Friday, January 08, 2010
Well, how was your Christmas?
Christmas should be an enjoyable time for all of us. But I must confess I have reached an age when I can't help being nostalgic about Christmases past, when most people had less money than today. Christmas then was less commercialised, and even simple presents seemed exciting.
Much as I like giving presents, I find it is now difficult to give something that will be wanted. By the time you read this it will be all over for another year, The wrapping paper will be cleared up and the decorations coming down.
After the rush of Christmas, now is the opportunity to stop and think - a time to reflect on the old year and think what the future holds.
What stands out from 2009 for you? I hope there are some good personal things for you to look back on. But on the world stage we see - wars, terrorism, disasters, unemployment, and climate change - seemingly not a good year for mankind.
In 2009 there has been a lot of discussion about how we have evolved into the intelligent beings that we are. But despite this, we all know how cruel humans can be to each other, and that we are destroying the planet on which we depend.
If we dare to think deeply about these things, we are bound to ask ourselves "What is life all about ?"
The Christian message, (which underpins the original story of Christmas), is that there is purpose and meaning in life. Christianity teaches that we are not just accidents of nature, but are here because a creator (God) planned it.
We do not have all the answers, but firmly believe that through Christ's teaching and prayer, we can learn to live more fulfilled and useful lives.
Looking forward in this new year, St Swithun's church will have a new vicar but not until late summer. In the meantime, we should all seek to continue our faith journey.
For those wondering where to start, we plan an informal short introductory course (focusing on Jesus) in the spring. If this might interest you, have a word with a church warden or me.
With best wishes for 2010,
Dennis Pearson
Licensed Lay Minister (Reader)