So this week was my 23rd Birthday!  It’s only a matter of months now before my legs start to click, wrinkles develop and I start shopping in Morrisons. Tragic times.

But 23 years ago on the 3rd of December 1989, I decided that it was time to take on the world. The midwife immediately knew that I was to be a magician in the future because within seconds of popping out, I was doing jazz hands and exclaiming the words ‘ta daa!’. 

If I could go back in time, I think I would come out singing my version of Michael Buble.  Just imagine – Arriving on earth in a suit and tie (clearly), arrogantly singing ‘You just haven’t met me yet!’. I think that would have been far better.

But of course, to really show my magical skills – I should have appeared from the empty bed next to my mums. That would have been fun.

Speaking of Birthdays, it’s that time of year when we begin to consider the greatest birth of all time. Jesus Christ – the son of God.

And it’s not just me who dreams of a magical appearance, Jesus was born to a virgin Mary. Now that’s awesome. (He actually got to be magical. And, to be honest, I’m slightly jealous.)

But this is more than just any old birth. Here was the birth of a man who was to change the world. A man who was to suffer greatly and yet live life fully. Here was the birth of a man who was to take responsibility for human history and future, who defeated death so that we could connect with a Holy, Father God.

Jesus is alive today and wants to give you new life. He wants you to know what it is to live life fully. He wants to give you another chance. He wants to take your suffering, giving you purpose, hope, joy and meaning.

So here’s a thought – If you started life again today – What would be different? What would you ask God for?

Consider him today and as we approach Christmas. He came to bring new life. What does that mean to you and how do you respond?

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