December has come and along with it comes the jubilation of Christmas. But the big question is what is the real meaning of Christmas? Is it the Christmas dinners with family and friends, the gifts under the Christmas tree, lights and decorations around the house, stockings hanging up in the living room, opening the advent calendar for each day leading up to Christmas day or the people saying "Merry Christmas" to each other? Do you think this is really what Christmas is?
A quick fact is that the word "Christmas" actually comes from the Mass of Christ. A mass service is where Christians remember that Jesus died for them on the cross. Christmas is a time of joy and spiritual comtemplation on the Christian faith. Most Christmas traditions are very significant and hold a symbolic resemblance. An example of this would be exchanging gifts, the Three Wise Men took gifts of frankincense, gold and myrrh to Jesus when he was born. Also God gave us a priceless gift - sending down his son down to the Earth.
"Christmas is the festival of the Christian faith that commemorates the birth of Jesus. It is celebrated on 25th December every year. There are various traditions to Christmas. I love to visit my family in New Zealand and eat lots of yummy food without getting told off! Christmas is my favourite time of year", says Lillian Jones, aged 8.
Christmas really is the most sensational time of year. For many people it can be going out to lively and loud parties and for others it is staying at home and following the traditional Christmas traditions. Wherever you are just remember to spend some fun time with your family. Take this holiday season to truly reflect on your faith and connect with God in a spiritual way. Certainly, Christmas should be about enjoying, so having fun at parties and eating tons of food. However, make sure to reflect on the meaning of Christmas.
So what do you think Christmas means to you?
How do you celebrate it? What do you do?
By Losigga Rajahvisvalingam
