The powers that be have for a number of years in many places effectively squeezed out of their agenda the ‘reason for the season’ in an attempt to be multi-cultural, inclusive and respectful to people of all faiths and none. Yet, irrespective of beliefs, most countries in the world have strong traditions, and the re-telling of the birth of Jesus has become part of the UK tradition. A significant chunk of the population normally find themselves attending nativity plays, Christmas fairs, midnight communion services, Christingles and carol services. Such events can heighten emotion, raise sensitivity and forge community. There is also an increased emphasis on peace and goodwill to all, and a greater focus on looking out for the poor and disadvantaged.
But the whole Christmas thing has become hijacked by an excess of consumerism. Many people are uncomfortable with this, can’t really afford it, generally whinge about it, but go along with it anyway. However, faith communities are not without blame when it comes to hijacking, and throughout history many secular celebrations and traditions have been transformed into religious events, presumably with a view to encouraging a fresh understanding of faith.
But, irrespective of this mutual stealing of seasonal celebrations, the poor are still hungry, the homeless are still without shelter and more people than I feel comfortable thinking about are lonely and feel excluded from either secular or religious expressions of Christmas.
Last year, faith communities in some towns and cities took Christmas to the people and held out-door, multi-venue, multi-media cultural events. This year, a year like no other most of us have experienced, it will be somewhat different. We will not be able to gather as communities face to face or travel very far. Most celebrations, and probably many family gatherings, will be online or on the doorstep. I wonder whether this will be a cause for folks to reflect on the real meaning of Christmas or whether many will seek to drown the sorrows of 2020 in a bottle of Glenlivet?
So, as Wham’s 1984 hit ‘Last Christmas’ plays incessantly on the radio, I’m thinking about how I will be spending this Christmas. I’ll be hoping to see family and friends of course, albeit in restricted ways. I’ll be looking for authenticity and relevance in expressions of Christmas in both church and community traditions. I’ll be thankful that I have life and health and strength, a roof over my head and a choice over how I celebrate the festival. And I’ll be mindful of those who have very little to celebrate, and for whom 2020 has been a tough year. But most of all, I hope that I will maintain a connection with the Christmas message of light and hope, and not allow it to be squeezed out of the agenda.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
John 1:5 – New International Version)
Photo Credit: Kelly Sikkema
