Why is Christmas so important? What separates Christmas from other national celebrations?
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One might argue that Christmas is so important because of its Christian origins - the birth of Jesus, representative of a hope that came into the world over 2000 years ago.
As a minister in The Salvation Army, I would certainly agree with this answer. But even still, other than the centrality of our Easter celebrations, there is that unique feeling that is in the air in the days leading up to our Christmas Day celebrations.
The answer, I think, is: people. The fact that Christmas offers an opportunity for much of the world to stop and celebrate with one another. Families reuniting and connecting over a meal; those without a local family joining friends on Christmas Day; even those most lonely and isolated in our community reaching out to organisations like The Salvation Army, which offer a place of community and belonging all year round, but even more so at Christmas.
It has become a resounding cliché, but after the year we have had in Australia, it seems like Christmas this year could be more important than ever for one simple reason: people. Much of the country has been isolated for most or part of the year, separated from friends, family and colleagues. Even the most introverted person could have felt the pinch of isolation and loneliness this year.
So, this Christmas could offer us, as a community, the perfect opportunity to celebrate and connect with one another once again. This Christmas, I'd encourage you to check in on your friends, your work colleagues and neighbours, to simply connect once again as a community. Why not invite someone to your Christmas Day lunch, someone who otherwise might not have anywhere to go or people to connect with at Christmas.
Christmas is already our busiest time of year at The Salvos and this year will be immense, and yet we look forward to the opportunities to support others each and every Christmas season.
We want anyone and everyone who needs support this Christmas to reach out to us. Whether you need financial assistance, food on the table, presents under the tree for the kids at Christmas, or just a loving community to belong to, The Salvos are there for all.
The Salvation Army counts it a privilege to serve those within Australia who are doing it tough.
If you need support this Christmas, please reach out to your local Salvos. Visit salvationarmy.org.au and allow us to journey with you this Christmas.
