More From Kumalawaty Sundari

Christmas in my family and my neighborhood is always gloomy. Here everybody lives by themselves, and they do not care about what is going on in the world outside. For the people here, including my family, nothing is merry as Christmas gets nearer. Even on Christmas day, all is silent and anger is commonly heard everywhere. People never stop renovating their houses or quarreling about how their cars are parked. My brothers are Christians, and so are some of my neighbors, but they do not place importance on celebrating Christmas. For them, it is just a pagan custom that we should avoid.

Giving myself a “treat” that pleases me and helps me to feel God’s love is something that I always do in December. As I began to feel more of God’s goodness in my life, I realized that I should also spread God’s love to people in need, instead of just being self-centered. I didn’t only visit my friend who was sick in the hospital on Christmas Day; I also held an event with some friends at a nursing home when I was still in high school. It really brightened my day to see how happy the senior citizens in the nursing home were with the activities we did with them and with the little donation we gave. Additionally, sometimes when I feel that God has blessed me financially, I give some money to a Christian ministry to support them in spreading the gospel and helping the poor.

Perhaps I do not get fancy things like eating at luxury restaurants or having vacation abroad, like many people enjoy at the end of December. And I never feel the warmth of Christmas in my family and my neighborhood. But nevertheless, with Jesus living in my heart, I am always filled with great joy and peace as Christmas draws near. Even after Christmas is over, my heart still keeps singing as I realize that every day with Jesus, I can feel his presence in each activity I do. That’s the real Christmas! Having Jesus as my Savior and friend is the most precious treasure that satisfies my soul all the time. With Jesus in my daily life, I have no burdens, and I can always find the help and support I need in any struggle I face.

I hope that your Christmas is always bright, even if it seems that coldness surrounds you. Christ’s love, joy, and peace are indeed available for your heart that is waiting for him. So enjoy God’s presence on this beautiful day and share God’s love with those who are in need. In doing so, your Christmas will be full!

Merry Christmas! Blessings to you all.