The 26th December is traditionally known as Boxing Day. This is the day after Christmas Day and has it’s Christian origins as the day when alms that had been collected in boxes in churches were distributed to the parishioners. It is also St Stephen’s Day and so, as a saint’s day is associated with charitable giving.
From the Middle Ages onwards Boxing Day was the day that employers gave gifts to their employees, who themselves had a day off work to visit their own families and take gifts. In more modern times it has been seen as a day when gifts are given to those who are part of service to the public without being directly employed by them.
However, a lot of people possibly think of Boxing Day as a day of frantic shopping for cheaper bargains – some people even buying decorations and gifts for next year at reduced prices! (Not my idea of fun!)
This year we have so many people in our society who may be in need. There are men and women who work for the rail companies, NHS staff, Post Office delivery personnel asking for better working conditions and remuneration. Whatever you feel about the recent strikes and their demands, the fact is that some of the people who help to keep us in touch with each other and care for us when we are unwell are struggling, having to use foodbanks and rely on charity.
Perhaps rather than rushing out to the Boxing Day sales, we can revisit the traditions of giving on St Stephen’s Day and the original meaning behind Boxing Day.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we have just celebrated your coming to earth in human form as the greatest gift we could receive. As we acknowledge all that you have given us let us remember that you came to serve the poor, and in return give what we can to those in need at this time. AMEN