Christmas, Christ, and the Call of Christopher: Carrying Christ to the World
Christmas is a celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, the only Savior of the world. It is not just a historical event but the moment when God, out of infinite love, became one of us. "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:14). This profound mystery calls us to rejoice in the gift of Emmanuel, "God with us," who came to redeem us and bring peace to a broken world.
The name Christopher means “Christ-bearer,” derived from the Greek Christos (Christ) and phoros (bearer). Traditionally, it refers to Saint Christopher, who is said to have carried the Christ child across a river. Yet, the name embodies a calling for all believers: to be bearers of Christ in our words, actions, and lives. St. Paul reminds us of this mission when he says, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20).
To live as modern-day Christophers, we must embrace Christ’s example of love, humility, and service. As the angels proclaimed on the first Christmas, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased!” (Luke 2:14). Bearing Christ means spreading this peace through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and compassion.
In the spirit of Christmas, we look to Mary, the first Christ-bearer, whose “yes” to God changed history forever. Pope Benedict XVI beautifully said, "Mary, by giving flesh to the eternal Word, has opened the path of salvation to all humanity" (Angelus, Dec. 8, 2008). Like Mary, we are called to say "yes" to God and carry His presence to others.
This Christmas, let us renew our commitment to live as true disciples of Christ, spreading His peace and love in our families, communities, and beyond. May we become modern-day Christophers, bringing the hope of the Gospel to a world that longs for the light of Christ.
Living as a Christ-Bearer: 10 Practical Steps
- Daily Prayer: Begin and end your day with prayer, asking Christ to guide your actions. A Morning Offering and an evening reflection can transform your daily life.
- Immerse Yourself in Scripture: Spend time meditating on the Gospels, letting God’s Word shape your heart and inspire your actions.
- Faithful Sacramental Life: Attend Sunday Mass and, if possible, weekday Mass. Go to confession regularly to experience God’s mercy and grow in holiness.
- Show Christ’s Love in Actions: Practice kindness—help a neighbor, visit the sick, or comfort someone who is struggling. Let your actions speak of Christ’s presence.
- Forgive and Reconcile: Heal broken relationships through forgiveness. Build bridges of peace, as Christ calls us to forgive “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22).
- Serve the Poor and Vulnerable: Volunteer, donate, and advocate for the needy. Live the corporal works of mercy, as Christ identifies Himself with “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40).
- Share Your Faith Through Your Life: Witness to Christ by living with integrity, kindness, and joy. Be ready to share the hope that inspires you (1 Peter 3:15).
- Cultivate Silence and Reflection: In a noisy world, create moments of quiet to listen to God and let Him renew your spirit. Spend time in Eucharistic adoration.
- Be a Witness in Your Family: Make your home a place of prayer and love. Teach your children the faith, and let your family life reflect Christ’s presence.
- Radiate Joy and Hope: Live with the confidence of the Resurrection. Let your joy in Christ attract others to His love and peace.
Pope Francis calls every Christian to be a missionary disciple, stating in Evangelii Gaudium: “The joy of the Gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus… With Christ, joy is constantly born anew” (EG 1). This Christmas, we are invited to encounter Christ deeply and share His joy with those around us.
May this Christmas inspire us to be Christophers in our families, communities, and beyond. Let us carry Christ into the world, shining His light in every corner and proclaiming His eternal love. Merry Christmas!