Christmas Should Mean Gratitude

No, I am not advocating that we forget to celebrate Jesus; instead, I am asking that showing gratitude should be our focus this season.

If it were okay to hold a meeting and ask everyone to lament bitterly about how tough the year 2023 has been, we would have a truckload of sad stories and heart-wrenching revelations. Inflation has practically hit every sector of the economy; everybody has felt it, and even the wealthy know that maintaining their lifestyle has become much more expensive. People have lost loved ones, and we all try not to remember the losses we suffered during Covid 19 and its impact worldwide. 

So why do I dare say that gratitude should be our theme? In my culture, Yoruba to be precise, we have a saying that OLUWA FI AYE OPE LE. It means that God always grants us a reason to be grateful. For me, the last 7 Christmases have been harsh. I recently looked back, and it dawned on me that for seven straight years, December came with a unique challenge that would almost overwhelm my home and soul, but God always saw us through. God shows His kindness and faithfulness more boldly in our most challenging times, so truthfully, we who are His have nothing to worry about. He always makes a way. So, back to the real MVP of the December period, the Christ. We know scholars have agreed he was not born in December, but we all have decided to honour Him during this period worldwide. Please do not allow the challenges of the year to prevent you from praising your Lord, who kept you till the end of the year. Celebrate Him in your way. He is not upset with a small get-together with your family. He loves family bonds. Remember He authored it too. Ephesians 3:14-15 TPT “So I kneel in awe before the Father of our Lord Jesus, the Messiah, the perfect Father of every father and child in heaven and on earth.” 

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, as we celebrate the birth of our Saviour during this Christmas season, let us reflect on how God saw us through the challenges of the past year. Amid uncertainties and trials, remember the words of Isaiah 41:10, "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Though this year has brought its share of struggles, let us find solace in the promise of a new beginning. Romans 15:13 reminds us, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let His light guide us through the challenges, knowing He is the source of our hope and strength.

Wishing you a Christmas filled with the warmth of God's love, the peace of His presence, and the hope that transcends all circumstances.

written by Olubunmi Adewole-Babatunde for Pens For Christ