It is so hectic this time of year its a wonder that anyone has time to stop and think about the real meaning of Christmas and to gaze in wonder at the Christ-child. Christmas has become for many about presents and an excuse to get drunk. As I rush around preparing for Christmas services and visiting those who are housebound and sick I wish the world would slow down, just for a moment. I bought a present for a little girl who is currently in hospital a few days ago, a monkey that laughed when you tickled it. I put it in a bag with some tambourines that I had bought for church. Every time I knocked the bag the sound of laughing and rattling could be heard, much to the amusement of me and my fellow shoppers. I was still laughing along with the monkey some hours later. Unfortunately the monkey made the little girl cry, but that's another story.
As I reflect on the birth of Jesus this Christmas I pray that you will find time in your busy schedule to stop and do the same. I hope that your Christmas will contain fun and laughter and many blessings in wonderful and unexpected ways.
