In the world at the moment, there seems to be such conflict and darkness. A Christmas tree has gone up in Bethlehem, but the impact of violence and destruction of  recent years is still current. Other places of fighting and instability include the Ukraine, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Myanmar and so many others.

The shops are busy, there is bustle in the colourful Christmas markets, but many are in debt as a result of  the temptation to overspend, and there are homeless in our cities, children fleeing from abuse, people struggling with illness and isolation. How do we reconcile such oppulance starkly contrasting with the despairing cry of a nearby child?

Of course, we want to celebrate the joy of Advent, meeting up with friends and family, enjoying concerts and plays. But perhaps it is also important to take time to give thanks for what we have, and to conciously decide to bless others. We can volunteer at a foodbank, hand gifts in to a local community project, check in with that neighbour, or give money to a  charity that we resonate with. There are so many ways we can seek to serve others.

In Luke chapter 1, when Mary is singing praise to God because of the Holy Child within her, she describes the character of God in verses 51-53:

‘He has performed mighty deeds with His arm: He has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts,                                   He has brought rulers down from their thrones, but has lifted up the humble,               He has filled the hungry with good things,      but has sent the rich away empty.’         

Sometimes I think we forget the radical nature of Jesus’ agenda, to turn the ways of this world upside down, to challenge corruption and greed, and to feed the hungry and lift up the humble. This is the mandate of that Child in a Manger, the one who came to bring a new kingdom of light, love and justice.

In this Advent season, may we savour what is good, be thankful for all we have, and rejoice in hope. But may we also recommit ourselves to challenging injustice, being an advocate for the poor, and to befriending the lonely and marginalised. In this way, we truly welcome Christ into our hearts and homes this Christmas.

Eternal Father, we thank you for this Advent season, when we prepare to welcome the birth of our Saviour. We thank You for times of stillness, to be touched anew by the wonder of Christ’s birth and the joy of the season. We also remember the Beatitudes, and Jesus coming to challenge the rich, and to lift up the poor, to unsettle the proud and to bring healing to the broken and disillusioned. May your holy spirit disturb our complacency, so we might call out injustice and show compassion and generosity to all in need. May people choose to lay down their arms, and choose the paths of peace. May your kingdom of justice, light and grace, come through our prayers and actions in this season and always, in the name of our precious Saviour, Amen.