It was heartening and refreshing to read the editorial Putting Christ Back Into Our Lives on Christmas Eve.

The author is to be thanked for its unequivocal challenge to re-order our priorities and let the historic, biblical Christ step out of the sidelines of sentiment into this rightful place as Lord of our personal and national lives.

If it is possible that just one good thing could come out of the indescribably heart-breaking effects of the tsunami, it must surely be the recognition that, beyond question, we are only stewards of our planet, not its master. So should we not - as individuals and families, priest and politician alike, all of us - continue this new year with at least enough humility to pray?

Pray for wisdom to tackle our problems responsibly and creatively.

For courage to implement changes where needful.

For unselfishness that we may be better, more caring people.

For faith that we may remain hopeful despite difficulties.

For forgiveness that we may not have prayed like this before.

We will then, indeed, be making room for Christ and this influence will be felt among us through the difference in our lives.