Light and Hope

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

TBah, Humbug! The phrase was made famous by Ebeneezer Scrooge in Charles Dicken's 1843 novel "A Christmas Carol". It was his catchcry of outrage and disgust over the many traditions of Christmas, and the things which bring people happiness at that time of year. In the book, Scrooge is visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future, and he is confronted with his disdain for Christmas. Throughout the novel, Scrooge's cold heart is transformed to one of warmth and innocent goodwill again.

However, while the novel certainly contains many 'feel good' images, it also presents us with pictures of darkness, death, and despair. And it is well worth reminding ourselves that, while Christmas is certainly a wonderful time of warmth and goodwill, there are many who face it with apprehension.

As Christians, we know the reason for the warmth and goodwill stems from God, who sent our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, to save the world. We ought always remember that, and especially at Christmas. But as we remember God's great saving act, we ought to remember why we needed saving; namely, because we lived in the darkness, despair, and death, brought on by sin. Remembering where we've come from makes the present celebration all the more meaningful, and gives us a strong excitement about the certain future laid out for us.

But let us focus on the present for just a moment – and while Christmas is a time to celebrate our personal joy, this year we cannot help but be struck by larger events in the world around us. This Sunday, as we head into the Christmas week, we will take some time to pray for those affected by last weeks tragedy at Bondi. We will join other churches in using some specific prayers written for this time, and used at St Andrew’s Cathedral.

​It is a week of many emotions, and as we contemplate dark moments, we are reminded of the light and hope that only the good news of Jesus can offer.

In Christ’s Love,

Craig Olliffe, Senior minister