Like playing with bubbles, some of us prefer to watch Christmas from afar, but children remind us that if there is one word to sum up the Christmas spirit, it's 'joy'. But joy is far more than just being happy when things go your way. It's a deep-seated sense of hope and contentment, knowing Jesus came to be with us.

Children remind us that if there is one word to sum up the Christmas spirit, it's 'joy'. But joy is far more than just being happy when things go your way. It's a deep-seated sense of hope and contentment, knowing we are not alone.

If there is one word to sum up the Christmas spirit, it's 'joy'. But joy is far more than just being happy when things go your way. It's a deep-seated sense of hope and contentment, even in the tougher times.

In the final talk looking at some of the first few people in Jesus' family tree, Hannah reflects on how we all fall short, and the idea that our 'smallest' sin no less wrong than David's actions of rape, adultery and murder. The good news though is that for all sin, Jesus offers forgiveness.

In the story of Ruth and Boaz we encounter a tale that is not romantic but a matter of survival, marked by generosity, courage and compassion shown within - and beyond - the law. Their faithfulness to justice, mercy and care for the vulnerable not only sustains life in a harsh world, but also foreshadows the values that Jesus himself would later embody and proclaim.

The story of Ruth is an inspirational tale centered around the willingness of one woman to opt in. It teaches us about what it is to put others first, and - more importantly - how deep God's faithfulness goes.

Prostitution and sex-work is a difficult topic, as the vast majority of women involved are the victims of abuse or trafficking, although some want to recast it as empowerment. In the Family Tree of Jesus, we see the importance of placing people at the heart, to show love to all without judgement or prejudice.

Regardless of where we have hurt others, Jesus still comes to meet us.

Matthew opens his Gospel with a genealogy of Jesus, inviting us to reflect on the complex and messy history from Abraham to the Messiah. In the pain and powerlessness of so many we see God's promise prevail.

We pause to reflect on the evil that is war and the meaningless waste of human life involved. It should challenge us to seek to live more peacefully with each other.

This week we heard testimonies from four different people about their faith journeys and what God has been doing in their lives.

As Jesus walked with two friends he explained to them all that scripture foretold about Him. When we feed on scripture, we slowly grow to see who Christ truly is, and how it is his love and presence which brings us true nurishment.