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Good morning.  In these days, shopping centres resound with Christmas music. The Salvation Army plays its part and many recall words not often used, yet still remembered. One of my favourite carols begins: 'We three Kings of Orient are' - words that lent themselves to childhood playfulness.

The words are rich in association: the grandeur of the camels, the ‘ships of the desert’, the regal bearing of the kings, their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh: both romantic and ominous!

Among the Christmas visitors to my childhood home was one who fitted this figure of a King. He rejoiced in the title 'uncle' though he wasn't one really. His arrival never went unnoticed for he was certainly grand both in bearing and opinion and he liked to hold court, late into the night. But he was kind and brought his gifts with a type of regal courtesy and humility.

It takes all sorts to make a family. Some are indeed kindly; others throw their weight around and that can make life difficult. Indeed Christmas can bring out the worst in us all.  Family squabbles break out. Sometimes, sadly, there can be a walk-out, too.

As I place the Kings into the crib, I think not only of lovely eccentric uncles, but also of those who mistakenly think they are owed deference and submission. But looking closely at these kings, I see that true kingship lies in service and in generosity.

Lord God, you wanted your Son, born in poverty, to share our vulnerability. Keep love fresh in our hearts, with a readiness to accept and forgive the awkward squad. May these days of Christmas be free of antagonism and marked by small steps of healing.  Amen.