It was the end- 80 years ago, at the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day, of the eleventh month. It was the end of the war to end all wars. After 10 000 000 dead- peace at last. Every year since, we have stopped for one minute's silence to remember the sacrifice- Remembrance Day. Lest we forget...

It was the end- 2 000 years ago, at the ninth hour on Israel's federation day. It was the end of the death to end all deaths. 'It is finished,' he said. After three hours suffering the torture of crucifixion- peace at last. 'Into your hands I give my spirit,' he said. Now we have a public holiday to remember this sacrifice- Good Friday... and a second to remember the victory over death- Easter.

Two million died and we still don't have peace with one-another. One died- do you have peace with God? ... or, for you, is Jesus 'Away in a Manger?' ... away 2 000 years ago, away in Israel, at the end of the world? What are you reminded of at Christmas? How far away you are from God?

The good news of Christmas is that Jesus is more than 'Away in a Manger.' We don't have to hide from God, because of the first Good Friday and Easter. Jesus' death, his sacrifice worked, unlike the deaths and sacrifices of so many in the first world war. Because of Jesus' death, the way to God is open. The way in a manger! There is nothing left, on God's side, to stop us returning to him forever. What is it, on your side, that is stopping you?

Why not let it be this Christmas that you make a fresh start with God?

It was the end- Christmas, this year. It was the end of living my way. 'Your will be done,' I said. After years away from God- peace at last. 'Into your hands I give my spirit,' I said. Now every day I remember Jesus' sacrifice... and I remember his gift to me of life beyond death.