Being at home for Christmas has always been a tradition of the highest importance in our extended family. As a child, I was taken with my sister, Margaret, by my mother on the 6.00pm steam train from Flinders Street to the Gippsland town of Sale during the late forties and early fifties. On arrival we were greeted by Grandma with a hot drink and toast and jam. On Christmas day, the Collins clan with in-laws [and some outlaws?] together around a large dining room table with chicken or turkey roast a brilliant feature. Every one of the immediate family were present. Bill Pugh relates on the subject that his Uncle Basil Pugh did war service abroad until 1945 including three and a half years as a prisoner of war in Java. He was not able to “be home for Christmas” for four years. The words of a song from Bill Crosby: “I’ll be home for Christmas” strike a chord as many Australians will not be home for Christmas. Troops serving in dangerous places, families divided by living in different states, and empty seats at the table due to the death of loved ones. For most of us we should be grateful for a good meal and presents to receive. When Jesus was born there was a delayed celebration of his arrival. Joseph and Mary travelled from Nazareth to Bethlehem for the census ordered by Rome. There, Jesus was born in the stable of an inn as no other bed was available. Herod heard about this and saw the birth as a threat. Joseph had been warned that Herod was out to kill all who threatened his rule. The little family took refuge in Egypt until the threat has passed, and it was safe to return home to Nazareth. Reflection:- As we prepare for Christmas , with our own special traditions, in this blessed land of Australia, in our own homes, let us be mindful of those who will not be home, and those who have no home, May the spirit of generosity challenge us to give for others, work for peace, and the resettlement of refugees, so that those who lack shelter, or means, will be home for the next and future Christmases. May Christmas Eve beckon all to “where the love light gleams”. Geoff Serpell, adapted from a Pew Sheet by the Late Bill Pugh.
