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A spiritual comment and prayer to begin the day with The Right Reverend John Arnold, Bishop of Salford

Good morning.

The way we would normally celebrate at Christmas stands in stark contrast to the events of that first Christmas. Even in these times of Covid restrictions, we are probably hoping to meet at least some family and friends, exchange presents, feast and enjoy some luxuries. How different for Mary and Joseph. It was in these days that they have travelled from Nazareth to Bethlehem – a journey required because of the need to register in a census imposed by the occupying Roman authorities. Mary is in the final stages of her pregnancy and travelling all those miles on a donkey could not have been comfortable – indeed it was dangerous. They are far from home and far from their wider family.

There was no pre-booking of a place to stay and, when they arrived in Bethlehem, the only shelter offered was a stable. But at least the innkeeper was kind enough to offer that space to them. In human terms there was so little to celebrate. Yes, the baby is born safely but there is no-one there to celebrate or to reassure. No way of telling grandparents that the baby was safe and well. Mary trusts in God’s promise – as she has trusted since the angel spoke to her of that promise all those months ago. She lives with a convinced hope that all will be well.

Faced with so many troubles in our world: the Covid pandemic, Climate Change, the plight of refugees and the victims of conflict, we renew that trust that says that, with Your help, Lord, we can create a better world for all our brothers and sisters. We celebrate your coming among us, to help and guide us.

Amen.