Christmas Thoughts

" The heavens declare the glory of God
the skies proclaim the work of His hands,
Day after day they pour forth speech,
night after night they display knowledge.
Their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the end of the world."
Psalm 19:1

I can only describe it as a jaw dropping, humbling, soul stiring display of stars so numerous and bright, that Beth and I were left in stunned silence. I have seen many stars on a clear night in North Wales, the Lake District and Scotland, often when wild camping with my friend Brett; sometimes even seeing the Milky Way. But the display we have seen here in a remote part of New Zealand, blessed with clear skies and no light pollution, has been truly extraordinary.
All I can say is that it is one amazing declaration of God's handiwork.
New Zealand is truly an amazing country. Here you have a diverse range of sub-tropical forests, beautiful golden or white beaches, majestic snow capped mountains, open plains, wild craggy coastline, unbelievably blue clear waters - no wonder the Kiwis call it the ''God Zone'' - though I think I'd call it God's own!
As I refect back over the last few months, thinking of what we have experienced and seen, I am reminded of the words of a song that puts it like this:

'This world is broken yet beautufully made' (Charlie Hall)

We have experienced the extremes of both of these, from the aching of the soul because of the extremity of immense poverty and death to the aching of the soul due to the sheer beauty of this world. Such a contrast. I have found there is no true comfort to be found in the former or deep satisfaction in the latter unless my soul finds its satisfaction in God.

And it seems most appropriate that I should be reminded so at this Christmas time. To all of you all over the world who have been following us on our journey, thank you for sticking with us, for the comments and e-mails - we really appreciate them.
May you have a wonderful Christmas and New Year, finding satisfaction in the God who has made 'God with us' a reality in Christ Jesus.