Well, in the White House (the one in Coventry, not Washington DC) we're almost ready for Christmas. Cards are written and posted, presents are bought and wrapped, the tree is up, the house is festively bedecked. The school "nativity" play has been attended (don't get me started on political correctness and the replacement of the traditional Christmas story with Ralph the Reindeer), and today is the final day of school, which means Sarah has almost a whole week at home by herself with two increasingly excited children!
Today, which has apparently been christened "Mad Friday" in honour of the number of work Christmas parties which will be happening today is also the day of my work Christmas do, although thankfully that is going to be a relatively civilised meal this afternoon, with plenty of opportunity to escape before the "madness" truly begins.
This weekend sees the church wrapping Christmas presents on Saturday in Coventry, and of course the "real" Childrens Nativity and the traditional Carol Service on Sunday... Which just leaves packing next week, for the mad dash around the country that is our Christmas this year. The Whites are well and truly ready for Christmas, in no small part (actually, in a very great part) due to Sarah's ceaseless efforts.
But actually, am I really ready for Christmas. With all this busyness, and it has been incredibly busy, have I actually had the time to stop and prepare myself for Christmas? Not in terms of the trappings and fun of the big event, but have I stopped to truly think through the implications of what we're celebrating? Have I really considered the true nature of the baby born in Bethlehem that night? Maybe if I do that, I'll be a bit more ready for what comes next...
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Christmas is Really for the Children
by Steve Turner
Christmas is really for the children.
Especially for children who like animals, stables, stars and babies wrapped in swaddling clothes.
Then there are wise men, kings in fine robes, humble shepherds and a hint of rich perfume.
Easter is not really for the children unless accompanied by a cream filled egg.
It has whips, blood, nails, a spear and allegations of body snatching.
It involves politics, God and the sins of the world.
It is not good for people of a nervous disposition.
They would do better to think on rabbits, chickens and the first snowdrop of spring.
Or they'd do better to wait for a re-run of Christmas
Without asking too many questions about what Jesus did when he grew up or whether there's any connection.
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