'Christmas story shows the joy of costly love' - Bishop Mary

The Christmas story offers hope to those suffering in the world today, says Bishop Mary Stallard, the Assistant Bishop in Bangor.

We are just days away from Christmas and lots of us are waiting for deliveries and arrivals. With so much industrial action affecting the post, transport, health and other areas of life, lots of us are waiting: Waiting for news, for things to be delivered, for people to arrive, for knowledge about next steps in our lives, health care or for the unfolding of plans for the future.

At local foodbanks and amongst churches and charities working hard for those with need at this time, people are also expectant for deliveries and arrivals.

There is no shortage of people who need help due to the food and fuel crisis, and it is wonderful to see the generosity of so many congregations who have responded to the Archbishop’s campaign and been willing to offer gifts to others. We’re conscious this winter of the plight of so many who need help; those feeling need in our own communities, refugees and asylum-seekers looking for respite from situations of unrest, threat, or conflict and also of those displaced or forced to leave their homes, because of the impact of climate change.

The Christmas story speaks directly into this reality: the accounts of the birth of Jesus are peppered with stories of people expectant for hope and change. At the centre are the holy family who depend upon the welcome they receive from strangers, far from their home. Ultimately the story’s about a God who comes to us, accepting uncertainty and danger in an act of complete self-giving. A God who takes the risk of being born amongst us, showing us the joy of costly love.

God our hope, we remember how in Jesus you come into our lives in a new way. Fill us with courage in all that we undertake, open our hearts to receive your presence, and help us to be signs of your welcome to others. Amen