A Christmas Message from The Right Reverend David Urquart, Bishop of Birmingham
CHRISTMAS is usually a time of busyness, preparation and expectation, which this year has been disrupted by wave after wave of uncertainty and disappointment.
The priority has been to keep each other safe both physically and mentally.
As we enter into the wonder of Christmas amid the chaos of 2020, let us not forget the love of Jesus Christ as we spend real or virtual time with our families, ourselves, our friends, both those who are struggling and those who are hopeful.
Born in poverty to unmarried parents away from home, he survived and overcame adversity. Jesus’ profound experience and understanding of the human condition continues to offer comfort and hope for all.
If someone close to you is alone this Christmas, think of them, even if you can’t meet face to face.
Give them a quick call of care and encouragement. Or let them know about the Daily Hope phone line.
For all ages and conditions, in the lowly beginnings of Jesus’ time here on earth, there is an opportunity to be inspired by the angels who sing glory, the working shepherds who come and wonder and the rich and powerful who fall down in worship.
This gift of love from God to the world, the human family and each one of us, through his son Jesus Christ, brings light into darkness.
As we wait anxiously and expectantly for all that the New Year will bring, with the continuing fight against Covid -19 infection rates, let us remember God’s promise ‘The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it’.
Spend a moment reading this in John’s Gospel chapter 1 or on the Comfort and Joy app.
I wish you all deep spiritual comfort and joyful relationships with one another this Christmas and in the year ahead.
The Daily Hope phone line is a free national telephone line, offering music, prayers and reflections as well as full worship services from the Church of England. The line – which is available 24 hours a day on 0800 804 8044 – has been set up particularly with those unable to join online church services.
‘Comfort and Joy app’ – weekly reflections published on social media and available by email and app for each Sunday of Advent.
