Zeluosielie Kehie
Sovima Village, Chümoukedima
As the festive season approaches, it is indeed a beautiful tradition among our Naga people to decorate our houses, churches, streets, and surroundings. Such decorations bring colour, warmth, and joy to the celebrations. Yet, in the midst of all this beauty, we must pause and reflect on the true purpose and meaning behind these adornments.
In recent years, extravagant decorations have become a common trend, and it has been observed that certain individuals and churches often turn it into a form of competition rather than an act of devotion to welcome our Lord Jesus Christ. While creativity and celebration are not wrong, we must remember that Christmas is not about display or competition, and exaggerated decorations will neither lead us to repentance nor bring salvation. True celebration lies not in how beautifully we decorate our surroundings, but in how we prepare our hearts with humility, faith and service.
I am sure people spend thousands and lakhs of rupees on decorations (if we calculate for the whole of our Nagaland state, it would amount to crores of rupees). As the saying goes, “Excess of anything is poison”, I should say, the same applies to our decorations. A simple, humble and meaningful decoration is more than enough to welcome our Saviour. I believe our Lord Jesus Christ never directed us to adorn our surroundings with grandeur or luxury to celebrate His birth, rather He taught us to prepare our hearts with sincerity, humility, compassion and love. We must not forget that there are families among us who are struggling with poverty, hunger, addiction, unemployment, broken relationships or emotional pain. Instead of spending excessively on luxury decorations, it would be far more meaningful to spare our time and resources to visit such needy families, comfort the sorrowful, pray for the suffering, and offer financial/material help or other support to the poor and the needy.
Such acts of kindness and compassion are true decorations in the eyes of God.
Furthermore, let us extend our love beyond our own circles. Our nation is a secular one, and we must respect every faith. Sharing goodness, peace, and generosity with our non-Christian brothers and sisters is a noble way to live out the message of Christ. Instead of lavish spending, let us extend kindness and do goodwill to our non-Christian brethren as well. Such acts of love and generosity may inspire them to feel and experience the goodness of God’s love. Here, I do not mean any intention of religious conversion, but rather an expression of love and humanity.
I do not intend to denounce, criticize or undermine anyone or any church. In fact, many churches and individuals are doing commendable work for the welfare and spiritual growth of our society, truly reflecting the spirit of Christianity. May God continue to bless their good works and guide us all to celebrate the festive season with humility, simplicity, and love.
Have a blessed and happy Christmas season ahead.
