After the tradgic events of this weekend I wonder if St Andrew’s Day might take on a new meaning for many in Glasgow ? Certainly, "Black Friday"  will have a completely different significance. Traditionally in America, where the term originated,  it refers to  the Friday after Thanksgiving Day.  The reason being, it has become the busiest day in the year, especially for traders. When the 29th November comes the red balances in the books of many traders turns to black, as shoppers spend. Thus in this context  "Black Friday" has a very positive meaning.

Here in Scotland however, the 29th November will go down for many years as one of the saddest days in our most recent history.  Friday 29 November 2013 at 10.25 pm was  truly a moment of darkness into which many  have been plunched, leaving them  searching for meaning, while at the same time struggling, wondering if they will ever recover.

At the last count eight people have been killed and many more seriously injured. It all happened  when a helicopter fell out of the sky landing through the roof of the Clutha Vaults a well known bar where writers and musicians often meet up.

It’s such a chilling thought to comprehend. How devastating it must be for those who are seeking to find some words of comfort in the midst of all this as the rest of the world prepares for Christmas.  No words are adequate  to console the broken hearted.

Yet it is in fact suffering and loss that Christmas actually addresses. The real point of the Christmas message is that God is not distant and remote. God has come to us in Christ to be with us in our darkest moments. The reality of what I’m trying to express  can only be experienced first hand. The human chain, the common touch, are all prayers put into action. God among us.

Those who mourn are not looking for religious clap trap. The words of the prophet Jeremiah  with a little adjustment say it all at this time.  This is what the LORD says:

"A voice is heard in Clyde Street, mourning and great weeping, Andrew weeping for his children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.” (Jeremiah 31.15 )