December 10th – Advent 2020

We are very fortunate in having two members of our regular congregations who are studying on the Diocesan Foundation for Ministry Course.

Here: one of them, Nicola, reflects on one of the most influential books traditionally read, or dramatized, at this time of the year.

A favourite Christmas story of mine is that of Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol”.  Dickens wrote the story at a time of high social depravation and harsh working conditions.  Even so Scrooge’s parsimony and lack of empathy is extreme.  How could this happen?

The Ghost of Christmas Past provides an explanation.  As Scrooge looks back at past events he realises that he has been damaged by fear of being hurt by love.  Over time his heart hardened.  Without love he couldn’t relate to others and built a barrier to protect himself.  As Christians we can relate to this.  God’s love is there for us to accept and embrace.  Without letting it in we can feel and behave like Scrooge.

The Ghost of Christmas Present provides Scrooge with the opportunity to change.  He sees what is really happening in his community and what is wrong with his behaviour.   God gives us this chance to change.  If we accept God’s love, we can love people in return.  God’s love can shape our behaviour.

The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come starkly reveals Scrooge’s bleak future if he doesn’t change.  Thankfully he can finally allow love in and feel its positive change on his life.  A good ending for a Christmas story!   And what is best of all is that Jesus’ birth is a great beginning for us.