May I first wish each of you, and those you love, a very Merry Christmas. 

Every Christmas Day we hear the story of the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem.

As the story in Luke goes, Jesus was born in a stable, into poverty in a part of the world that has been a scene of conflict and sectarianism long before this holy birth took place. A place that had been conquered and reconquered dozens of times. A place that had been at the whim of powerful external kingdoms and was once again. This time by the power of Rome. The Jewish people were anticipating the birth of the promised Messiah – a King who would lead God’s chosen people against the oppressor.

Yet, God’s plan for the world was not what people expected. Instead of earthly power and strength, we see our saviour born into this humble beginning. God is upending the expectations of society and revealing to us that the promised Christ is born for all people. As Jesus puts it “The first shall be last and the last shall be first.”

That God would so completely reverse the inequalities and injustices is worth celebrating each year. Except, in our Western society, our Christmas celebrations have become far more about presents, food and family than they are about the birth of Jesus.

And that is what really interests me today. Each of you reading this online has dragged your attention away from the festivities. Away from the excitement, the presents, the drinks and nibbles or even just the festive Television. To read the latest clerical waffling about the birth of Jesus. A story that I’d hazard a guess you all know really quite well.

So, my question to you is why? It is every bit as valid a question for those of you engaging with worship at a distance, or online as it is for those sitting in the pews this morning.

I’ll wager that there are a host of reasons why you might be reading this.

But there is a theme running through every single one of them.

That theme is God. God speaking to each and every one of us.

When we think of God speaking to us, we might be drawn to a great booming voice coming down from the clouds. The reading from Luke speaks of Angels appearing with singing and “the glory of the Lord” shining around them. Their song echoes that of Isaiah in the temple and demonstrates God reaching out to all people. It’s stirring stuff, and it would be hard not to miss God speaking to us if it were through the sudden appearance of a band of singing angels.

But God also speaks to us in our day to day lives. In our day to day, quietly and often without us even noticing His presence. It is that still, small voice of calm that you are more likely to hear about as a religious experience.

It could be that the reason you chose to read through this sermon, is God guiding you towards Him.

So today, as you enjoy the festivities or the chance to put your feet up, think about what made you read through this sermon and think, once again, on the story of the birth of Jesus. And consider where God may have been inviting you in.

Perhaps then, the greatest gift you’ll receive this Christmas, is the gift of faith and the light and love of our Lord Jesus Christ who was born for you.

Merry Christmas.

The Revd Iain Grant