Comboni Postulancy of Nairobi: Christmas Message 2025

When St. Luke tells us of the birth of Jesus, he does not speak of a legend or myth. He records a real event that happened in a specific time and place, in Bethlehem, under the rule of earthly kings. The birth of Jesus is history, not fantasy; it is the fulfilment of God’s promises to His people. But we might ask ourselves: Why do we still celebrate Christmas after more than two thousand years? The answer lies deep within our hearts. If we listen closely, we will discover that Christmas is not simply a feast of the past, but a living mystery that continues today.

The Light Has Dawned

At the time Jesus was born, the Roman Empire celebrated the feast of the “Unconquered Sun.” They believed the sun was divine, the source of life and power. Yet the early Christians courageously proclaimed: “No, the true Sun has risen, not a created light, but the Light of the World, Christ the Lord.” As the prophet Isaiah foretold: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who lived in the land of deep darkness, light has dawned.” (Isaiah 9:2). And again, Balaam prophesied: “A star shall come out of Jacob, a ruler shall rise out of Israel.” (Numbers 24:17). This Light is Jesus Christ - "the Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6). In Him, all fear is scattered, all shadows flee, and the night of sin gives way to the dawn of salvation. No wonder the angel said to the shepherds: “Do not be afraid." I bring you good news of great joy for all the people.” (Luke 2:10)

Why Do We Celebrate Christmas Today?

The Romans celebrated the return of the physical sun during the shortest days of winter. We, however, celebrate the coming of the Eternal Light – the light that never fades, the Source of joy, the Prince of Peace. Christmas, then, is not merely a day of outward festivity, lights, decorations, or gifts – but a call to an inner transformation. The true question is not, “Do we celebrate Christmas?” but rather, “Is Christ truly born in us?”

The Darkness Around us. Look around and within: why is there so much unrest, pain, and division in our homes, communities, and world? Why do greed, hatred, and selfishness seem to rule? It is because Christ has not yet been born in many hearts. When our hearts are closed to love, peace vanishes. When pride replaces humility, joy fades. When God is forgotten, humanity becomes restless and lost. The true celebration of Christmas begins when Christ is born again within us - when peace, mercy, and love dwell in our homes and hearts.

The Mystery of the Nativity. The birth of Christ is a mystery of great joy and peace. He was born once in Bethlehem, but He desires to be born again every day – in the heart of each believer. If we make room for Him, if we open our hearts as Mary did, Christmas will not be just one day of the year, but a way of life – a continual renewal of hope and faith. Thus, Christmas invites us to fill our lives with faith, hope, joy, and love. It calls us to receive Christ not only in words, but in our actions – in our care for the poor, the lonely, and the forgotten. Our hearts become His manger when we welcome Him through compassion and prayer.

The Meaning of Christmas for us today

Even though we are weak and poor, the Child of Bethlehem strengthens us with His grace. He who was born in simplicity desires to be born in the humble and the open-hearted. Let us, then, make room for Him – to allow His light to dispel our darkness, His peace to overcome our fears, and His love to fill our lives. When Christ is born in us, Christmas becomes alive – not only a memory, but a living encounter with the God who still comes to dwell among us.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are the Light that never fades,
the Joy that fills every heart,
and the Peace the world cannot give.

Be born anew in us this day.
Shine in our homes, in our families,
in our communities and in our world.

May Your humble birth renew our hearts,
so that we too may become bearers of Your light
and witnesses of Your love to all people.
Amen

Father Tesfaab Bekit, MCCJ
Comboni Postulancy of Nairobi