We come to the darkest time of the year, a month with the shortest day, and then mornings get still darker. Short days, cold nights, little light can all lead us to feeling we have nothing to look forward to.

Christmas speaks to us of hope - the light that shines in the darkness - the baby in the manger showing us that God loves us and is with us even in the darkest of times.

However you may find yourself this Christmas, know that you are loved and share that love with everyone you meet – and laugh as much as you can. Laughter, as the saying goes, is the best medicine!

May God who has called us out of darkness into his marvellous light, bless us and fill us with peace. Amen