Dear Oxygen readers,
The Core Team wishes one and all a blessed, peaceful and joyous Christmas filled with God’s graces and love. May He continue to light out paths and guide us on our journeys as we come to know Him more.
Christmas Day — Midnight Mass
Isa 9:1-7
Tit 2:11-14
Lk 2:1-14
What we have to do is to give up everything that does not lead to God.
The call in today’s readings resonates deeply — to give up everything that does not lead to God.
Over the past few years, I’ve intentionally pared down the frantic Christmas shopping that used to consume my Decembers. The change came quite organically, beginning when I stopped buying presents for my extended family. I come from a large paternal family, and the stress of gift-buying — combined with organizing the family Christmas party because no one else would step up — left me drained and joyless. After cutting ties with them (a story for another time), I found myself free from this overwhelming burden. I felt light, unencumbered, and oddly at peace.
Now, my gift list is pared down to just four people who genuinely matter to me. Occasionally, I’ll pick up an extra gift or two for someone I know will appreciate it, but only out of love, not obligation. I’ve discovered immense joy in giving unexpected gifts — watching someone’s face light up with surprise and gratitude. At the same time, I’ve told my loved ones not to buy me anything for my birthday or Christmas because, honestly, I don’t need much. One year, I did request an iron from my brother because my old one had finally given up. Practicality aside, I find joy in having less clutter in my home and life.
There was a season in time when I believed I needed expensive bags and shoes — both as a reward for working hard, and as a way to gain validation from others. Looking back, I see how misplaced my priorities were. I now understand that true worth and joy are not tied to material possessions, but to a heart aligned with God.
The meaning of Christmas is not about gifts and parties. Christmas is about God coming into our world to be with us, to share in our humanity, and to save us. The birth of Jesus reminds us of the humility and simplicity of God’s love. Born in a manger, with no earthly riches or grandeur, Jesus’ arrival speaks volumes about what truly matters in life. It isn’t wealth or possessions, but the love, grace, and light that God brings into our lives.
As I reflect on the readings for the Midnight Mass, I am reminded of how Isaiah’s prophecy of the coming of the Prince of Peace is fulfilled in the birth of Christ. “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light”. That light is Jesus, who brings hope and salvation to all. For me, Christmas is a time to pause and consider: how can I walk in this light? What in my life does not lead me to God, and how can I let go of it?
Titus further calls us to live in a way that reflects this gift of salvation. “We are to give up everything that does not lead to God”, urging us to live upright and godly lives. I realize that my journey of simplifying Christmas is part of this call. By letting go of the pressures of materialism and societal expectations, I’ve made space for what truly matters — relationships, love, and my faith.
This year, as I sit in the quiet glow of the Christmas tree lights, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. Not for the things I have, but for the blessings that cannot be bought. I am grateful for the people who love me unconditionally, the peace I’ve found in my heart, and the presence of God in my life. I am grateful for the lessons I’ve learned through letting go — of unnecessary possessions, toxic relationships, and even my own need for external validation.
Luke’s account of the nativity is a beautiful reminder of the joy that comes when we focus on what is essential. The shepherds were not kings or noblemen, but ordinary people; yet, they were the first to hear the good news of Jesus’ birth. Their hearts were open to receiving this incredible gift, and they responded with awe and praise. This is the spirit I strive to carry into Christmas and beyond — a heart open to God’s presence, ready to rejoice in His love.
As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember that the greatest gift we can give is not something wrapped in paper, but the love, kindness, and faith we share with others. Let us simplify our lives and our celebrations, focusing on what truly brings us closer to God. And may we carry the light of Christ into the world, sharing His peace and joy with all we meet.
Merry Christmas, dear friends. May the simplicity and beauty of Christ’s birth fill your hearts with peace and hope.
(Today’s OXYGEN by Geraldine Nah)
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who is the light of the world. Help me to walk in this light and to let go of everything that does not lead me to You. May my heart be open to Your presence, and may I share Your love with those around me. Grant me the grace to live simply, with gratitude and humility, as I reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
Thanksgiving: Lord, I am deeply grateful for the blessings in my life — for the people who love me unconditionally, for the peace You have given me, and for the lessons I’ve learned in letting go. Thank You for the gift of salvation and for the light of Christ that shines in my heart. May I always carry this light into the world, bringing hope, joy, and love to others. Amen.
OXYGEN 
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