Christmas Acrostic

  

This is just a simple acrostic of the word 'Christmas'.

C is for Christ

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2v11
The birth of Christ the Lord was announced to the shepherds . Read about it in Luke 2v1-20.

Christ means 'Anointed One.' Kings were anointed in the Old Testament to become the rulers of their nation. God anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and power (Acts 10v38).

Christ is the Greek word for Messiah (John 1v41). The Jews did not recognise Christ as their Messiah and they crucified Him.

H is for High Priest

"Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession."
Hebrews 4v14

"Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus."
Hebrews 3v1

"For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself."
Hebrews 7v26+27

A high priest in the Old Testament had 2 important roles:
1. To offer sacrifices for the people
2. To intercede to God for the people

Christ offered Himself as a sacrifice for our sins. He only had to do this once. He has taken all the punishment for our sins and there never needs to be another sacrifice for sins (Hebrews 9v28; 10v12+13).
He is heaven now presenting His blood to God for us (Hebrews 9v12+24).
Christ ever lives to make intercession for us (Romans 8v34; Hebrews 7v25).

R is for Redeemer

"For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth."
Job 19v25

The word 'redeem' has the idea of 'buying back' or 'paying the price.' Slaves were bought for a price and they could then be given freedom from captivity. Christ has redeemed us by His precious blood. He has paid the full price to deliver us from the slavery of sin.
"In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace."
Ephesians 1v7
Christ gives us eternal redemption (Hebrews 9v12).

I is for Immanuel

"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."
Isaiah 7v14

Immanuel means 'God with us.' Jesus was born of the virgin Mary. He is God's Son. He is truly God and truly Perfect Man. God the Son came to earth to save us from sin. Hence, He is God with us.

S is for Saviour

"The Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world."
1 John 4v14

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2v11

"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners."
1 Timothy 1v15

Jesus means Saviour
“And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.”

T is for True Vine

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."
John 15v1+5

In the midst of all your feasting this Christmas, perhaps you would stop and think about The True Vine. Read John 15v1-16.
We must abide in Him (Jesus) if we are to produce spiritual fruit for His glory. We can do absolutely nothing without the Lord.

M is for Mediator

"For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus."
1 Timothy 2v5

As we consider Mary and Baby Jesus this Christmas, remember that Mary is NOT a mediator between us and God. Christ is the ONLY Mediator between God and men. Our access to God is through Jesus Christ alone on the grounds of His shed blood.

A is for Alpha and Omega

"I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty."
Revelation 1v8

Alpha is the first letter in the Greek alphabet. Omega is the last letter in the Greek alphabet. Read the context of this verse and you will see that it is Christ who is speaking. Christ is the beginning and the end; the first and the last.

He is, He was, He is to come. This shows He is eternally the Almighty. He has Sovereign control over everything - past, present and future.

S is for Shepherd

"I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep."

John 10v11

The shepherds came to visit Jesus when he was born in Bethlehem (Luke 2v8-20). They were actually visiting the Good Shepherd, the Lamb of God. No wonder they rejoiced and went telling it all around.

Jesus is also called the Great Shepherd (Hebrews 13v20) and the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5v4).

There are many other Names and Titles for the Lord Jesus Christ. You can search them out for yourself. I have just given these as a simple acrostic of the word 'Christmas'. However, I would love you to think this Christmas:

Is Christ your Messiah? Is He the Anointed One in your life? Is He your Great High Priest? Have you ever accepted His forgiveness as a result of His atoning death? Is He interceding for you in heaven? Is He your Redeemer? Are you redeemed by the precious blood of the Lamb? Have you accepted Immanuel as your Saviour? Are you abiding in the True Vine, bearing much spiritual fruit for His glory? Are you trusting Christ as the Only Mediator between you and God? Is He your Alpha and Omega? Do you follow the leading of the Good Shepherd?

May you have a lovely Christmas.

My 2022 Memories

As we enter this new year 2023, I look back over the past year and think to myself: What have I really done in 2022? What have I accomplished? What have I learnt? Am I any wiser? In this little blog I want to review my 2022. It may not be particularly exciting but I do like to trace God's hand in my life and thank Him for all His blessings to me.

I have put together a collage of a few random photos from events in 2022 and they are in no particular order. Believe it or not, some of the first photos I took in 2022 were of our dogs. 

It is not hard to conclude that they play a big part in our lives with their antics that range from Bridie fascinated by the fire and yet terrified of fireworks. Izzy howling because she didn't get for a walk with Bridie, begging human food and scared of tin foil shaking. Both of them jumping and barking at animals on the TV. But the biggest laugh we got this year was Bridie burrowing up through the hedge and breaking out. It did not matter how we fenced it, she always found a way out. So, in the end we just had to leave her in to proudly sit on her perch on the back of Adrian's chair to look out the window.

We had 2 weddings in 2022: Adrian's niece Debi's marriage to Tim; and my nephew James' marriage to Hannah. Both couples had put much preparation into planning their 'Big Days'. Marriage of one man to one woman was ordained by God. It was a joy to see these young couples make their vows to each other. We rejoice with them and wish both couples every blessing for their future together. 

Also, two nights in Kilkenny were a treat for us. 

In July we were so glad to get away and have a little break in the North of England. Carlisle holds special memories particularly for Adrian and it was there that we spent our honeymoon in 1986. Views from Cat Bells over Lake Derwent are stunning. However, this time Adrian chose to descend the steep path down to the waters edge. A new adventure for him to discover more beautiful scenery. Of course, the laugh of the week was me missing my step and falling into a furze bush!! I couldn't get out by myself but Adrian had to capture the moment on camera before pulling me out. 

Then, in August we had the big 3 0 for Isaac. We celebrated with some crazy golf and then a meal at Stormont Hotel... a family fun time. It's over 30 years since Isaac entered our lives and it has been a privilege to have him as our son. He has brought us much joy and fulfilment. As a baby, one of Isaac's favourite places was resting his head on my shoulder. And right through life to this very day he still loves to give his mummy a big hug. This loving, kind, handsome young man has been such a blessing to us. I know God has much more planned for him in the days that lie ahead. 

In April 2022 Adrian sliced his fingers with a strap at work. Ouch. One finger in particular was slow to heal, even with care and hospital visits.

New Year's Eve night we spent at hospital with Isaac after a broken jaw resulting from a football accident. Injury causes us to place our trust in Christ the Healer for healing. 

Then, there was a first for Adrian... Climbing up Slieve Doan with Jemima and Josh, with Bridie and Nancy tagging along. I knew not to attempt it, so just enjoyed afternoon chatting with Carol in Newcastle. But they forwarded some lovely photos of the stunning view up there. 

Thoughts for 2023

As I enter 2023, I take these two Bible verses with me:

"Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever."

Hebrews 13v8 KJV

"For I am the LORD, I change not."

Malachi 3v6 KJV

• Remember, 2022 is over. It has passed into eternity. We cannot bring it back. However, I have the calm assurance that the God who does not change brought me through it and He will carry me through whatever life throws at me in 2023.
• Christ is the Bridegroom who does not change. His love for me never changes. What a privilege it is to experience His unchangeable love for me every day!
• When the Lord Jesus was on earth He healed many people He met (but not everyone). He has not changed. He is still the Almighty Healer who is able to heal all our diseases. 
• The God who is unchangeable is also All-Knowing, All-Powerful and present everywhere. It does not matter where I am or what situation I am in, I can trust the God who never changes to help me.
• The God who never changes is Holy and will only lead me in the paths of righteousness. I can trust Him to lead and guide me every step of the way in 2023 and HIS way is always the right way.
• I do not always understand the way He leads me or the reasons things happen but I will know one day. It's like Jesus said, "What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter."

I look forward to walking through 2023 with the LORD who never changes. What about you?

Who is the Christ of Christmas?

It's Christmas time! The time we think Christmas decorations, trees and sparkling lights, Santa and presents, turkey and food, dinners and parties, seasonal jumpers and clothes, carols and Christmas songs, and so much more. We dash about seeking to make Christmas so magical for children and enjoyable for all the family. Perhaps we love the carol services and Bible readings about the Baby Jesus at this special time of year. But do we really take time to consider the Christ of Christmas?

Who is the Christ of Christmas? Well, in order to help us understand, let us consider the words of angels and of people who bore witness to the incarnation.

1. Angel Gabriel to Mary

Please read Luke 1v26-38 and consider what was so important that God sent an archangel to announce the birth of Jesus to Mary. In this passage we hear Gabriel announce the Virgin Birth of Jesus and speak of His Kingship. He calls Him Jesus, Son of the Highest, Holy and the Son of God.

Gabriel greeted Mary saying that she was blessed among (not above) women. She was probably in her late teens but she was highly favoured by God to be the mother of Jesus. Jesus means Saviour. He is the Only Saviour from sin. The Saviour of the world is the Son of the Highest (v31+32). There is no higher authority than the Almighty Sovereign God. 

Jesus will reign as King, being a direct descendant of David (v32). We know that one day Jesus will reign over all the earth as King of kings. But His first coming was for Him to die to be the Saviour of the world.

Mary wanted to know how this would come about as she was a virgin. Gabriel explained the miraculous Virgin birth to her. Jesus is the Holy Son of God (v35). He is absolutely Sinless. He cannot sin. Only a Sinless Saviour could die for our sins. 

Virgin Birth, King, Jesus, Son of the Highest, Holy Son of God

Mary was submissive to God's will and plan (v38).... even though there would be many difficult times ahead for her. The Saviour, the Sinless Son of God wishes to reign supreme in our lives. 

2. Elizabeth

Read about Mary visiting Elizabeth in Luke 1v39-56. Elizabeth was 6 months pregnant with John the Baptist. He leaped in her womb with joy when Mary arrived and greeted Elizabeth. This tiny little one in her womb could express joy at what was happening around him. He was not just a fetus with no intellect, feeling, emotions or rights. What an amazing introduction! After all, John the Baptist was going to prepare the way for Christ. Then, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke out, saying that Jesus was her Lord (v43).

My Lord

What a wonderful acknowledgment. Christ was not just the Lord but He was her Lord. It was personal.

3. Angel to Joseph

Read about the angel reassuring Joseph to marry Mary (Matthew 1v18-25). Stop and try to imagine how Joseph must have felt... confusion, disappointment, hurt.... He knew he wasn't the father. Perhaps he thought, 'How could Mary do this to me? Does she not truly love me? I did not think Mary was the sort of girl who would be unfaithful to me.' Betrothal to be married in Joseph's day was so much more binding than engagement, as we know it, today. It was as binding as the marriage vows and so for Mary to have been with another man would have been considered adultery. And yet Joseph loved Mary. He did not wish to publicly shame or disgrace her. So, he was going to divorce Mary privately. But how exactly would he go about this?

Then, in the midst of all this turmoil of mind, an angel appeared to him in a dream. What that angel told him was of utmost importance. Joseph needed to hear of the Virgin Birth. Then, he understood that Mary had not been unfaithful to him. She was a pure virgin chosen by God to bring the Messiah into the world. The angel reminded him of God's prophecy in the Old Testament concerning the virgin birth of Christ. He was to be called Jesus which means Saviour for He would save His people from their sins. Jesus is Emmanuel... God and Man... God with us.

Jesus, Son, Virgin Birth, Saviour, Emmanuel, God with us

The Word from God brought calm to Joseph in the midst of all the turmoil of his mind. Now he understood God's purpose in this all. So, with calm assurance he determined to obey the Lord. Yes, he was going to be misunderstood but he was going to provide for and protect Mary and Jesus.

Calm assurance from God's Word can bring peace to your troubled mind in the midst of all the turmoil in your life.

4. Angel of the Lord to the shepherds

Read about the Angel of the Lord announcing Christ's birth to the shepherds (Luke 2v8-14). The Angel called Him Saviour, Christ the Lord. There is an emphasis on the Saviour. Angels informed Mary, Joseph and the shepherds about Jesus the Saviour.

Christ means Messiah, the Promised One. Ever since the Garden of Eden the Messiah had been promised throughout the Old Testament. The Jews believed the Messiah was from the line of king David and He would deliver Israel. However, we know from the New Testament that Jesus came the first time to die to save us from our sins. Next time, He is coming to set up His earthly kingdom. He is Lord and He should be exalted and worshipped as Lord over all.

Saviour, Christ the Lord

The shepherds hurried to Bethlehem and found Jesus, Mary and Joseph. They met the Good Shepherd and beheld the Lamb of God and they went away glorifying and praising God. They went and told it all around to other people. They just could not keep this wonderful news to themselves! When the Saviour Christ the Lord fills our lives we just have to praise God and tell others about Him.

 

5. Simeon

Read about Simeon meeting baby Jesus (Luke 2v21-35). Jesus was taken to be circumcised 8 days after His birth. It was then that He met an old man called Simeon in the temple. Simeon recognised who Jesus is and he took Him up in his arms and blessed God. 

Note Simeon said He is the LORD's Christ... not just a promised one but He is the One that the LORD promised to send. Simeon knew that he was holding the Saviour of the world. Christ is the Light of the world and truly He would be that Light that would lighten the Gentiles. All over the world today Gentiles have trusted Christ as their personal Saviour. 

Lord's Christ, Salvation, Light to lighten the Gentiles, Glory of Israel

Simeon had waited patiently to see Christ. He could understand the difference that Christ would make to this sinful world. He even told Mary that a sword would pierce through her own soul (v35). This was fulfilled at Calvary when she was totally heartbroken to see her Sinless Son crucified.

6. Wise Men

Read about the wise men coming to worship Jesus in Matthew 2v1-12. The wise men came looking for the King of the Jews. They travelled hundreds of miles to meet Jesus. I think the wise men understood more than that He is King. When they found Him they worshipped Him. They did not worship Mary or Joseph. They worshipped Christ. Only God is to be worshipped.

King of the Jews

The wise men gave expensive gifts to Jesus of gold, frankincense and myrrh. (Remember that just because there are 3 types of gifts mentioned, it does not mean that there were only 3 wise men). Also, I wonder if, perhaps, these gifts were sold to provide for the family while they were in Egypt?? 

Conclusion

There are so many more testimonies as to who Jesus is. The disciples and others saw and heard Him while He was on earth. But I only took testimonies from around the nativity scenes and they are certainly worth thinking about.

What does Christmas mean to you? Is it just another holiday, albeit a busy chaotic one, especially for you as a mum? Is it a lonely time? Is it a financially difficult time, trying to provide your kids with things like 'Santa' brings to their friends? Is it just one big end of year party? Does Christ have any part in your Christmas?

Whatever your view of Christmas is, I challenge you to stop and think about who the Christ of Christmas is. I have given you a few names and titles of Christ above for you to think about. He is not just the Baby in the manger. Ask yourself what He really means for you in your own life. 

This year Christmas Day is on a Sunday. The early Christians called the first day of the week the Lord's day as Jesus rose from the dead on the first day of the week. It was a day when they met together to specially remember Him. So, perhaps this Sunday, Christmas Day, you would stop and remember, not just the nativity stories, but think about who the true Christ of Christmas really is. 

May Christ the Saviour be special to you this Christmas.

High and Low 2021

There are 2 main events which dominate my memories of 2021, namely a wedding and a funeral. Jemima and Josh were married on 25th May. My mother died on 6th December. The photo below helps combine these 2 events in my mind. How precious to have a photo of mum with Jemima and Josh on their wedding day! 

I never realized that there is as much planning goes into a modern wedding! It's not just getting a venue, dresses, photographer, flowers, cake, sending out some invitations and just showing up to say your vows. It is so much more. There's all the little details like the font and design of the invitations and signage, preparing the sweetie cart, collating photos into a video, the shape and scent of the candles, the meticulous preparations for hair styles and make-up with photographer and videographer in the house recording it all, the arch for flowers and the seating plans, as well as the days spent making the Barn (youth hall) into a clean, suitable venue for the ceremony, both inside and outside. 

Then, add to all this the uncertainty that covid restrictions and lockdown brought. Online shopping challenges included returning unsuitable or damaged goods. Knowing what numbers and specifics we could plan for was always to the fore. What was plan B if we were not allowed to have a wedding reception? However, the one thing that kept us focused was that Jemima and Josh rightly decided not to postpone their date but to go ahead and get married on 25th May. 

Then, the big day arrived and we enjoyed every minute of it. Hospitality had just opened up the day before allowing Jemima and Josh to have the wedding reception they had planned for, albeit with some restrictions still to be adhered to. Below are a few photos of Jemima and Josh's special day. Edenmore country golf club was an absolutely beautiful setting for the reception, and the meal was delicious, too. 

Then, by the end of the year the scene had changed to sadness for me. My mum went into hospital in late November and then passed away on Monday 6th December. Yes, she had fallen in July 2019 and never been home after that but for almost 2 and half years we visited her in hospital or nursing home, when permitted to do so. I know she is absent from the body and present with the Lord. Her suffering is over and she is with Christ which is far better but I am still numb. Grief can be hard to bear sometimes, so my heart goes out to everyone who has lost loved ones, especially coming up to Christmas. May there be brighter days in 2022.

Conclusion

In conclusion, some simple facts come to mind:

1. Marriage was ordained by God and it is the union of one man and one woman. 

Genesis 2v18-24. Jesus reaffirmed this in Matthew 19v1-6.

2. Death is certain and we all need to prepare for it.  

"It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment." 

Hebrews 9:27 KJV

3. Whatever joy or pain we have been through in 2021, we need to look to the Lord to help us in 2022 to face whatever situations we will find ourselves in. 

"Let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith." 

Hebrews 12v1+2 KJV 

Wishing you every blessing throughout 2022 and thank you for all your prayers, 

Rhonda

Christmas Sadness

This year I have been prompted to think about some difficult and sad situations people can find themselves in over the Christmas season. The death of my mother on the 6th December has had this impact on me. There is just no way that I could write about every difficult situation at Christmas, so I am just going to take a few examples from the Bible stories about Christ's birth and early years. Please note that they will not be in order but I trust they will be an encouragement to you. 

1. Distance from family at Christmas

Jesus, Mary and Joseph fled to Egypt from Herod (see Matthew 2v13-15, 19-23). This was for the protection of the Infant Jesus (who was probably about 2 years old at this stage). Remember Jesus had not come to be killed as a child. Joseph was obedient to God, knowing that He is in control. I wonder do you, parent, obey the Sovereign God for the protection of your children?

God provided for them in Egypt and kept them safe. Perhaps they used the gold, frankincense and myrrh during this time. No doubt they had many lonely times, missing their families but God kept them safe. You know the wonderful thing....they were with Christ every day in Egypt, spending time with Him, getting to know Him better. 

Perhaps you are a great distance from your family or loved ones this Christmas, maybe even because of Covid travel restrictions. Trust the Lord to keep you all safe. Find your hiding place in Christ. Spend time each day with Christ, listening to Him and getting to know Him more.

2. Death at Christmas

Herod ordered all boys 2 years old and under to be killed. Their mothers were inconsolable (Matthew 2v16-18). Satan wants to kill and destroy children. 

Perhaps you have suffered bereavement this Christmas time, maybe even the death of a child. Your heart is breaking, grief is weighing you down and you cannot find comfort from anyone or anything on earth. 

May you find peace, strength and comfort in Christ the Lord this Christmas. He is the Prince of Peace and the God of all comfort.

3. Disappointment, Hurt and Confusion at Christmas

Joseph struggled to accept the miraculous conception of Jesus and considered not marrying Mary. He loved Mary but was no doubt disappointed, hurt and confused that Mary would be unfaithful to him. Perhaps he even thought, 'Why is this happening to me?'

Then, God spoke to him and calmed his every fear.... and Joseph obeyed the Lord and willingly married Mary. He and Mary raised Jesus on earth.. What a wonderful plan Joseph saw unfolding!

God can calm your every fear. Bring your disappointments, hurt and confusion to Him this Christmas. Be willing to obey the Lord, even when your cannot understand why things are happening to you. Then, you will see God working out His plan through you.

4. Difficult Delivery at Christmas

Just think about the difficult circumstances Mary endured as she gave birth to Jesus.

There was the long journey to Bethlehem when heavily pregnant, possibly riding on a donkey. This would have taken several days.

There was no room in any inn, so no comfortable bed for her.

She gave birth to Christ in a dirty stinking stable with just the manger for a cot.

Some of you young ladies may be due to give birth around Christmas time, maybe even your first child. I trust your circumstances will not be as difficult as Mary's; and I wish you joy and blessing with your new baby that God has given you.

Conclusion 

There are many other difficult situations that people can find themselves in at Christmas: sickness, loneliness, financial problems, homelessness, abuse, conflict. I cannot even begin to imagine or understand the depths of difficult circumstances that some people are going through. Let us never forget others less fortunate than ourselves this Christmas. 

Whatever your difficult situation, I exhort you to remember Christ's first coming and to look forward to Christ's second coming. You can read about Christ's first coming in Matthew 1+2; Luke 1+2. Then read 1 Thessalonians 4v13-18 which speaks about His second coming and tells us to comfort one another with these words. 

All Creation Groans

I have listened to lots of talk about climate change recently and COP 26 in Glasgow. The poor old cows are getting a hard time... producing too much gas, maybe even needing to wear masks! 🐄😷😂 

When I hear about climate change and what we must do to save the planet, I cannot help but think... what carbon footprint are all these politicians and world leaders causing by jetting into Glasgow? Then, my mind is drawn to what the Bible teaches. These words come to mind:

"For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now." (Romans 8:22 KJV) 

Here are a few things that the Bible teaches about planet earth and we would do well to consider them:

1. God created all things perfect. Read Genesis chapters 1+2. The earth is the Lord's (Psalm 24v1). He rules over it and He holds it all together (Psalm 19v1-6; Hebrews 1v2+3).

2. However, the whole creation is no longer perfect but bears the curse of sin (Genesis 3; Romans 8v19-23). It is groaning, as it were, with birth pangs, waiting for the day to be delivered.

3. The great worldwide flood of Noah's day was such a catastrophic event that this world still groans with some of the consequences of it. Read about it in Genesis 6-9.

4. Read Luke 21 esp v8-12; 25-28 about signs of the second coming of Christ to earth. Wars; earthquakes; famines; pestilence; fearful sights; great signs from heaven in sun moon and stars; distress of nations; tsunamis, etc. Are all these things beginning to sound familiar happenings in today's world... and some of them put down to climate change? The whole creation groans waiting for the day Christ will return to planet earth.

5. There will be scoffers in the last day (2 Peter 3v3-7). They will scoff about Christ's second coming. They are willingly ignorant of the worldwide flood in Noah's day and the effect it had upon our planet.

6. The heavens and the earth will be destroyed by fire in judgment (2 Peter 3v7+10).

7. In the light of this we are to make sure that we are ready for Christ's second coming to planet earth. (2 Peter 3v11-14; Matthew 24v44).

I am not suggesting that we should not care for our planet and the creatures on it. Nor am I suggesting that the rain forests should be cut down. But I am asking you to study scripture to see for yourself what is going to happen to this planet and get ready for it. 

Goodbye 2020

I guess that most of us are glad to see the end of 2020. Lockdowns, social distancing, masks, sanatizing hands, isolating, bubble groups, are all terms we have become familiar with because of coronavirus restrictions and will still be part of life for the foreseeable future. We have experienced life with churches shut; gyms shut; schools shut; non-essential retail shut; and travel restrictions in place. Many people furloughed or working from home. Politicians squabbling over it and some even breaking their owns rules. In fact, the media has been dominated with it and, of course, social media has had plenty of conspiracy theories too! Perhaps you wish you could wake up in the morning, realize it was all just a bad dream and life is back to the way it was before. Unfortunately, that cannot happen. Mental and spiritual health have been affected. The economy has suffered. But worst of all, people have died from covid-19. 

However, I wish to share some of my precious and positive memories of 2020, despite all the restrictions. Here are just a few photos and reflections:

During the first lockdown we used to clap our NHS heroes. My hero and key worker Adrian had to keep slogging away during lockdown to help make sure people had meat on their tables. We tried to fix each other's hair as hairdressers were closed. Wow, that gave some fantastic photos that are better not shared! 😲😏 We learned how to sanatize and wash our hands... and keep 2 metres apart when we had to do essential shopping. Panic buying of toilet rolls and other products left some empty shelves in stores for a time. Then, we had to wear face coverings / masks and they eventually became mandatory. I suppose they disguise our appearance and, should you step into a supermarket without one on, people have the manners to stand back from you. 😂

Walking

Thankfully God gave us a nice bit of sunshine during the first lockdown, so we could enjoy some time outdoors in our back garden or take a walk. Adrian and I love walking and, of course, Bridie is always ready for 'walkies' but with all the lockdowns and coronavirus restrictions in 2020 I think Bridie has been walked more than ever! Peatlands Park and Windmill Wood are local favourites, rather than going to shopping centres. We got so many laughs from Bridie climbing trees and chasing squirrels. 😂😂 

Worship

Churches were closed for a time and moved their sermons online and, hence, discovered new opportunities with a wider audience to preach to. However, I must say that I much prefer to meet together for church services than to listen online. That's why when drive-in church services were allowed, Adrian and I really enjoyed going to them. 

Crafting and DIY

When Isaac was furloughed from work in the first lockdown, him and I got some painting done. That and new blinds helped to cheer the house up a bit. Also, I enjoyed crocheting Ireland, even though, I haven't found a use for it yet. That's it on a king size bed in the photo below. Ah well, I suppose I will have it as a memory of 2020 lockdown. 

Staycation

Staying local, rather than taking vacations abroad was maybe more the done thing in 2020 because of the uncertainty of travel regulations. So, when restrictions eased a little after the first lockdown, Adrian and I chose day trips for our staycation instead of staying away in a hotel or B&B. Portrush, Newcastle, Bangor, Scrabo and Hillsborough park all made lovely day trips. Walking, rather than shopping, was always our focus on these days out. And there's always a first time for everything. For me, in Sept 2020, it was the first time I walked all the way along the East Strand in Portrush to the White Rocks and back again. 

Family

Isaac finished a personal training course and truly is passionate about training people in fitness. Well done to him! 

Jemima turned 25 years old in June and Bridie turned 2 years old in June. 

Both Adrian's mum and my Mum went to live in care homes shortly before the pandemic broke. This gave peace of mind that they were being kept safe and well cared for. Thankfully both have tested negative for coronavirus. The care homes have worked hard to try to keep the virus out. That has meant great restrictions on visits in controlled setups, with masks and social distancing, and even some window visits. Thankfully, I have been able to visit mum several times. Sadly, Adrian has not been able to visit his mum since end January /beginning of February 2020.

But one of the most special highlights of 2020 was Jemima and Josh getting engaged. The excitement of wedding plans are a delight. We are so looking forward to their big day! 

Conclusion

So, as we said goodbye to 2020, 

1. I can look back and remember some good times, family times, precious memories, despite all the difficulties and restrictions. 
2. I am truly grateful to the Lord for everything He has done for us. We have not starved nor wanted for any good thing. 
3. My heart goes out to all the families who had empty chairs and tear-stained pillows at Christmastime because of losing loved ones. 
4. It has never ceased to amaze me at how politicians and other leaders have stumbled through the pandemic, doing the best they can, but not bringing God into the equation. 
5. I think, as we leave 2020, we have plenty to pray to God about. 

Remember, the conditional promise that God has given to His people:

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7v14

Despite all the negatives because of restrictions in 2020, may 2021 blossom with positives to glorify God. Best wishes and keep safe!