Message of Christmas: ‘arise’

Science has devised ways of measuring light, but darkness is defined as the absence of light. Spiritual darkness is defined as the absence of God. The message of Christmas to all those living in spiritual darkness is to ‘arise’. We need to choose to arise from our circumstances, said W.J. Samuel. John Newton was a ruthless slave trader in the 18th Century who was transformed after accepting Christ as his saviour. He gave up the slave trade and served Christ as a priest for 40 years. On his death bed, he said, “My memory is nearly gone, but I remember two things: that I am a great sinner and that Christ is a great saviour.” The coming of Christ saved him, as it has saved millions around the world. They went from spiritual death to spiritual life. A story is often told, of Henry, who had gifted himself a beautiful luxury car for Christmas. He was driving the Mercedes slowly, enjoying the comfort and power of the big car. He entered a street, with cars parked on both sides of the road. As he cruised, he heard the loud noise of a stone hitting his car, solidly. Furious, he stopped his car, and rushed out to apprehend the perpetrator. Behind the parked cars, he found a 10-year-old boy. Grabbing him by the shoulders, he angrily asked, “Why did you throw the stone? Do you have any idea how much it will cost to repair the dent?” The boy, in tears, apologised and replied saying he had thrown the stone to get his attention. His paralysed older brother had fallen off his wheelchair and the young lad was unable to lift him and put him back in the chair. “No one was stopping when I shouted and called for help. Hence I threw the stone to seek your help, I am sorry,” he explained tearfully. Henry never repaired the dent in the car. It was a reminder to him: never be so self-centred that you hurtle past those who are in need of help. Published - December 25, 2025 05:06 am IST

Preview: ~351 words