 --> 00:26:56.000 Lord, we pray for the darkness of despair 00:26:56.000 --> 00:26:57.000 And loneliness and fear 00:26:57.000 --> 00:27:00.000 That we know in our own hearts 00:27:01.000 --> 00:27:03.000 We acknowledge that 00:27:03.000 --> 00:27:05.000 And at the same time 00:27:05.000 --> 00:27:06.000 We would look to you 00:27:06.000 --> 00:27:08.000 For hope and for healing 00:27:08.000 --> 00:27:09.000 And for light 00:27:09.000 --> 00:27:11.000 And we thank you for Jesus 00:27:12.000 --> 00:27:16.000 Your Son who entered into our darkness 00:27:17.000 --> 00:27:18.000 Who knew suffering 00:27:19.000 --> 00:27:22.000 Who knew what it was to weep and to mourn 00:27:22.000 --> 00:27:23.000 To mourn 00:27:23.000 --> 00:27:24.000 We thank you that he came 00:27:25.000 --> 00:27:26.000 To be our Saviour 00:27:27.000 --> 00:27:28.000 To bring light 00:27:29.000 --> 00:27:31.000 To bring the love of God 00:27:32.000 --> 00:27:33.000 To a hurting world 00:27:34.000 --> 00:27:36.000 And we pray that you would help us 00:27:37.000 --> 00:27:38.000 To look to him 00:27:39.000 --> 00:27:40.000 And to trust in him 00:27:41.000 --> 00:27:44.000 And to know life and hope from him 00:27:45.000 --> 00:27:47.000 And we pray this in Jesus' powerful name 00:27:48.000 --> 00:27:49.000 Amen 00:27:49.000 --> 00:27:52.000 So thank you everyone for tuning in 00:27:53.000 --> 00:27:55.000 Thanks to everyone who's made it possible 00:27:56.000 --> 00:27:58.000 Our musicians 00:27:59.000 --> 00:28:00.000 Our reader 00:28:00.000 --> 00:28:01.000 Our tech team 00:28:01.000 --> 00:28:02.000 And if you want to know more 00:28:03.000 --> 00:28:04.000 About Christianity 00:28:04.000 --> 00:28:05.000 If you want to know more about the light 00:28:06.000 --> 00:28:07.000 That Jesus offers 00:28:07.000 --> 00:28:08.000 Please be in touch with us 00:28:09.000 --> 00:28:10.000 Through Facebook 00:28:10.000 --> 00:28:11.000 Or on our website 00:28:12.000 --> 00:28:13.000 And now let's sing 00:28:14.000 --> 00:28:15.000 One more time 00:28:15.000 --> 00:28:16.000 And again, thanks for joining us 00:28:19.000 --> 00:28:24.000 God rest you, Mary, gentlemen 00:28:25.000 --> 00:28:28.000 God rest you, Mary, gentlemen 00:28:29.000 --> 00:28:31.000 Nothing you dismay 00:28:32.000 --> 00:28:34.000 For Jesus Christ our Saviour 00:28:35.000 --> 00:28:37.000 Was born on Christmas Day 00:28:38.000 --> 00:28:41.000 To save us all from Satan's power 00:28:42.000 --> 00:28:44.000 When we were gone astray 00:28:44.000 --> 00:28:48.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:28:49.000 --> 00:28:50.000 Comfort and joy 00:28:51.000 --> 00:28:55.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:28:56.000 --> 00:29:02.000 From God our Heavenly Father 00:29:03.000 --> 00:29:06.000 A holy angel came 00:29:06.000 --> 00:29:08.000 The shepherds saw the glory 00:29:08.000 --> 00:29:09.000 The shepherds saw the glory 00:29:10.000 --> 00:29:12.000 And heard the voice proclaim 00:29:13.000 --> 00:29:16.000 That Christ was born in Bethlehem 00:29:17.000 --> 00:29:19.000 And Jesus is his name 00:29:20.000 --> 00:29:24.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:29:25.000 --> 00:29:26.000 Comfort and joy 00:29:27.000 --> 00:29:30.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:29:30.000 --> 00:29:32.000 Fear not 00:29:33.000 --> 00:29:34.000 Fear not, then said the angel 00:29:34.000 --> 00:29:36.000 Let nothing cause you fright 00:29:36.000 --> 00:29:38.000 Fear not, then said the angel 00:29:39.000 --> 00:29:41.000 Let nothing cause you fright 00:29:42.000 --> 00:29:44.000 To you is born a Saviour 00:29:45.000 --> 00:29:46.000 In David's town tonight 00:29:47.000 --> 00:29:48.000 To free all those who trust in him 00:29:49.000 --> 00:29:51.000 From Satan's power and might 00:29:51.000 --> 00:29:53.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:29:53.000 --> 00:29:55.000 Comfort and joy 00:29:56.000 --> 00:29:57.000 Comfort and joy 00:29:58.000 --> 00:29:59.000 Comfort and joy 00:30:00.000 --> 00:30:01.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:30:02.000 --> 00:30:05.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:30:06.000 --> 00:30:10.000 The shepherds at these tidings 00:30:10.000 --> 00:30:11.000 Rejoiced in heart and mind 00:30:11.000 --> 00:30:14.000 The shepherds at these tidings 00:30:15.000 --> 00:30:16.000 Rejoiced in heart and mind 00:30:17.000 --> 00:30:20.000 And on the darkened hillside 00:30:21.000 --> 00:30:23.000 They left their flocks behind 00:30:24.000 --> 00:30:27.000 And went to Bethlehem straightway 00:30:28.000 --> 00:30:30.000 This precious babe to find 00:30:31.000 --> 00:30:34.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:30:35.000 --> 00:30:36.000 Comfort and joy 00:30:36.000 --> 00:30:38.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:30:39.000 --> 00:30:40.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:30:40.000 --> 00:30:43.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:30:47.000 --> 00:30:50.000 And when to Bethlehem they came 00:30:51.000 --> 00:30:52.000 Where Christ the infant lay 00:30:53.000 --> 00:30:56.000 They found him in a manger 00:30:57.000 --> 00:30:58.000 Where oxen feed on hay 00:30:59.000 --> 00:31:02.000 And there beside her newborn child 00:31:03.000 --> 00:31:05.000 His mother knelt to pray 00:31:05.000 --> 00:31:08.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:31:09.000 --> 00:31:10.000 Comfort and joy 00:31:11.000 --> 00:31:12.000 Comfort and joy 00:31:13.000 --> 00:31:16.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:31:17.000 --> 00:31:18.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:31:23.000 --> 00:31:25.000 Now to the Lord sing praises 00:31:26.000 --> 00:31:27.000 All people in this place 00:31:28.000 --> 00:31:31.000 With Christian love and fellowship 00:31:31.000 --> 00:31:33.000 And fellowship each other 00:31:33.000 --> 00:31:34.000 Now to the Lord sing for the Lord 00:31:34.000 --> 00:31:35.000 And let the Christmas festival 00:31:35.000 --> 00:31:37.000 And let the Christmas festival 00:31:38.000 --> 00:31:40.000 All bitterness displace 00:31:41.000 --> 00:31:45.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:31:46.000 --> 00:31:47.000 Comfort and joy 00:31:48.000 --> 00:31:49.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:31:49.000 --> 00:31:59.000 With joy and joy 00:31:59.000 --> 00:32:01.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:32:01.000 --> 00:32:02.000 O tidings of comfort and joy 00:32:02.000 --> 00:32:22.079 O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, 00:32:22.079 --> 00:32:32.079 O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem. 00:32:32.079 --> 00:32:42.079 Come and behold him, born the King of angels. 00:32:42.079 --> 00:33:02.079 O come, let us adore him, O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord. 00:33:02.079 --> 00:33:12.079 Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation, 00:33:12.079 --> 00:33:21.079 Sing, all ye citizens of Heber. 00:33:21.079 --> 00:33:41.079 Glory to God, all glory in the highest, O come, let us adore him, O come, let us adore him, 00:33:41.079 --> 00:33:52.079 O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord. 00:33:52.079 --> 00:34:02.079 Child, for us sinners, poor and in the manger, 00:34:02.079 --> 00:34:11.079 We would embrace thee with love and awe. 00:34:11.079 --> 00:34:32.079 Who would not love thee, loving us so dearly, O come, let us adore him, O come, let us adore him, 00:34:32.079 --> 00:34:42.079 O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord. 00:34:42.079 --> 00:35:01.079 Yea, Lord, we greet thee, born that happy morning, Jesus, to thee be all glory given. 00:35:01.079 --> 00:35:04.079 The Lord. 00:35:04.079 --> 00:35:08.079 For us sinners, O come, let us smash, O come, let us adore him, O come, let us bless him, Christ the Lord. 00:35:08.079 --> 00:35:31.059 Come with us, O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord. 00:35:31.059 --> 00:35:34.059 the Lord.