The True Meaning of Christmas
“Let the festivities begin!” we hear before Thanksgiving preparations even start or the turkey purchased! It is the beginning of a massive birthday party—called Christmas—honoring Jesus of Nazareth. For Christians, it is generally the happiest, most joyous and eagerly anticipated time of year. Celebrations and activities include:
Whew, it can be overwhelming! In addition, racing from store to store searching for the perfect gift can be exhausting!
With all the hoopla, hubbub, and falderal do we often forget the true meaning of Jesus’ advent into human, spiritual history? Do we pause long enough during the frenzy of the season to truly appreciate how this coming of the representative of Light transformed our understanding of God and ourselves as God’s beautiful, complete expression? Jesus’ birth and life were the supreme gifts to humankind and all the holidays presents we exchange pale in comparison.
Wouldn’t Christmas be more meaningful if we spent more time contemplating Jesus’ message of Love and care for one another, then translating that into significant charitable outreach and giving? Maybe a deeper inspection of the import of the gifts brought to the nativity scene by the three wise men might illuminate the true value of thoughtful gift-giving.
The gold, frankincense, and myrrh that the Magi offered at the manger weren’t meant as baby gifts for Jesus alone, but were expressions of God’s abundant and immediate provision for this fledgling little Jewish family as they were preparing to establish their first home together. And no doubt this largess was providential for the unexpected escape to Egypt.
Great fun can be had reading stories about Santa Claus, red-nosed reindeer, and frosty snowmen to our children. However, including some quiet time with them to read and discuss the parable of the good Samaritan as illustrative of the Love Jesus encouraged us to more fully express for others—then letting them help prepare the envelopes while we right our checks to favorite charities, might be the most meaningful tradition of all!
May the Light that is the true meaning of Christmas bless you all this season and through the coming year!
“Let the festivities begin!” we hear before Thanksgiving preparations even start or the turkey purchased! It is the beginning of a massive birthday party—called Christmas—honoring Jesus of Nazareth. For Christians, it is generally the happiest, most joyous and eagerly anticipated time of year. Celebrations and activities include:
- elaborate Christmas parades
- convivial holiday parties
- family gatherings honoring longstanding traditions
- entertaining Christmas tree lightings
- carol sings
- lavishly decorated homes
- extraordinary outdoor lighting displays
- nativity pageants
- Christmas themed movies
Whew, it can be overwhelming! In addition, racing from store to store searching for the perfect gift can be exhausting!
With all the hoopla, hubbub, and falderal do we often forget the true meaning of Jesus’ advent into human, spiritual history? Do we pause long enough during the frenzy of the season to truly appreciate how this coming of the representative of Light transformed our understanding of God and ourselves as God’s beautiful, complete expression? Jesus’ birth and life were the supreme gifts to humankind and all the holidays presents we exchange pale in comparison.
Wouldn’t Christmas be more meaningful if we spent more time contemplating Jesus’ message of Love and care for one another, then translating that into significant charitable outreach and giving? Maybe a deeper inspection of the import of the gifts brought to the nativity scene by the three wise men might illuminate the true value of thoughtful gift-giving.
The gold, frankincense, and myrrh that the Magi offered at the manger weren’t meant as baby gifts for Jesus alone, but were expressions of God’s abundant and immediate provision for this fledgling little Jewish family as they were preparing to establish their first home together. And no doubt this largess was providential for the unexpected escape to Egypt.
Great fun can be had reading stories about Santa Claus, red-nosed reindeer, and frosty snowmen to our children. However, including some quiet time with them to read and discuss the parable of the good Samaritan as illustrative of the Love Jesus encouraged us to more fully express for others—then letting them help prepare the envelopes while we right our checks to favorite charities, might be the most meaningful tradition of all!
May the Light that is the true meaning of Christmas bless you all this season and through the coming year!
