Christmas Points To Jesus -

by Bermie Dizon

When we think of Christmas, our minds often drift to December 25th—a day filled with family, songs, gifts, and the warmth of celebration.

In the Philippines, where I am from, Filipinos celebrate Christmas from September to early January.

However, Christmas is not merely a one-day event or a season lasting a few months; it is a daily celebration of the life-changing truth that Christ has come into the world. Christmas is all about Jesus.

Christmas marks the moment when God’s love broke into human history through the birth of Jesus Christ.

The angel’s announcement to the shepherds was not just for that one night; it was a proclamation that reverberates across time and impacts our lives today.

As the Bible reminds us, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11, KJV).

Christmas is a reminder that Christ’s presence is with us continuously, shaping our thoughts, actions, and relationships.

As we reflect on the meaning of Christmas, it’s important to consider that Christmas is celebrated around the world in nations with different cultures.

While we honor the historic, orthodox calendar, it is equally vital that we embrace the symbols, practices, and customs that reflect the local and cultural context of each community.

Why is this important? The birth of Jesus Christ is a universal story, but how it is celebrated can and should vary, recognizing the diverse expressions of Christian faith across different cultures.

Each culture brings a unique richness to the season—whether through songs sung for generations in their native tongues, decorations with deep meanings, foods that bring families together, or specific practices that hold spiritual depth within that culture.

These elements embody the Christmas season and are integral to the way people connect with the message of Christ’s birth.

For example, in the Philippines, the “parol” (a brightly lit lantern) is an integral part of the Christmas celebration. These lanterns symbolize the star that pointed to Jesus, guiding the wise men to His birthplace.

Evening worship gatherings are another beloved tradition, reflecting the anticipation of Christ’s coming.

Each nation has its ways of celebrating Christmas, but the important thing is — all point to Jesus.

This inclusion can transform worship into a more intimate experience, where individuals and families see their stories reflected in the broader narrative of Jesus’ birth.

If we are to truly reflect the beauty and diversity of God’s body, our worship should be as multifaceted as the church globally.

The uniqueness of how each culture honors Christ during Christmas is not a distraction but a celebration of the many ways God reveals Himself to His people.

Recognizing these differences not only fosters unity within the body but also draws people closer to Christ as they feel seen, valued, and included.

Moreover, inviting participation through the sharing of personal or cultural traditions is an opportunity to deepen engagement within the church community.

People are more likely to participate when they see their own history, customs, and values honored.

This can also be a profound way to evangelize, as those outside the church can witness the warmth, diversity, and inclusive nature of Christ’s love.

It sends a message that the gospel is not bound by one culture or expression, but that Christ is truly for all people, in all places.

By embracing the various cultural expressions of Christmas, we not only highlight the birth of Jesus but also point people to Jesus in ways that resonate deeply with their personal experiences.

This sensitivity to cultural practices is not a divergence from the gospel but an extension of its message—that Christ came for all people.

Remember, God’s love is for everyone. John 3:16-17 reminds us that God sent His Son not to condemn the world, but to save it.

Jesus’ sacrifice was an incredible act of love, and it offers hope to all who seek Him.

You can have peace, knowing that through Jesus, salvation is freely given to anyone who believes. There is no greater hope than this—that God invites all of us to receive eternal life through His Son.

Through this, the church can become a vibrant, living testimony of God’s inclusive love, drawing people from all walks of life into a deeper relationship with Him.

Let us therefore joyously celebrate Christmas to give all the glory and praise to our Savior Jesus Christ!

BERMIE DIZON is a retired pastor of Grace Communion International at Glendora, California and a former writer for USA Tribune for 9 years.