Rejoice This Christmas Season: Remember Who You Are and Whose You Are

The Christmas season is upon us—a time of joy, peace, and celebration. Yet, amidst the lights, gifts, and carols, it’s easy to get swept away in the busyness and forget the profound truth at the heart of this holy season. Christmas is not just a story of a baby born in a manger; it’s the ultimate reminder of who you are and, more importantly, whose you are.

You Are a Beloved Child of God
The Incarnation, the moment when the Word became flesh (John 1:14), reveals your identity as deeply cherished by God. He loved the world so much that He sent His only Son to dwell among us, to save us, and to make us His own. Let that sink in: the Creator of the universe thought you were worth everything.

In the rush of December—with to-do lists growing longer and expectations mounting—pause and let yourself be held by this truth. You are not defined by how perfectly you decorate your home, how many gifts you check off your list, or even how well you navigate family gatherings. Your worth is rooted in the love of the One who came to save you.

You Belong to Him
Christmas is not just a celebration of Christ’s birth but also a declaration of His mission: to reconcile us to the Father. Through your baptism, you became a member of God’s family, an heir to His kingdom (Romans 8:16-17). This means that your life has eternal value and purpose.

When you feel overwhelmed or inadequate, remember whose you are. You belong to the King of Kings, the Good Shepherd who knows you by name (John 10:3). This truth can bring profound peace and joy, even amid life’s challenges.

Rejoice in the Gift of Emmanuel
The name “Emmanuel” means “God with us.” This is the heart of Christmas: God is with you. He entered into the messiness of human life—not as a distant deity but as a loving Savior. He walked among us, felt our joys and sorrows, and ultimately gave His life so that we might live with Him forever.

This Christmas, let the truth of Emmanuel transform your heart. Rejoice, not just in the festive moments but also in the quiet, sacred spaces where God whispers His love. Whether you’re lighting the Advent wreath, attending midnight Mass, or sharing a meal with loved ones, let each moment remind you of His abiding presence.

Practical Ways to Remember Who You Are and Whose You Are
Begin Each Day with Gratitude: Before you dive into the day’s tasks, thank God for His gifts, especially the gift of His Son. This simple act can reorient your heart to what truly matters.
Spend Time in Prayer: Take a few minutes each day to reflect on Scripture, particularly the nativity story. Meditate on God’s love for you and how He calls you to share that love with others.
Celebrate the Sacraments: Attend Mass frequently during the Christmas season. The Eucharist is the ultimate reminder of God’s love and presence.
Serve Others: Share the joy of Christmas by serving those in need. Whether it’s donating to a food pantry or volunteering at a shelter, acts of charity draw us closer to Christ.
Create Sacred Space at Home: Set up a nativity scene or light a candle each evening to remind yourself and your family of the reason for the season.

A Season of True Joy
Christmas invites us to rejoice, not in fleeting pleasures but in the eternal truth of God’s love. This season, let’s remember who we are—beloved children of God—and whose we are—His cherished possession. In doing so, we find the true joy and peace that no circumstance can take away.

May this Christmas be a time of deep rejoicing for you and your family, as you celebrate the birth of our Savior and embrace your identity in Him. Let your heart echo the angel’s proclamation: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests” (Luke 2:14).