Christmas in the Midst of a War: Light Still Shines in the Darkness
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5
Christmas in Ukraine has always been filled with the spirit and traditions that have lived in Ukrainian homes for generations. Families gather to decorate trees, with the aromas of baking, candles, and straw creating a feeling of calm and sacredness. Groups of children and adults go from house to house singing songs of joy about the birth of Christ like “Nova radist stala” (a new joy has come!). People open their doors and share sweets, greeting one another with warmth and peace. The traditional nativity play brings the Christmas story to every town, a story about goodness, light, and hope.
During the past years of wartime, Christmas in Ukraine is quieter – much quieter – as the glow of candlelight replaces electric bulbs during a power outage. The traditions remain the same, but they have become more heartfelt and feel more sincere.
When we visited our Ukrainian friends this spring, we saw how supportive everyone was to their fellow Ukrainian. As these partners tell us, at Christmas during the war, Ukrainians everywhere prepare small gifts not only for their families, but also for their soldiers and people in need: warm wool socks, candles, nuts and sweets, and handwritten letters with blessings and wishes for peace.
All of these are acts of defiance against despair and send the message that the light still shines through the darkness.
The war has taken a lot – homes, electrical power, and even loved ones, but it cannot take away the light of God. He is Emmanuel, God with us. The world was not peaceful when Jesus was born, and today, air raids remind the Ukrainian people of the fear and hardship of those who were present at the first Christmas. However, they are also reminded that in the midst of oppression, God sent a baby to bring the kind of peace that no war can destroy.
As we celebrate in safer places, we can be with our Ukrainian friends by remembering Christmas is not about the gifts, but about faith, hope, goodness, and light. We can give them our support with our prayers and by shining our light into their world.
Jill Gilbert
Trustee
The Outreach Foundation