Christians, all over the world  celebrate Christmas in honour of the birth of Jesus Christ. Various Christmas traditions have been associated with the celebration of Christmas, and different cultures celebrate in different ways. The unifying factor is the historical fact that Jesus was born, c. 5BC. The angel who appeared to the shepherds the night of Jesus’ birth said, “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:10–11). 

We celebrate Christmas because, as the angel said, the birth of Jesus Christ is “good news.” Good news is meant to be celebrated. In fact, the angel said the news of Jesus’ Birth would cause “great joy” and would be “for all the people”— the joyful celebration would be universal. People around the globe would be glad for this occasion.

We celebrate Christmas because, as the angel said, “A Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” And He is the divine Lord who has entered our world: the Almighty has taken on human flesh; God and man have been fused together in an indivisible, eternal bond; God is truly with us. 

In celebrating Christmas, we celebrate the Saviour, because we need deliverance. We celebrate Christ in whom all of God’s promises are “Yes” and “Amen”.

We celebrate Christmas with gift-giving because of the “indescribable gift” that God gave to us.

We celebrate Christmas by stringing lights because the Light of the world has come to us. 

We celebrate Christmas with carols and choirs because they are expressive of joy and follow the examples of Mary and Zacharias and Simeon and the angels, all of whom extolled the Lord in poetry.

In celebrating Christmas we celebrate the love and condescension of God. 

As we celebrate Christmas this year, may we be constantly reminded of God’s unconditional love, His mercy, His goodness and His grace. 

I wish you and your family a blessed and memorable Christmas. 

Love, Candice Strauss