大象传媒

Good morning.

In the days leading up to Christmas the Bible message focused upon how聽聽 God has reached out to humanity, but now, immediately afterwards comes a series of festivals telling how humans have responded in thanksgiving to God.

Boxing Day is the feast of Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr: The New Testament tells that he was one of the first deacons of the church - those whose ministry was all about serving others, especially the vulnerable.

Stephen was not only generous in service, but also courageous in defending his faith, even to the point of losing his life. His last recorded words echo the words of Jesus from the cross, praying for forgiveness for those who were about to kill him.聽

The name 鈥淏oxing Day鈥� has many possible origins, but it鈥榮 often believed to be derived from the custom of churches opening their collection boxes for the poor and distributing the funds to those in need in Stephen鈥檚 memory. This tradition was later extended to include householders making a gift to servants and trades-people to thank them for their hard work during the year.

These practices continue today in the gifts offered by some as a 鈥淐hristmas Box鈥� to those whose efforts may sometimes be overlooked, such as those who deliver the post, empty bins or clean windows. Others get involved in charitable events today, raising money and awareness for good causes.

Boxing Day offers a beautiful opportunity, for those of us who鈥檝e received so much, to take time to thank those who look after us and extend good-will by making an effort to reach out to any who are in need.

Generous God, thank you for the witness of Stephen.聽 Open our eyes to notice any to whom we might express gratitude today. Help us to make our thankfulness incarnate in the way we live and respond to others. Amen聽聽