It’s got to that time of year again. The Christmas lights are up, the days feel much shorter, Christmas parties are taking place, and children are getting more excited with each passing day.
But Christmas is so much more than this too. At a time when life can feel hectic and there’s no shortage of distractions, Christmas gives us the chance to pause, meet up with friends and family, reflect, and give thanks for our Lord Jesus Christ. Because it was his coming that brought love, hope, joy, and comfort.
And that message of love, hope, joy and comfort that Jesus can bring to us feels more important than ever before. The world feels more dangerous than ever, and whilst our Christmases in Burnley and Padiham will feel like a celebration, in other parts of the world it will be far less so.
Earlier this year I hosted Volodymyr Kreidenko, a Ukrainian MP. This Christmas he and his countrymen will continue in their fight for survival, as the conflict edges closer to the two year mark.
And around the world Christians continue to face persecution. The organisation Open Doors has been working to tackle Christian persecution for more than 70 years, and it is now a major priority for our own Foreign Office, but there are still millions this year who cannot celebrate as they would like. But that message of hope and love will prevail.
Closer to home though, Christmas shows our area in all its glory. The supermarket shelves are jam packed, lights are up outside, the shops are bustling, families are meeting up for coffees and hot chocolates, and seeing our town centres thriving has been wonderful (despite the roadworks (which I’m raising!)).
So, to all those who make it happen, from our emergency service workers who will be on shift on Christmas day, to those in retail who help Santa and his elves (and everyone in between), thank you!
Finally, whilst Christmas is a happy time for many in our borough, there are some who will struggle. Small things, like checking in on a neighbour or friend just for 5 minutes on Christmas Day, might make all the difference. And for those who are alone, there are a wealth of services out there to help including Age UK’s Silver Line (0800 470 8090), SSAFA for armed forces personnel and veterans (0800 260 6767) and the Samaritans (116 123).
Wishing everyone across Burnley, Padiham and all our surrounding villages a very Merry Christmas! Antony.
