by Vivian Okafor
Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells! Clank, clank! The sound of spoons and plates fills the air in many homes today as we celebrate a long-awaited occasion: the birth of the Saviour of the world. For many, this day is a rare opportunity; a one in a million indeed to indulge in a feast, often featuring a whole lap of chicken, making it truly a day to remember.
In some households, however, parents sit in quiet resignation, lacking plans for the day due to the challenging economic climate. In these instances, children often must find ways to fend for themselves. Thankfully, NGOs and churches step in to help by distributing food and clothing to those in need throughout the communities.
This spirit of giving embodies the true essence of the season. Many people have come to view this time of year merely as an occasion for partying and indulging in food, losing sight of the deeper significance of the celebration. On this day, we commemorate the birth of a Saviour who came with a mission to give himself in order to save the world and offer hope to the hopeless. His name is Christ, which is why we celebrate Christmas.
It is important to note that it is Christmas, not Xmas, as some may mistakenly refer to it, making it lose its relevance and the major significance of the celebration. This holiday is one celebrated with love, laughter, and the exchange of gifts. Families come together after long separations to reconnect and share joy. In many African Yoruba homes, canopies are erected, and mothers can be found in the kitchen turning pots of Amala with streaming pots of soup beside it to serve the expected guests later in the day.
Beyond the whole partying, canopy setup and merry making, Christmas is majorly a season of love and generosity, where the less privileged receive assistance in the form of food, free medical outreach, clothing, and other essential items. This is the core reason for the season: to bring smiles to faces and hope to those in despair, reflecting the purpose of His coming; Christmas, the season of giving. Merry Christmas!
