What Christmas means for Christians
For Christians, the true meaning of Christmas centres on Jesus Christ’s birth. It’s a opportunity to reflect on love, joy, family and giving. It is a time of celebration although, the commercial pressures can bring stress. We also remember those for whom this season is financially challenging.
In an era of overwhelming information, some may feel guilt about celebrating Christmas. But remember to focus on Jesus; Christmas is about discovering its personal meaning for you.
Why do we celebrate Christmas?
There is no set way to celebrate Christmas. How would you like to observe it? Online searches might reveal Christmas’s overlap with other traditions, and that’s okay. You can celebrate Christ’s birth in a way that’s true to you and your family. Christmas is a time to create meaningful traditions or give differently. It need not only be gifts and presents, you can give your time or whatever reflects its significance to you. We are all free to celebrate the day in a way which feels authentic to us and our loved ones.
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6
For me, Christmas blends spiritual reflection with giving. It’s a season to meditate on God’s goodness and the gift of Christ’s birth. I also find joy in gift-giving, as God is the ultimate giver. While Christmas can quickly become costly, I plan a budget to make giving both meaningful and affordable.
Top Tip
Set a budget for each gift or make homemade gifts. Celebrate in a way that feels special to you.
The Christmas story in the bible
The Bible records the birth of Jesus in Luke 2:4–12:
‘So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’
In the book of Matthew from verse 2:1–14 we get more details on how King Herod attempted to use the magi or wise men to find out where Jesus was born in hopes to stop what he thought to be a threat to his reign. But Herod’s attempt would fail and Jesus would be safe to grow and impact his community and the world forever.
…remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: It is more blessed to give than to receive.
Acts 20:35
The message of Christmas
Christmas embodies Biblical principles like joy, peace, and light—traits that align with our faith. My personal favourite is the spirit of giving, especially to those in need.
Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
Luke 2:11
Offering gifts, food, or warm clothing to struggling families is a chance to demonstrate God’s love. During Christmas, the true meaning of gift giving at Christmas can be seen when communities unite to give in ways that beautifully reflect the giving nature of Jesus.
Volunteering can be a great way of giving this Christmas
For me, the essence of Christmas can be found in Nehemiah 8:10, though the context is not Christmas, the passage highlights the celebratory mood that Christmas means for me as well as the cue to think of others:
Nehemiah said, ‘Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
Nehemiah 8:10
Other Biblical principles that Christmas promotes includes:
Joy
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” Psalm 28:7
Giving
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:38
Peace
“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
Rest
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
Light
“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
Celebrating Christmas
There’s no ‘right’ way to celebrate Christmas or specific budget required. For me, it’s an opportunity to express what Jesus means personally and celebrate with loved ones. I also try to remember those who struggle during this season—whether financially, due to loss, or because of loneliness. If this resonates with you, I hope you give yourself grace this Christmas, moving at your own pace and focusing on what feels right.
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11
In the Bible, festivals often marked God’s miracles, instituted by him as an annual reminder of hope and encouragement. My prayer is that he shows up for you in a new way this season, bringing comfort and strength.
Across the UK, many families are at a breaking point financially this season. By donating to our Christmas emergency aid appeal, you can help keep the true meaning of Christmas alive. Ensuring no family goes without essentials this Christmas.
