Comfort and Joy

There does come a moment, when after all our Christmas preparations, we can do no more and have simply to stop. For many that moment comes at the end of the day on Christmas Eve.

Today’s generosity story comes from Naomi in Bristol. Naomi remembers a time in her childhood when her family showed hospitality to stranger, who in return brought joy into the hearts of a struggling poor family.

There is something glorious about Christmas. The music and wonder of Carol Services and Midnight Mass offer moments that lift our hearts and touch our lives.

Today’s generosity story comes from Kerry, a Community Pastor at St Paul’s Church in Salisbury. Kerry offers an inspirational story of a community coming together to support those in need during the national lockdown.

It’s the Fourth Sunday of Advent, and it might just feel like everything is about ready for Christmas, but in fact the story is just beginning and one of the central characters moves to centre stage: Mary, mother of Jesus.

Today’s generosity story comes from the Reverend Christopher Johnson in Leicester. In his story he tells us about an act of remarkable generosity that happens at his church every Christmas.

Introduced to the Church of England over 50 years ago by The Children’s Society, Christingle services are beloved traditions in many churches and schools across the country.

After the year we have all lived through, the light and hope symbolised in the Christingle is needed more than ever.

Today’s generosity story comes from Liz in Truro. Liz tells us how she experienced generosity through prayer when undergoing treatment for a brain tumour.

As Advent unfolds, John the Baptist emerges to confront us with a challenge and to point us to next steps on the journey.

The question he asks us today, is the same as he asked in his lifetime; how are you preparing to celebrate the coming of Jesus?

Today’s reflection is written and read by Simon Thomas, author, podcaster, and ex-Blue Peter & Sky Sports presenter.

In today’s generosity story we are reminded of the importance of a thank you and how those words can bring so much joy to those who receive them.