There is an ancient tradition which views the gifts the wise men bring to Jesus not in the sense of the Christmas presents we usually give, but more in the sense of handing something over, in the same way the IRA handed over their weapons to be decommissioned. Gold was the false god, given as a reward for services rendered. Frankincense suggested the mystique which gave a priestly caste, or “those in the know”, power. Myrrh symbolized the deference due to those who are believed to have control of the afterlife. As such, these “gifts” were the tools of the magi's trade, symbols of an astrologer's life. And they are laid at Jesus' feet because they are being abandoned by the wise men; wise men who have recognized a new reality and now wish to worship the one, true God.

The beginning of a new year is always a good time to reflect, both on the last year with its highs and lows, and how we may want to shape things for the future. Put another way, what things do we need to discard at the feet of the Christ-child, and what things do we need to take up in order to become closer to God? What things can we do, whether individually or within our community, to enable our lives to become more like those God wishes them to be?

There is a danger that such reflections, though useful, can become rather abstract, so here is a short exercise you may find helpful. Indeed, regular readers of this column will know that it is an exercise I have encouraged you to do before, but it remains something which, at the beginning of the year, can help focus our hopes and dreams for the year ahead and provide three resolutions which, if kept, can make a real difference.

First, think for a moment about that spiritual side of life: your own relationship with God, the divine, whatever you want to call it. Think about it now, and think about how you would like it to be in a year's time. It may be you don't have a relationship with God but would like one. It may be you don't get on with church. Don't worry! There are many ways to meet and share with God beyond church. It may simply be making sure you have five minutes every day to be still and quiet. It could be through choosing and reading a suitable book. It could be through watching a film and reflecting on the issues it raises. It could be anything, really, that allows you to reach beyond yourself and catch a glimpse of the love which is God. Maybe you simply want to resolve to find whatever it is that will help you make that connection. Whatever it might be, think of one thing that you could do to develop your spiritual life and write it down.

Now think about the community in which you live. Think about it now, and think about how you would like it to be in a year's time. If you are so minded, share your thoughts with God. Together with him, think of one practical thing that you could do to help the community get there. Write it down.

Finally, think about the world at large. Think about it now, and think about how you would like it to be in a year's time. Share your thoughts with God and, together with him, think of one thing that you could do to help move the world in that direction. Given the world's problems, it may seem like a drop in the ocean. Nonetheless, write it down.

You now have three resolutions – three positive things that you can do to enable you, the local community and the world all to move forward. It may not seem like much but the world we live in is changed far more by many people doing a little, than by a few people doing a lot. Now pin your resolutions on the wall, or put them in your wallet. Look at them from time to time to remind you what you have pledged to do – and then do it. And may you, and all those you love, have a blessed and peaceful 2012!

God bless!

Jonathan

Jonathan writes a monthly column for the Woodstock and Bladon News. This is his contribution to the January issue.