Fr. Frank Majka, SJ – The Bridge

How Long Does Christmas Last?

For some Americans, the answer is simple: it lasts about a day, from the closing of the malls on Christmas Eve until the sales begin on December 26. But in the Christian liturgy, the season lasts from Christmas Eve to the Epiphany and Baptism of the Lord. But Christmas doesn’t have to be over at the feast of the Lord’s Baptism.

For the Christmas season reminds us that Christ came to our world simply and without fanfare, was born into a family that welcomed and loved him, revealed himself to the poor (the shepherds) and those who sought him out (the magi), stood with sinners (the baptism), but was hidden from those who resisted or feared his coming (like Herod). And that’s the way he has been coming to us and to our world ever since: simply and humbly, not demanding special treatment but being open to anyone willing to seek and welcome him, out of reach only to those who will not reach out to him.

So, our prayerful reflection on the truths of Christmas can certainly continue long after the season is officially over. Some of us may even want to be reminded of Christmas all during the year. And, after all, nothing says the manger scene can’t stay up all the time, complete with Mary and Joseph, shepherds, the magi, the angels and even the animals, for Christmas will always be a permanent and central part of the Christian faith.