It’s December, which means it’s time for the holidays. Contrary to popular belief, “holiday” is not synonymous with “vacation.” Holiday comes from the Old English words “holy + day,” and several religions celebrate this time of year. For example, our Jewish friends observe Hanukkah, a.k.a. the Festival of Lights, and our Wiccan friends celebrate Yule, a.k.a. the Winter Solstice. Kwanzaa happens in December, but it’s a cultural observance, not a religious one.

And perhaps the most widely known holiday of the year is the Christian celebration of Christmas. But given that Christmas has become a rather secular and commercialized season in America, I thought it might be helpful to review its original meaning. 

For Christians, Christmas is a celebration of the coming to earth of the long-awaited Messiah or Savior, Jesus Christ. Christians believe that Jesus didn’t begin to exist when he became human 2,000+ years ago; he is eternal. According to the Apostle John, Jesus was not only “with God” the Father in heaven but was himself “God.” That is why Jesus is called “Immanuel,” which means “God with us.”

So, why did he come? Here’s the answer, in Jesus’ own words:

“I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness.” John 12:46

“For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to testify to the truth.” John 18:37

“I came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10

“I came not to be served but to serve, and to give my life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45

“I have come that [people] may have abundant life.” John 10:10

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

^“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27

Jesus didn’t come to be a “good teacher” or just another “religion founder.” Jesus came to do far more — to bring light to our darkness, truth to our world’s lies, direction to our lostness, life to our dying souls and peace to our troubled hearts.

C.S. Lewis summed up the purpose of Christmas very well: “The Son of God became a man to enable men to become sons of God.”

In the hustle and bustle of this holiday season, may we all remember that the star of Christmas is – and forever will be – Jesus. May his light shine brightly on every one of us.

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