A Christmas Reflection

We are in the season of Advent, when people start their preparations for Christmas. This year, perhaps more than any other in recent memory, could be described as Charles Dickens put it: ‘’It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.’’ This quotation of course comes from the opening line from A Tale of Two Cities and describes the contradictions of the time. The world now finds itself in just such a state. Dickens continues: ‘’It was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.’’

Today we see continuing armed conflict between Israel and Hamas, with thousands of innocent people being killed and those who remain having no safe place to evacuate to. Although no longer at the forefront of the news, the war in Ukraine rages on, with numerous families having been displaced. As a result of the Ukraine war, families in countries all over the world have faced higher food and fuel prices. One in three households with children will struggle to afford a family Christmas this year, according to reports. And there are estimates that about four million people will be forced to rely on credit to cover their costs over the festive period.

All of this seems a far cry from the words we read in the Bible as the angels appear to the startled shepherds who were busily watching their flocks at night.

“Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.

‘’When suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

(Luke 2: verses 10-14)

As we gather safe and warm in our homes, anticipating a delicious roast Christmas meal and unwrapping all our presents, let’s remember those who are not as fortunate as ourselves, firstly by remembering them in our prayers and secondly by seeking opportunities to extend a little Christmas cheer. We should look out for our neighbours, colleagues and friends who might otherwise be alone this Christmas, and for families who despite their fervent hopes may not have been able be afford presents for their children this year.

As we choose to be intentionally kind, we play our part in spreading peace and goodwill toward mankind. This year has been hard on lots of people, who may have had to deal with sickness, bereavement, financial difficulties and uncertainties surrounding climate change. I would like to close with this blessing for us all:

‘’The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace’’.

(Numbers 6: 24 -26)

Happy Christmas

Lennox Moore