‘All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.’ John 1.3-5
It’s Christmas time and Christmas lights are shining round us. Fairy lights hang in the streets, lights glow on trees and decorations glimmer on houses.
At Christmas we celebrate light. We remember that the light of the world was born into a dark stable. A small baby, tucked in bands of cloth and laid in a manger, came to shine light into a broken and hurting world.
We’re reminded of this at Christingle services. When we see a church filled with flickering candles, we remember Jesus, light of the world, and the promise of his coming at Christmas. A Christingle service is an opportunity for churches to come together and to remember the light of Christ, and the hope he brings. It’s an opportunity to remember those for whom Christmas isn’t filled with hope, particularly the vulnerable young people in our communities.
Money raised at Christingle goes to The Children’s Society, who support young people who aren’t safe, aren’t loved or can’t cope. This Christmas, some children are caught in dark situations, feeling isolated or alone. Many will run away from home. And yet we know that God’s heart is for young, vulnerable teenagers. We think of Mary, and how God used her to bring new life, the light of all people, into the world.
Thank you so much to those of you who have helped to shine a light into the lives of young people by supporting us at your local Christingle service. You are helping to give children the promise of a brighter future.
For more information about how you can make a difference, visit www.childrenssociety.org.uk/christmas
By Esther Elliott, Engagement Officer for the Children’s Society
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