Granny knows a lot about Jesus. It wasn’t just being raised as a Christian, there was also my relentless self-study, Bible studies, theology classes in college, time with the Sisters of the Holy Nativity, and a lifetime of curiosity about Jesus and his teachings, upon which Western Civilization is largely built! I still spend a part of every day reflecting on a daily reading related to the teachings of Jesus.

As young adults, it’s natural for you to be curious about religion, faith, God, and so forth. It is also common to question the truth of the stories, institutions, dogma, etc. This article is not about that. Rather, let’s assume you are not a believer. Let’s assume you never will be. But don’t throw the baby out with the manger!

Christ, the central figure of Christianity, his life and teachings offer profound meaning and inspiration to non-believers too. Stripped of theological constructs, the historical Jesus represents a historical figure of remarkable compassion, radical inclusivity, and a relentless commitment to justice. Exploring his life and legacy, even as a non-believer, can illuminate universal values and underscore the enduring significance of celebrating his birth.

The historical Jesus was a Jewish teacher who lived in first-century Palestine under Roman rule. He spoke of love, forgiveness, and the inherent worth of all individuals, especially the marginalized. His actions consistently demonstrated a deep empathy for those society disregarded: the poor, the sick, women, immigrants, and outcasts.

Consider the parable of the Good Samaritan. In an era rife with ethnic and religious animosities, Jesus elevated the Samaritan—a group despised by many of his contemporaries—as the model of neighborly love. His teaching challenged societal norms, encouraging people to transcend tribal boundaries and view others through the lens of shared humanity.

Jesus’s courage in confronting injustice is another compelling aspect of his legacy. His critiques of hypocrisy among religious and political authorities often put him at odds with the establishment. His willingness to speak truth to power, even at the greatest of personal cost, underscores a timeless principle: standing for justice often requires sacrifice.

For non-believers, the value of Jesus’s life lies not in metaphysical claims but in the ethical and philosophical principles he embodied. His teachings resonate with universal themes:

• Love and Empathy: “Love your neighbor as yourself” is a call to recognize the dignity of all people, regardless of their status or beliefs.

• Forgiveness: By urging his followers to forgive rather than retaliate, Jesus proposed a transformative approach to conflict and reconciliation.

• Service to Others: His exhortation that “the greatest among you shall be your servant” reminds us that true leadership lies in humility and service.

These principles align with secular humanist ideals, which emphasize the intrinsic worth of every individual and the pursuit of collective well-being.

Why, then, does celebrating the birth of Jesus hold significance, even for those who don’t view him as divine? The act of honoring his birth is an acknowledgment of the enduring impact of his life and the values he championed. It is an opportunity to reflect on the ideals of love, hope, and renewal that transcend religious boundaries.

Christmas, at its pagan core, is a season of generosity, togetherness, and reflection. The story of Jesus’s humble birth in a manger—a tale of vulnerability and hope—can inspire our commitment to uplift the downtrodden and seek unity amidst division. For non-believers, celebrating his birth becomes less about theology and more about honoring a figure whose life exemplified profound compassion and courage.

In the world we live in now, life is often fractured by conflict and inequality. The values embodied by the historical Jesus are as relevant today as they were two millennia ago. Celebrating his birth, regardless of religious belief, is a way to reaffirm our shared humanity and commit to a more compassionate, just, and loving world. So as you sing your carols and unwrap your gifts, please don’t forget “the reason for the season,” as they say. I love you. - Granny