The Christmas message
Christmas is here with its message of peace and compassion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ (Pbuh) revered by all as the liberator of mankind. The people belonging to the Christian community all over the world are celebrating the day with a lot of fanfare. One of the most distinctive features of Christmas today is that it is no longer confined to the Christian community only. In fact, the celebrations began quite a few days earlier as both the devotees and even followers of other religions started preparing for the grand event. Christmas brings joy in its most unalloyed form to all and sundry.
The birth of Jesus Christ was no doubt one of the most significant incidents in the history of mankind. He taught his disciples to uphold the virtues which a man must acquire to become truly religious. Of course, the philosophical and theological aspects of Christianity are overshadowed by wild merrymaking which is now part of Christmas celebrations. The day provides the warmth and bonhomie that help people defy the biting cold of late December here in Bangladesh. The celebrations follow the modern trend of merry-making in the urban areas.
Christmas is the biggest global festival which is celebrated to commemorate the birth of one of the greatest human beings that ever lived. So, it is not all about celebrations only. Jesus Christ (Pbuh) gave a new sense of direction to mankind. According to the Christian faith, the great prophet will shoulder the burden of the sins committed by human beings and lead them to salvation in the life hereafter.
In a world that tests our faith, the meaning of Christmas can elude us. Not just because of the commercialism that surrounds it today, but because of so many questions that spring to minds. What about those who are not of the Christian faith? What about those who do not believe in God? What about the terrorism, murders and other horrors committed in the name of religion, from ancient times to the present day?
Christmas gives the universal message of faith, peace, amity and brotherhood. The message has to be understood in the context of the contemporary world. The day carries special significance for the people of Christian community in Bangladesh this year as Pope Francis visited Bangladesh recently and spoke at a mass. Bangladesh is a secular country with religious harmony and the Christians living here are enjoying it. We wish all our readers and patrons a Merry Christmas.
