Essential Reminders of What We Celebrate During Christmas

The true essence of Christmas lies not in the external festivities, but in the profound message that the Son of God became human, bringing a message of unity and peace to the world. Let's explore the genuine reasons to celebrate these holidays with our families.

"On a strategic day, when Herod celebrated his birthday, he hosted a banquet for his nobles, commanders, and the leading figures of Galilee. During the event, the daughter of Herodias performed a dance that pleased Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, 'Ask me for anything you want, and I will give it to you.'" Mark 6:21-22

The heart of Christmas is not the outward celebration, but the proclamation that the Son of God became man, delivering this message: God is our Father, we are all brothers, and we should love one another. Understanding this message is key to truly experiencing Christmas. The most significant aspect of Christmas is recognizing that when God's people celebrate it liturgically, Jesus returns to earth, becomes present among us, and reiterates his message of life to each person.

"But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate." Luke 15:22-24

The Christmas season is intertwined with the Easter cycle, as Christmas looks forward to the resurrection. Jesus is born, enters history, shares his message, preaches the Word of Salvation, faces conspiracy, dies on the cross, and rises on the third day. Through his Resurrection, he remains present in history and in our hearts, leaving a profound impact on our lives as his children.

"Count off seven weeks from the time you begin to put the sickle to the standing grain. Then celebrate the Festival of Weeks to the Lord your God by giving a freewill offering in proportion to the blessings the Lord your God has given you." Deuteronomy 16:9-10

Christmas embodies the spirit of giving without expecting anything in return. It brings joy as we witness happiness in others. It is about setting aside self-interest and finding time for others, discarding what is meaningless, and emphasizing true values.

"Celebrate the Festival of Unleavened Bread; for seven days eat bread made without yeast, as I commanded you. Do this at the appointed time in the month of Abib, for in that month you came out of Egypt. No one is to appear before me empty-handed." Exodus 23:15

The spirit of Christmas is one of love, generosity, and kindness; it opens the window of the soul, allowing us to see the world with a focus on people rather than things.

"The rulers of the Philistines assembled to offer a great sacrifice to their god Dagon and to celebrate, saying, 'Our god has delivered Samson, our enemy, into our hands.'" Judges 16:23

This time of year also calls for kindness to everyone we encounter and sharing smiles with strangers we meet on the street, as they too are children of Christ and, therefore, our brothers and sisters.