With the opportunity of being able to go to Haiti during the beginning of the Christmas season, I was brought to a place of really trying to understand the meaning of why I celebrate Christmas. I know that as a Christian, Christmas is the celebration of the historical reality of one man who was born into this world and was compelled to give His own life for the sake of others. He brought light to the social injustices of this world. He brought compassion to the hurting. He brought healing to the broken. He brought love to all. It’s Jesus who represents the meaning of what Christmas is all about.
The birth of a child is the start of a life – Christmas is just that…the celebration of the life of the One who came to bring redemption to a broken world that’s in a deep mess.
In our American culture, it’s way too easy to get wrapped up in a consumer-driven holiday that’s mostly become known for giving presents. Above any other time of the year, Christmas seems to be elevated as this time to give presents to those we care about the most. Although giving presents is not a bad thing, I’m wrestling with how life needs to be more than that. Coming back from Haiti, I’ve realized that life is more than “stuff” and that giving is more than “gifts.” I want my life to be the gift I give others. I’m still trying to figure it all out, but I want to give more of my time and more of my heart to others – more depth and meaning – something with eternal significance.
It’s the life of Christ that gives me reason to live, the hope for something better, and the need to be a changed person. We are called to Christ – to live like He did – to serve like He did – and to love as He did. I want to be compelled to do those same things. That’s how I want to celebrate Christmas.
Christmas is a time I want to spend reflecting on who Christ was and the life changing impact He brought through his life. It’s also a time I want to reflect on my life and find ways I can let my life be a gift to others. But in the meantime, I’m going to continue to enjoy the holiday celebration of the opportunity to hang out with friends and family, give gifts, and celebrate the birth of Christ.
