What It Means to Be a Christian During Christmas

What It Means to Be a Christian During Christmas

The Christmas season is often marked by festivity, bright lights, and the promise of cherished moments with family and friends. But for followers of Christ, it goes far deeper—Christmas commemorates the moment God chose to enter our world in human form. As the Gospel of John states: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory” (John 1:14, NIV). This single event changed human history, offering the gift of salvation and a new way of living.

The Fulfillment of Ancient Hope
Long before Mary and Joseph made their journey to Bethlehem, the prophet Isaiah wrote, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders” (Isaiah 9:6, NIV). This was a promise of redemption. Generations waited for the Messiah, longing for a liberator who would not only restore Israel, but usher in a new kingdom defined by grace, love, and sacrifice.

When Jesus was born in a humble stable, the world saw the prophecy fulfilled. The angel declared to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10, NIV). The irony of a King born in such lowly surroundings reminds us that God works through unexpected means. He meets us where we are—even in our most vulnerable moments—and invites us to approach Him with courage and faith.

Embracing the Mystery
Christmas underscores a profound mystery: God Himself stepped into our reality. The astonishing humility of Jesus is captured in Paul’s words: “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage” (Philippians 2:6, NIV). Rather than coming with grandeur, He arrived in a manger, making Himself accessible to all.

This humility is central to the Christian life, especially at Christmas. While the world encourages us to elevate our status, acquire more, and outshine others, the Lord’s coming urges us to choose a different path. Reflecting on the Incarnation compels us to serve, to love unconditionally, and to focus on relationships rather than material gain. It challenges us to see each person—friend or stranger—as someone worthy of compassion and dignity.
A Season of Giving—Because He First Gave

At its core, the Christmas message is one of profound giving. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son” (John 3:16, NIV). In this gift, we find hope, forgiveness, and unbreakable love. Celebrating Christmas is not just about receiving blessings but about imitating God’s generosity.

During this season, Christian living becomes an outward extension of God’s grace:

1. Generous Hearts: True generosity is not measured by what we can afford, but by our willingness to share what we have. Giving can take many forms, from gifts and financial support to volunteering our time with those in need.
2. Kind Speech: Words can heal or wound. Proverbs says, “Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body” (Proverbs 16:24, NIV). A Christian at Christmas must be intentional about speaking life into others, especially when stress and busyness abound.
3. Acts of Service: Jesus modeled servanthood by washing His disciples’ feet (John 13:14–15). In the same spirit, we should use our talents and resources to help those who are marginalized, lonely, or hurting.
4. Rekindling Wonder and Gratitude: Amidst the hustle of holiday preparations, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. The Nativity scene is not just a quaint story; it is a powerful representation of God’s heart. Think of Mary’s awe, Joseph’s faith, and the shepherds’ exuberant joy. Each of these figures reminds us to rekindle our own wonder at God’s presence.

Yet wonder without gratitude can wither. The Bible encourages us, “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15, NIV). True gratitude goes beyond polite words; it shapes our perspective. When we view life through thankfulness, we recognize that everything—our health, our loved ones, our very breath—is a gift from God.

Living the Christmas Spirit All Year
The essence of Christmas should never be boxed up with the ornaments. The spirit of Christ’s birth calls us to a perpetual reflection that transforms our hearts. Titus 2:11 (NIV) tells us, “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.” This grace does not expire when the calendar shifts to a new year. It compels us to be living testimonies of God’s mercy every day.

Here are a few ways to keep the Christmas spirit alive:

• Daily Devotion: Commit time to prayer and Scripture reading. Remind yourself regularly of the sacrifice and grace at the core of your faith.
• Intentional Community: Fellowship with other believers, share each other’s burdens, and celebrate each other’s milestones. This unity reflects the welcoming heart of Christ.
• Continual Giving: Remember that a life of generosity is not seasonal. Keep seeking ways to bless others, whether through your words, your deeds, or your resources.

Christmas Points Us to Christ
Being a Christian during Christmas means anchoring ourselves in the story of God’s love made human. The angels proclaimed “good news” for all people, and that remains our call—to be bearers of good news in a world that often feels weary. Let this season serve as a joyful reminder that we are invited to partake in God’s grand plan of redemption. He calls us to live in humble awe, unshakeable hope, and radical love.

In Christ’s coming, we see a Savior who understands our struggles, carries our burdens, and breaks our chains. This is the hope we celebrate. May our Christmas reflections draw us closer to God, inspire us to serve our neighbors, and embolden our faith for the days ahead. Christmas is not a temporary celebration—it is a constant invitation to remember the miracle of Emmanuel, “God with us,” and to share that miracle with everyone we encounter.