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Practical Guidance for a spiritually
beneficial celebration of Christmas
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The day should be celebrated
in a way that makes it spiritually special rather than just
outwardly festive. |
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The festive
celebrations may give happiness, but spending some quiet
time in prayer on that day would give the experience of
Bliss. If one is praying for material gain then one should
try to progress to the next stage in prayer which is praying
without any expectation but rather asking to be drawn closer
to God. The below illustration explains the difference between
prayer for material gain versus praying without expectation
purely to serve God. |
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To overcome worldly
attachments and ensure a smooth (straight) spiritual path,
it becomes crucial to use tools to constantly be reminded
of The Lord and experience increasing closeness with The
Lord. Chanting The Lord's Name as per ones religion is a
simple but powerful practice that may be done anytime, anywhere,
during other activities, etc., making it an ideal tool for
anyone to be continually reminded of The Lord, regardless
of one's background, lifestyle, etc. This is explained in
the verse from the Holy Bible: “For there is no distinction
between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and
is generous to all who call on him. For, ‘Everyone
who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved’.”
(Romans 10: 12-13.) |
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Christmas
day is one of the holiest of all festivals in the Christian
religion. One may celebrate Christmas by remaining in holy
company (satsang)
and visiting church to sing Holy verses. Remaining in holy
company aids and hastens ones spiritual progress. Holy company
refers to a gathering of believers and this is provided
by regular spiritual meetings, regular reading of Holy Texts,
etc., that are done with a focus on spiritual and not social
or intellectual fulfillment. One should imbibe spiritual
nourishment from the subtle purity of the sermon and use
it to generate faith. The Holy Bible emphasizes the importance
of holy company through the verses, “For where two
or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”
(Matthew 18: 20)
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On this
day one should dress in festive attire that is appropriate
and shows respect for the auspicious occasion. To wear appropriate
attire would be a symbol of one's devotion (Bhav)
towards God. |
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One can
remember and invoke the Christ principle by chanting (repeating)
His Name (for example, 'Hail Jesus' or 'Hail Mary') and
take advantage of the increased subtle purity of this
day
to aid one's efforts to progress closer to Christ. |
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For a true
believer of God, Christmas is everyday, as he strives daily
to deepen his relationship with God, rather than his material
bondage. Thus, the spiritual principle of Jesus is renewed
and born in one's heart daily. |
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