When fall has given way to winter and snow covers the ground while lights twinkle from house to house, you know that Christmas is coming. Christmas is one of the most important Christian and cultural holidays of the year, but what is the true meaning of Christmas? Is it the gifts? Is it the annual economic boost?
The meaning of Christmas can vary for different people and cultures, but it is generally celebrated as a Christian holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. For Christians, Christmas is a time to reflect on the significance of Jesus’ birth, emphasizing themes of love, peace, and goodwill toward all.
Beyond its religious roots, Christmas has evolved into a widely celebrated cultural and festive occasion in many parts of the world. It often involves exchanging gifts, spending time with family and friends, decorating homes with festive ornaments, and partaking in special meals and traditions.
Christmas is a time of spiritual reflection on the important foundations of the Christian faith. It’s also a celebration. It’s when Christians celebrate God’s love for the world through the birth of the Christ child: Jesus. The Bible tells of his birth hundreds of years before, fulfilling prophecies.
Meaning of the Word ‘Christmas’
The term originates from the Old English Cristes mæsse, or “Christ’s Mass,” first recorded in historical documents around 1038. This phrase evolved into Middle English as Cristemasse, beautifully capturing the heart of this holiday as a time to honor and remember the birth of Jesus Christ.
In Christian tradition, “Mass” refers to the celebration of the Eucharist—an essential and sacred observance commemorating the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. By coming together for “Christ’s Mass,” early believers celebrated His entrance into the world, setting the stage for a transformative message of hope and salvation.
You might have also seen the term “Xmas,” which sometimes causes confusion. But “Xmas” has deep roots in the Greek language, as the letter “X” (Chi) is the first letter in Χριστός (Christos), which means “Christ.” Far from being a modern abbreviation, “Xmas” holds a rich, historical connection to Christ and reminds us of the enduring message of Christmas: that Jesus came to be with us and bring us closer to God.
So, as we say “Merry Christmas,” let’s remember its profound meaning—a celebration of Christ with us!
Origin of Christmas in the Bible
The Christmas story is recorded in Luke 2:4-19.
“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 room for them in the inn.
“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 of great joy that will be for all the people. Today, in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’
“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.’
“When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’ So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” (Luke 2:4-19)
