Christmas Message From Mairi

Do you feel stuck? I am writing in November, the month when everything can feel regressive. But I don’t think true doom and gloom cares much for the calendar. We can get stuck in a doom and gloom loop at any time.

A recent article heading caught my attention – ‘Why 2025 is predicted to be the worst year ever’. It felt melodramatic but it still resonated with me. Without doubt we’re living in a difficult generation.

We’re surrounded by societal and environmental challenges, economic uncertainties, geopolitical tensions and technology-related concerns. To this reality, we can add our personal struggles.

It would be good to undo the feeling of being stuck in doom and gloom – to break free – but how do we do it? Secular solutions abound – we know them well – get more sleep, eat better, have a digital detox, connect with others.

These activities all help – of course they do – but are they enough to regain our momentum?

The calendar has a blessing up its sleeve right now, for any doom and gloom feelings we may be experiencing – Advent.

I plan to create sacred spaces in my busyness during the coming weeks, to really think about Advent hope, peace, joy and love.

I’ve already been thinking about Advent joy. Philippians 4:4 says, Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again – rejoice!

This is a call to faith, isn’t it? If we believe our lives are in the hands of a sovereign, wise and loving God who’s always working to accomplish good, we can indeed rejoice always.

‘Always’ suggests no matter what is going on and regardless of circumstances, joy can be ours.

Thinking beyond the expectations of Advent to our Christmas celebrations, I would like to wish you and those you love, all the joys of Christmas, too.

Mairi Johnstone, CEO