The world wide powerful celebration of Christmas reminds us that our societies have been founded on Christian roots, whether someone wants to recognize it or not.

Every Christmas season we hear arguments over if we really celebrate the birth of Jesus or if we mix elements of paganism and Christianity. Some argue that the proper date of the birth of Jesus is not known and some say that the winter is the most unlikely time for his birthday. Similarly we hear the argument that our cultures have probably been more influenced by the old Greek and Roman cultures and the French Revolution.

The overall celebration of Christmas sends us the message that it is not comparable with other influences on our history. Our calendar started with the birth of Jesus. Even the atheists have to use the same count of time around the world. The Bible is the most translated, printed and read book in the world. No philosophy or idea can compare to or even get close to it.

In many countries Christmas has been labeled differently: Season’s Greetings, Happy Holidays, Xmas, etc. In official communication many governments avoid any reference to the celebration of birth of Jesus. In fact, in many European countries it is considered politically incorrect.

In the new democracies, the countries that regained their freedom from totalitarian regimes in the 1990’s, people remember that their new freedom made it possible to celebrate Christmas again. Before, teachers had to make sure that none of the children would go to church. Some educators who dared to mention “Christmas” lost their jobs immediately. With freedom from the communist, atheist regime Christmas music was coming to the public space over the radio, TV and concert facilities.

Unfortunately the denial of Christian roots has caused the identity crises of the Western civilization. Let’s not give up the real celebration of Christmas that is a part of our identities. The tradition reminds us not only about our corporate connection to Christianity but also about our individual opportunity to have Christ in our lives.

Christmas gives us a chance to speak about the real meaning of the holiday. The package is still in our societies – we need to fill it with the content: with the message of redemption and hope for the future. The birth of Jesus marked the fulfillment of God’s redemption plan that he had carefully planned since the fall of man. It has opened the opportunity to us to restore the broken relationship with God.

May the message of Christmas give us confidence that we belong to His heavenly Kingdom! Our privilege is to be a part of his plans in shaping the future of our societies. Europe is founded on Christian values more than on anything else. We can be partners with the Lord in accomplishing his will in our spheres of responsibility. May Christmas this year be a time for recommitment and deepening our fellowship with the Lord and each other!

Peaceful Christmas and Blessed New Year!

Peeter Vosu
ECPM