Christmas Means Charity to All

Some (maybe most) Christians will argue that without Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, Christianity would have been still born. Perhaps, but Christ’s exemplary Christian life and crystalized teachings recorded in the Bible, stand as testament to the importance of his birth and life and transcends the notion that Christmas would be meaningless without the crucifixion and resurrection. The celebration of Christ’s birth should remind all us all that Christ teaches us not just about salvation and our relationship to God, but about our relationship to one another. He teaches universal and unconditional love for our fellowman – which requires tolerance and understanding toward all people, and especially toward people who are in sorest need of these precious gifts.

The words below are Christ’s own and teach us the importance of a loving and caring relationship with one another. They are witness to the importance of his birth and teachings and should be remembered and practiced at all times, especially during the season of his birth.

“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” …  But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.”;

The words of Christ below are taken directly from his sermon on the Mount of Olives and make it clear that man’s loving relationship with God is dependent on a loving relationship with his fellowman.
 
“But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.”

So, during this wonderful Christmas season, do what you know to be the right thing: Cast aside grievances against your neighbors, welcome them into your heart, your community and the communion of your church. Give more to those who really are needy, even at the expense of giving less to your family and friends, who may be less needy. And in the New Year, resolve to be more tolerant, less judgmental, and charitable toward everyone. In the spirit of Christmas, I wish you many happy returns and a wonderful New Year.