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Merry Christmas!

Out of the Pit's vision is for Christians, Ministries and Churches associated with the mining industry to connect and share a vision. Our vision is for miners everywhere to know and follow the real Jesus.

Welcome

May you have a very blessed Christmas and restful holiday season.

A special welcome to all those who have recently connected with Out of the Pit. We look forward to a fruitful relationship in the coming years. By God's grace, together we will see God's Kingdom impact the mining sector.  

The importance of rest & family

The idea of taking time out to rest and to be with family, comes straight out of the Bible. In the O.T. the people were to regularly get away from their work, and celebrate a festival with family and friends. It was also a time of rejoicing in God's Presence. Christmas is a time to do just that.

Unfortunately, Australian society is quickly moving away from these important Biblical concepts. Let's resist the trend. This holiday season let's give priority to being with the Lord, rest and family.  

golden nugget Jesus, the Light has come

The prophet Isaiah prophesied of the coming of Jeus as a great Light. He said that this Light would shine upon those who dwell in deep darkness (Isa 9:2). God alone is pure Light. Everyone who sins is actually in deep spiritual darkness, he is under the shadow of death (Mat 4:16). We all need His Light.

In the spiritual realm the coming of Jesus was more than the birth of a baby. It was the explosion of Light on earth, like the light of a nuclear bomb. All the forces of darkness were powerfully pushed back. "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." John 1:5

We thank God that whatever darkness that would seek to over-shadow our life, cannot resist the Light of Christ. Light always has the power to disperse darkness. Even if it seems pitch black around you, the Light of Christ is greater. Trust Him.

Stay in the Light of Jesus. Walk in His Light and you will not stumble. We have been called out of the darkness of sin and into His marvelous Light (1 Peter 2:9).

The Christmas season is often a time for family reunions. For many this can be a difficult time in relationships. John 2:9 says "He who says he is in the Light and hates his brother is in the darkness still." It is so important that we forgive others. Otherwise we are still in darkness and under the power of Satan (Acts 26:18). Forgiveness keeps us in the Light.

A Christmas activity

Try making a list of people you don't get on with, that may have hurt you, and send them a Christmas card. Speak a blessing over their life. See what a difference it can make in your relationships, and what a blessing it will draw from heaven on your own life. Why not write to us and let us know what happened.

 



 

Prayer

Give God thanks for:

 

  • The gift of rest this Christmas break, and time to spend with our families
  • The birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior
  • The light of Jesus, which slays the darkness in this world
  • The year that has been, the things God has taught us by His Spirit.

Please pray for:

 

  • That we will take the time to reconcile with our family and friends this Christmas
  • That people will remember the birth of Jesus amongst the presents and food
  • Us all to remember that Jesus has defeated the power of Satan, that the darkness is gone and all sin is now forgiven
  • Those without family and friends this Christmas, that they will be supported and know of Jesus' love
  • The OOTP team for 2012, and God's wisdom for the board
Contact Info

Mark Hemans, Network Pastor     mark.hemans@outofthepit.org

Rosie Da Costa, Editor                     rosie@outofthepit.org

If you're keen to contribute to the newsletter, with something about your part of the world: e.g. your town, workplace, family, ministries you're involved etc. or how you came to Christ, please drop us a line. Constructive feedback on the newsletter is also welcome!



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