Every month we submit an article to Great Shelford's monthly magazine. Here is our latest contribution for the December 2025 edition.

 The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:10-12)
 
Christmas is Coming
 
It has been said by many that Christmas seems to come earlier each year, and as I write this in mid-November, I am aware that for some weeks already there have been Christmas songs playing in shops, alongside displays of decorations, lights and expensive Christmas gifts, that I am advised I can’t manage without. Some people complain that this is a commercial enterprise to make more money for big companies, but maybe it also indicates a deeper desire within us to connect with something good amid turbulent times. Perhaps, a prolonged Christmas season generates a greater feeling of “Peace on earth and goodwill to all.”

The story of Christmas, of the nativity and the birth of Jesus, is a story that contains truths of hope, love, joy and peace; truths which bring a reminder that God is good all the time, and as Emmanuel he walks with us through the storms and troubles of life as well as in the joys.

Singing carols is one way in which we can remind ourselves of those truths which are so often expressed in the words we sing. They can help us connect with the real meaning of the season.

Perhaps you have a favourite carol, one you always want to sing, maybe because of the memories it evokes or because the words resonate with you in a special way? My own favourites have changed over the years. As a child I loved “In the bleak mid-winter,” visualising those snowy Christmas card scenes, but lately “Silent night” has become a particular favourite.

“Silent night, Holy Night
All is calm, all is bright….”
 
It is a reminder to me of the importance of taking time to stop  and be still; to pause in the midst of manic preparations;  to welcome silent contemplation, and  wonder at the incredible message of God becoming one of us, living and  moving and having his being amongst his people;  showing us  himself through the life of his son, Jesus, who embodies the reality of the words brought by angels, “ good news of great joy…….peace on earth and goodwill to all.”
 
My prayer for you is that you will find space to step back from the headlong race to meet Christmas; and in that space to meet the One who Christmas is all about. And may you know in that encounter, the blessings of peace and joy that Jesus ushers in with his birth and fulfils through his death and resurrection.
 
Diana Parr
Pastor