The festive season is a time of celebration, family gatherings, and joy. For many in the Cook Islands, this period is about reconnecting with loved ones, sharing meals, and participating in cultural and spiritual traditions, writes Pastor Eric Toleafoa from the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

However, as Christians, we must pause and ask: What does this season truly mean? At its heart, the festive season is about Christ – His birth, His love, and His mission for our lives.

Here are three things for us to consider that emphasises the true meaning of this season, that’s grounded in faith, aligned with God’s priorities, and relevant to our way of life in the Cook Islands.

Christ is the centre of the festive season

The festive season is often overshadowed by materialism, but its core purpose is to honour the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s a time to reflect on the gift of God’s Son and what that means for humanity.

Luke 2:10-11 says, “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.’” This verse reminds us that the birth of Jesus was not just a moment in history; it was God’s plan to save us.

In our Pacific culture and especially for us in the Cook Islands, family is everything. During the festive season, homes are filled with laughter and feasting, but as we enjoy these moments, let’s remember Christ’s presence in our gatherings. Imagine a family meal where a chair is intentionally left empty to symbolise Christ’s place in our lives – a simple act to remind us of who we’re truly celebrating.

This season is about more than gifts and traditions. It’s about putting Christ at the centre of our hearts and homes.

The festive season calls us to love and serve others

Christ came into the world not to be served but to serve (Matthew 20:28). The festive season is an opportunity to extend Christ’s love to others, especially those in need.

Jesus teaches in John 13:34, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” The season loses its meaning if we focus only on ourselves and neglect the call to share God’s love.

For us in the Cook Islands, community is vital. Neighbours share food, friends gather at church, and strangers are treated like family. However, there are always those who are struggling – perhaps an elderly neighbour, a single parent, or someone grieving a loss. This season, let’s embody Christ’s love by sharing food, giving encouragement, or simply being there for others.

True celebration of Christ’s birth is reflected in how we love and serve others, mirroring the selfless love of Jesus.

The festive season is a time to renew our commitment to God

Amid the joy of the season, we must reflect on our spiritual journey. Christ’s coming was not just to save us but to transform us into His likeness.

2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” The festive season is a powerful reminder of God’s desire to renew us – our hearts, minds, and priorities.

In many of our Islands, we celebrate with singing, dancing, and worship services. Imagine ending the year by kneeling together as a family, offering thanksgiving to God and committing the coming year to His guidance. Instead of focusing on fleeting resolutions, let’s renew our relationship with God, asking Him to lead us in His purpose for 2025.

This season is a time to pause, reflect, and recommit to walking with God, embracing the transformation Christ offers.

In closing, the 2024 festive season is an invitation to celebrate Jesus Christ – the greatest gift ever given. As we enjoy the Cook Islands’ traditions of family, community, and joy, let us remember to:

1. Keep Christ at the centre.

2. Share His love with others.

3. Renew our commitment to God.

In doing so, we align our celebrations with God’s priorities, making this season not just festive but truly meaningful. Let’s honour the birth of our Saviour in ways that impact our hearts, families, and communities for eternity.

Have an enjoyable festive season with family and friends. Keep safe. But most of all ‘Be Encouraged’.