Spend a day with your family and reconnect with each other—it doesn’t have to be at a fancy restaurant or a five-star hotel. “May your every day become a Christmas of ever-new joy, love, peace, and wisdom.” —Paramhansa Yogananda. This will be a great opportunity for you to share the love beyond your friends and family. His birth brought great joy to the world. With the hubbub of festivities all around—twinkling lights on the windows, unending parties and get-togethers, and the inevitable Christmas rush—people seem to have forgotten the true essence of Christmas which is Jesus Christ. His birth brought great joy to the world. 4. A selfish character wants a thing, goes on a magical adventure, and then learns the “true meaning of Christmas.” It’s better to give than receive. Christmas is all about the true meaning of Christmas and focusing on all the things that money can’t buy. On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me . Read a few Bible verses and discuss as a family the true meaning of Christmas. The true meaning of Christmas – What is it? Since I’m single and my extended family doesn’t care to celebrate the religious meaning of Christmas, I go to as many Christian Christmas programs as I can get to. The true meaning of Christmas: Holidays as assimilation. Why did God do such a thing? Midwinter myth, Xmas revels and the true meaning of Christmas. Your family, friends, and especially your community will surely appreciate the time you extend to help those in need. Because when Jesus came, he also left us with the gift of salvation. God sent His Son, Jesus, into the world to be born. His birth is significant because of His death. ... (Why I celebrate a pre-Christian Christmas, Journal, 21 December). What Does the Bible Say about Interracial Marriage? Without the death of Christ, salvation isn’t possible. The traditional purpose of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus, who is a symbol of love, light, hope and peace. ~. She is the author of Untouchable: Unraveling the Myth That You're Too Faithful to Fall, founder of For the Mama Heart, and hosts the Epic Fails podcast. December 20, 2019. by Mark Baccay. Ric Eguia Shares His Journey to Priesthood. They are all celebrating it according to what they see as its ‘true meaning’. 11-Year-Old Sings Stunning Rendition of 'You Raise Me Up', 9 Songs That Will Draw You Closer to God When You're Feeling Anxious, God's Choice Shaping Tools - In Touch - March 6/7, A Prayer for An Unwilling Heart - Your Daily Prayer - March 7, The Life Changing Power of the Cross and the Resurrection - Easter Devotional - March 5, 'The Sound of Silence' from Irish Group Celtic Thunder. Before opening the gifts, take a few minutes to gather together as a family in prayer and devotions. Christmas is a time of holiday cheer and presents, but it’s much more than that. So, when that precious baby was born and placed in the manger, it wasn’t just another birth. Remember: At Christmas, we celebrate the greatest gift the human race has ever known - God's gift of Jesus Christ, His Son. You’d be surprised by how spending quality time with your loved ones would make a lasting impression in years to come! This helps us to continually think about the true meaning of Christmas and gives us a more meaningful Christmas. Certainly, enjoy the parties and food and gifts, but don’t forget to point your heart, family, and those around you to Christmas' true meaning: Christ came with a plan for our redemption. This makes it a joyful season for true believers. When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. First, the birth of Jesus fulfilled many Old Testament prophecies. According to a survey released this week by the American Bible Society, 94% of Americans celebrate Christmas but only 15% of Americans read the Bible’s account of the birth of Christ as part of their Christmas traditions. The true meaning of Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus who lived in Israel 2000 years ago and who died on the cross for our sins (1 Corinthians 15 1-4; 1 Peter 2:24). ... You see, Christmas is when we celebrate the birth of the Christ child. Chas. Here’s how to get over the holiday slumps. Perhaps it is as simple as focusing on the true meaning and purpose of the day, which is to celebrate the miraculous birth of Christ. Take a break from material gifts and give the gift of time. But the essence of the season is that God gave us the greatest gift of all time—his own Son, Jesus Christ: On Calvary, Christ paid the price and overcame death so that we could have victory over sin and condemnation. They knew this was no ordinary baby. . Relive the true meaning of Christmas with these kind acts that show gratitude and love to everyone! To some it is a time to visit family and have a huge row. Read More: Mark your calendars for these important dates in December! But the real meaning of Christmas is something even higher, bigger, and infinitely better than all of that. And he gave him the name Jesus. We can know Jesus as our best friend and the most perfect Father in the world! Hey, Young Writers! Cheyenne Tex/Staff. Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas – On a Budget. To some, Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Christ. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. Brittany Rust has a passion is to give encouragement to the world-weary believer through her writing, speaking, and podcasting. Classic Christmas movies are sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. The Philippines faced a lot of calamities this year—recent natural disasters have left people, animals, and provinces devastated. In my heart, I knew it was time for my husband and I to get down to the nitty-gritty about what the true meaning of Christmas is, and especially since most of everything in our American culture tells us Christmas is all about Santa, reindeer and elves. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). Source: Mozarabic Collect for the The Nativity of Our Lord, Christmas Day, freely modified from  Mozarabic Collects, ed. The true meaning of Christmas – What is it? 4. Bring your family, hold candles and discuss what you liked about the special event when you are done. We wouldn't be able to be with God when we die. Jesus coming to Earth that night changed everything and it’s a moment we should celebrate with all our hearts. Here’s a Letter Writing Contest for You! WATCH: Fr. God sent His Son, Jesus, into the world to be born. CBCP Launches Nationwide Program for the Care of Environment, 3 Dishes Inspired by Empowered Women in History. ~, And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. It goes to show you that true meaning of Christmas is shown quite a lot because many people have come and gone in my life and probably in yours too, but family is always there even if they have passed on to another life. For thirty-three years Jesus lived a life free from sin so that He could be the perfect sacrificial lamb for the atonement of our sins. Christmas truly is one of the most wonderful times of the year. I predict that both arguments will enjoy a long life on social media (if “life” is what you call something on social media). When you celebrate Christmas, remember how amazing God is! 13 Ways to Remember the True Meaning of Christmas. For many priests, becoming one has always been a childhood dream or a vision in their younger years. It was the beginning of God’s redemptive plan for humanity. Do fun activities that you will cherish years later and look back with a smile on your face. Here are ways to keep the focus on the true meaning, Jesus Christ. In fact, the angel said the news of Jesus’ birth would cause “great joy” and would be “for all the people”—the joyful celebration would be universal. It’s a joyous time of celebration. Shepherds, wise men, and angels all shared in the excitement of knowing about this great event. Understanding History, Origin and TraditionsChristmas Eve History and TraditionsWhen Was Jesus Born? The true meaning of Christmas: Holidays as assimilation. The true meaning of Christmas often gets lost in the rush of the season: the shopping, the parties, the baking, and the wrapping of presents. But because He came, we can have forgiveness and peace. Generally, we focus a lot on our friends, our family, gifts, and giving. Whether Christmas is an exciting time for you, or if you aren't feeling it this year, we've got some recommendations on how to connect with the TRUE meaning of Christmas this year. History of December 25thWhere Was Jesus Born? To come to an objective conclusion about 'The Meaning of Christmas' perhaps the post should have included that this tradition not instituted by God, was not practised by followers of Christ Jesus and is not mentioned anywhere in the Bible and for these reasons some SDA's "might not" celebrate … It goes to show you that true meaning of Christmas is shown quite a lot because many people have come and gone in my life and probably in yours too, but family is always there even if they have passed on to another life. O merciful God,open the depths of our soulsthat we may receivethe immortality of our spiritsthrough the new birth of your Sonby the power of his bodyand precious blood;for he lives and reignswith you and the Holy Spirit,one God,forever and ever.Amen. This is a great project to do together as a family. Hey, We Might Have New Varieties of Gumamela, Hoya Plants Soon! The Old Testament is full of prophecies, including this one from Isaiah 9. Try one of these movies to celebrate the reason for the season: A Charlie Brown Christmas, the Nativity Story, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, The Christmas Candle, or The Little Drummer Boy. 7) Set aside a time of family devotions on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning. In the bustle of December, a movie night at home with popcorn and hot chocolate is a family favorite. 1209. All rights reserved. This is the Christian perspective of this holy and joyous season, which culminates on December 25. This article is part of our larger Christmas and Advent resource library centered around the events leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ. An act He didn’t have to take part in but He chose to out of love. First, the birth of Jesus fulfilled many Old Testament prophecies. Christmas isn’t just about remembering the gift God gave to us—it’s also about sharing the real meaning of Christmas with everyone around us! The true meaning of Christmas is celebration Jesus Christ's birth. So, for the faithful or curious, here are 9 Bible verses to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. We hope these articles help you understand the meaning and story behind important Christian holidays and dates and encourage you as you take time to reflect on all that God has done for us through his son Jesus Christ! Not feeling Christmas-y? Save ... we continue to celebrate Christmas because … We celebrate Christmas because, as the angel said, the birth of Jesus Christ is “good news.” Good news is meant to be celebrated. Take time this holiday season to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas by glorifying the One who gave it all. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. To come to an objective conclusion about 'The Meaning of Christmas' perhaps the post should have included that this tradition not instituted by God, was not practised by followers of Christ Jesus and is not mentioned anywhere in the Bible and for these reasons some SDA's "might not" celebrate it. This very act of humility and his choice to die on the cross is cause for bowed knees and lifted hands. Celebrate by watching Christmas movies, and reading the scriptures :) For family fun play lots of Christmas … This makes it a joyful season for true believers. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. 8 5 Things to Know about BethlehemWhy Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh Were Given to Baby JesusWhat is Advent: Definition & Meaning Behind Christmas Tradition, 10 Big Things Jesus Said That We Keep Forgetting. They range from fun and silly to more serious, but most of them focus on the meaning of Christmas, either in a secular or religious sense. Make the Christmas service a priority for your family, and take it a step further! For many Christians, for instance, this is a season of great joy to celebrate God’s great love for… Understanding History, Origin and Traditions, When Was Jesus Born? Nothing helps you get into the Christmas Spirit more than singing carols! The Real Meaning Of Christmas By Martha Noebel. But the essence of the season is that God gave us the greatest gift of all time—his own Son, Jesus Christ: Source:  Wilehelm Loehe, Agende für christliche Gemeinden des lutherischen Bekenntnisses, 1844. 12 Prophecies That Will Be Fulfilled before Christ's Return, How to Stay Awake to God's Wonder When Life Feels Boring, This site is a proud member of the Salem Web Network, a subsidiary of, Copyright © 2021, Crosswalk.com. Over 80 Ways to Teach Kids the TRUE Meaning of Christmas – It can be challenging to help kids understand Christmas is not about presents under the three and candy canes. The Christian ideal is for the spirit of Christ to live in us all throughout the year. When we celebrate Christmas, we are celebrating the moment in history when prophecy was fulfilled. Letters. For whatever reasons that Christmas means to people, Christians believe its true meaning is love. Anyone who’s seen a Christmas movie has heard a message about the real meaning of Christmas. The true meaning of Christmas is the tradition of the true love of God. History of December 25th, Where Was Jesus Born? ... You see, Christmas is when we celebrate the birth of the Christ child. Most people can tell you the origins of Christmas—that it’s a remembrance of the birth of Christ. Christmas is one of the most beautiful seasons in the Church that allows us to reflect on the love, the extreme love that our Heavenly Father has for us all. The real Christmas story is the story of God’s becoming a human being in the Person of Jesus Christ. People come and go in our family but they are always there in spirit. Where Do Our Typical Easter Traditions Come From? Classic Christmas movies are sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. $1 for 3 months. The true meaning of Christmas is celebration Jesus Christ's birth. I’ve heard this argument go back and forth over the years. The true meaning of Christmas is the celebration of this incredible act of love. Despite the government allowing churches and other religious gatherings in areas under a general community quarantine (GCQ) to operate at 50 percent capacity, it... Gumamela and hoya are both ornamental plants that are widely popular for their unique and attractive blooms. Make the Christmas service a priority for your family, and take it a step further! To others it is a day of feasting and merriment or even just a well-earned day off work. 5 Things to Know about Bethlehem, Why Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh Were Given to Baby Jesus, What is Advent: Definition & Meaning Behind Christmas Tradition, California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information, For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Attend a Christmas Eve service. Rev. Not Santa Claus, or the Christmas tree, or any other of the various traditions wrapped up into Christmas. 24 days of Christmas Activity book. Save 97%. But either that’s the extent of their knowledge or they lose sight of this in the busyness of the holiday. O Lord Jesus Christ,true God from true God,you became a little child for us so the world you made would be saved.Just as a child is born to us and a Son is given to us,may we be born again through youand always remain in the numberof God’s faithful children;through your merits, O blessed Savior,with the Father and the Holy Spirityou live and reign,one God,now and forever.Amen. In the bustle of December, a movie night at home with popcorn and hot chocolate is a family favorite. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. Learn more at www.brittanyrust.com. Midnight Mass, as it's often called, is a service specially made to celebrate Christmas, so it can feel more meaningful and emotional than regular church services. People come and go in our family but they are always there in spirit. The true meaning of Christmas often gets lost in the rush of the season: the shopping, the parties, the baking, and the wrapping of presents. Tour a Living Nativity. And with the lockdown-induced trend on garden... Three Ways to Celebrate the True Meaning of Christmas, How the Maguindanao Massacre verdict sparks hope for our justice system. Almighty God,grant that the new birthof your Son in the fleshredeems us from the old slaveryunder the yoke of sin,so we may receive him with joyas our Redeemer,and that when when he comes to judgewe may see Jesus Christ our Lord,who lives and reigns with youin the unity of the Holy Spirit,forever and ever.Amen. Article Images Copyright ©, FREE ebook: Getting Through the Storms of Life, How the “Word Became Flesh” Changed Everything, 1 Thing You Never Learned about the Christmas Story, Agende für christliche Gemeinden des lutherischen Bekenntnisses, What is Christmas? Christmas is about generosity. For many, there are warm parties, cozy homes, fond traditions to celebrate, and gifts to be shared. I love the idea of celebrating the 12 days of Christmas, or at least continuing to read and think of the true meaning of Christmas intentionally following the 25th Dec. Jane on December 24, 2017 at 1:44 pm Cheyenne Tex/Staff. If we could just put aside all of the busyness that is usually associated with Christmas and really think about what the day is, … Without Jesus coming into this world, we wouldn't have a way to be forgiven for our sins. To some, it means friendship, love, giving and receiving. Get into caroling. Volunteer for a good cause. . 1. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! Tim McConnell looks at the true meaning of Christmas. The Rev. Christmas is a time of holiday cheer and presents, but it’s much more than that. To some, Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Christ. I love the idea of celebrating the 12 days of Christmas, or at least continuing to read and think of the true meaning of Christmas intentionally following the 25th Dec. Jane on December 24, 2017 at 1:44 pm Why do we celebrate this occasion—what is its true meaning? The true meaning of Christmas is a phrase that began to appear in the mid-19th century when a shift toward a more secular culture resulted in a national backlash. The true meaning of Christmas is to cheer people up during a cold and depressing time of year. Choose reverence and give honor where honor is due. Nothing can reduce the real meaning of Christmas: More than 2,000 years ago Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, was born in a simple manger. There are so many things we can focus on at Christmas. I put in copious amounts of effort to celebrate the holiday only for it … For thousands of years mankind waited for the coming of Christ; they longed for their King to arrive and free them from oppression. God in His love and mercy saw our spiritual need, and on that Christmas night over 2,000 years ago He entered the world in the person of a tiny baby - … With the hubbub of festivities all around—twinkling lights on the windows, unending parties and get-togethers, and the inevitable Christmas rush—people seem to have forgotten the true essence of Christmas which is Jesus Christ. The Bible offers many reasons for why believers celebrate the birth of Jesus as the true meaning of Christmas. While it is true that giving gifts is thoughtful and rewarding to both the giver and the receiver, it is still somehow saddening to think that “gift-giving” has become the star of the celebration. SUBSCRIBE NOW. Raising a family of 6 on a budget, I understand the stress that Christmas can create, a time when we feel the urge to overdo everything: gifts, parties, meals, and … a partridge in a pear tree. But this child would grow and establish a Kingdom of righteousness forevermore. Shepherds, wise men, and angels all shared in the excitement of knowing about this great event. 24 days of Christmas Activity book. Relive the true meaning of Christmas with these kind acts that show gratitude and love to everyone! Join charitable activities. Three Ways to Celebrate the True Meaning of Christmas 20, December, 2019 With the hubbub of festivities all around—twinkling lights on the windows, unending parties and get-togethers, and the inevitable Christmas rush—people seem to have forgotten the true essence of Christmas … ~, For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. This will help your children remember to be grateful for the true blessing of the holiday. It doesn't matter how big or small our festivities are; we will celebrate a Christmas which God and Jesus will want to attend. Brittany, her husband Ryan, and their son Roman make their home in the Rocky Mountains, pursuing outdoor adventures, great food, and memorable stories together. Among the hustle and bustle, our focus is lost and priorities are misaligned. On Christmas Eve and Christmas morning, read the story of Jesus and His birth before you open presents. Invite, invite, invite, and encourage your kids to do the same! No need to go far to find the true meaning of Christmas. Bright lights, evergreen wreaths and a jolly old Santa are just some of the symbols people associate with the Christmas season. They are all celebrating it according to what they see as its ‘true meaning’. The images of a tree filled with glittering lights and beautifully wrapped gifts underneath represent the season and focus for many people, while the true meaning of Christmas fades away. Tim McConnell looks at the true meaning of Christmas. After returning home from our church’s Christmas … After hearing me, "Merry Christmas" becomes "Concerned Christmas." SUBSCRIBE NOW. A child was born in humble circumstances and his sacrificial death reflected the same, however, both were significant for humanity. The absence of all the Christmas parties and other activities means that we will be able to focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:5-11 (NIV). Mama of Many Blessings has put together a fantastic resources full of different ways to learn the true meaning of Christmas. The next assignment was to explain the full story. But don’t get sidetracked—get perspective. For some silly, fun movies, try Elf, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, or even White Christmas or "Miracle on 34th Street." Photo by Ylanite Koppens on Pexels.com. The Christian ideal is for the spirit of Christ to live in us all throughout the year. Christmas is partly about giving and receiving gifts and it is about celebrating the family and friends in our lives. The Bible is full of Scripture pointing directly to the One who would save mankind from their sins. Here are ways to keep the focus on the true meaning, Jesus Christ. Take time this holiday season to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas by glorifying the One who gave it all. $1 for 3 months. … That means lots of food, getting together with family and friends, giving each other gifts, being kind to others, and helping those in need. I know the busyness of the season can cause time to fly and before we know it, the holiday has passed and we have forgotten to celebrate why we are celebrating it in the first place. November 12, 2020 / simplywendi. In my heart, I knew it was time for my husband and I to get down to the nitty-gritty about what the true meaning of Christmas is, and especially since most of everything in our American culture tells us Christmas is all about Santa, reindeer and elves. ~, This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about : His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 1. This helps us to continually think about the true meaning of Christmas and gives us a more meaningful Christmas. Christmas is a pagan holiday, and we won’t celebrate it. Christmas is one of the most beautiful seasons in the Church that allows us to reflect on the love, the extreme love that our Heavenly Father has for us all. Try one of these movies to celebrate the reason for the season: A Charlie Brown Christmas, the Nativity Story, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, The Christmas Candle, or …