What Does Christmas Really Mean? | The Odyssey Online
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What Does Christmas Really Mean?

Christmas is more than the stress, the shopping, and the stuff.

Maria Christine Cozzens
Dec 06, 2016
Lindsey Wilson College
99
What Does Christmas Really Mean?
Wallpapercave

With the Christmas season fast-approaching and the rush of holiday madness upon us, it is easy to let the days go by without much thought. But before we know it, Christmas is over and we somehow feel like bystanders who made it just in time to see the tail end of a parade march past. Many treat the holidays like a marathon and run blindly to the tune of “It’s the holiday season” just to have the season pass them by. They are determined to have the prettiest house, the priciest gifts, the tastiest food, and the handsomest clothes.They fill their minds with silver and gold while their hearts seem to have forgotten the true meaning of Christmas. Christmas. Christmas is just an old tradition, remembered yet often forgotten.

Christmas is the white flutter of snowflakes inside a plastic globe. It is a pair of warm PJ’s or a brand new drill set that is sure to please that someone on your list. Christmas is a stream of white sparkling lights that have been up since before Thanksgiving. It is a day off from work, a cause of family stress, a reason to hit the local mall, and a hassle when you are in traffic. Christmas is a dinner that took hours to prepare, and a day that flies by before we know it.

But Christmas is more than this. Christmas is a celebration that never ends. “Christmas” literally means “Christ” and “Mass”—the celebration of God’s selfless gift of his son Christ to us that is celebrated each Sunday at the Mass in Holy Communion. Christmas is eternal life, selfless love, unending joy, peace in the storm, and hope for the future. Christmas did not take place with dazzling lights, spectacular music, or a lavish feast. The first Christmas took place in a humble stable where local shepherds came to celebrate.

This Christmas, don’t let the stresses and pressures of society keep you from experiencing the love and strength that God has to offer. Surround yourself with those you love, give to the poor, and find refreshment in the peace and joy God has to offer this year. The holiday festivities are wonderful to enjoy of course! But don’t forget to appreciate Christmas for all it’s worth!

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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