20th December 2024

Jesus, Immanuel

There is something different and magical in the air around Christmas, people feel it and give expression to it in all sorts of ways. Their longing for something other than the ordinary, for something to let them know that despite the drudgery and tedium of many of their days, there is something alive, vibrant and mysterious in the world expressing itself in the overdone decorations and over-the-top celebrating.

We all long to escape the often-barren shabbiness and pale sterility of so much in our world, and at Christmas we are given free rein to let our imaginations soar and our spirits celebrate. Even for those who do not believe in Jesus, Christmas is a time of goodwill, and in all the Christmas sparkle and the expectant hope of the season, our hearts are softened towards each other and our spirits warmed by the goodness of those around us. So even if many people do not celebrate Christmas in the ‘true spirit’ they nevertheless gain a glimpse of and share an experience of the love and joy that Jesus brings into our lives.

God’s mercy and kindness shown in the birth of the Christ-child is for all people whether they know him or not. The gift of love is offered to all of at this time, and its power to change hearts and help us find our way back to each other is not limited to a few but is open to all. The Christmas spirit and the fun and silliness, the songs and carols, the gift giving and receiving is a sign and a reminder that something special has happened and is happening. It lets us know, even if we do not acknowledge it, that our world is alive with the presence of he who has come, he who is with us, and he who comes anew in our hearts every Christmas.

Wishing you a Happy Christmas and New Year.

Sam King