Tarensoba Chang
Dimapur
Christmas is one of the most cherished celebrations in the Christian calendar. It is a season filled with joy, fellowship, lights, and songs. Yet, beyond the celebrations and decorations, Christmas invites us to pause and reflect on a deeper and more meaningful question, can we share something truly valuable this Christmas?
The true meaning of Christmas is found in the birth of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. “For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given” (Isaiah 9:6). Christmas is not merely a tradition or a yearly event; it is a divine reminder of God’s greatest gift to humanity, His love, grace, mercy, and salvation. Christ came into the world humbly, not in a palace but in a manger, teaching us that true greatness is found in humility, compassion, and service to others. In this light, Christmas calls us to share. Sharing does not require abundance; it requires a willing and compassionate heart. The Bible teaches us to love our neighbors, care for the poor, and bear one another’s burdens. When we share food, clothing, time, encouragement, or prayer, we reflect the very heart of Christ.
However, Christmas these days often becoming a season of excess rather than a season of essence. In almost every village, town, sector or colony, people willingly contribute money for decorations, lights, and grand celebrations. Yet an important question remains unanswered, have we ever shown the same enthusiasm to help someone who is hungry? Do we even know if our own neighbors are struggling for daily food, medicine, or basic necessities? We often live close to one another; yet remain distant from each other’s pain. Decorations and celebrations are not wrong, but priorities matter. Many believers within our churches suffer silently, and some churches struggle. Would it not be more Christ-like if churches first cared for struggling members before focusing on outward display? Likewise, stronger and wealthier churches can extend support to weaker ones, strengthening the body of Christ as a whole.
Christmas is not a festival of show or status. It is a sacred celebration of love, forgiveness, unity, and peace. It is a season that calls us to forgive as we have been forgiven, to heal broken relationships, and to lift one another in faith. True celebration happens when burdens are shared and love is expressed through action. This Christmas, let us look beyond appearances and return to the true essence of the season. Let us celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace by becoming instruments of peace ourselves. When we share what we have and care for those around us, Christmas becomes truly meaningful, not only for us, but for our families, churches, and society as a whole.
