Back in October, the nights drawing-in held a sense of excitement. In the dark, the campfire and candles at All Hallows’ Eve brought us together. Even the cold was welcome – while the fire crackled, hot chocolate warmed us, and stories were shared: unhurried companionship offering a different kind of light in the darkness. But maybe the dancing shadows of the half-light were just as important: giving permission to hang back, not rush in, and see what might develop.
Now, the lights of Christmas beckon. Northstowe’s new community is eager to start new traditions as we put down roots: lighting up our first Christmas Tree; singing our first Carols around it. There too, perhaps, the lights will spread into half shadows, balancing welcome and ‘space to belong’ with ‘when you are ready.’
And perhaps that balance is there in the Christmas story too – the vulnerable baby proclaimed as the Light of the World, born, not in the bright lights of the royal palace, but the half shadows of Bethlehem.
So this Christmas season; where might you find such in-between space? Perhaps one of these ideas will offer the ‘dancing shadow’s that you need as you find your place in this new community:
• Get some fresh air or find a quiet spot at some point on Christmas Day to give yourself time to reflect on the need of the world for the love and peace that Jesus promises; and how growing love and peace takes time.
• Light a candle for those for whom Christmas is a difficult or sad time; or join the Blue Christmas in Swavesey on December 23rd
• Hide in the candlelight at the Longstanton midnight service on Christmas Eve, or behind a croissant at Northstowe’s Christmas Day breakfast, and reflect on the Christian belief that Jesus’ birth means God is with us in the shadows as well as the light.
• Or perhaps simply make time for sharing simple presents slowly, together. rather than rushing. Take time to enjoy each other’s pleasure, and be in the moment.
Revd Beth Cope is the Anglican minister at Pathfinder Church, Northstowe. www.northstowe.church