In her annual Christmas address, Britain’s Queen Elizabeth encouraged listeners to have hope in the midst of the darkness in the world.
According to Charisma News, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch quoted the Bible and spoke of hope amidst the darkness in her Christmas message.
"It is true," she said, "that the world has had to confront moments of darkness this year, but the Gospel of John contains a verse of great hope, often read at Christmas carol services: 'The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.'"
Though the world has faced terror attacks and other acts of violence, the Queen, who is 89-years-old, reminded her listeners that Christianity’s unchanging message “was not one of revenge or violence but simply that we should love one another.”
The Queen also reflected on her long life and long rule over Britain.
"One of the joys of living a long life is watching one's children, then grandchildren, then great-grandchildren, help decorate the Christmas tree. And this year my family has a new member to join the fun,” she said, referring to her fifth great-grandchild, Princess Charlotte, who was born in May to her grandson Prince William and his wife Kate.
The Queen concluded her message with an admonition to be thankful. "There are millions of people lighting candles of hope in our world today. Christmas is a good time to be thankful for them and for all that brings light to our lives."
Publication date: December 29, 2015
