Is it not sad that at this special time of year when everyone’s thoughts turn toward loved ones, family and friends that it only lasts a short while? We have also seemed to lose the true sprit and meaning of the date because we have been in my opinion brainwashed that we must buy, buy, buy to be happy. It seems the big corporations have stolen the true meaning of the holiday and date and replaced it with the definition of increased sales?
Now here I go again and many may just call me “old fashioned” and not with it, but that is exactly the point.
We celebrate Christ’s birth date as a Christian nation. It seems that in many circles this is no longer correct to even mention we are a Christian nation. Well when the facts are said we were founded as a nation on Judeo Christian principals and while tolerant of other religions that does not detract from our heritage.
Certainly if this were another nation practicing their predominant faith you will not find the openness you find in our society. We do not force our beliefs on others whereas many of these nations do. No we as an open and free society respect others beliefs. Therefore when we place Christmas in our public buildings and throughout society we are expressing the fiber of our nation and its very character. It should be accepted as it has in the history of our nation.
Now getting back to the true spirit of Christmas which is really the love, caring and compassion along with the giving of these essential elements and not the physical gifts, their value or how many that we should focus on obtaining.
The date has been set aside to remember Jesus Christ the Son of God was born as a Savior to all men and thus provided the greatest of all gifts to those who believe in Him. That is everlasting life.
Now scoffers and unbelievers will laugh and mock. Others will blaspheme and curse yet they will gladly take the day off. Others will not respect the day, the religion or our nation that professes their beliefs. The facts said this does not matter because these types must be in the world as part of a Christian’s overall salvation.
So this Christmas you will actually be doing yourself a major good by not overspending. You will be prudent in your finances and not run up unneeded debt. You will be eliminating selfishness, pride, ego and other negatives from your character. You will be sending a very strong message to the greedy and those who exploit through urging unnecessary purchases and debt. Yes, you will be getting back to the true meaning of the date.
That meaning of Christmas is truly humbleness before God and thanksgiving for His gift of life. You will be sharing and establishing the elements that create strong bonds of love and family with all. You will become what you say you are. Perhaps we might all learn that Christmas is not a one-day event but an everyday event in the life of a Christian.
That the sharing of thankfulness, love, compassion and mercy are the greatest gifts of all and that we as humans can share them every day as the Christians we profess to be. Perhaps, just perhaps it is not too late to reflect on that aspect? Perhaps, just perhaps it will change your situation, family, environment, and perspective and lead to a more peaceful life and to what we say we want to be as we call ourselves. That is Christian and a follower of Christ!
May I wish you all a Merry Christmas along with peace, health, security and prosperity regardless of your personal beliefs? After all we are all Gods creation and these are the true gifts of man.
Robert T. Melaccio Sr. Copyright ©2006 Robert Melacci o