Chris Cole FRSA

The story concerning Baby P is harrowing for any person who has as a sense of decency and concern for a fellow human being.

According to the media, a little baby born in March 2006 endured the most horrendous emotional and physical abuse including eight broken ribs and a broken back. He was defenceless and vulnerable and should have been safe in his mother's care, but this little soul suffered greatly before he succumbed and died.

Many would say where was God within the plight of this little life? It's a reasonable question, but not reasonably answered, because life isn't reasonable or fair. For many people of faith, life is a battle between good and evil and the 'freedom of choice' to make right and wrong decisions within our 'free will'.

Some say a society is judged by the way it treats its children and this particular story seems to just be one amongst a host of similar stories currently being played out within the media.

The media will demand answers because that is what the media does. The media, through good journalism, asks the questions we're all thinking and acts as our conscience on occasions. The current question is "who was to blame?" The mother and her live in boyfriend? The social workers? Who?

As I have said before, the unsung heroes are those within our society who help produce the services and care which fortifies the stability of our communities and civilised society. Social workers are amongst these caring members of our community.

As society seems to disintegrate with the breakdown of accountability within our family structures, it is easy to look for simple answers and blame those who have the responsibility to respond. "One bad apple can ruin the whole barrel" is a common saying, but we shouldn't fall into the trap of thinking that if we identify a bad apple that all the other apples are bad. It is the responsibility for all of us to ensure that we govern our spheres of influence, whether we're in the police, medical or political sphere of public service, with a corporate voice of care and reason.

Most civilised human beings will understand the importance of morality, character, love and free will. As a Christian, I understand that one day I will have to give an account to God Almighty when I die for the life he has given me. I also understand that in a relationship with Jesus Christ, I have experienced incredible forgiveness (and continue to do so) for my own wrong doings and sin. God gives us a great sense of peace and security within this amazing spiritual transaction of Grace.

Another vulnerable child was born 2,000 years ago. He was born to die thirty three years later and through his death released a power which laid a foundation for the civilisation we enjoy in the first world. When we depart from his faith as a Nation, there are consequences for that Nation.

As we face increased insecurity, let's remember the real meaning of Christmas and find the true meaning of life.

This article was originally published in the Plymouth Shopper, a group of 7 localised community newspapers produced by Cornerstone Vision, reaching 62,000 homes every month in Plymouth. Each edition carries positive news stories and features, and provides local businesses, community groups and organisations with a very localised media platform to reach their own area.