Tier 4. Not unexpected, but no doubt disappointing to many and also troubling because of the escalating problem with Covid-19 that has caused this latest change to the rules. Whatever disappointments we suffer, and not just from the pandemic because life throws up many disappointments, the Gospel, which means 'good news', is of 'great joy that will be for all people'. This is what the angel of the Lord told the shepherds in Bethlehem's fields on the night Jesus was born. The story is told by Luke...

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” (Luke 2:8-15, ESV)

This story, from what seems to us like ancient history, remains to this very day the brightest and best news that any of us can receive. If it is for 'all people' then no-one should think it has nothing to say to them. Like the shepherds, you need to hear, believe and respond in faith to this message from the Lord God. No-one who does so will ever be disappointed. Join us for some good news at our Christmas morning service, this Friday at 10.30.