We were just finding some optimism to tide us through this Christmas season.  We knew Christmas would be challenging, but at least there is the prospect of vaccines to focus on.  Some of us were planning to meet with family (only briefly) to keep us upbeat, as we nurture the flickering hope of a distant normality.  Now the announcement of a new strain of Covid has led to the imposition of additional restrictions, and it seems doubly hard when we were so close to enjoying even limited socially-distanced reunions.

Our hearts go out to all who have had to cancel arrangements at the last minute.  There is the pain of disappointed plans, the disorientation of uncertainty and the fear of the unknown.  We have to adjust our expectations, and we have to work hard to find joy in the season.  But there is joy to be found in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and in receiving the gift of pure love which God offers to us by sending his Son.  Perhaps we can encourage ourselves with the words of this poem published in ‘Candles and Conifers’.

You are Deeply, Deeply Loved by John Harvey

I know the cares and the anxious thoughts of your hearts.

I know the hard time you often give yourselves.

I know the hopes and ambitions that you have for yourselves and for others.

I know your doubts, too – even while you seek to express your belief.

On this night, I want to find a way of saying to you:

You are deeply, deeply loved,

just as you are,

forgiven, loved and challenged to be

the very best you can be.

So I’m speaking to you in the only way I know how –

from a stable,

in a child born into poverty,

soon to grow to maturity,

born to show you,

in a human life,

the love of God.

 copyright © WGRG, Iona Community, Glasgow, Scotland. www.wildgoose.scot. Reproduced by permission.

God blessed us two thousand years ago by sending Jesus to live on earth.  God continues to walk alongside us through the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives, even at these most difficult times.  Our families may not be visibly gathered with us in person this Christmas but we still know they love us, wherever they are.  You don’t have to see someone to know that they love you and want the best for you.  In the same way we believe that God, although not visible to our eyes, deeply loves and supports us.  May we experience that love of God this Christmas!

Sarah Bourne, Chaplain for the Arts – 23^rd December 2020              sarahbourne@banburystmary.org.uk