I often wonder what this time of year means to many of the people around me. Christmas has become so commercialized in our culture; it seems the essence of the day has gotten lost. As Christians we believe in celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Although most theologians believe the actual birth date is incorrect, we have adopted December 25 as our celebratory moment on the calendar.
The etymology of the word Christmas literally means Christ’s Mass. Christmas is celebrated all over the world in both secular and non-secular countries and is considered a time of peace and celebration. Christians believe God sent His only son to be the atonement for all our sins so that we could not be separated from God.
“God so loved the world that he gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him might not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
Every nuance of the Christmas celebration is analogous to what Christ and His mission on earth was all about. We seldom investigate the meaning of things like Christmas lights, Christmas trees, feasts, gift giving, and festive gatherings of family and friends. We simply accept them as part of the holiday. However, these are all modern-day interpretations of the beginning of Christianity. Understanding today’s symbolism within the scope of God’s message is quite beautiful when properly understood.
God is the light for the Christian religion. Therefore, the stringing of bright lights in one’s home, business or community spaces reminds us of the light source of all our souls. The idea of giving gifts reminds us of the beautiful gift of God’s love and salvation He bestows upon those that seek Him. The modern-day Christmas tree reminds us of the tree of life from the Garden of Eden, from which man is banished for his failure to adhere to God’s laws.
We are grateful for renewed access to the garden of paradise through continued repentance.
This Christmas, let us commit ourselves to creating a world where people can live in peace and harmony. Let us work toward creating an environment in which every child can grow up happy and healthy without fear of war or poverty. A world where people can live in dignity, free from discrimination and persecution because of their faith or beliefs.
Let us pledge to uphold the values that make our country great: Individual freedom, democracy, equal opportunities for all irrespective of race, color, or creed; respect for human rights, tolerance of differences; and equal justice for all regardless of who you are or where you come from.
Please consider donating toys or clothes for children in need this year. There are many charities and organizations that help provide gifts for children whose families struggle financially during this time of year. Why not help by donating something to these worthwhile organizations this year?
Here are a few other ways that you can spread the Christmas spirit throughout your community:
Volunteer your time at a food bank, nursing home or hospital.
Donate toys to children who may not have a Christmas gift to open this year.
Bring meals to families who are going through tough times.
Give back by cleaning up trash around your neighborhood.
Host an event at your school or place of employment where everyone brings donated goods for those in need.
From my family to yours, we wish
you all a very Merry Christmas,
Vincent Cavaleri
