Musings

A Proclamation of Joy! Limassol Marina The decorative season reminds us that Christmas is a time of rejoicing and celebration. Our hearts rejoice with family and friends at God's grace revealed in the wondrous Christmas story. Molos, Limassol The Christmas narrative in Luke's Gospel depicts the appearance of the angel of the Lord to the shepherds on that Bethlehem evening, as they tended to their flocks. How they must have marvelled as these words filled the air: Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord!  Luke 2:10 -11 This two thousand-year old message is the most joyful proclamation in history! The coming of the Saviour to earth means a fallen world can be reconciled to a holy God. God incarnate lived among us and laid down His life on the cross of Calvary to atone for our sins. He conquered death and rose again, imparting the joyou...

8th November - Limassol Marina   While the sunsets in Cyprus are always spectacular, they are particularly impressive at this time of the year. The air is cooler and lower humidity increases 'spectral purity', allowing more colour to reach the human eye.  Another factor which enhances winter sunsets is the winter solstice, when the sun takes longer to set because it sets at an angle. The vivid colours can be enjoyed as they linger in the sky.¹ There are also more clouds in the sky in the autumn/winter season, which absorb the colour and create a captivating backdrop to the setting sun. 8th November - Limassol Old Port   I decided to photograph the sunset every evening last week from various locations to share the beauty of God's handiwork. People often take time to reflect as the spectacle unfolds. The Bible says: in Him we live and move and have our being. Acts 17:28). There is no life outside of the Source, our Creator God, the One who holds our breath in His han...

Nowadays we hear increasingly of burnout, which affects people spiritually, emotionally, mentally and physically. Prolonged periods of stress and demanding work environments can lead to adverse reactions in the body. We also appear to be spending more time 'glued' to screens, whether it be mobile phones, laptops, tablets or computers. Maybe it is time for a break from social media, Zoom meetings and video calls! Rest Awhile   The Lord also recognized the danger of fatigue and demanding schedules. In Mark 6 we catch a glimpse of the busy days of His public ministry when He, along with the disciples, met the many needs of the crowds following Him:  Then the apostles gathered to Jesus and told Him all things, both what they had done and what they had taught. And He said to them, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. Mark 6:30-31  They heeded His advice and departed t...

  As we face a new day, many of us are thankful for health and strength in a world where it cannot be taken for granted. Each day brings its own challenge as we face lockdowns and daily disruptions for months at a time due to the pandemic. Every new day is a wonderful gift. However, we are not even guaranteed a day. What lies beyond death is a serious question. Christians are indebted to the Bible for answers regarding life after death (see Luke 16:19-31). I have heard many say, "No one has ever come back from the dead to tell us!" This is not strictly true. The Lord Himself entered death and defeated its claims when He died for our sins and rose again the third day. The One who said, " I am the Resurrection and the Life ", offers salvation and eternal life to humanity. Since none of us knows which day will be our last on earth, there is an urgency to receiving salvation. The Bible says: Indeed, the “right time” is NOW. Today is the day of salvation . 2 Cor. ...