FOI-NZ BLOG

The past 12 months has been a whirlwind in so many ways. I travelled to New Zealand in March, June, and September speaking at a number of churches in both Islands and connecting with many people throughout the country.

When the modern state of Israel was founded, the Menorah was chosen as its emblem. It speaks of the continuity and eternity of the Jewish people. But it goes deeper than this, as if that wasn’t enough! It calls us to the ancient witness of the Word of God... and the worship of God… in an amazing, sacred lampstand.

The sign of a manger as identifying the birth of a king must have perplexed the shepherds, who would be very familiar with this vessel for feeding animals. As if to allay such confusion, an additional multitude of angels join the angel of the Lord praising God. They declare, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased” (Luke 2:14). This newborn son brings glory to God and peace to humanity, such is the significance of his arrival.