Mumbai (RBI), Dec. 23: Once again, it’s the time of the year when the story of the birth of Jesus Christ born in a humble manger is shared and celebrated throughout the world. The month of December brings a message of goodwill - to love, give and forgive. Christmas is celebrated all over the world with great joy. For children it’s a time of fun and excitement. Christmas rings in the atmosphere of peace and festivity in the air. The whole season has its own special feel to it and everyone seems to be happier and kinder. It is a season that awakens the spirit of giving and sharing among people. “Jesus Christ” is God’s gift to the entire humankind and the celebration of Christmas beautifully illuminates the significance of His birth. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, Jesus, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” That’s the focal point of Christmas. The Christmas tree, the Santa Clause and buying and shopping are just the commercialized peripherals. The celebration of Christmas sheds light on God’s unconditional and unfathomable love that has no bounds. It is the love of God that sustains us all through.

We celebrate Jesus’ birth and his redeeming love at Christmas and the entire season exhorts us to share God’s love with our neighbours, poor and needy just as Jesus was a gift shared by God Almighty Father. Mother Teresa has beautifully said, “It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you…yes, it is Christmas every time you smile at your brother and offer him your hand.” Truly, Jesus is born every time we share God’s love with our fellow brothers and sisters. Jesus is the Prince of Peace who came to give hope, love, joy, peace and eternal life. With innumerable problems all around the world where peace seems so difficult, Jesus gives hope and his message of goodwill becomes relevant for every person on the earth even today.

Life and message of Jesus and his love is beyond the boundaries of time or culture. His life was a life of unconditional love, the love that seeks to offer something better for all. His love extends beyond ourselves and reaches out to others, and impacts the common good of all. This Christmas, let us strive to embody his love and share it with those around us in our own little ways that will certainly bring true joy in our lives. Let us be open to receive the gifts of love, joy and peace freely given by Jesus in our lives and spread the message of giving, sharing and caring for one another. W. T. Ellis had beautifully said, ‘It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.’

Wish you a truly joyful Christmas and a Prosperous New Year 2023.
Dr. A. F. Pinto
Chairman
Ryan International Group of Institutions