Christmas: The Divine Celebration of Christ's Birth

Christmas stands as one of the most significant Christian festivals, celebrating the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ—the moment when divinity entered humanity to bring redemption to all mankind. This sacred observance, while marked by centuries of tradition, points to the single most transformative event in human history.

The Historical Context and Timing

The Christian festival celebrated on December 25 commemorates Christ's birth, though historical evidence suggests this date may not reflect the actual timing of the nativity. Many scholars note that the December 25th celebration possibly coincided with existing heathen festivals, making it strategically suitable for early Christian observance. There is strong evidence that Christ was actually born as early as 5 BC, based on astronomical and historical records. Regardless of the precise date, the theological significance remains paramount—Christ's birth split history into two distinct epochs: the years before His birth, designated as BC (Before Christ), and those after as AD (in the year of our Lord).

Divine Purpose and Redemption

The fact remains that Christ was born for the specific purpose of bringing redemption to humanity, fulfilling the prophecy that "Unto us is born a Saviour"—a deliverer from all the works of Satan (Mt 1:21; 1 Jn 3:8). His supernatural conception in the virgin Mary and His miraculous birth are meticulously recorded in the gospels (Mt 1:18-2:12; Lk 1:26-2:20). Christ's coming to earth is often termed the first advent, marking the beginning of God's redemptive plan that would culminate in His sacrificial death and resurrection.

Christmas is often shortened to 'Xmas'. The commercialism and consumerism of this festive season, including the giving of presents and the legendary Father Christmas, have overshadowed the real meaning of Christmas—Christ's coming to earth, ultimately to die in our place. We are called to remember that we are 'the reason for the season' as Christ came to redeem us. At Christmas we often see only a baby in a manger, failing to recognise God who offers the gift of eternal life (Rom 6:23).

Have I taken Christ out of Christmas, making more of the day than of the Saviour?

What we can give Him is our allegiance and submission to His authority, acknowledging that the child in the manger is also the King of kings and Lord of lords.

The True Meaning Amidst Modern Celebrations

In today's world, the true essence of Christmas often becomes lost amidst the flurry of holiday activities, gift-giving, and festive decorations. While these elements bring joy and warmth to the season, they can inadvertently shift focus from the central truth: the incarnation of God in human form. The baby in the manger represents more than just a touching nativity scene; it signifies the moment when the Creator entered His creation, when infinite God took on finite human nature to bridge the gap between divinity and humanity.

This divine mystery calls us to deeper reflection—that the same Jesus who lay in a humble manger would one day bear the weight of humanity's sin on the cross. Christmas thus becomes not just a celebration of birth, but a recognition of God's incredible love and willingness to become one of us for our salvation.

Reflection and Application:

  • How can I keep Christ at the center of my Christmas celebrations this year?
  • In what ways have I allowed commercialism to overshadow the true meaning of Christ's birth?
  • How does understanding that Jesus was born specifically to be my Savior change my perspective on Christmas?
  • What practical steps can I take to share the true message of Christmas with others?

See also: advent, holidays, Mary (Mother of Jesus).