Why You Should Read “A Christmas Carol” this Christmas

As we approach the holiday season, it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of gift-buying and party-planning. But for Christians, the holiday season is about so much more than just celebrating with friends and family. It is about remembering the birth of Jesus Christ and celebrating the transformative power of his love and grace.

One way to do this is by reading (or listening to) Charles Dickens’ classic story A Christmas Carol. I read it for the first-time last year, and I was nearly astounded as much by Dickens’ powerful style as I was by the story itself. This year I have been listening to it while I’m out running and I’m enjoying it just as much. This timeless tale is more than just a heartwarming holiday story – it is a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas and a call to reflect on our own lives and actions in light of the gospel.

At its core, A Christmas Carol is a story about redemption and the transformative power of love and kindness. Throughout the story, we see Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly and cruel old man, slowly but surely transform into a kind and generous person through the guidance and example of the three ghosts of Christmas. This transformation points us to the transformative power of the love and grace of God, which can change even the hardest of hearts.

As we read the story, we are confronted with the question of how we are living our lives, and whether or not we are living in a way that is in line with the gospel of Jesus. Do we show love and compassion to those around us, or do we prioritize our own needs and desires above all else? Reading A Christmas Carol can help us to honestly evaluate our lives and make any necessary changes to align more closely with the values of our Lord.

But A Christmas Carol is about more than just personal reflection. It is also a reminder of the importance of generosity and compassion, especially around the holiday season. As we see Scrooge generously give to those in need, we are encouraged to consider how we can do the same in our own lives. This might mean giving of our time, our resources, or simply showing kindness and compassion to those around us.

Whatever form it takes, practicing generosity and compassion are essential expressions of the gospel we proclaim, and A Christmas Carol reminds us of this. As we follow the example of Jesus and show compassion and generosity to those around us, we help to extend the transformative power of God’s love and grace.

A Christmas Carol offers a message of hope, particularly relevant during a time when many people may be feeling lonely, isolated, or discouraged. Throughout the story, we see Scrooge given the opportunity to change and make amends for his past mistakes, and we see the transformative power of love and grace at work in his life. The gospel likewise reminds us that so long as we have breath, there is always the possibility for change and a reason for hope.

But the benefits of reading A Christmas Carol don’t end there. It is also a timeless classic that has been loved by readers for over 150 years. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring relevance of its themes and messages, and reading it is a great way to connect with others and share in a timeless tradition. Don’t settle for a stage-adaptation; read Dickens himself.

As we celebrate the holiday season, consider picking up a copy of A Christmas Carol and allowing it to enrich your holiday season. Whether you choose to read it on your own or to share it with others, it is sure to be a meaningful and rewarding experience. May it remind us of the true meaning of Christmas, encourage us to reflect on our own lives and practice compassion and generosity, and offer us a message of hope as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.