As we indulge in the shopping, gift-giving, festive meals, decorations, and everything that makes the holiday season special, it’s easy to overlook the true meaning behind CHRISTmas—it’s all about Jesus Christ!

The story of Christmas begins in Bethlehem, on the night when God’s Son was born as a human child. That night, heaven and earth celebrated together. Angels appeared to shepherds, and a new star lit up the sky, confirming the promise God had made long ago to send His Son into the world.

Jesus grew up in a humble household with His siblings, the son of a carpenter. He was raised in the Jewish faith, learning the customs and laws of His people. He likely worked alongside His father in the family trade. Yet, even early on, it was clear that Jesus was unlike anyone else.

Around the age of 30, Jesus was baptized, and God revealed His true identity. The Holy Spirit descended upon Him, and a voice from heaven proclaimed, “This is my beloved Son…”

Jesus then spent 40 days fasting and praying in the wilderness, preparing for His ministry. Over the next three years, He spoke with wisdom and authority, performed countless miracles, and demonstrated that He was, indeed, the Son of God.

In accordance with God’s divine plan, Jesus sacrificed His life to remove the barrier of sin that separates humanity from God. He rose from the dead, opening the way for us to have a personal relationship with God. After appearing to His followers many times, Jesus ascended back to heaven in their presence.

“After saying this, He was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see Him. As they strained to see Him rising into heaven, two men in white robes suddenly appeared among them. ‘Men of Galilee,’ they said, ‘why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but one day He will return in the same way you saw Him go!'” (Acts 1:9-11, NLT)

Jesus promises new life to anyone who follows Him, bringing them into a relationship with God—this is what Christians celebrate at CHRISTmas. What about you?