Dr. R. K. Behera
Principal, MGM College
Every year, as December approaches, the world becomes busy. Streets glitter with decorations, homes glow with lights, and people rush to buy cakes, clothes, gifts, and everything the season demands. But in the midst of all this excitement, we must pause and ask ourselves:
Is Christmas only for decoration? Is it merely for merry-making? Is it just for baking cakes or stitching new dresses? Is it only a festival of outward celebration? What, then, is Christmas? Christmas is deeper than decorations, louder than celebrations, and greater than traditions. Christmas is not about what we do—it is about whom we receive. At the heart of Christmas stands Christ, the Saviour who stepped into a broken world to bring hope, healing, and redemption. The angels did not announce the arrival of a festival—they announced the arrival of a Saviour. "For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given…" (Isaiah 9:6) This is the message, the centre, and the glory of Christmas. Christmas is the story of God becoming man so that man may find his way back to God. It is the story of light piercing darkness, grace overcoming sin, and love triumphing over despair.
Amidst the lights we hang outside, God looks at the light within our hearts. Amidst the new clothes we wear, He looks at whether we are clothed with humility. Amidst the joy we display, He searches for repentance and readiness. The greatest question this season is not: “Are we prepared for Christmas?”The real question is: “ARE WE READY FOR CHRIST?”Are our hearts open? Are our lives surrendered?
Are we willing to let Christ be born not only in Bethlehem, but in our decisions, our homes, and our future? Hence,Christmas becomes meaningful only when Christ becomes central. When His peace governs our hearts, when His love fills our families, when His purpose shapes our lives—then we have truly celebrated Christmas. Let us celebrate not just with lights outside, but with light inside. Not just with songs on our lips, but with worship in our hearts. Not just with gifts under the tree, but with gratitude for the greatest gift—Jesus Christ.
