We are not forgotten

Unlike many world leaders, Jesus has not withdrawn from those in need, says Revd R.O. Roberts, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Wales, this Christmas. At a time when many feel life is getting harder, we’re reminded that God sent Jesus to help people like us.

“In the midst of the celebrations – if we listen carefully – we can detect loneliness, darkness, loss of hope and a longing for it all to be over for another year,” says Revd Roberts. “The news features crises, violence, quarrels and wars except for the odd dramatic escape or mishap.  It’s easy to lose hope and think the world is becoming a worse place.  Some feel that life is getting harder and that they have been forgotten and their needs ignored.

“But hope came into the world when the Lord Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem.  God’s promise that he still remembered his people was fulfilled in the baby placed in the manger.  In the Bible in the book of Isaiah chapter 9, we read 'The people walking in darkness have seen a great light' because 'to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders.'  All wisdom and power would be in him, 'he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.' Here is one who would be able to provide answers to the problems of men and women. Here is one who has come into the world to open the way to God the Father.  Through the Lord Jesus we can have a new relationship full of hope, a loving caring relationship with the King of heaven and earth.

"He, unlike many leaders in this world, does not withdraw and hide from those in need.  He became human to be one of us; and was available to all, the wealthy and poor, famous, ordinary and needy.  He came, not to a royal court, but to a stable in Bethlehem, a place where all could visit him.  As his followers, this Christmas we proclaim that God the creator and sustainer, the God who saves, is accessible to all in Jesus Christ

This is his message in our time of anxiety and fear.  In the midst of uncertainty, he continues to proclaim ‘Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people…a saviour has been born to you, he is Christ the Lord.’  This Christmas, Jesus is still accessible and available to all who look for him.

Born in Pen Llyn, Revd R.O. Roberts studied at Coventry, Bangor and Aberystwyth and ministered in the Vale of Conwy before returning to his native Llyn as minister of Morfa Nefyn in 1986.  As well as being minister of five churches, he is active with several local organisations.  He is chairman of Trobwynt - a local youth mission - and has a column in the local paper, Llanw Llyn.