Every Christmas, I hear people complaining there’s not enough money for giving gifts and to buy food for Noche Buena. I wonder, isn’t Christmas about the birth of Jesus Christ? He is the gift of the Father to us and He did not ask for anything in return.
The best gifts I think are those given to people who have no means of giving us in return. The homeless, the orphans, the elderlies, and yes, those who were affected by Typhoon Sendong in Mindanao. It doesn’t matter if they’re Christians or not. Jesus said, ‘I tell you with certainty, since you did it for one of the least important of these brothers of mine, you did it for me.’ (Mattheew 25:40).
I’m not a Grinch but to me, commercialism has gone overboard and made Santa seemed like the reason for looking forward to Christmas especially for children. There’s nothing wrong in instilling the value of generosity to children but I think gifts should be given to people not only because they have been good but because you simply love them. No conditions.
In view of the calamity caused by Typhoon Sendong, I think the more we have to reflect on the true reason why we celebrate Christmas. It’s not about gifts, food, nor parties. It’s about the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour.
Many families lost their homes and loved ones and may find it hard to start their life anew. A fellow blogger in Cagayan de Oro City lost three of her four children. I could never imagine the pain she and her family is going through right now. Should they stop celebrating Christmas? I think the more reason they should celebrate Christmas. It may not be in a jubilant manner but just to thank God for life and to pray for strength to overcome the trials they’re going through. I will also pray for them and share the blessings we received to help them pick up the pieces of their life and start anew.
From my family to yours, have a blessed and meaningful Christmas! No matter what our circumstances in life maybe, let’s not forget whose birthday it is we’re celebrating.