Ah, Christmas.

It’s “the most wonderful time of the year!”, as a famous song goes.

As we conclude the season of Advent, we enter into the true Christmas season.

Merry Christmas! As people gather around the Christmas tree, it will be a celebration unlike any other in recent memory. Some will wonder if there is any cause for Christmas cheer. Chastened and saddened by the absence of family and loved ones — especially due to the recent fire incident in the city — it may not feel much like Christmas. But it is Christmas, so let us rejoice and be glad. It is the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Our Saviour.

It is important that the true meaning of Christmas always remain in the hearts of believers. Sharing the celebration with others should in no way lessen the importance of the day. The message of Christmas is one of joy and hope that all can understand and appreciate.

For many, Christmas is a time of gift-giving, and carolling. A time for family gathering. Reminiscing memories of family traditions and what not. Retelling same old stories that only get better with time.

However, with all these unique routine of celebrating this wonderful time, we must always remember the true meaning behind such celebration. We must never forget to share to our neighbours, not only material things, but most especially our empathy towards them. For afterall, just as Christ was born in this world for us, we are called to be like Him, and give ourselves for others, for that is the true spirit of Christmas. (AJDB)