As the holiday season unfolds, let’s embark on a journey to explore the profound distinctions between “CHRISTMAS” and “X-MAS(S).” Rooted in history and language, these terms carry significant meanings that go beyond the surface of festive celebrations.
- CHRISTMAS: A Divine Fusion:
The term “CHRISTMAS” intricately weaves together “Christ” and “Mass,” culminating in a celebration that transcends time and tradition. Its origins trace back to a pivotal moment in history – the birth of Jesus Christ.
- CHRIST: The Anointed One (Hebrew):
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” (Micah 5:2)
- MAS: A Gathering of People (Greek):
“…For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:20)
DECODING THE ESSENCE OF CHRISTMAS
- “CHRISTMAS” encapsulates the divine message of “The Gathering of People of Christ,” echoing the unity and fellowship of Christ’s followers.
- X-MASS: A Distorted Reflection:
Contrastingly, “X-MASS” emerged as a deviation, seeking to diminish the spiritual resonance of the celebration.
- The “X” Factor: A Symbolic Absence:
“For there are many rebellious people, full of meaningless talk and deception…” (Titus 1:10)
PROMINENT VOICES ON THE MATTER:
As we navigate the delicate nuances between these terms, let’s draw inspiration from the words of influential figures and biblical teachings.
- C.S. Lewis: “You can make anything by writing.” – C.S. Lewis
Reflecting on Lewis’s words, let us be mindful of the impact our language can have on the essence of CHRISTMAS.
- Pope Francis: “Christmas is joy, religious joy, an inner joy of light and peace.” – Pope Francis
Embracing the true meaning of CHRISTMAS, Pope Francis emphasizes the inner joy and spiritual significance embedded in the celebration.
- Apostle Eric Nyamekye: The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost Worldwide, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, in a Christmas Message in 2022, expressed grave concern about the clandestine move by some world leaders and powerful groups to suppress the celebration of Christmas, marking the birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world.
According to the revered cleric, “Satan is jealous about Christmas, so he is doing everything possible to expunge the name of Christ from Christmas and make it an ordinary holiday.
A CALL TO PRECISION AND SPIRITUAL REFLECTION:
This festive season, let’s share the message of “MERRY CHRISTMAS” with an awareness of its biblical roots and spiritual richness. Avoiding the inadvertent substitution with “X-MASS,” we honor the divine unity that this season symbolizes.
In the tapestry of holiday greetings, let our words resonate with the true essence of CHRISTMAS, echoing the unity, joy, and peace that Christ’s birth brings to our hearts.
Written by Daniel Kwabena Mantey