AT Christmas time I always enjoy singing my favourite Christmas carol, ‘O Little town of Bethlehem’.
Over 30 years ago I visited Bethlehem with my family, it is such a special place.
It is particularly special this year because the giant Christmas tree in Manger Square was lit up for the first time in over two years.
The mayor of Bethlehem was quoted as saying ‘Christmas should never be stopped or cancelled, this is the light of hope for us’.
In a world full of trouble and sorrow, where many of us will struggle to deal with the pressures and expense this time of year brings, the message of Christmas remains unchanged and is about hope and the arrival of that special gift, the Light of the World, the Prince of Peace.
Jesus, the baby of Bethlehem, born in an animal stable to poor parents and forced to flee Israel for Egypt, seeking refugee status.
As we celebrate Christmas this year, and in the midst of decorations, the joy and excitement, gifts given and received, please take time to remember it is a time of hope and joy filled with the promise of peace, love and justice and the greatest gift of all the Christ-child.
May you and your families have a wonderful Christmas.
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