Dear All,
I’m sorry but I must confess that I am not a great fan of going Christmas shopping. Don’t get me wrong, I really don’t mind buying gifts for people! It’s just the process of procurement that I find challenging! Thankfully, the retailers do their very best to encourage us in our noble endeavours! And the story and message of one Christmas advert this year has caught my attention.
The advert from John Lewis has a moving story. You may have seen it or you may wish to head to YouTube right now and watch it there before I tell you what happens here! Titled The Gifting Hour, this year’s advert follows the journey of a woman named Sally who goes to John Lewis in Oxford Street on a mission to find the perfect Christmas gift for her sister, Lauren. As the clock ticks down to closing time, Sally embarks on a sentimental journey through their shared memories, beginning with their childhood, then moving through teenage years filled with laughter and disagreements, and finally to more mature moments, including the birth of Lauren’s child. The story’s emotional depth builds as Sally recalls key moments that defined their bond. At one point, Sally is transported into memories of a child version of Lauren, highlighting their deep connection. The end of the advert delivers a powerful punch, with Sally finally finding the ideal gift and reuniting with her sister outside the store, exchanging a hug and the simple but profound words: “What took you so long?” to which Sally replies, “You did.” Here, the short story ends and up comes the message: ‘The gifting hour is here' with the subtitle, ‘The secret to finding the perfect gift? Knowing where to look.’
We’ll no doubt be aware that John Lewis has developed a good reputation for its Christmas adverts and they usually leave us emotionally moved. This year’s advert continues in this tradition and reminds the viewers that the true spirit of Christmas is found in the act of giving, and not just in a physical gift, but in the love and memories shared with those closest to us. As Advent begins and we start our journey towards Christmas, it looks like this retailer has not only advertised its goods with style but has also prompted us to reflect on key aspects of the true meaning of this season: love, relationships, and the joy of giving. The message of this story certainly resonates with me although I must confess that this advert will not lead me to love being in crowded shops! But what it does do is remind me of the joy found in giving to those we love and value. And isn’t this to be our way of life that goes way beyond giving to just our closest relatives at Christmas?
Of course, in living this way, not just at Christmas but throughout the year, we live out not the message of a department store advert, but the message of the most moving and best ever story. John the Apostle tells us of this story: ‘God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.’ Thankfully, when it comes to perfect gifts, we know exactly where to look! We thank God for his gift of Jesus, given to us, given for us. This is why we celebrate Christmas. This is why we praise him as we do. This is why we live to joyfully give so that our lives will reflect God’s heart, draw others to his love and bring him honour and glory.
Wishing you a joyful and peaceful Christmas.
With much love,
