Many people look forward to Christmas for different reasons. For some, it is a break from work, while others find extra work with the increased business activities. For some, it is a time to play Santa Claus, while others expect gifts to come their way. For some, it is having fun, while others spend time to pray.
Whatever way we spend Christmas, it is important that we put the first six letters of the word Christmas on top of everything we do. All the rejoicing, gift-giving and partying will be meaningless if we forget about the birth of Christ who brought hope and salvation to us, God’s children.
To make Christmas meaningful, here are ten things to do:
1. Wish everyone a “Merry Christmas”
There is magical warmth to a Christmas greeting. It brings about a smile, a hug or even a kiss. Though you may not know it, you are actually evangelising – sharing the wonderful story of the King of Kings who was born in a manger.
2. Attend Christmas church services
To honour Jesus, we must attend masses where His presence is in the bread and the wine, His Body and His Blood. The mass is the highest form of celebration for faith believers.
3. Give affordable gifts to loved ones
The essence of Christmas is that of giving, for such was the reason for His being born on earth. He was so giving that He died for you and me.
4. Display the manger scene at home
Forget about Christmas trees, lanterns and Santa Claus. If there is a perfect reminder about the birth of Christ, then it is the Nativity scene that shows us of His humility and sacrifices.
5. Read the Bible and watch a Christmas movie
By reading the Holy Book, one is able to strengthen the cord that binds us to our Creator. By reflecting on God’s Word, one can gain deeper insight on the love of the Lord to His people. There are many wonderful films that carry the message of hope, peace and love; most importantly the Nativity movie. These kinds of flicks seen together with family can bring about respect, closeness and understanding.
6. Give a stranger or a new migrant a treat
It is human to give to those whom we know and care for. It is divine to share what you have to others, especially the needy and the helpless. Joseph and Mary were migrants and strangers in Bethlehem and nobody opened their doors to give them shelter. If we open our hearts to strangers and migrants, we will have given shelter to Joseph, Mary and Jesus.
7. Sing a birthday song to Jesus and Christmas carols to believers and unbelievers
When Christ was born the angels sang “Gloria in excelsis Deo” that resonated in Heaven, Earth and even in Hell. Acclaiming Jesus through songs will certainly fill the void in the world. The power of a song can penetrate hearts of stone and disarm Satan and his minions.
8. Volunteer in a Christmas event
The shepherds and the Three Wise Men visited and adored the Child Jesus. They did not demand anything in return, for they came with love and awe. There are many events organised where you can be of help. Lend a hand and you will experience immense joy and inner peace.
9. Cook your best dish and share it with others
If Jesus was your guest what would you cook for Him? Surely, you will cook that you know best and have been complimented many times in the past. You would want Jesus to taste and savour your dish. Wouldn’t you be delighted if He says thank you and asks you for the recipe? In the physical absence of Christ, every other person represents Him; thus feeding others is actualising your finest cooking for Christ.
10. Join Open Gathering
What great experience it would be if you joined Open Gathering (OG) where people party to give, share and care. An OG will have artists sharing their talents, those who have more giving gifts to strangers, and everyone bringing food for a feast. While OG happens in Auckland, it can definitely happen anywhere so long as there are people who want to make Christmas meaningful for themselves and for others. OG can best be described in this Washington Irving quote: “Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart.”
by Mel Libre
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