Richard Littledale's
Views on the News: January 2008

On recycling Christmas…

There was a time when tidying up after Christmas was a very simple affair. All wrapping paper and packaging was consigned to the bin, unwanted gifts made their way to the charity shop, the Christmas tree went to the tip and relations, to coin a phrase, returned to their homes rejoicing. Now, however, it is much more complex. Wrapping paper is separated from gift tags and placed in the paper recycling bag. Gift tags are placed with other cardboard packaging, whilst those annoying plastic blister pacs so beloved of electrical manufacturers are recycled separately. The Christmas tree, meanwhile, must muster with its companions at a relevant recycling point to be turned into garden mulch. The relations wend their way to the charity shops to enquire about extending their interest in the ethical gifts such as water or buffalo which has been bought in their name in a developing country. ALL of this is wholesome, and surely to be welcomed. At least it helps to offset some of the gross consumerism which we love to lambast over the second helping of Christmas dinner!

But what if it doesn't go far enough? Aren't there ways in which we can recycle not only Christmas gifts and cards, but Christmas words too? Think about it… What if 'peace to all men' was spoken not just in hushed tones in a church on Christmas night, but loud and clear inside our heads when entering a crowded tube train or a dangerous board meeting?

What if our respect for the wise men who sought Jesus extended beyond twelfth night, embracing all those who seek him, no matter how long their journey nor how strange their appearance? What if gazing at the stars and catching our breath at the thought that the God of heaven should come down to earth should happen every night and not just on Christmas night? Like Mary, we should learn the art of 'pondering these things, and treasuring them in her heart'. Anything this good is meant to last beyond the festive season.

The architects of the green revolution are motivated by many things. Their motives range from apocalyptic fear at one extreme, to altruistic concern for future generations at the other. Often the thing which separates them most from those whose concerns are with the hidden aspects of the spiritual life is that they have taken action! As you sort through the wrapping paper, sift the Christmas cards, and stow away the Christmas gifts, spare a thought for year-round Christmas recycling. Which Christmas words will still be motivating you this time next year?