There is something about Christmas that brings people together. Do you remember the 2012 Olympics? The whole nation seemed to be united behind our team as for once they were competing in our own country. What about the Euros last year when we beat Germany? Everyone was together, united around the same cause. Christmas is just like that. We’re all looking forward to the same thing, all buying presents and putting up trees. People seem just that little bit happier and more generous; united around the same event.
Christians throughout the world are united in a powerful way by Christmas: it’s when Jesus became one of us - God with us. From his first day on earth, he was on a journey to the cross that would lead to the salvation of the world. The way to heaven was opened by Jesus when he rose again. It’s an amazing story, and it began in a stable all those years ago.
Have you ever wondered what heaven is like? Imagine the best thing you can think of: peace, joy, England beating Germany on penalties… Imagine that going on forever! Christmas was the start of Jesus’ journey on earth; a journey that meant that everyone was able to join him in heaven forever.
May you meet Jesus this Christmas, and follow him on a journey that leads to heaven. Amen.