On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.
—Matthew 2:11
“Merry Christmas.” It’s a phrase that has been uttered countless times this month— and especially today. We use it as an expression to wish others well. The word itself is defined as “cheerful and lively,” and it only makes sense that it is what we should want for our friends and family on this holy day. Did you know, though, that the word comes from even greater meaning?
The word “merry” can be related to another word: “gallant.” These two terms share a similar Anglo-Saxon heritage. They were related to a much grander scale than simply to be happy. “Great” and “mighty” are derived from the same line. So what does this mean? Are we not supposed to enjoy ourselves on Christmas?
Of course we should rejoice! This was the day that the Savior was born—the day that led to His death on the cross so that sinful humans could enjoy a seat in eternity. Today is definitely a day for joy, but it’s also a day of grand truth. Jesus was the physical embodiment of God, and this is the day when He debuted in our world, thus proving the promise of God. This occasion is nothing short of great. It is incredible, beyond our very comprehension.
Today, tell your friends and family “Merry Christmas.” Tell them that today is a day of greatness—a day for joy, love and hope. Tell them that Jesus loves them and that through Him, all things are possible. Even everlasting life.
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