Christmas as a Season Not Just a Day

As we progress through the day after Christmas, it is all too easy for us to fall into a sense of post-holiday letdown. The presents have been unwrapped and the food has been enjoyed. But before we take down our trees and pack up the decorations, it's essential to remember that Christmas is not just a day — it's a season. The celebration has only just begun.

As a Church we do not just celebrate Christmas on the 25th of December, rather our celebration extends far beyond that single day. It is solemnly celebrated for an octave of eight days and then continues as a season up to the Feast of the Epiphany traditionally celebrated on January 6th. It is a season of joy, love, and reflection as we commemorate the nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the incredible gift of salvation that he brought to the world. 

Now that December 25th has passed, we must strive to keep the Christmas spirit, a spirit that recognizes that Christ is here with us, alive in our hearts and homes. The following are three things we can all do to ensure that our celebration continues. 

Continue Acts of Charity: The spirit of giving doesn't have to end with Christmas morning. Extend your acts of charity by volunteering, donating to nonprofits, or helping those in need throughout the Christmas season. The celebration of the coming of Christ into the world should extend into our lives where we can bring the charity of Christ into the world through our own hands. 

Keep Nativity Scenes & Christmas Trees: If you have a Nativity scene or a Christmas tree displayed in your home, keep them out as a reminder that the season has not yet ended. 

Enjoy Christmas Music: While radio stations will abruptly end their Christmas playlists, we should keep playing Christmas songs and hymns throughout the season. If possible, try to search out songs that focus on the religious meaning of Christmas such as Silent Night, O Come All Ye Faithful, or Hark the Herald Angels Sing. 

If we try out these three practices, we will live out the reality that Christmas is more than just a single day on the calendar. It's a season filled with hope, love, and joy. As we move forward from December 25th, let us carry the Christmas spirit with us into the coming days and weeks. By extending our celebrations, continuing acts of kindness, and focusing on the true meaning of Christmas, we can make this season into a grace filled recognition that Christ is here. 

May God bless and guide you especially during this Christmas season. 

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