Christmas amidst Changing Times

A Reflection on Joy Amid Changing Times

The Social Weather Stations survey in 2024 revealed a sobering reality: fewer Filipinos looked forward to a "happy" Christmas. Only 65% anticipated a "Merry Christmas," down from 73% in 2022 and 2023. This figure mirrors the sentiment in 2021 during the pandemic, a time when uncertainty and grief were prevalent. Though the current number is 15 points higher than the record-low 50% in 2020, it remains significantly below the pre-pandemic optimism of 79% in 2019. Meanwhile, 10% expect a "sad" Christmas, and 26% feel it will be "neither" happy nor sad.

These statistics highlight the shifting emotional landscape of the season. Christmas, often described as “the most wonderful time of the year,” can feel bittersweet for many. Amid celebrations and traditions, grief, loneliness, or weariness can weigh heavily on the heart. This raises a profound question: can we truly celebrate Christmas when life feels overwhelming? Theologically, the answer is a resounding yes. Christmas is not about fleeting emotions or ideal circumstances. It is deeply rooted in the unchanging reality of God’s love, revealed through the Incarnation.

The Theology of Joy

Joy, from a theological perspective, is not synonymous with fleeting happiness. Happiness is often dependent on external circumstances—a festive gathering, a thoughtful gift, or a moment of good news. In contrast, joy is a deeper and more enduring reality. It is grounded in the assurance of God’s presence, love, and promises.

St. Paul emphasizes this profound joy in his letter to the Philippians: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4). Paul’s exhortation is remarkable because it was written during his imprisonment—a time of great personal suffering. This joy does not deny the reality of pain but transcends it, rooted in the hope and fulfillment that Christ offers.

The Incarnation—the birth of Jesus Christ—is the ultimate expression of this joy. When the angel announced Jesus’ birth to the shepherds, it was proclaimed as “good news of great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10). This declaration is significant. The joy of Christ’s coming is not exclusive; it is inclusive of all—especially the broken, the weary, and the marginalized. It is a joy born from the profound truth that God has entered into our human condition, not to escape it but to redeem it.

Christmas: A Celebration of God’s Gift

At its heart, Christmas is a celebration of God’s self-gift to humanity. In Jesus, the Emmanuel—God with us—He chose to dwell among us, not because we were joyful or deserving, but because we were in need. The joy of Christmas, therefore, does not depend on our mood, achievements, or circumstances. It is grounded in the unchanging truth that Christ came to bring salvation, reconcile us to the Father, and illuminate even the darkest corners of our lives.

Christmas reminds us that God’s love is not transactional; it is transformative. Jesus came to meet us where we are, embracing our struggles, fears, and failings. The manger, a humble and messy setting, symbolizes this truth: God does not wait for ideal conditions to enter our lives. He comes into the messiness of our existence, bringing hope and renewal.

Finding Joy Amid Struggles

How can we embrace the joy of Christmas when life feels heavy or uncertain? The key lies in shifting our focus from ourselves to the mystery of God’s love and the hope of His promises.

1. Look to the Manger: The simplicity of Christ’s birth invites us to see God’s grace in unexpected places. It reminds us that divine love often manifests in the humblest of settings.
2. Pray and Reflect: Spend time with the Nativity story. Reflect on the courage of Mary and Joseph, the wonder of the shepherds, and the faith of the Magi. Their stories remind us that God’s plans often unfold amid challenges and uncertainties.
3. Share the Light: Joy grows when it is shared. Acts of kindness and generosity, particularly toward those in need, are tangible expressions of God’s love. Whether it’s comforting a grieving friend, volunteering for a cause, or offering a simple smile, these gestures embody the spirit of Christmas.
4. Trust in the Promise: Joy is not the absence of sorrow but the presence of hope. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Christmas assures us that, no matter our circumstances, God is with us, and His plans are for our good.

A Call to Joy

Christmas invites us to experience a joy that transcends fleeting emotions or material celebrations. It is a joy rooted in the unshakable truth of God’s love. Whether we find ourselves in a season of happiness or heartache, the message of Christmas remains the same: God is with us.

This truth transforms our perspective. Joy is no longer dependent on perfect circumstances but on the perfect gift of Christ. Even in our struggles, we can rejoice, knowing that God’s love is steadfast and His light shines in the darkness.

As we celebrate Christmas, let us embrace this enduring joy. Let us look to the manger with wonder, share the light of Christ with others, and trust in His promises. In doing so, we discover a joy that no circumstance can diminish—a joy that endures forever.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)

Merry Christmas! May your heart be filled with the unshakable joy of knowing that Christ has come and will come again.