'May the joy of the angels, the eagerness of the shepherds, the perseverance of the wise men, the obedience of Joseph and Mary, and the peace of the Christ-child be yours this Christmas.'
That's how my favourite Christmas blessing begins - you'll hear it a few times over the next couple of days. It's a particularly helpful prayer in this most difficult of Christmases, humanly speaking. What a gift to know joy in these times of adversity. The shepherds' excitement resulted from their encounter with God and finding Jesus despite their fear and trembling. And perseverance is a key attribute at the moment. We have much to learn from Mary and Joseph's willingness to follow God through their challenges. And above all, may we be confident in the peace of Christ - peace that is not of this world (mercifully, since it's in short supply in the news these days).
I'm reminded of an old hymn with this chorus: 'Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in His wonderful face, And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, In the light of His glory and grace.' That's not escapism (and it's not always easy!) But it is the way to a happy Christmas this and every year. May you know His peace and joy this Christmas time.
