What is the ‘right’ way of celebrating Christmas? This is the question I’ve been asking Christians in the medical field for the past few weeks. I got quite a bunch of replies, of which include: Spending quality time with friends and family, having a goat eating, buying gifts and new clothes, travelling, doing charity work, etc. I’ve been pondering on the question myself for quite some time and reflecting over my life. I’ll be sharing my thoughts on how I ensure I make the most of the season.
• Christ is the reason for the season
In Kenya, we have a ‘sherehe’ approach when it comes to celebrations. There is often a ‘kwani ni kesho’ or YOLO vibe attached. This is something I particularly like about my countrymen –that it’s never a dull time in a Kenyan celebration. So how do I live to the fullest whilst still living in my identity as a Christian?
What is my identity in Christ and how does that draw on what I can or cannot do? What boundaries do I have and why is this important for me? These are some of the questions I’ve been pondering on and journaling about (more about this will be coming up in my subsequent article). However, dearest gentle reader, these are questions you must answer for yourself as well. Christ is the reason for the season and thus must remain at the centre of everything – even the festivities.
• Christmas is a time of reconnecting with Christ. Before we get into reconnecting with Christ during Christmas, how do you connect with Him on a daily basis? Personally, I enjoy prayer, self-reflection, bible study and a personal praise and worship session to rekindle my spirit and commune with God. These I recommend not just in the Christmas season but also daily. My personal favourite during the holidays include:
I) Watching a Christian series or movies for the movie fanatics. My Christmas specials include: ‘The Chosen’ – season 4, God Friended me, God’s not dead. Give them a try this season, will you?
II) Christmas concert. It gives an exhilarating and refreshing worship experience.
• Christmas is a time for reconnecting with others.
Spending some time with family, friends, the community and even the less fortunate. One thing I admire about Jesus is His passion and concern for people. This is something I try to emulate in my life.
• Spending quality time with yourself.
Personally, as a med student, the Christmas holiday is a time to rejuvenate in preparation for the busy year. For this I like to keep it simple with morning or evening solo walks, reading a novel, journaling and meditation. This helps me clear my mind and recharge. I feel more nourished after the holidays. Closer to the end of the year, as I begin planning for my next year, I write up a prayer list. First, of the things I am grateful for. Then, a list of prayer points for my next year – more like goals I want to accomplish in the coming months but as prayer items. By the end of the next year, I find that the prayer items are checked off. I find this more effective because it brings in a spiritual element to all my new year goals.
As the year comes to a close, I hope you reflect on how your year has been and endeavor to stay in tune with God. 2 Timothy 4:7 comes to mind. ‘I have fought the good fight … I have kept the faith.’ Though the year ends, the race continues.
Happy holidays and I wish you a prosperous new year 2025!
Article by:
LAVENDER KAGENDO K