Christmas is a special time full of meaning and values that transcend external merriment. Beyond the bright lights and gifts, it is important to remember the real reason for this celebration: the birth of Jesus, the Son of God, who brought a message of communion and peace to the world.
"Celebrate the Festival of Unleavened Bread; for seven days eat bread made without yeast, as I commanded you. Do this at the appointed time in the month of Aviv, for in that month you came out of Egypt. “No one is to appear before me empty-handed." Exodus 23:15
Amid the twinkling lights, wrapped gifts and festive tunes, it's easy to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. This celebration, rooted in the Christian faith, is not simply a holiday, but a commemoration of the birth of Jesus and the message he brought with him: love, fellowship and peace for humanity.
The heart of Christmas does not lie in the external merriment, but in the proclamation of the incarnation of God through Jesus, who came into the world to share a message of fraternity and love among all human beings. It is to understand that, in celebrating this feast, we invite Jesus to be reborn in our hearts and remember his teaching to live in harmony and unity.
"Finally the opportune time came. On his birthday Herod gave a banquet for his high officials and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. When the daughter of Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask me for anything you want, and I’ll give it to you." Mark 6:21-22
Beyond the gifts and pomp, Christmas is a call to selfless generosity, to the act of giving without expecting to receive. It is a time to rejoice in seeing happiness in others, to extend a helping hand to those around us and to emphasize the genuine values that enrich our humanity.
In the spirit of Christmas, we are invited to be compassionate to all those we meet along the way. Often, a kind gesture, a smile or a word of encouragement can brighten someone else's day. It is an opportunity to be aware of the fraternal connection we share as children of the same Heavenly Father and to show affection and understanding toward our fellow human beings.
This season is an invitation to live the message of love, generosity and kindness that Jesus taught us. It leads us to focus on people and not on material objects, to remember that true wealth lies in the love shared and the solidarity shown towards those around us.
"But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate." Luke 15:22-24
During the Christmas season, the power and grace of family is especially profoundly manifested. It is a time to gather with loved ones, strengthen bonds and rejoice in each other's company and love. In these family gatherings, there are valuable opportunities to practice fundamental virtues such as forgiveness, active listening and fraternal embrace, generating an authentic transformation in hearts and relationships.
Forgiveness, one of the pillars of family coexistence, acquires even greater relevance at this time of year. Christmas offers the possibility of putting aside grudges, past hurts and misunderstandings, and opening the heart to forgiveness. This liberating act not only benefits the giver, but also restores bonds, fosters reconciliation and creates an atmosphere of harmony and healing. It is a powerful gift that not only uplifts the personal spirit, but also strengthens the bonds between family members.
Active listening is another invaluable tool in the family environment. During this season, when conversations are flowing and laughter is more abundant, it is important to practice attentive and sympathetic listening. Offering our genuine attention to others not only allows us to learn about their worries, dreams and joys, but also gives them a sense of being valued and understood.
"Count off seven weeks from the time you begin to put the sickle to the standing grain. Then celebrate the Festival of Weeks to the Lord your God by giving a freewill offering in proportion to the blessings the Lord your God has given you." Deuteronomy 16:9-10
This gesture of loving listening strengthens bonds, promotes empathy and opens spaces for emotional closeness and understanding. Hugs, charged with warmth and love, are physical expressions that have incredible power in the family reunion. An affectionate hug can convey deep emotional support, dissipate tensions and share a sense of togetherness and belonging.
At Christmas, hugging a loved one not only provides comfort and strength, but is also a tangible reminder of the unconditional love that binds the family together, building bridges of affection and complicity. These acts of forgiveness, active listening and fraternal embrace not only enrich family ties, but also nurture the Christmas spirit of love, compassion and solidarity.
The family becomes a melting pot of emotions and experiences where one learns to forgive, to listen with an open heart and to offer comfort and love to those who need it most. Thus, the magic of Christmas is manifested not only in the celebration, but also in the transformation it brings to hearts united by the family bond.