This is the time of the year where millions of people around the world celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The nativity story which took place in Bethlehem many, many hundreds of years ago is still fresh, inspires and mesmerises Christians and others around the world. The birth of Jesus is considered to be the greatest revolution ever, has enthused millions of people around the world and still does to a large extent notwithstanding the fragility of man and woman who during the passage of time sought to make war instead of instilling peace; fostered hatred instead of advocating love, and incitedenvy instead of cultivated altruism. Notwithstanding of our weaknesses His teachings provide us with the necessary nourishment and is still valid today.
Luckily our Christmas traditions are based on sound values although these are being continuously challenged.At this time of the year, people take every opportunity to exchange Christmas greetings with family members, work colleagues and friends. Some make an extra effort to iron out any differences which may have cropped during the previous months and take the opportunity to mend strained, and at worse even broken, relationships while committing to strive to build stronger rapports.
Hopefully, during these days many will enjoy the Christmas spirit although I am fully aware that there are others who, during the coming festive season, will continue to face headaches and other aches which make it rather impossible for them to share and engage with others in the Christmas spirit. If anything, during the coming days, they will feel heavier the brunt of their baggage even if it is of their own making. Some, however, will soldier on for the sake of their families and others and put on an act for the festive season. They will cross the bridge when they come to it, hard and difficult as it may be.
Main streets in various localities have long been decorated with coloured lights, cribs, twinkling stars, tinsel and whatever adds to the Christmas spirit. Christmas carols played on loud speakers add to the up-beat of these days. In major roundabouts, apart from the colourful decorations, life-size cribs have also been erected. Some are done with artistic flair, others no as much! Many homes are decorated with all sorts of adornments, and even if not all with creative talent, these nonetheless add to the festive cheer. Luckily, in most homes, baby Jesus features prominently, placed in windows, dining or living rooms. Red poinsettias add colour to the Christmas spirit.
It is the time of year when family and friends reminisce of Christmases past, perhaps of when they were younger and more carefree. As we reflect on this wonderful time, we must keep in mind that Christmas is not just any holiday but may be, or rather should be the most important event of the year for Christians.
There is also another side to the festive season. During this time of the year businesses, particularly those in the retail sector and, for the most obvious reasons, those in the hospitality industry experience an increase in their business activity. Giving and receiving gifts is always pleasant, as in indulging in sumptuous food and sharing a bottle of festive spirit!
Not long ago I had a look at what the scriptures say about the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem and why Christian celebrates Christmas. Whether you are looking for verses to write in Christmas cards or just as a personal reminder for why we celebrate Christmas, the scriptures will remind you of the joy we have because of Jesus. These verses are also a wonderful way to share your faith during Christmas. Written in a Christmas card, shared on social media, or added to a party invitation, these verses have a way to encourage and inspire.
Christmas is a time for remembering, a time to share the goodness of your heart with others, and for expressing with words and gifts what someone means to you. It is a chance to make wishes come true and to give something from your heart. It is a chance to give a message that will express love and caring to the ones we care most about. As you write your messages, take the time to make this Christmas special for each and every person on your list.
I cannot conclude this piece without extending my Christmas greetings to you and to your loved ones. And I want to let you know that I have even thought of many gifts I want to give to you this Christmas, but I have settled to send you peace, love, joy and happiness this Christmas. I trust you will find the gifts I am sending your way, even if not of any monetary value, nonetheless special. I have come to know that the material ones, large or small, even if expensive, will only last for a short while. The others, if well preserved, will last far longer.
Happy Christmas!
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