As we reflect on the meaning of Christmas, let us begin with a poignant story set against the backdrop of a harsh reality. In the days leading up to 9/11, a conflict between local groups and the Taliban in Afghanistan forced thousands of refugees to flee into neighboring Pakistan. There, in extreme heat and unsanitary conditions, they sought shelter in crowded tents and makeshift camps.
During this time, J. Dudley Woodberry and his wife Roberta worked diligently in those refugee camps. Dr. Woodberry recounts a powerful moment involving one camp that faced particularly harsh conditions. Roberta and her class, seeking to bring hope, delivered school supplies to the children. Simultaneously, another group of Christian workers brought thousands of sandals for the many kids who ran barefoot across the parched, rocky ground. But they did more than simply distribute shoes; they chose to wash the children’s feet, mirroring the actions of Jesus.
For a week, they tenderly washed each child’s feet with antibacterial soap, anointed them with oil, and prayed silently over them. Afterward, each child received new sandals, a quilt, a shawl, and a small bag of flour for their family. The open sores, visible pink eye, and general filth were heart-wrenching. Yet during this act of service, one of the volunteers—the daughter-in-law—felt an overwhelming love for the children. She whispered her prayer, asking God to let her touch feel like His and to help these children remember this moment and seek Him.
As they engaged in this humble service, many children looked up and smiled shyly.
Later on, a teacher in one of the camps posed a shocking question to her students: "Who are the best Muslims?" A little girl raised her hand, declaring, "The kafirs. (The unbelivers of Allah)" The teacher, taken aback, inquired why she thought so. The girl responded, “The Muslim fighters killed my father, but the kafirs washed my feet.”
Let that sink in for a moment. How did that young Afghan girl learn about Jesus? Through the simple yet profound act of foot washing by Christians—true witnesses of Christ’s love (kafirs). This illustrates what it truly means to be a Christmas Witness: to share the light, not merely with words, but through our actions, even to those not knowing Christ.
These events are not fiction; they are testimonies of real impact in conflict zones, where people encounter Christ in miraculous ways. There are testimonies of fighters laying down their weapons after witnessing visions of Jesus. While we cannot verify every story, they convey a profound truth: God is still revealing Himself, and He chooses to use His people to bear witness.
Christmas poses several personal questions for each of us: Why did Jesus come? What difference does this child in the manger make in my life, marriage, work, thoughts, and emotions? Why is Christmas such a big deal?
I may not have time to cover every question today, but my hope is to provide a deeper understanding of what it means to be witnesses to Christ.
The Gospel of John, in chapter 1, verses 6-8, instructs us: “There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to testify about the Light, so that all might believe through him. He was not the Light, but he came to testify about the Light.”
The Greek word for witness is *martyria*, which means testimony or evidence. John the Baptist wasn’t the Light himself, but he pointed others toward it. That is our calling as well. As your pastor, that’s my duty to God, even with all my flaws and imperfections, I try as well.
Similarly, we see the first Christmas witnesses in Luke 2:8-11: “In the same region, there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock at night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood near them... and said, ‘Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David, there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’”
Then, in verses 17-18: “When they had seen Him, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. And all who heard it were amazed.”
The shepherds became witnesses; they didn’t keep the news to themselves. Lacking formal education or theological training, they joyfully responded to God's message and shared it widely. The angel had specified that this good news was for all people, not just the shepherds. So they went and told others.
Friends, how can we keep such life-changing news to ourselves? If we celebrate Christmas with mere presents, parties, and decorations, but do not share the message of Christ, we miss the point entirely. Without Christmas, we have no Savior, and without a Savior, we remain lost in our sins. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians that without Christ, our faith is in vain. Thus, we are called to be Christmas Witnesses.
Being a witness involves sharing what we have seen and experienced of God's goodness. Jesus said in John 18:37, “For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.”
So, how do we embody the role of Christmas Witnesses?
1. **Let Christ Lead Our Celebrations**: Do not let the busyness of the season overshadow your time with God. Carve out space for prayer, worship, and acts of service. Align your heart with His priorities.
2. **Share the Light with Others**: Invite friends, family, and neighbors to church or to Gospel-centered events. As John the Baptist pointed others to the Light, we too must do the same. Serving others helps us build relationships and demonstrate God’s love. Be willing to engage in meaningful conversations and trust God to open hearts.
In conclusion, Christmas is not over with. Its everyday. It is a time of both joy and reflection. It serves as a reminder of why Jesus came—to save us from sin and eternal separation from God. There is no greater gift than this. Therefore, let’s make the most of every opportunity, as Ephesians 5:16 advises. Trust in the Holy Spirit to guide your words (Luke 12:12), confident that God’s Word will not return void (Isaiah 55:11) and that He alone can change hearts (Ezekiel 36:26). Our role is to obey and to testify.
We are each called to be witnesses of the Christmas message by being Christmas Witnesses.
Allow me to leave you with a poem by Greg Olsen that beautifully captures the essence of this calling:
*By the magical light of a small Christmas candle
A little old man tries to carefully handle
The small porcelain manger which serves as a bed
For the wee Baby Jesus to lay down His head.
In wonder he brings the manger up to his view,
Smiles at the baby and whispers, ‘I love you!
I love you for bringing this season of joy,
I love you for growing to a man from a boy;
For being our light and leading the way,
For being the spirit which makes Christmas Day!
You’ve been my mentor, my model, my hero and guide,
Please continue to help me and stay by my side.
I’ve tried to follow your teachings and give as you gave,
Reminding all to be kind and that it’s wise to behave.
Help me to serve others and bring them your light,
Especially the children, please bless them tonight!
Some have so very little, scarce food for their table,
You know how it feels—you were born in a stable.
Bless all their mothers and fathers with a knowledge that’s sure,
The best gift they can give is their love, strong and pure.
That’s the Spirit of Christmas when all’s said and done,
God’s gift of love, that came as His Son!
Then back to His mother the child is returned,
The Nativity glows as the candle is burned.
In a wink the little old man slips quietly away,
Some say he goes up the chimney and climbs in a sleigh.
Whatever the case, His mission is clear—
Give unto others, bringing love and good cheer.
He flies into the night and bids us adieu,
Doing for others what Jesus would do!*
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May we all go out and do the same. Amen.