The Origins and Transformation of Christmas
A Reflection on Faith and Practice
The Early Christian Perspective
Christmas, as we know it today, was not celebrated by the Apostles or the early Christians in the first 300 years of Christianity. This absence of celebration reflects the early Christian focus on the resurrection of Christ rather than His birth. During this period, a pagan festival known as Saturnalia was celebrated in December, which over time influenced the establishment of Christmas. As Christianity spread, the church sought to Christianize popular pagan festivities, leading to the eventual celebration of Christ's birth during this time.
The term "Christmas" itself originates from "Christ Mass," a phrase coined by the Catholic Church to denote the celebration of Christ’s birth. Initially, many early Christians viewed this celebration with skepticism and even disdain, considering it a blasphemous appropriation of pagan traditions. However, as centuries passed, Christmas evolved into a day of great significance for Christians, dedicated to celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
Ethical Concerns in Modern Celebrations
In today's world, the way Christmas is celebrated raises various ethical concerns among Christians. In some regions, the holiday has transformed into a time for extravagant parties and lavish gift-giving, often influenced by myths like Santa Claus. This commercialization and excess starkly contrast with the reality that over a billion people live in extreme poverty.
As Christians, it is crucial to remember the humble circumstances of Jesus' birth. Jesus was born into a very poor Jewish family, highlighting the profound humility and simplicity of the incarnation. Dominique LaPierre, in "The City of Joy," poignantly writes, "But only a poor man can know the riches of poverty... If Christ chose to be born among the poor, it is because he wanted the poor to teach the world the good news of his message, the good news of his love for mankind."
The Orthodox Perspective
In the East, the Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas with a 40-day period of Lent. This time is dedicated to reflection, self-discipline, and meditation on the sacraments. On Christmas Eve, Orthodox Christians gather after seeing the first star for a Christmas meal. This period of fasting and reflection might have been a way to distance themselves from the revelry of pagan festivals and protect their faith from the undue influences of pagan practices.
Celebrating with Purpose
As Christians today, Christmas is a time to celebrate, worship, and remember the birth of the Messiah. It is a time of thanksgiving and a profound reminder of God's immense love for humanity. The Bible tells us, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him will not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). This divine gift of love is the essence of Christmas, and we honor it by giving gifts to our friends and family.
Christmas is also a time to remember the joy and reverence felt by Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the angels, and the Wise Men from the East. These figures, who came to worship and honor the birth of Jesus, exemplify the true spirit of Christmas.
As Isaiah 9:6 proclaims, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."
This Christmas, let us reflect on the humble beginnings of Jesus, the true meaning of the holiday, and strive to embody the love, generosity, and humility that Christ taught us.
