The “absurd and ridiculous” pressure to have a perfect Christmas puts relationships under strain and “spoils life”, the Archbishop of Canterbury has warned. The Most Rev Justin Welby said consumerism over the festive period is now so “over the top” that couples are left arguing over money and children are shouted at. He said he would like to tell people to stop giving gifts altogether but accepts no one would listen. I want to say something positive, which is God gives us his son Jesus Christ to give us life and full life and abundant life. Giving at Christmas reflects that generosity of God. So be generous in a way that shows love and affection rather than trying to buy love and affection.” He added: “You can’t buy it, you can show it, and when you show it comes back at you with interest.” Figures last year suggested the average household spent around £1,000 on Christmas.

Pray: for more and more people to hear and live the Christmas message of the Gospels. (Mtt.6:33)

More: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/religion/10439197/Pressure-to-spend-at-Christmas-puts-families-under-too-much-strain-warns-Archbishop.html