Before the popular American version of the song "We Are the World," there was a grittier, British effort that remains powerful to me as an eloquent reminder of the true meaning of the season. It was called "Do They Know It's Christmas." It was written at the time of Ethiopian famine in 1984. It connects the good news we receive this day with our mandate to share that good news with all the world.

Here are some of the words:

"It's ChristmastimeThere's no need to be afraidAt Christmastime, we let in light and we banish shadeAnd in our world of plenty we can spread a smile of joyThrow your arms around the world at ChristmastimeBut say a prayer
Pray for the other ones...Feed the worldLet them know it's Christmastime again..."



My deep prayer is that you will receive something of the blessing of this holy day. And having done so, that you share that abundant blessing with a world in need -- a friend, a city, a world -- aching for good news, aching for food to fill hungry stomachs and hungry spirits, aching for peace and hope. The only way that the world will know it is Christmas is though our telling and sharing, through our sharing the light and feeding the world.

A joyous Christmas to you and yours.

John Wilkinson, Pastor