December 25th is one of Christianity’s most important holy days, a commemoration of the birth some 2000 years ago of Jesus Christ, revered by Christians as the Incarnate God, the Savior, the Light of the World.
The actual date of the birth of Jesus is unknown, and the precise origin of assigning December 25 as the birth date of Jesus is unclear. But the date falls very close to the Winter Solstice. To many ancient people around the world, the turn from the fading of the winter light toward the lengthening days of the coming spring was symbolic of the promise of nature’s renewal.
And as Christians believe that Jesus is the light of the world, it would seem logical to early Christians that this was the right time to celebrate the birth of Jesus. After the year 221, December 25 gradually became accepted as the date of Jesus’ birth, and soon, Christian writers began to make a connection between the rebirth of the sun and the birth of the Son of God.
“The Christmas story is at the heart of the Christian faith. But the message of hope, love, peace, and joy, they’re also universal,” said President Joe Biden.
“It speaks to all of us, whether we’re Christian, Jewish, Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, or any other faith, or no faith at all. It speaks to all of us as human beings who are here on this Earth to care for one another, to look out for one another, to love one another.”
Indeed, at Christmas time, Christians are meant to spread, by word and deed, a message of peace and love for all humankind, of charity, of joy and hope. It is a time to show love and appreciation for family, friends and neighbors, and to treat strangers with kindness and generosity.
“Sometimes the smallest act of kindness can mean so much. A simple smile. A hug. An unexpected phone call. A quiet cup of coffee. Simple acts of kindness that can lift a spirit, provide comfort, and perhaps maybe even save a life,” said President Biden.
“This Christmas let’s be that helping hand, that strong shoulder, that friendly voice when no one else seems to care for those who are struggling, in trouble, in need. It just might be the best gift you can ever give.”
