Last Sunday, the Hebropn Baptist Church, Saundersfoot, was crowded for the carol service, which was led by Mr. Anthony Standing. St. Issell's Guides read the Christmas story and pupils of Miss Helen Standing formed a Youth Orchestra to accompany the carols. Lucy Gleed and Llewys Howells sang solos and Mrs. Mary Patterson read a poem as the closing prayer.
Mr. Standing said that Jesus is known around the world and asked, 'Can we compare him with the celebrities of today?' In some ways we can. His life began humbly in a stable in Bethlehem. When he grew up and told parables and performed miracles his fame spread like wildfire. Thousands walked long distances to see and hear him, some more than 100 miles.
On Jesus' last visit to Jerusalem, called Palm Sunday, the crowds shouted 'Hosanna', and laid palm tree leaves in the road to welcome him. Days later the crowds shouted 'Crucify him!' How fickle we humans are.
But Jesus was much more than a celebrity star. Old Testament prophecy tells of a coming Messiah, a special person to come from God.
In Revelation 19v16 we read that Jesus is the 'King of kings and Lord of lords.' When we follow the soon-forgotten stars of sport and entertainment we are idolising fallible human beings. Jesus deserves worship, love and devotion of a different kind. He deserves our total trust and commitment.
On a clear night we can see the light of many stars. Isaiah the prophet wrote, 'The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned ... for to us a child is born, to us a son is given' (Isaiah 9 v 2 & 6). Jesus described himself as 'The light of the world' (John 8v12). Has his light dawned on you? Have you recognised who he is and what he has done for you? Or is your life in darkness?
A star is not just a source of light. For thousands of years men have navigated their way around the earth using the stars for guidance. Nowadays we have satellite navigation systems to help us, but the idea is similar - they just use man-made 'stars' to work out our position.
Jesus said 'I am the way, the truth and the life. No- one comes to the Father except through me' (John 14v6). A star led the Wise Men to the Christ-child, and wise men and women are still guided by the greatest of all stars, the Lord Jesus Christ himself. Not only does he lead us to peace with God when we trust him, but he also guides us throughout our life on earth.
Jesus describes himself as 'the bright Morning Star' (Rev 22v16) which rises in the sky just before the sun dawns announcing the full light of day is near. When Jesus came to earth he brought the promise of a new way and a new start.
Jesus brings rest to the weary, hope to the hopeless, joy to the downcast, pardon to the guilty and life to the dead. At Christmas we celebrate this great truth - A Star is Born!
On behalf of the church, Mrs. Eileen Jury accepted a presentation from the Guides. All the young people received gifts from under the tree. Refreshments were served after the service.
On Wednesday, the Oasis Fellowship enjoyed Christmas dinner after their carol service which featured musicians and readers from Netherwood School.
There will be a United Churches carol service next Sunday morning at 11 am and a United Churches service on Christmas Day at 10.30 am. Both services will be held at Thomas Memorial Church, High Street, Saundersfoot.