Christmas Reflection

A shining light
Canon Philip Hobday

How many things in your home give off light?  As well as electric lights and lamps, you probably have domestic appliances, clocks, the television, not to mention smartphones and other devices, maybe even a candle or two …

We take light for granted, so the imagery of light at Christmas may pass us by.  We easily miss the power in the star beaming bright in the sky, the angels filling the horizon with their shining glory, and St John’s poetic imagery of the light which shines in the darkness.  Yet the wise men were struck by the brightness of the star which illuminated their journey; the shepherds were in awe at the light which surrounded them.

So just for a moment, try and hold on to the strength of this image.  For just as the star and the angels literally set the night sky alight, St John understood that the Lord brought a spiritual and moral light which clarified our questions and doubts and showed us how to know God and ourselves.  Christmas points us to the true light which makes sense of all our struggles and questions, which guides us through this life and into the next, which we find only in the Baby of Bethlehem who shows us who God is and who, with God’s help, each of us could be.

Finally, this last reflection of the year gives us a good chance say a huge thank you to everyone who makes possible the work of the Cathedral through the year, with your prayer, time in volunteering, attending services, and financial support.  And all of the Cathedral clergy and staff would like to thank you for your prayer, support, and encouragement this year, and wish you a happy and joyful Christmas.

With prayers and best wishes,
Philip