As I write the shops are already full of cards, mince pies and decorations, by the time you read this Christmas trees will be up, and decorations illuminated. Part of me wants to be ‘Bah Humbug’ at the way Christmas seems come earlier each year but maybe I have the wrong attitude.
Benjamin Franklin once said,
“A good conscience is a continual Christmas.”
Christmas isn’t just a season, but a spirit of peace, joy, and goodwill that should carry throughout the year. Imagine the difference if we kept this spirit alive year-round. Living out these values daily—loving God and others, showing kindness and respect—we could create lasting impact within our families, community, schools, and churches and beyond.
The past year has shown how much our world still struggles with peace. The 2024 Global Peace Index reported a decline in peacefulness globally for the fifth consecutive year. This will be of little surprise as our TV screens are filled with news reports of tension, violence, and scenes of conflict in Gaza, Lebanon and Ukraine. Closer to home, poverty; domestic abuse and uncertainty in a rapidly changing world make peace a foreign concept. Even amid such challenges, Christians are still called to be peacemakers. Jesus said, “God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.” For me finding peace in God enables me to share it with others—bringing calm to our communities and uplifting one another during difficult times.
Could a Christmas spirit throughout the year be a reality? I pray that it would be, starting with me. This Christmas, among the tinsel and the turkey, we celebrate not only the birth of Jesus but the ongoing impact of His teachings. He brought light to a world in darkness and continues to be a beacon for millions. We can all carry that light forward by embracing simple but powerful gifts this season: forgiveness, tolerance, kindness, and respect.
The Vine and the other churches that serve the village would love to welcome you to ‘Carols on the Parade’ with mince pies and refreshments (19th Dec 7pm) or once of the other Advent and Christmas events or services, details can be found in this magazine
From The Vine, we wish you and your loved one’s peace, joy, and blessings this Christmas season and into the New Year.
