For all the
Christians around the world, regardless of their status in life, the month of
December is something to look forward to. To say that it is the month for
people to be happy is such as an understatement. December is so popular because
it signifies the Christmas season. Whenever we speak of Christmas, delight,
excitement, hope, warmth and the feeling of rebirth fills the air. And why not?
Christmas is a season of great joy – not because of the gifts under our
Christmas trees or that sumptuous roasted turkey in our dinner table or even
the big bonuses. For the true meaning of Christmas is more than that. It is the
time when God showed His great love for all of us. Christmas is about
celebrating the birth of a great man, the Son of God, no other than our Lord
Jesus Christ. His birth was no ordinary as narrated in the following verses
from the Gospel of Luke.
"So Joseph also went up from the town
of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he
belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary,
who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were
there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her
firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because
there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields
nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared
to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.
But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of
great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior
has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.
This will be a sign to you: You will find a
baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of
the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory
to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one
another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened,
which the Lord has told us about." So they hurried off and found Mary and
Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they
spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all
who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured
up all these things and pondered them in her heart." (Luke 2: 4-19)
The birth of
Jesus into this world is a celebration filled with joy and excitement but what
makes it even greater and more significant is the truth that Jesus Christ is
the epitome of divinity. He was born at a time when the relationship between
God and His people was broken. Anger, doubt, ignorance, hypocrisy, greed,
superstitions and other forms of impurity were prevalent but Jesus’ birth
worked miracles and transformation in the lives of millions. Jesus gave hope,
healing and spiritual enrichment to all mankind.
For
someone like me whose birthday falls nearly on Christmas Day, it has always
been a double celebration. I celebrate for the gift of life and at the same
time welcome a dawn of renewal. Jesus Christ has played an important role in my
entire adult life. I could have ended just like any of those delinquent kids
full of angst and regret if not by His guidance and wisdom while I was growing
up. Every now and then I fail Jesus in so many ways but His graciousness is way
bigger than my shortcomings. I am a witness of His greatness. I feel His love
everyday through the people I meet and the countless life-changing experiences
that come along the way. If there is something that I can do for Jesus, that is
to become an instrument of change, hope, and joy for others not only during the
Christmas season but all throughout the year.
Closing Prayer:
For to us a child is born, to us
a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be
called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of
Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)
Almighty Jesus, you are the greatest and most beautiful blessing that
God has ever given us. You came into this world at the most perfect time when
mankind has lost faith, hope and direction. This Christmas season, we pray that
once again you restore the will of those whose faith and hope have wavered
because of abuses, violence and sufferings. May you lighten once more the path
of those who have sinned against you. May you bring back the joy to those who have
lost their loveones. Continue inspiring us Lord to live a righteous life. Grant
us your guidance and wisdom forever and ever, Amen.
