The image I’ve chosen for this year’s Christmas cards is the picture of the Zimbabwean Madonna and Child carving that stands proudly on the windowsill in my study. Looking at it causes me to imagine Mary treasuring in her heart all the things that have been said to her about her child by those first visitors—scatty shepherds and royal kings. Jesus, her son, is secure in her arms gazing out at the world he loves so very much. His eyes are filled with hope that his kingdom of peace will come on earth as it is in heaven.

It’s Mary’s hands that always capture my attention when I look at them. They’re the strong and protective hands of a mama bear but at the same time the tender and gentle hands of a new parent filled with wonder and amazement at the gift of their........

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