Bishop Stephen Cottrell’s Do Nothing ... Christmas is Coming: An Advent Calendar with a Difference is a book of sound Christmas advice; I intend to open a page a day! In his preface, Cottrell claims that ‘we are running up the down escalator of the 24/7 culture and can’t help feeling that there must be another way.’ And if you’ve already started fretting about writing your cards, or shopping for those ‘must have’ presents, you know he’s right.

I know he’s right. But as a minister, I think, why has this Bishop got the answers when I too am caught up in the season’s rush – both religious and secular. So I read on – and find the Bishop makes an admission! ‘I haven’t got life worked out, and I certainly haven’t got Christmas worked out’ he says. That is a relief; if a Bishop needs help, there is hope for me! ‘It is’, he goes on, ‘one of the most joyful times of the year.’ I agree; I love midnight communion, and the traditional carols announcing Christ’s birth. But, says Cottrell, ‘It is laden with expectations. It is overtaken with grief.’ We end up trying to run up the down escalator. So what is the other way? Here are some of his suggestions.

• Dare to find some time to stop and be still, if only for a few minutes. Ask what truly brings you joy ... how could this become part of your Christmas celebration?

• Do you know anyone who might be alone this Christmas? What could you do to offer them company?

• Christmas is often the time when families get together and often the time when they fall apart. Spend a few moments each day praying for your family. ... Pour some goodwill into them.

I hope that through the carols, prayers and meditations of this season, you may be able to stop and be still, not feel alone but be one with others sensing the joy the Christ child brings, as well as remembering those parts of the family who are hurting at Christmas. Perhaps then, rather than the rush, you will find yourself transported up the up escalator and will find that other way that is the peace, joy and hope of the birth of Jesus.