At this time of the year postmen deliver lots of parcels, and little children receive them eagerly, tearing open the wrapping to see what's inside.

Colourful parcels are handled by people sitting in circles, who pass them on whenever the music plays. On the other hand, suspicious parcels are handled by bomb disposal experts, who blow them up indiscriminately if their origin is in any doubt.

Jesus Christ once said "Anyone who will not receive the Kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it" (Mark 10:15)

Christmas comes to us like a parcel. Because its sender is God we can handle it safely. It won't harm us. We have no cause to blow it up or pass it on. We are free to unwrap it and explore its message … receiving the Kingdom of God like little children.

All the church family at St Giles', St George's and The Lanes wish you a very Happy Christmas on this, the 2000th birthday of Jesus Christ.