“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son for its redemption” 

There seems to be a wind of change--the cool breeze blowing, children with red cheeks carrying balloons in their hand and the malls full of people buying gifts for their dear ones and we feel the Christmas spirit engulfing everyone.  

Christmas not only symbolizes the birth of Jesus Christ but also the victory of good over evil. In today’s world, we lead a life of hypocrisy, disparagement and jealousy. When we divert our mind from these negative feelings then we understand the true meaning of Christmas.

He is the epitome of love, compassion and sacrifice. He lead the life of a common man, experienced human suffering, humiliation, pain and touched the hearts of many. He influenced people to think beyond themselves and he is none other then Jesus Christ, the Son of God who died for the benefit of mankind. It is this forfeit of his, which helped us to know the true meaning of sacrifice.

It is hard not to be fascinated by pomp and parties. Amid all these we should try to teach the younger generation the true meaning of Christmas. The birth of Christ is itself of great significance. He was born to a humble and poor family in a stable which itself shows that wealth is not everything to be a true seeker. We find true happiness in simplicity, holiness and true faith and this is the true gist of Christmas.

Let me share with you another significance of Christmas whom we all love Santa Claus.

A big, fat man with a round belly and beard as white as snow carrying a big bag full of toys for well-mannered children. We have been keenly listening to these tales from a young age and still fascinated by Santa. Have we ever thought how did Santa Claus came into existence?

Santa Claus is the image of St. Nicholas though different in features they symbolize the art of giving and the spirit of Christmas. 

St Nicholas was born in 280 AD, in Patara, a city of Lycia, in Asia Minor and was a Christian priest who later became a Bishop. He became the gift giver of Myra. His gifts were given late at night, so that the gift giver's identity would remain a secret. He was a rich person, and traveled the country helping people, giving gifts of money and other presents. St Nicholas did not like to be seen when he gave away presents, so the children of the day were told to go to sleep quickly or he would not come! Nothing has changed and Santa Claus will not arrive this Christmas unless the children go to sleep early. The existence of Santa Claus is not only to give gifts but also to spread the idea of helping each other especially the poor.

Hope this Christmas brings you lots of happiness and spiritual peace.