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Revd Graham Coldman recaps the themes of “Page 1” expanding the significance of the number seven in creation and across scripture generally. We’re challenged to enter into the promise of Day 7, where we receive the fullness of all that God has planned for us. Genesis 2:4-14 (“Page 2”) takes a different perspective of the creation story. Focusing on the four streams (Gen 2:10-14), the rivers flow from Eden in all directions, even into the land of the Hebrews’ enemies, bringing life to all, enemies included.

Revd Graham Coldman explores the creation story Genesis 1:1 – 2:3 (“Page 1”) and gave us three words that help us understand its key themes. 1 Cosmos – understanding the cosmology of the time. 2 Word – God spoke and it came into being. 3 Image – We are made in God’s image. In the culture of that time, Kings and rulers were considered to be "in the image of God" and ordinary people served them. We are all made in the image of God, we are all equal and co-rulers over creation with Him!

Revd Graham Coldman completes the series from the letter of Jude to the early church. Whilst Jude gave an urgent warning to this young and growing church, that they should follow Jesus' teaching and not be led astray, he also calls upon them to act with "mercy mixed with fear" towards those who are leading others astray, that they may be rescued from their terrible destiny. A reminder that we live in a complex physical and spiritual world with difficult challenges.

Jude challenges the church to address an urgent issue. The behaviour of some people in the church did not match-up to what Jesus taught – possibly, people continuing to live as they did before they came to faith. Christ died for us, to cleanse and forgive us. We can’t continue to live our lives as we did before we put our trust in him. God wants to perform a work in our lives; to transform us. Let’s search our own hearts and listen to what God is saying, are there areas of my life that I need to put right?

Jesus comes alongside Cleopas and his walking partner as they journeyed back to Emmaus from Jerusalem. Their eyes were kept from recognising the risen Jesus. They had not understood what the prophets had said about the messiah. At the end of the walk, they invited Jesus to stay and share a meal, where their eyes were opened. Have you invited Jesus into your life? Have you been walking with Jesus for many years but no longer see what Jesus is doing? God wants to give you more – a fuller, richer experience.

The resurrection of Christ enabled a new birth and living hope for all those who believe. Revd Graham Coldman describes us as living in two stories - the world we see and experience going on around us and the reality of what Chris won through his work on the cross and resurrection - new birth and living hope. Which story will you live in?

The handwashing incident in Mark 7 illustrates how God is concerned with matters of the heart not matters of our hands. Revd Graham Coldman challenges us to ask ourselves - In what ways am I allowing my understanding of faith in Christ to change the attitudes of my heart? Do I have a heart of stone or of flesh? Do I have a new heart?

Revd Graham Coldman teaches us a Greek word Euangelion which translates to good news or gospel. First century Jews would have been familiar with the idea of a saviour bringing good news - Isaiah 52v7. Mark’s gospel opens with the announcement of Jesus bringing good news; the significance of this would have been clear to the listeners. Jesus’ message was good news for those who heard it and received it – it was a different story for those who heard it and rejected it. How will you respond to the euangelion?

Revd Graham Coldman shows us the importance of understanding the context and backstory of Matthew’s Gospel, the first 2 chapters are inspirational not informational. Matthew uses symbols to link back to Israelite history and Old Testament stories that would have been well understood by his listeners. As we hear the familiar nativity story, look for something you’ve not seen before, and ask, “why is it there?” Like Joseph what am I being asked to trust for this Christmas? Can I say “Emmanuel” God is with me?