Merry Christmas and welcome to The Grove. 

 

The words of the ancient prophecy in Isaiah 9:2, connect with us today. 

 

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; 

on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. 

 

We come to celebrate Christmas following a dark moment in our nation at Bondi. Because of this, the words spoken by the prophet Isaiah to the Jewish people in 732 BC, are even more significant this year. That those in our Jewish community, and those suffering as a result of this dark action, would see the true light that has come into the world. In fact, that all people walking and living through dark times, would experience the love, comfort and hope found in Jesus this Christmas.   

 

As we come to honour Jesus, we can know that darkness can never overcome the light that came from heaven. God himself was born into the very world he created, and the angel announced that it’s good news of great joy for all people. That in the town of David, a Saviour has been born to us, he is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:10-11). 

 

As we celebrate Jesus birth at The Grove this Christmas, let’s also pray that he would bring peace and hope through churches all across the world. While the freedom to worship has been attacked this week, we should remember that many live in places where they are not free to worship anytime. May Jesus light shine even brighter in the hardest places in 2025, and may a new story of peace begin to unfold, and of light expelling darkness as hearts are changed by God’s great love.  

 

While this might seem like an unlikely gift the world might receive this Christmas, let’s remember that the God we pray to is the gift of Christmas to us. The one who came as light to those living in darkness is described in Isaiah 9:6. 

 

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 

 

This is the one we celebrate, pray to and trust. May he answer your prayers, and may the Lord bless you and your family this Christmas. You are also very welcome to join us in 2026 if you are looking for a spiritual home, and place to belong and explore 

faith in Jesus. 

 

Marty and Leanne Luke