Have you ever wondered why it is called twelve days of Christmas? We usually make the countdown start before Christmas day and end on Christmas day, but that really isn't the way the !2 days of Christmas is supposed to be. I know it is kinda weird me writing about Christmas in the new year, especially when I did not turn in an article for December for my faithful readers. Stick with me guys, I am going somewhere.
In the church calendar, twelve days of Christmas is actually called Christmastide and it begins after Christmas, not before. The reason is, the spirit of the season should span beyond just three days of celebration - Christmas Eve, Christmas day and boxing day. This Christmastide season is supposed to end on the 6th of January.
Although the festivities seem over, it is vital that we do not rush to forget the reason for the season, take down our decorations or change our festive mood. The joy of Christmas for Christians is supposed to be a lifestyle, not just an annual event. Most people associate January with being financially broke, work filled and boring. This shouldn't be the case which is why keeping the spirit of Christmas in January and beyond is essential.
So what is the spirit of Christmas that we are not supposed to forget in a hurry?
1. Hope - When the baby Jesus was born, the Israelites sought a messiah, one who would free them from the oppression of the Romans. It doesn't matter what Jesus' real mission was, at that point, just hearing news of his birth filled them with a hope that things would change one day. No matter how dreary the situation of life feels right now, there is always a chance that things will get better. Live with expectancy. No condition is permanent, and as long as you decide you can change anything within your power to control, your story will always change.
2. Joy - When Mary gave birth, the host of angels in heaven came down to earth rejoicing. They were so happy that the world of men was about to change forever through the life of a son of Man who was God incarnate. (let's not get into a debate here guys, just stick with me). Your days may be as mundane as that of the shepherds in the field that night, but let the joy that emanates from having hope for a better tomorrow, keep your hearts warm. Always see the positive side of life and be joyful for what tomorrow might bring.
3. Love - Joseph stuck by his pregnant fiancee and loved the baby Jesus as his own. Doing all he could to be a great dad. Not to mention the love God had for humanity that he decided to come in human form and dwell amongst men so he can be acquainted with our sorrows. Love is the driving force behind the whole story of Jesus birth and Death and love should be our driving force. Let the love that prompts sharing and giving during the Christmas season to neighbours and strangers be near our hearts always. Look for ways to show love to those who you know cannot pay you back and be a blessing to those who you know despitefully use and abuse you. Again I am not saying be a doormat, I am saying let love be the motive behind your actions to your fellow human beings.
4. Peace - The angels brought great tidings of peace on earth. News that God is not angry with men and he has come to bridge the gap between us and demonstrate his love in person. Likewise, let your heart be at peace. The universe isn't trying to get you. It's cause and effect in play. Sow the right seeds and reap a bountiful reward. Live at peace with all men, strive to be at peace with yourself and your decisions. Let peace be the umpire of your soul, guarding you and your choices in life. Seek peace in all you do.
All these values are typified in the celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus but it should not end with the season. Let 's take the sentiments that make Christmas exceedingly unique and share it throughout the year. Don't say I told you to eat like a pig all year round because you ate a feast during Christmas. Lol. Remember, in all things be moderate.
