Christmas message from Uniting Church in Australia President Rev Sharon Hollis

In her message, Rev Hollis reflects that in a season of celebration, the mood seems far from celebratory. Many in Australia are struggling to buy food to eat. Violence and suffering continue around the world. In the land of Jesus' birth we see suffering that is beyond fathoming. What does it mean to say the Prince of Peace is born? 

"The story of Jesus birth is not one that occurs in a fairy tale world of stillness and calm," says Rev Hollis. 

"Rather Jesus comes as a vulnerable baby into a precarious world, born into empire, shadowed by violence."

"His birth is the announcement by God that God wills the end of violence and suffering. Jesus is God’s way of standing in solidarity with us, arriving into all our brokenness and beauty. A herald of God’s joy, hope and peace."