Christmas is celebrated and enjoyed not just by adherents of
Christianity but even those that are outside of it. There is something unique
about it that many are enthralled by its significance. While for us, Christian
believers, it is about the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. Let us set aside for
a moment the many controversies about celebrating it during wintertime but focus
instead of its value to us: the coming of the Immanuel, “God with us” our
Savior, in human form.
What are expected of us as Christian believers in relation
to Christmas? How should we celebrate it? I believe that there are many great
things about it that we need to emphasize: the miracle of the Virgin birth; the
promise fulfilled in sending the Savior of the world; God’s love for humanity;
and many others worthy of note. While other religions celebrate their faith
through their own holidays with such gusto, unfortunately, it is not the same
with Christians on some levels. I do not intend to offend but to awaken many of
us to the fact that Christmas is a Christian celebration. Sadly, it is being
hijacked by secular observance of materialism; other symbols used, whether
intentionally or unintentionally, draw away from Jesus as the Reason for the
Christmas celebration.
I believe that we as Christians must begin to place great
value on celebrating Christmas whenever it comes. Remember that there is a war
against it and we are not exempt from the attacks of relegating it as an
ordinary celebration. In addition, there are Christians who cannot celebrate it
openly due to religious persecution. Even the “Merry Christmas” greeting is
being labeled offensive by many sectors.
I would like to appeal to many Christians to set aside
Christmas day, December 25th, as high priority for a witness to the
world of its importance to us by simply attending a Christmas Day service wherever
you are during this time with other Christian believers whenever possible and
not to miss it for any other reason. Although many will argue that it can be
celebrated on our own in the privacy of our homes with our families, however,
in my opinion, it is very important for all Christians to make a public
profession of our faith and to acknowledge Jesus as Lord and Savior especially
on Christmas Day.
Just observe how many celebrates their birthdays as
important milestones. How much more that Christmas affects not just Christians
but many people all over the world. Isn’t this something to look forward to and
to share why Jesus came to this world? He did not bring any gifts but He became
the greatest gift as the Savior of the world.
C’mon Christians of the world, December 25th is
one of the two major significant day of our calendar, the other, Easter. Come
out and show the world that we are proud of the birth of our Lord and Savior
Jesus Christ. The angelic host announced His coming and it is now our turn to
announce that He came. Let’s celebrate it while we can do so openly. Would
there be a time that we can’t? I hope not.
Christmas day comes only once a year; therefore, let’s not
miss the opportunity of celebrating it with other believers in our community.
Go to your local church or find a church to attend a Christmas service on
December 25th whether you’re at home or on vacation. There’s no
other reason worthy enough to miss attending a Christmas Day service to commemorate
the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ.
As for my family, and myself, we will be counted present
among other believers who will choose to attend a Christmas day service to
honor Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world. How about you and your family,
where will you be on Christmas Day?
Merry Christmas to all!
