“If our greatest need had been information, God would have sent us an educator. If our greatest need had been technology, God would have sent us a scientist. If our greatest need had been money, God would have sent us an economist. If our greatest need had been pleasure, God would have sent us an entertainer. But our greatest need was forgiveness, so God sent us a Saviour.” Max Lucado. If you go around the city, you will see lots of homes getting ready for Christmas. You will see beautiful and elegant Christmas decorations prepping the neighborhood. All these things enhance the celebration of Christmas creating the warmth of togetherness and comradeship. However, the focal point of Christmas is “Jesus Christ”. The celebration of Christmas illuminates the significance of His birth. While the whole world celebrates Christmas, today let’s delve upon the spirit and significance of Christmas and the message it offers to the whole world.

Christmas is a season of great joy. It is a time of healing and renewed strength. It is a wonderful time for the family to share togetherness and be united. Indeed, the birth of Jesus brought great joy to the whole world. Shepherds, wise men and kings representing the whole world partook in the joy of the first Christmas in Bethlehem. The glorious joy of the first Christmas has not faded away; it still continues to shine on even today enveloping the heart of humankind. Amidst the busyness of shopping, parties, presents, and fun, Jesus the Prince of Peace who came to save the mankind from sin, spread peace, joy and give eternal life to all who believe in Him, remains the central point of Christmas Celebration. Christ’s coming into the world was not accidental but rather purposeful. God’s redeeming love was at the very heart, and the main reason for His coming. God’s love revealed itself in such a marvelous way to save humanity. It was foretold in the scriptures and His birth was the fulfillment of what was written about Him. Can you imagine how great and unconditional God’s love must have been, to consent to dwell in human flesh and die for the sins of entire humankind?

Indeed, Christmas is the story of hope, peace and goodwill. Jesus gives hope to know God and let His Kingdom manifest in our lives, receive forgiveness and have eternal life and establish peace and goodwill among humankind. Christmas is the story of deepest humility. When leaders appear in public, there is a great pomp and solemnity, whereas Jesus the King of kings came as a servant, a baby born in humble circumstances. Though He was God, he humbled Himself even to the extent of dying on the cross so that we may have forgiveness and eternal life. Mahatma Gandhi who was fascinated by Jesus Christ and his teachings has beautifully said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

The message of the first Christmas is “Joyous giving” for Jesus is a gift, a present from the loving heavenly father to the whole world. This Christmas let us realize that the best joy comes only through joyous giving. A Chinese Philosopher Lao Tzu has rightly said, “Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.”

At this Christmas may God give you a spirit of wisdom and perception of what is revealed, to bring you to full knowledge of Him. May He enlighten the eyes of your mind so that you can see what hope His call holds for you and what rich glories are in store. Wish you a truly blessed and joyful Christmas and a Prosperous New Year 2015.

Dr. Augustine F.Pinto
Chairman
Ryan International Group of Institutions India