Christmas Joy for All People
We fear that we live in a world of increasing polarisation. Conflicts between and within nations play their part. The amplification of division and hostility by social media algorithms doesn’t help. Culture wars exacerbate matters further. Sometimes it feels like common ground is disappearing from underneath our feet like a sandbar being overwhelmed by the tide.
In such a climate, it’s good to return to the message that heralded the arrival of Jesus. ‘I bring you tidings of great joy which shall be for all people’ says that angel who announces the saviour’s birth (Luke 2:10). Jesus’ story quickly includes all types and sorts of humanity. From local shepherds to exotic visitors from afar. I wonder what the conversation was like as they all crammed into the stable to see the newborn child?
Jesus’s story quickly shows that not only is he for all people but that he needs all people. His family must have needed assistance when they fled as refugees to Egypt. Jesus must have needed help when his parents left him behind on a family outing to Jerusalem aged twelve. Jesus was constantly calling on and engaging with others as he went about his teaching and ministry.
What might counter the polarisation of our day? Amongst our greatest resource is to seek out the emotion that accompanied the news of the saviour’s birth – joy. When we encounter joy – from that cup winning goal to the marriage of much loved friends – such moments are never the time for division and enmity. We’re all far too busy shouting and hugging each other! The invitation of Christmas is to experience such joy afresh. Often, we see joy most obviously in children’s experience of the season. Might we seek it for ourselves too? For joy breaks down divisions, overcomes barriers, reminds us that we are one.
‘I bring you tidings of great joy which shall be for all people’ says the angel. A very merry and joyful Christmas to you all.
Michael Beasley
Bishop of Bath and Wells