In the midst of an oppressive pandemic where the normal struggles of daily life have been distorted by absurd confusions such as, “Do I have to wear a mask in this shop?”, we suddenly encounter Christmas. It has come, and it is here, whether we are ready for it or not.
We have been so consumed by getting through and surviving each day, many of us have little capacity for anything else. Numerous colleagues are approaching the end of the year hoping just to switch off and find a place to rest.
It has been intense and recent news from heath authorities gives no expectation of any remarkable relief in sight.
Despite that, a celebration is taking place. Historians attest to the event. Christians contend that Jesus was God come to dwell with us in human form. That claim was as hard to believe 2000 years ago as it is today, but there it is!
Perhaps it is no longer fashionable to reflect on God at Christmas time. We would rather celebrate the reunion of family and enjoy our friends. And worthy are these things of celebration. But possibly, just maybe, this year more than ever, it might be healthy to look beyond ourselves for a little while.
