The Anglican Archbishop of Sydney has described Christmas as a time for reconciliation and has urged people to be reconciled with God and their neighbours.

Dr Jensen has delivered his last Christmas message as Archbishop. He retires in mid-2013.

“Fundamentally, we are out of sorts with God, we are trying to escape from him. But God loved the world and sent his only Son, Jesus Christ. He draws near to us with mercy and forgiveness. The message of Christmas is - Be reconciled to God through his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Dr Jensen also spoke of the current state of reconciliation in Australia.

“Reconciliation is a big theme for us Aussies. Notably we need to be reconciled with each other; not least, we more recent immigrant settlers with our indigenous First People” the Archbishop said. “Reconciliation has to flow out of love. The Bible says we should love our neighbours and that means seeking to live at peace with them and to fix up quarrels. Love unites us. Hatred separates us. But justice is in there too. Reconciliation depends on justice being done.”

Archbishop Jensen also referred to relationship stress during the Christmas period, which, he said, could also be an opportunity. “Because of what God has done, Christmas is a great time to fix up the feuds and quarrels and hatreds which divide us. Are you going to follow God’s way this Christmas? Then be reconciled to him and be reconciled to your neighbours.”