On the 14th of December at about 8 pm, our President held what has now become a regular family meeting, as he describes it. He made a noticeable statement that this Christmas will be marked by many deaths. Not the notorious deaths on our national roads, but another factor now has to be considered, being Covid 19.
The idea of the speech was to implement more restrictions because of Covid 19 for the festive season. It is true that as of the 13th of December we have recorded above 8000 new cases of the virus. The cumulative number to date in South Africa now stands at 866 127 people. The purpose of the post is not to reiterate what is already know, but to focus on the idea of Christmas Spirit.
Let’s unpack the idea of what is now defined as Christmas Spirit. The President mentioned that social gatherings and parties are the largest source of outbreaks. What he is highlighting is drunkenness, and all the factors related to being intoxicated. In the context of Covid 19 he mentioned that in a state of drunkenness social distancing is not being observed, venues are crowded and not adequately ventilated, hand sanitiser is not readily available, and people are not wearing masks. People loose restraint, they become less careful about taking measures to protect themselves and to prevent infection.
The Christmas Spirit has become a heightened glorification of sin. A reason to be immoral and lawless. Is that what the Christmas Spirit is? The wages of sin has literally become death. The President mentioned that the sad truth about this pandemic is that festivals, concerts and parties – which should be occasions for fun and joy – are proving to be sources of infection and illness, and may even lead to deaths.
One of the most profound words in the speech was when President Ramaphosa mentioned that “The festive season now poses the greatest threat to the health and well-being of our nation.” Let’s understand the reason why we even use the wording Christmas Spirit and festive season. It truly is a time of rejoicing and celebration. We are suppose to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, The Son of God. The name ‘Christmas‘ comes from the Mass of Christ (or Jesus). Was Jesus born on the 25th of December? The answer is no! We do not know the exact date, but we know that He was physically born as The Son of Man.
It births the thought that in the midst of darkness, light still shines. It brings hope to the human soul that God became flesh and dwelt amongst us, whom He loves. Jesus Christ came to ultimately fulfill God’s plan of redemption for us on the cross. Our deliverer had come to bring salvation. This is why we exclaim, Hallelujah to the King of Kings.
Christmas is not to be celebrated in sin. It is a holy season dedicated to the worship of Jesus Christ in holiness.
My pause for thought is that when mankind overturn, disrespect, disregard and reject the commandments of God, that we should not be surprised when we start experiencing the dire consequences. Feel free to leave a comment. I will gladly oblige.
God bless.
R. v Staden
The Potter's House Church 