21st December
“ Coming up to them at that very moment, Anna gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem”. Luke 2 v.38
Do you go door to door singing carols to your neighbours? Historically caroling, in this country, was done to wish one’s neighbours good health, and it was not strictly a Christmas activity. Not until the 1800’s did Christmas Carols make their way into the song list. It then became a popular way to spread Christmas cheer to friends and neighbours especially those who were unable to leave their homes so Christmas was spread through the whole community.
When Jesus was born those who learned of His birth were quick to share the good news. The Shepherds went immediately to the manger to share what the angels had told them about the Christ child. When Anna saw Jesus in the temple she told everyone about Him.
While we often still sing carols in our shopping centre’s, not many still go around neighbours and friends singing carols and sharing the wonder of Christmas. Are we afraid it would be an imposition on others? Maybe it’s even more important in these days to share the true message of Christmas in our communities so let us be imaginative and thinks of new ways to spread this wonderful message.
We pray:
Father as we prepare our Churches ready to welcome folk for our special services over this Christmastime we pray You will open their hearts to hear the wonderful message of Your birth. That as they hear scripture and sing carols the words will speak out and give full meaning to this special time. May our Churches be a place of welcome and refuge for all at all times not just in this Holy season. Be with us all we pray
Amen
Margaret Lindley is Area Trustee for Chester & Stoke, Manchester & Stockport, Liverpool and North Wales
