Embracing the True Essence of Christmas

As the holiday season approaches, our school community comes together to reflect on the profound meaning of Christmas. It is a time when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the ultimate gift of love from our Heavenly Father. In the hustle and bustle of the season, we gather here to remind ourselves of the essence of this sacred occasion and to navigate it with sensitivity and love.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

Christmas is not just about the glittering ornaments, festive lights, and gift-giving. It is about the incredible love that God bestowed upon us by sending His Son into the world. This love, as expressed in John 3:16, is at the heart of the Christmas story. It is a love that is beyond measure, beyond human comprehension, and beyond anything this world can offer.

In our modern society, the holiday season can sometimes become synonymous with materialism, consumerism, and the pursuit of perfection. We may find ourselves entangled in the tangle of gift lists, holiday parties, and decorating extravaganzas. It is essential to remember that while these aspects can bring joy, they should not be allowed to overshadow the real reason for the season.

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21

Christmas serves as a poignant reminder that the treasures we accumulate in this world are temporary. What truly matters is where we place our hearts and what we store up in heaven. Instead of becoming preoccupied with material things, let us focus on building up treasures in heaven through acts of love, kindness, and compassion.

“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3:2

This verse from Colossians underscores the importance of setting our minds on things above. During this season, it means setting our hearts and minds on Jesus Christ, the true source of our hope and salvation. When we are confronted with the rush of holiday demands and temptations, we must consciously choose to fix our eyes on the One who brings eternal joy and fulfilment.

Navigating the Christmas season with sensitivity and love also entails embracing those around us with open hearts. For some, this season can be a time of loneliness, grief, or hardship. Let us extend our love and support to those who may be struggling, reminding them that they are not alone. We can be the vessels of God’s love, bringing comfort and hope to those in need.

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” 1 John 4:7-8

As a Christian school community, we are called to embody the love that comes from God. Let this love be our guiding light during this Christmas season and throughout the year. As we head into the festive season, may we never lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas and the love of Christ that defines it.

Let us remember that Christmas is not just a day but a way of living in the spirit of love, grace, and kindness. May this season remind us of the greatest gift we have received, the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, and inspire us to share that love and grace with others. May the light of Christ shine brightly in your homes, and as we navigate this Christmas season, I wish you Jesus, the true reason for our celebration.

Dee Fulcher
Head of Primary Years