Lessons from Christmas about the family unit

Christmas is the season where a lot happens. We get so busy that we don’t really connect with the real meaning of Christmas in mind.

Of course, I don’t mean to be preachy, but a little reminder does not hurt. What does that early “in a manger” Christmas remind us of?

First, the family was at the heart of Christmas: Joseph and Mary provided the family where Jesus was born. In this way, God showed his value for the family by giving his son Jesus, conceived of the spirit, an earthly dad and mum.

Role of the mother

The home took centre stage in the nurturing and growth of the child.

The presence of a father and mother was vital in God’s son’s upbringing. Jesus’s known family members include his mother, Mary, his father Joseph, and three brothers.

Knowing the potential and destiny that was ahead of Jesus, the first miracle was of turning water into wine.

Maybe this miracle would never have occurred if Mary, the mother, hadn’t called Jesus out to help the couple in their hour of need. Jesus’ reaction suggests he isn’t going to get involved.

He tells the mother, “Woman, why do you involve me…My hour has not yet come.” It is a very moving picture of a mother’s involvement in helping their child walk into their calling.

When we understand the family’s place, we will value those we call parents, guardians and minders who took the trouble to nurture us.

Our families are key to a greater cosmic plan of God. We know of parents (including single or widowed parents) who did a phenomenal job of raising the children in their care.

Second, simplicity was the name of the time. It always intrigues me when I consider the nature and place where Jesus was born—born in a smelly and dirty manger, in a stable among animals.

It is not the nature of birth nor the place of birth that determine one’s destiny in life.

Our background does not demean our call, gifting and potential. Many have allowed others to put them down because of their upbringing.

As we think about Christmas, let us all realise that we are all special.

Third, total devotion characterised Christmas: An angel appears first to Mary then to Joseph (who were virgins and yet to get married) about Mary conceiving a child. This could have looked bizarre and could have easily degenerated into a big family scandal.

As much as many believed Mary and Joseph out of understanding what had been prophesied before, it is most likely that others remained septic at the thought of Mary being married while pregnant.

The couple’s pregnancy could only paint them in a bad light as explained by the couple. However, knowing that it was God who was speaking to them, they display such a devotion towards each other and the child that testified and authenticated what the prophets had said: The one to be born shall be called the son of God.

When the pharaoh wanted to kill the child, nothing could stand in the way of Joseph taking personal responsibility in protecting the God-child. What devotion and dedication.

Our devotion and commitment to each other must arise from a sincere heart. Being a blessing and affirming each other in the relationship helps build a conducive climate of nurturing each other and the family.

The values exhibited by both Joseph and Mary proved their flawlessness as relational partners. The spouse feels supported, and the relationship and family are blessed.

Fourth, gifts crowned the celebration of Christmas: at birth, the child Jesus received special gifts from those who visited.

Music and celebration characterised that season. It was the beginnings of goodwill to all men. The family must remain the place of honour, respect and celebration.

Christmas, though symbolic of the day Christ was born, it should remind us of the need to see each other as unique.

In today’s Kenyan consumeristic culture, it is very easy to see relationships as just another place to “get” things done for them.

The gifts the wise men gave were not random ones that they found lying around somewhere. They were significant gifts for the season that spell to us important meanings for us today.

For example, our gifts must be unique and measure our ability. May this Christmas be unique to you all wherever you are.

Be merry and glad no matter your circumstances. Let’s celebrate the place of family and especially our parents and guardians who brought us up.

Merry Christmas from us all here at DN2 Parenting.

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