The Story of Christmas at Marikina

The Marikina City government with the help of the owner of The Manila C.O.D. transformed the Marikina City Hall into a stage-like establishment depicting the story of The First Christmas.

I was able to visit and watch the 30-minute show last December 19 with my family. It was a show of moving human-sized dolls/puppets. It started with the replica of Marikina City Mayor Maridess Fernando asking the children affected by the typhoon on how they will celebrate their Christmas. Upon hearing how sad these kids was about their situation, she then told the story of the First Christmas.



She even ended it saying that people sometimes go through difficult situations, like Joseph and Mary when they travelled to Bethlehem.

Christmas As God Wants It To Be

Christmas is fast approaching, and I can feel it. There are lots of small stalls in almost everywhere selling everything from apples to christmas decors, to clothes and shoes. It's nice to see this colorful sight. But, I am saddened by the thought that I still have'nt bought anything for my family.
My kids are starting to talk about their Christmas Parties ans I have not yet prepared the stuffs they'll be needing. Well, money is needed to buy those stuff and I have'nt got the amount I need yet.Then, I started wondering why Christmas is so commercialized nowadays. Is'nt it that so much festivities and commercialization makes us neglect what Christmas really is for?
Here are some things I thought of doing to make Christmas season what God wants is to be:
1. Recover what's been lost through commercialization of the season. Don't buy cards that say "Season's Greetings" or "Yuletide Wishes". Be sure the message you'll send and the wishes you offer reflect the true meaning of Christmas. We may also have a manger scene in our home as decoration.
2. Discover the true message of Christmas. No matter how familiar you are with the Christmas Story, read it or watch a video of it with your family.
3. Uncover the gift of life God gave to the world at Bethlehem. Christmas is a great opportunity to share our personal faith and commitment to Jesus Christ. It's a Christian Holiday, and there's no better time to "speak up" and to uncover the true message.

May all of us be able to reflect the true meaning of Chrismas. Let's not let that simple message be obscured by gifts, clothes, and colorful lights.