Christmas Message: Commercialism can’t replace the heart of Christmas
As we approach Christmas, it’s hard not to notice how much the true meaning of the holiday has become overshadowed by the pressures of commercialism.
The streets are lined with decorations, and the stores are filled with endless sales, but somehow, the essence of Christmas—peace, goodwill, and faith—seems to be losing ground. In years gone by, the nativity scene was a central symbol of the season. Now, it seems fewer people set up these meaningful displays, and instead, we find ourselves surrounded by the noise of Christmas music, but not the traditional carols that tell the story of Christ’s birth.
The commercialisation of Christmas has drowned out the simple, humble message of the season. Instead of focusing on the true gift of Christmas—hope, love, and light—many are consumed by an insatiable appetite for consumption. We exchange gifts, but often forget that the greatest gift we can give is kindness, compassion, and understanding.
This is why we must return to the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, whose prayer reminds us of what Christmas should really be about.
He prayed,
“Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood, as to understand; to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life. Amen.”
Christmas is not about how much we spend or how grand our celebrations are. It is about the peace and love we share with others. It’s about giving, forgiving, and showing compassion. As we celebrate this Christmas, let us take these words to heart and strive to be instruments of peace, love, and joy in our families and communities.
Merry Christmas to you all. Let this season be one of true meaning.
ENDS
Mr Katter alongside the nativity scene he constructed at his home. Nativity artwork by Charters Towers artist Midge Read.
