Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the
Son of God, who symbolizes the start of God's amazing love to bring salvation
to humanity. But Christmas with its glittering lights, joyful carols and festive
decorations is often seen as a season of celebration and merriment. More than
anything, though, Christmas is an opportunity to reflect on our own humility.
How can we embrace humility in our lives? Can we learn from the simplicity of
the Christmas story and find joy in the unadorned aspects of life? Can we
develop a humble heart in the same way as the shepherds, Mary, Joseph and the
Wise Men did?
Christmas is a spiritual journey rather
than merely a holiday. It’s important to celebrate Christmas spiritually in a
meaningful and personal way to honor the religious significance. In a world
where materialism often overshadows the spiritual, Christmas is a reminder that
the greatest gift is not found in the extravagance of presents but in the
humility of heart and spirit. It's about being selfless, showing kindness and
extending a hand to those in need.
However, at its core, Christmas carries a
profound message of humility often overlooked amid the holiday's splendor.
• The humble manger where Jesus Christ was
born reminds us that even the most modest beginnings can lead to greatness. It
reminds us to appreciate the simple aspects of life, for they can hold the most
profound significance.
• Mary and Joseph's unwavering faith and
trust in God's divine plan despite the fact that it required them to face
hardship and uncertainty serves as an inspiration urging us to submit to a
higher purpose and to trust in the guidance of a higher power.
• The presence of shepherds and wise men
at the birth of Jesus further underscores the theme of humility. Shepherds,
often considered of low social status, were among the first to witness the
miracle.
• The Wise Men who were learned and
respected traveled from distant lands bearing gifts. This diversity of
witnesses demonstrates that the Christmas message is applicable to all people
regardless of background or social status that the message of Christmas is for
everyone regardless of social standing or background. It humbles us by
emphasizing that we are all equal in the eyes of the divine.
Pope Francis emphasized that “Christmas is
the victory of humility over arrogance, simplicity over abundance, silence over
clamor, prayer over ‘my time,’ and God over myself. Humility teaches us that it
is God who is in control and that we must trust him no matter where he leads
us. He alone is our hope and strength. Christmas encourages us to focus on
giving and not just receiving.
It's a time to reconnect with our
spirituality, draw closer to God and actively participate in His plan for
salvation. Christmas is more than just a season; it's a reminder of God's
eternal love and grace. As we celebrate this sacred season, I would like to
conclude with 3 H - Hope, Humility & Holiness.-May we live in hope,
immersed in humility and embraced in holiness to radiate the Christmas spirit
to the whole of creation.
Blessed Christmas Greetings