People would usually associate Christmas with snow, Santa Claus, lights, gifts, parties, jingles, bonus, discounted sales and other merry making activities. There is nothing wrong with these activities or these symbols if it adds to the joy of celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. So, amidst these festivities, let us not forget the reason why we are celebrating Christmas in the first place.
What lessons can we learn from the characters of the first Christmas story?
First, like the shepherds, we should be obedient to the commands of God.
The shepherds were terrified at first. This must be the reason why God sent one angel at first. When they were reassured by the angel, a great company of the heavenly host appeared and began to sing. It must have been a spectacular sight!
The message of the angel would just remain a message if the shepherds did not act on it. But after the mesmerizing display in the nighttime skies, they decided upon themselves to obey the message from God. They hurriedly went to Bethlehem and found Jesus. They were not just the first visitors of Jesus, but they were the first evangelists that told the people about the birth of the Savior.
Second, like the Wise Men, let us commit to seek Jesus Christ.
The Wise Men or Magi came from the East. They made a commitment to travel for a long time, and leave the comfort of their homes. They believed that there is something spectacular that will happen or has happened underneath the star that they saw.
Their commitment and persistence paid off, and they were able to visit Jesus and worshipped Him.
Let us not forget the lessons that we have learned from the Shepherds and the Wise Men as we go about our Christmas celebration.
May God bless you!
Sincerely,
Director, Office of Communications
Central Philippine University