December 2020 Magazine Letter
Christmas
What will it be like?
Christmas will be different, but we will all try to keep it as close as to the real thing. What makes Christmas Christmas? I believe we anticipate family gatherings to be maybe smaller? Christmas is a time to care for one another and to be together in whichever safe way possible. We will not be short of stories to tell what was, in looking back on the year especially remembering those who have died, to support those who have lost jobs and to be thankful for all who have cared for the sick and the vulnerable.
What has not changed is the Christmas story. lt is comforting to know Mary and Joseph found an inn, they have a roof above their head and the baby Jesus is safe, the shepherds and all who hear of the good news are filled with joy.
This feeling of joy is so aptly resonated in the words of our Christmas Carols encouraging us to be joyful, generous and to exercise compassion towards those in need. And that is what makes Christmas Christmas, to know God is with us, that unconditional love for us, in good and in bad times. We are called again to hear the angels and to join the prophets from long long time ago by waiting together for the long-expected Messiah to come and to rescue his people. In these sorrows and joys, I strongly believe that faith has a lot of value to offer, I personally find it fills me with comfort and Joy.
I wish you a blessed & peaceful Christmas
Yours, Silke
