Christmas, a Christian holiday commemorating the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, is celebrated every year on December 25. Isaiah 9:6 (KJV) declares, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Christmas means different things to different people around the world according to their traditions and beliefs.
In many homes children are raised to believe that Christmas is just about Santa Claus’ bringing gifts down the chimney. When the children are older and no longer believe that, what do you tell them? It can be a very disappointing time to children when they find out; I know because that is how I felt when I discovered the truth about Santa Claus. What we must do with our children is “give them some Jesus” at an early age, model the example of Christ in their presence, and make sure they are taught that Jesus is love.
According to Got Questions.org, the real meaning of Christmas is the story of God’s becoming a human being in the person of Jesus Christ. Why did God do such a thing? Because He loves us! Why was Christmas necessary? Because we needed a Savior! Why does God love us so much? Because He is love itself (1 John 4:8).
Why do we celebrate Christmas each year? Out of gratitude for what God did for us, we remember His birth by giving each other gifts, worshipping Him, and being especially conscious of the poor and less fortunate.
“Day Translations” gives several basic meanings that people around the world have for Christmas:
• It is to remember Jesus’ birth and to care for, share, and give to people who do not have homes.
• It is to thank God.
• It is about opening presents and having fun, being with family, and being out of school or at work.
• It is time spent with family and a time to give back to the community.
• It is to witness the true excitement and enchantment of the season through the eyes of children.
• It is the time to reflect on what’s truly important in life.
• It is about showing gratitude and compassion.
No matter how many gifts we get under the tree, the cards we design and mail, delectable dishes of food we prepare, and fix all the nice trimmings, Christmas is about God’s love for us. His Son Jesus is the greatest gift anyone could ever have and enjoy. If you don’t have a dime in your pocket for Christmas but you have Jesus, that’s enough. Have a wonderfully blessed holiday season and Christmas, and never leave home without Him!
