A merry little Christmas?

Photo by Sarah Johnston on Unsplash

Christmas is coming. After weeks of speculation, in less than a week we will soon find out exactly what a COVID Christmas looks like. Government policy and personal plans continue to change in response to the reality of rising cases and increased rates of infection. The run up to Christmas Day 2020 has been marked by anxiety rather than anticipation. A merry little Christmas seems the best that can be hoped for at such a time as this.

Much has changed in this year of pandemic. Loss of one kind or another has affected every home, every family, every community. Death and disease have been an ever present reality. Loneliness and isolation have touched us all. The world of work has altered beyond recognition. Keyworkers have been stretched to their limits while others have experienced enforced idleness. Merriment seems somehow inappropriate at such a time as this.

Amid the ongoing public debate about what can or should be done about Christmas, churches everywhere are preparing to welcome the Christ Child. Carols may be sung - outside and socially distanced. The Christmas Story will be shared online, at home, and, in church for those able to get out. Nothing will be as it was last year but, one way or another, the Christmas message will once again offer hope, love, peace, and joy to the world in 2020.