Today I'm just chilling and scrolling through social media, and all I see are Christmas messages. One message really caught my eye, and if it's true, I think it's an awesome way to revive the Christmas spirit in the community. For too long, Christmas has been losing its meaning and community vibe. While I agree that keeping Christmas alive with Santa and all the commercial stuff is cool, we always need to remember what Christmas is really about.
Do we get caught up in decorating, buying gifts, and making fancy meals every year, but somehow forget whose birthday it really is? I think we do, and I notice it every year. This year in Swindon town center, it's obvious that Christmas isn't the community event it was 10 years ago when Santa would show up on top of Boots/Macdonalds for the light switch-on. We've lost the meaning of Christmas, not just in Swindon but all over the country. So, let me ask you all here today—what does Christmas mean to you? Seriously, think about it... During Christmas time, we often get so wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of the short holiday that we forget what Christmas is truly about. It seems like over the years, instead of understanding the true meaning of Christmas, we've, unfortunately, wrapped Jesus up in wrapping paper and decorated him with Santa images, snowmen, and sweets. I can't stress enough that today's youth aren't being taught the real meaning of Christmas in schools. Teachers often call it a public holiday instead of Christmas or say happy holidays instead of Merry Christmas. I ask you, what's happening? We Christians must keep teaching the real meaning of Christmas.
I invite everyone to embrace the most meaningful gift of all and to honor the true essence of this celebration.
Each December, we gather at the appointed time, yet many are surprised to find that the guest of honor is absent, only to realize that the invitation was never extended.
What does Christmas signify for each of you? Do you hold the truth dear?
“Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus,” the angel proclaimed.
“This is how God demonstrated his love among us: by sending his one and only Son into the world… And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.”
Celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ transcends a mere Christian holiday or festival. It is more than a time to adorn our homes. It is an opportunity to pause and express gratitude for the love, hope, and joy found in Jesus—our Savior and friend. As we exchange gifts with loved ones, we do so in remembrance of the gift God bestowed upon us in Jesus: the assurance of being loved, never alone, and hopeful for the future.
God’s love is universal. You are not alone. You are cherished, and you can experience hope and joy. This is the true essence of Christmas.
I reiterate, let us embrace the most significant gift of all—Our Lord Jesus—and reflect on my message to you today.
Wishing you a blessed and Merry Christmas.
Father Mark Paris Haines.
Comments