It's the time of the year again. Party, indulgence, travel, senseless spending. Who cares about the real meaning of Christmas? In fact, who really cares about other celebration as well. We only care that it's a public holiday- Get a day off from work, free parking at HDB, sleep in till 12 noon, late night party on the eve.
A lot of people say that Christmas is a time of giving and sharing. I'm just thinking aloud. Where did that come from? It is biblical? Or is it from the mall and retailers. Here's my take. I believe that this "Christmas is a time of giving and sharing" comes from anyone and anywhere EXCEPT the bible.
First of all, Christmas is a day set by man. No one could tell specifically when was Jesus' birthday. It was a guess, not a fact. Jesus' birthday was nowhere to be found in the bible.
2ndly, why is giving and sharing restricted to the time of the year only. The bible didn't specify we need to be giving and sharing at a certain time of the year. If that is the case? What would be the 'theme' of Jan? Saving? Feb...Sacrificial love? March...Fasting?
Christmas is now celebrated by the world, christian and non-christian alike. Non-Christian make no reservation in the way they splurge on Christmas party, and in a totally secular manner. Santa Clause, Rudolf the deer, Christmas lighting has got nothing to do with the bible.
The retailers do all they can to make as much money as possible. According to reports, about 30-40% of annual profit comes from this period. The figure could be higher. Even at 30%, it's a pretty good time to milk the consumers of their money.
You might have notice my lamenting tone. Yes, I am complaining. Because as I Christian, I don't think I am celebrating Christmas (or preparing for the upcoming events) in the most meaningful way. I don't mind if we do away with all the party, good food and games. How about something meaningful and close to the real theme of commemorating the birth of Jesus?
Though I lament, I don't have a solution. But I think I want to go along the line of serving others and the community during this season. I was fortunately enough to sing at the Mount Alvernia Assisi Hospice last week. We sang 5-7 songs for the hospital and the patient. According to Raymond, this would be the last Christmas for some of the patients.
I'm already planning to come back next year. To me this is more meaningful than parties and get together. On the 21st Dec, we're going round the wards to sing to the patient. I hope our singing are music to their ears.
Next year, I want to contribute more. I could visit a orphanage or old folks home. Remind me next dec.
1 comment:
Hi, am a Nigerian, & came across your blog as i was surfing & this particular post drew my attention. I want to say a big thank you for expressing my thoughts! I am now following you.
The do or die attitude adopted by a particular tribe [THE IGBO'S; EASTERN NIGERIANS] in my country is so alarming!
It's a time to show-off wealth in the villages, hence the crime rate increases! My church was attacked by armed robbers on a sunday morning during the 1st service around 8a.m by 8 guys on bikes!
Left to me, there is too much 'noise' about it! I would rather spend it indoors with my family, by eating, watching films & sleeping!
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