POLOKWANE – With Black Friday sales and the rush to get all your gifts sourced and wrapped, the true meaning of Christmas becomes a bit obscure.
While many of us know it is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, most children are being brought up to associate the day with presents and a white-bearded man in a suit.
Review spoke to Rev John Mokoena who explained the true meaning of Christmas for Christians. He emphasised that this is the day when Christians celebrate the birth of their saviour, Jesus Christ. He said they celebrate someone who redeemed their sins. “We don’t just celebrate the day but we also exchange gifts meaning that we have to feed and dress the poor on the day. We have to help those who are in need. This is what Christmas is all about helping the less fortunate,” Mokoena explained.
He continued, saying Christmas is about more than just big lunches, gifts and decorations. He said many people cannot afford to buy gifts and that makes this time of year a sorrowful time for them. “Many are saddened when they think of their loved ones who will not be able to come home for various reasons,” he said. It is for this reason that Mokoena encourages Christians to give to those who don’t have enough.
He said Christmas is when we celebrate the birth of the Son of God. God sent His Son, Jesus, into the world to be born. His birth brought great joy to the world. Shepherds, wise men, and angels all shared in the excitement of knowing about this great event. They knew this was no ordinary baby. The prophets had told of His coming hundreds of years before. Mokoena further said it is of profound importance for people to celebrate the day.
