By : Rashka Pratama
When many people talk about Christmas and interpret it in different views. Starting from the reflection of each individual adherent to controversial analysis from various circles. It seems not a new thing, so it does not need to be exaggerated.
Different views that exist should not be addressed with cynical let alone cause hostilities that should not have happened. Even for every Christian, I open up the space and tolerance to appreciate the meaning of Christmas in their own personal sense, which is based solely on their own experience of faith. Like me, of course have my own views to interpret Christmas in my personal life, without having to impose this on others.
Christmas Day is celebrated every December 25, for me personally just a ceremonial, a common moment for most Christians in the world to be grateful for the birth of Christ. While the real celebration of Christmas is a celebration of the Faith of every individual that can not be determined by the calendar (time) alone but more on the process of growing faith that continues from day off. Born into a new, from old bad habit of becoming a new person according to the teachings of Christ, who will continue to proceed as long as we live.
The experience of faith will shape me to be able to interpret Christmas not just a slogan or just through words alone, in the mouth only. But as much as possible can be applied to be real in everyday life.
Simply put, Christmas is often associated with the word “peace”. But what peace? According to thefreedictionary.comPeace is interpreted as Freedom from quarrels and disagreement, harmonious relations, Inner contentment, serenity, and Free from strife (Free from disputes).
This peace is of course the wish of everyone, Everyone wants to live in a world at peace. But how to make it happen? For me personally can only be realized through “Love”. Love to God and love for others. If this has not been or can not be realized, then whatever the meaning of Christmas, it will not mean anything in our lives.
When Jesus was asked “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” As Matthew’s Gospel says, chapter 22. He replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind This is the first and greatest law according to Him, whereas the same second law is “Love your neighbor as yourself”, Love your neighbor as yourself.According to Jesus, it is in these two laws that contain all the Law and the Prophets .
This Christ statement, in my opinion, is a universal doctrine. Not devoted to any particular people or groups, for I believe He was born to the world, to all mankind. Thus, in spite of Jesus’ personal controversy that is interpreted differently by many, this Jesus statement can at least be the main guide by everyone without exception to feel peace and create peace. Even for an atheist who does not know and trust God, I am sure they want to coexist peacefully, love and be loved by others.
In general, peace between religious communities is the dream of all parties. Therefore, let’s make it happen together by creating a peaceful end of the year without terror so as to create the peaceful atmosphere desired by all parties.