It’s that time of year again and I find my diary full of carol services and nativity plays – even more so this year as the ice and frost have caused many to be delayed so they have piled up.

Hardly a day goes by without another play or service, with angels and shepherds and wise men in ever more glorious costumes gathering around the straw-filled manger.

We had a superb one in Stanford-le-Hope last Sunday with Thurrock Spectrum Brass, infant schools and a Town Crier.

Everything went so well and on cue that it was only as the artificial snow blew across the Green to herald the coming of Santa Claus that I realised what was missing. There was no baby Jesus!

Someone usually remembers to bring a dolly wrapped up in a shawl to lay in the crib. One year we even had a live baby Jesus. But not this time. The central character of the story was missing!

Some would say “how typical!” and remind me of how materialism and commercialism have driven Christ so far out of Christmas that all we have left is M&S! Jesus is increasingly left out of what is supposed to be the celebration of His birth.

On the other hand – why not? If we can keep Jesus as a baby, safe in a cradle, then how are we ever going to know Him as He is today?

Sure, He was born in Bethlehem 2010 years ago, but today He reigns as King of kings and Lord of lords! Didn’t you realise? He grew up, like all babies do and now He’s a man. A man with an outstretched and nail-pierced hand, reaching out to you – at Christmas and all year through.

Join me in celebrating this most wonderful time, but as they put the babe in the manger remember this is only a reflection of the One who lives: Jesus, your saviour and your friend. Happy Christmas everyone! – John.