Still well within the 12 days of Christmas, the service on Sunday, December 28, had a strong seasonal feel, with a reading from the second chapter of Luke and a selection of carols chosen by the congregation.
Mick Quirk spoke about the role of every Christian as an ambassador for the king Jesus. "In the world, but not of it," Christians are envoys of the Kingdom, living in an alien land. Mick even suggested that pastor Peter rename his house 'the embassy!'
The reading and the last verse of Angels from the Realms of Glory served as introductions for Peter's talk, which was about Simeon, one of the 'quiet in the land' of Israel who were waiting for the promised Saviour.
When Mary and Joseph completed their duties as Jews, bringing the firstborn infant to the temple for a special ceremony. Now Simeon saw the baby Jesus, he knew he had seen God's salvation could die in peace, knowing that the promise had been fulfilled. We know nothing of the man Simeon apart from what God holds most important - he was a man of integrity and full of the Spirit. He told Mary that her son would be a light to the gentiles and save Israel - but he also predicted suffering and sadness.
The next Hesed service is this Sunday at 6 pm at the Avenue Centre in Greenhill Avenue, Tenby. For more information, telephone Rev. Peter Richmond on 01646 681805 or visit http://www.hesed.co.uk">www.hesed.co.uk