All Over the World

"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called…endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:1-3 KJV

The "Holy Supper" is a cherished tradition celebrated in many Ukrainian homes on Christmas Eve. Sometimes in rural homes the tablecloth is decoratively scattered with golden strands of hay, reminding family and friends of Christ's humble birth in a Bethlehem stable. Families say a prayer, and traditional Christmas greetings rings out:

"Christ is born!"

"Let us glorify him!"

Then they sing carols. The favorite is "God Eternal."

In Mexico, families return to their homes following Christmas Eve mass to celebrate with a special family dinner. Friends without family are invited to join them, and take part in the culmination of an important Nativity tradition: placing a figurine of the Christ child in the manger.

Christmas traditions differ the world over, but the heart focus is unified. In a season swirling with lights and glitter, believers turn their thoughts to a quiet spot in the hills surrounding a little Middle Eastern village long ago. "Christ is born!" peals through souls reflecting on the single greatest event in human history. "Let us glorify him!" hearts respond, reaching out for the purpose of life itself. Inscribed in various languages on the consciences of all is an awareness of God Eternal and the future life to come.

Christians celebrate Christmas in unique ways all over the world, but we are all the body of Christ. We have the same Spirit, the same Lord, and the same faith. Our divine calling is not to come into the unity of doctrine or tradition or regional celebrations, but the unity of faith so that we may mature and grow up in Christ. It is a holy calling ringing from the steeple of heaven not just at Christmas time, but every day of the year.

Dear Lord, please help me enter into the unity of the faith by making Jesus Christ the center of my attention this Christmas and throughout the New Year! Amen.