What comes into your mind immediately you hear the word Christmas? Perhaps, it could be due to the jingling lights around the streets, the joy in the process of Gift opening, or the aroma of freshly baked cookies. We can easily recall these moments because they give joy to the season. But have you ever stopped to ask yourself what Christmas is about, really?
Once I chatted with my little brother like this several years ago. Well, one day, I said to him, ‘Hey, buddy, what does Christmas mean?” In reply to a question, he spat out, “Presents!” Having lots and lots of good beautiful food and drinks too!” I simply could not help but laugh at him, he was so blunt. Then as I sat with his answer, it sunk in me. What do most people think that Christmas is all about? Just gifts and food? Is that all there is to it?
That simple question remained in my head for a rather long time. This made me ponder as to how many people, myself included sometimes, have moved far from the genuine meaning of Christmas. Let me just stress, that I am in no way against presents, family dinners, and other holiday traditions. However, Christmas goes beyond the shine and the light.
Why Christmas is Celebrated
Christmas is all about the birth of Jesus Christ irrespective of differences held by different groups of people. He’s more than just a figure in history, He’s the Son of God, who came to bring hope, salvation, and light into a world that needed it. The Bible contains a beautiful narration of His birth. Luke 2:10-11 tells a story that one night an angel came to a group of shepherds, saying:
“Don’t be afraid. I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.”
Think about that for a moment, a Savior, born in the most humble of settings, announced not to kings or rulers, but to ordinary shepherds. For Christians, this isn’t just a nice story, it’s the ultimate gift, God’s way of showing us His love. It’s a reminder that even when life feels heavy, we’re not alone. There’s always hope, no matter how dark things might seem.
But what makes Christmas so special is that its message isn’t just for Christians. The spirit of Christmas is something we can all feel, no matter who we are. It’s about love, kindness, and generosity, the things that truly connect us as human beings. This time of year seems to bring out the best in us. We check in on our neighbors, lend a helping hand to those in need, and go out of our way to make others smile. It’s these simple yet powerful acts of care and joy that make Christmas so special, so magical.
Is Christmas a Christian holiday?
Of course, Christmas is a Christian holiday intended to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. This is a momentous event in the Christian faith. However, it has developed into an international holiday and millions of individuals of different backgrounds have included it in their calendars. Some view it as a religious event while others look forward to it as a season to spend with loved ones and to share the little they can with them.
These dual meanings have raised somewhat different perspectives towards the holiday though the main context of Christmas stays the same. Regardless of whether you are concerned with the biblical narrative of Jesus or are simply eager for the holiday with your family, Christmas is all about love, tenderness, and charity. As Acts 20:35 says it is better to give than to receive.
What Christmas is About: A Deeper Look
Beyond the lights, the presents, and the carols, Christmas is a time to reconnect—with God, with loved ones, and with the values that truly matter. It’s about showing kindness to strangers, forgiving those who’ve hurt us, and spreading joy wherever we go.
The Christmas story teaches us that even in humble beginnings, greatness can be born. Jesus wasn’t born in a palace but in a manger, a reminder that love and hope can shine brightest in the simplest places.
Take a moment this season to think about the meaning of Christmas for you. Is it a time to pause and be grateful? To give selflessly? To reflect on the immense love that brought Christ into the world? These are the things that make Christmas truly special.
Rediscovering the True Meaning of Christmas
Christmas is more than just a holiday, it’s an invitation. It invites us to reflect on why Christmas is celebrated, to ponder the immense love that God showed by sending His Son to us, and to embrace the joy of giving and togetherness.
So this Christmas, as you enjoy the lights, the gifts, and the food, take a moment to look beyond them. Read Luke 2 with your family, call someone you’ve lost touch with, or simply share a kind word with a stranger.
The true meaning of Christmas isn’t found in what we receive but in the love and hope we give. It’s a celebration of faith, a reminder of the gift of Christ, and a call to spread light in a world that desperately needs it.
As 1 John 4:9 says, “This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him.” Let’s carry that message in our hearts, not just at Christmas but every day of the year.