Christmas is not about merely a story long ago; it is the living reminder that God’s love is with us, guiding us, and renewing us each day. The angel’s proclamation “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men” remains as powerful today as it was on that holy night. In a world often troubled by division, uncertainty, and hardship, the message of peace and goodwill is more urgent than ever.
Christmas invites us to pause, to breathe deeply of God’s grace, and to extend that grace to others. It is a time to forgive, to reconcile, and to embrace one another with compassion.
This season is not only about the exchange of gifts, but about the gift we have already received: Emmanuel, God with us. The Christ Child reminds us that God’s presence is not distant or abstract, but close and tender, dwelling among us in love.
When we gather with family, when we sing carols, when we share meals, we are participating in that divine love which binds us together. Even in moments of sorrow or struggle, Christmas whispers hope: that light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it.
For us in Fiji and across the Pacific, Christmas carries its own unique beauty. The sound of the lali drum, the fragrance of tropical flowers, the warmth of the ocean breeze, all these remind us that God’s creation is abundant and alive with joy.
Our traditions of sharing food, singing hymns, and welcoming neighbours reflect the spirit of unity that Christ himself prayed for. In this season, we honour not only our faith but also our culture, weaving together the richness of our heritage with the eternal message of the Gospel.
Christmas also calls us to look outward. Just as the shepherds left their flocks to seek the newborn King, we too are invited to step beyond our comfort zones and bring light to those in need.
Whether it is offering kindness to the lonely, support to the struggling, or encouragement to the weary, our actions become living testimonies of Christ’s love. In giving ourselves to others, we discover the deeper joy of the season—a joy that cannot be wrapped in paper or tied with ribbons but is written on the heart.
As we celebrate, let us remember that Christmas is not confined to a single day. It is a season that stretches into the New Year, reminding us that Christ’s presence continues to guide us forward.
May the lessons of humility, generosity, and peace remain with us long after the decorations are taken down. May we carry the light of Bethlehem into every corner of our lives, shining brightly in our families, our communities, and our nation.
So let us rejoice together. Let us sing with the angels, kneel with the shepherds, and marvel with Mary and Joseph at the wonder of God’s gift. May this Christmas season fill your hearts with peace, your homes with laughter, and your lives with hope.
And may the love of Christ, born anew in our midst, strengthen us to face the challenges ahead with courage and faith.
I wish you all a blessed Christmas and a joyful New Year. May God’s grace surrounds you; may His light guide you, and may His peace dwell richly within you.
Tanoa International hotel staff with children of Loloma Home during the Christmas Gift Drive for the children at the Tanoa International Hotel, Nadi. Picture: BALJEET SINGH
Children of Loloma Home sing a tune during the Christmas Gift Drive for the home held at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi. Picture: BALJEET SINGH
Christmas also calls us to look outward. Just as the shepherds left their flocks to seek the newborn King, we too are invited to step beyond our comfort zones and bring light to those in need. Picture: BALJEET SINGH
Tanoa International Hotel staff Edward Raiman (left) and Luisa Vamarasi with the Christmas setup at Tanoa International Hotel, Nadi.
Picture: BALJEET SINGH
