Christmas is known as a holiday celebrated by people from all walks of life, but do we really know why this day is special to Christians?  Is it just about buying new clothes, decorating the Christmas trees, and gathering as families to celebrate the special holiday?

Do we know why the world pauses just for this day?

Well, a long time ago in Bethlehem, a little boy known as Jesus Christ of Nazareth was born to save and redeem the world. On that day, God sent his Son to become a man on earth in order for him to one day become the payment for the world’s sins, past, present, and future.

For Christians, the birth of Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecies that foretold the coming of a Messiah who would bring redemption and deliverance to the world. Christmas is seen as the fulfillment of God’s promise to his people.

“Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

                                                     Genesis 12:1-3

Christmas reminds Christians of the profound expression of God’s love for humanity, as expressed through the gift of His Son. The birth of Jesus is viewed as an act of divine grace, symbolizing God’s willingness to enter into human existence to bring about salvation and reconciliation.

According to seminarian Benjamin Turinawe, a student of theology, Christmas celebrates the belief that Jesus, as the Son of God, took on human form through the Virgin Mary, an event known as the Incarnation, which emphasizes the divine nature of Jesus and his role in bringing salvation to humanity.

“It is because of the birth of Jesus Christ that we received salvation. God sent us his son Jesus, in the form of man, to lead us to salvation through repentance. That is why Jesus is the way, the truth, and the light,” Turinawe said.

Christmas is a time for Christians to reflect on the significance of Jesus’ birth in the broader context of his life, ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection. It marks the beginning of the story of Jesus, which ultimately leads to the Christian understanding of salvation through his sacrifice and resurrection.

Christmas serves as a time for spiritual renewal by inspiring Christians to deepen their faith, express gratitude for God’s gift of Jesus, and find hope in the promise of redemption and eternal life.

Christmas is also a cultural and family celebration that is marked by acts of charity and expressions of love and goodwill, not only within the Christian community but also among people of various faiths and backgrounds.

Every year on December 25, the world celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, remembering the divine love God the Father had for his people.

With that said, i wish every reader a Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2024.