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The crucifix above was
created by Baba.
"The cross is wood from the actual cross on which Christ was crucified...."
-Sai Baba
Purpose Of Christmas Celebration
CHRISTMAS
Christmas
"The term Christmas has been derived from the Roman language. Truly speaking,
Christmas falls in the month of March, not in December. Since it is very cold in
December and people are confined to their homes, they utilize this time to
celebrate Christmas. Actually, Jesus was born in the month of March. With the
passage of time, this fact has been distorted and misrepresented in the Bible.
Opinions vary from person to person (Munde Munde Matir Bhinnah). Each one
interpreted the Bible in his own way. Some wrote that it was the brother of
Jesus who was crucified, not Jesus and that he was in Japan all that time. This
is all imagination. Jesus is truth." Sai Baba, SS. 1/99. pp. 5 & 6.
Purpose Of Christmas Celebration
"This day is a holy day, the day on which Jesus was born. He announced Himself
as the Messenger of God. In fact, all humans are bom as Messengers of God. The
sole purpose of this human career is to propagate the omnipresence of God, His
might and glory. No one has incarnated for merely consuming quantities of food
and catering to one's senses. Human life is much more precious than that. That
is why the capacity to appreciate beauty, truth and goodness has been endowed
only on man." Sai Baba, SSS. Vol. X, discourse on 25-12-76, p. 84
"Religions arise from the minds of good men, who crave to make all men good.
They strive to eliminate the evils and cure the bad. It is therefore appropriate
that the birthday of Jesus, who felt the need to save mankind and who strove to
achieve it, be celebrated. But the celebration must take the form of adherence
to the teachings, loyalty to the principles, practising the discipline and
experiencing the awareness of the Divine that He sought to arouse. These days,
the world is deriving satisfaction in mere words, and in witnessing clever ruses
designed to cover up one's faults. The birthdays of the Great are honoured by
such hypocrisy and external pomp. There is no examination in the light of the
message they gave, nor, any effort to practise it and derive the bliss it
promises". Sai Baba, SSS. Vol. VIII, discourse on 25-12-72. p. 129
Christmas Belongs To All
"The birthday of Jesus must be celebrated by all mankind, for such 'Karana-Janmas'
(Masters born with a purpose) belong to the whole human race. They should not be
confined to a single country or community." Sai Baba, SSS, Vol. X, discourse on
25-12-78, p. 232
Jesus' Original Name
"Jesus was honoured by the populace as Christ, for they found in his thoughts,
words and deeds, no trace of ego. He had no envy or hatred, and was full of love
and charity, humility and sympathy. Jesus' original name was 'Isa' which, when
repeated, is Sai. 'Isa' and 'Sai', both mean Ishvara, God, the Eternal Absolute,
the Sat-Chit-Ananda. In the Tibetan manuscript at the monastery, where Isa spent
some years. His name is written as 'ISSA', which means the Lord of all beings."
Sai Baba, Vol. X. discourse on 25-12-78. p. 231
Meaning Of Jesus
"In Christianity, the term 'Esu' (Jesus) is used to describe Christ. This term
also signifies the oneness of Divinity. The inner significance of the term 'Esu'
is the recognition of the One Divine in all beings." Sai Baba, SS,~ 1/92'. p.2
"Jesus is truth." Sai Baba, SS. 1/99, p. 6
Birth Date Of Jesus Christ
"There are various theories about the birth date of Jesus based on the "bright
star" that appeared at his birth. It is visible once in 800 years, it is said.
Some say that He was bom on the fifteenth day of September. But He was born at
3:15 a.m. (early morning) on December 28. It was Sunday. The star that appeared
that day appears only once in 800 years. Its appearance had nothing to do with
the birth of Jesus. There is no rule that, when Divine Energy or Divine
Incarnation descends on earth, a star has to appear. That is the opinion of
devotees only. But, Jesus was himself a "Star" of infinite value, spreading
brilliance of infinite dimension. Why posit another less brilliant glow?" Sai
Baba. SSS, Vol. XI. p. 13
Birth Place Of Jesus Christ
'Two thousand years ago, in Palestine, a province of the Roman Empire, there
were Jews professing Judaism. The Jews believed in one God called' Yehovah'.
They believed that God would send a messiah for the people of Israel. Jerusalem
was the sacred city of the Jews and continued to be so even under the Romans.
This was the time when Jesus was bom." Sai Baba. SS, 1/92, p. 3
"Jesus' birth took place in a manger in Bethlehem." Sai Baba. SS. 1/89. p. 2
Visit Of Three Kings To See Christ At His Birth
"It is said that when Jesus was born in a manger, three kings were led by a star
to Jesus' place of birth. In fact, they were not kings but three shepherds. One
of them, seeing the infant Jesus observed: 'This child will be lover of God'. A
second one said: 'No. God will love him.' The third one said: 'Verily he is God
Himself. The true significance of these three statements is: To love God is to
be His messenger. To be loved by God is to be a son of God. The final state is
to be one with God. As Jesus said: 'I and my Father are one'. Thus, all persons
are messengers of God. This means that they should divinise themselves. When can
men call themselves 'sons of God'? Recognise what pure actions are done by God,
selflessly for the sake of all. There is no trace of self-interest in Him.
Everything men do, speak, or think is born out of selfishness. Men can describe
themselves as 'Sons of God' only when they are completely free from selfishness
and become Godly. To call yourself the 'son of God', you have to manifest the
qualities of the Father." Sai Baba, SS. 1/95. p. 4
Enlightenment Of Jesus
"Like most seekers, Jesus first searched for the Divine in the objective world.
But He soon realised that the world is a kaleidoscopic picture created by one's
own imagination, and sought to find God within himself. His stay in the
Himalayan monasteries in Kashmir and in other centres of eastern asceticism and
philosophical inquiry, gave him greater awareness. From the attitude of being a
'Messenger of God', he could now call himself the 'Son of God'. The bond of
relationship increased. The 'I' was no more distant light or entity. The light
became a part of the 'I'. With body-consciousness predominant. He was a
messenger. With the heart-consciousness in the ascendant. He felt greater
nearness and deamess. So, the son-father bond seems natural at this stage. Later
as the Atman-Consciousness was established, Jesus could declare: 'I and My
Father are One'. The three stages may be described as: 'I was in the Light',
'the Light was in me', and 'I am the Light', and may compared to the Dwaita
(dualism), Vishishta-adwaita and Adwaita (non-dualism) stages as described in
Hindu philosophy. The final stage is the one when all duality has been shed.
This is the essence of all religious disciplines and teachings". Sai Baba, SSS,
X, discourse on 25-12-78. p. 231
"Christ spent all His life in the service of mankind. He spent twelve years
alone, promoting the inner vision and realising God. While engaged in the
service to the diseased and the downtrodden, He announced Himself as the
'Messenger of God'. Later on, for some years Christ reflected the divine nature
present in Him and came to the conclusion that he was the 'son of God'. Thus He
moved closer to God. Christ lived for five years in the Himalayan region of
Bharat (India). He settled in Kashmir and met many exponents and practitioners
of the Adwaita system of thought, which declares there is only one God. He
realised the One-ness beneath diversity, then He spread the truth that 'I and My
Father are one.' Sai Baba, SSS, Vol. X. p. 142
"When Jesus proclaimed that He was the 'Messenger of God', He wanted to
emphasize that everyone is messenger of God and has to speak, act and think like
one. This is the true Karma (action) Kanda of the Vedas: Sadhana, Japa, Seva and
Dhyana. When progress is furthered, Jesus asserted, each one can recognise all
as 'sons of God', children of God, brothers and sisters of oneself, and so. The
Upaasana (adoration of God) Kanda is the scripture in Sanatana Dharma (eternal
code of conduct) for this stage. Finally, knowledge ripens into wisdom and the
goal ofJnana (wisdom) Kanda is reached, when each one realises, 'I and my Father
are one'. Sai Baba. SSS, Vol. X, discourse on 25-12-78. pp. 232-233
Early Life Of Jesus
"Jesus exemplified the spirit of social service. The inspiration for this came
from his mother Mary. From His childhood Mary taught Him such good qualities as
truth, kindness, compassion and justice. In his twelfth year, Jesus and his
parents went to Jerusalem for a festival. In the crowd, the parents lost the
trace of Jesus and searched for Him everywhere. Not finding Him anywhere, Mary
sat under a tree and prayed to God to come to her help. At that moment, a
thought flashed in her mind that Jesus was perhaps in a nearby temple. Jesus was
there sitting in a comer of the temple and listening to the words of the priest.
Mary affectionately rushed towards Him and embraced him. 'Child, what agony I
went through on your account', she said. Jesus told her: 'Mother! Why should you
have any fear? Those who believe in the world will have fears. But why should
anyone believing in God fear at all? I am in the company of my Father. Why do
you fear? You taught Me that God is everything for us. How, then, can you worry
like this?' Jesus had learnt His lessons from his mother and developed His
spiritual faith. After they returned from Jerusalem, Jesus felt that service to
His parents was His foremost duty, because He owed everything to them. In this
spirit, He used to assist His father in his carpentry work. When Joseph, His
father, passed away, He sought His mother permission to devote Himself to the
service of the needy and the forlorn." Sai Baba. SS, 1/95. p. 3
Jesus's Ministry
After leaving home, Jesus had Himself baptized by John. Then for forty days,
Jesus observed severe austerities without food and drink. At first he considered
Himself as a 'Messenger of God'. After the penance, He realised He was the 'son
of God'. He began His ministry with a group of fishermen as His first disciples.
He taught them that they should first seek the 'Kingdom of Heaven.' To enter
that Kingdom, they had to cultivate loving hearts. Then, their hearts would
become the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus further declared to them: T and my Father
are one'. Sai Baba. SS, 1/95. p. 3
"As Jesus went on with His preaching and drew multitudes towards him, some of
the priests and those in authority grew envious of His popularity. This happens
in all countries. They started persecuting Him and charging Him with treason.
Jesus, however, continued His mission of love and righteousness, first, as the
Messenger of God, and later as the son of God." Sai Baba, SS, 1/89, p. 3
"How did Jesus get the courage to speak in this fashion? It was because He was
proclaiming the truth. Truth is bom out of love, which comes from faith in God
Where there is confidence, there is love.
Where there is love, there is peace.
Where there is peace, there is truth.
Where there is truth, there is bliss.
Where there is bliss, there is God.
This-is way to develop faith in God
Sai Baba, SS. 1/88, p. 4
Jesus's Mission
"Jesus was a Karana-janma, a Master bom with a purpose, the mission of restoring
love, charity and compassion. He had no attachment to the self, nor paid any
heed to joy or sorrow, loss or gain. He had a heart that responded to the call
of anguish. He went about the land preaching the lesson of love. His life was a
libation for the upliftment of humanity". Sai Baba, Vol. X, discourse on
25-12-78, p. 230
"Love must be manifested as service. Seva (human service) must take the form of
food for the hungry, solace for the forlorn, consolation for the sick and the
suffering. Jesus wore Himself out in such Seva." Sai Baba, SSS, Vol XI,
discourse on 25-12-81. p. 225
The Inner Meaning Of Jesus's Teaching Given On His Last Supper
"Jesus said that the bread taken in the 'last supper' was his flesh, and the
wine his blood. He meant that all beings alive with flesh and blood are to be
treated as He Himself and that no distinction should be made between friend or
foe, we or they. Everybody, sustained by the bread, every drop flowing in the
veins of every living being is His (God), animated by the activity that the wine
imparted to it. That is to say, every man is Divine and has to be revered as
such." Sai Baba. SSS, Vol. X. Discourse on 25-12-78. pp. 232 & 233
Jesus's Spiritual Work
"Jesus announced Himself as a 'Messenger of God'. He spent many years in
austerities so that He could shower compassion and love on all humanity. Later,
He asked Himself: 'Am I just a messenger, or am I more closely related to God, a
part of God with the Divine as my essence?' Jesus spent twelve years wandering
alone in deserts engaged in this inquiry. At the end of this period. He returned
to the society of men and announced, 'I am the son of God'. At this time, the
priests of the holy temples of Jerusalem had become corrupt and commercialized.
They had deteriorated into proud and selfish men. Jesus condemned them and tried
to root out the evil practices. For, all forms, in th^ eyes of Jesus, were
Divine Forms. He could not tolerate any action, which belied this status. So,
when asked by people who He was. He could reply: 'I and my Father are One'.
Jesus tried to teach the Fatherhood of God and Brotherhood of man.
Tradition-minded and egoistic men considered Jesus a false prophet and they
tried by every means to thwart His mission. Jesus, however, did not waver. Faced
with opposition. He continued to be an example of living truth, and tried to
purify the society." Sai Baba. SSS. Vol. XI, pp. 11 & 12.
"Jesus found that scholars and ritualistic had befogged the true religion. He
engaged Himself in teaching both spirituality and morality, for education is the
very light of life. Jesus found that people are running after glass-beads,
imagining them to be diamonds and attaching great value to them. He went round
the holy shrines and discovered that they had become bazaars where (God's) grace
was being bartered and commercialized. He condemned the priesthood, which
tolerated and encouraged these practices. So, He drew upon Himself the anger of
the heads of temples and monasteries". Sai Baba, Vol. X, discourse on 25-12-78,
p. 232
"Jesus was compassion (Karuna) came in human form. He spread the spirit of
compassion and conferred solace on the distressed and the suffering. Noticing
the torture of birds and beasts at the temple in Jerusalem, He reprimanded the
vendors and drove them out of the precincts." Sai Baba, SSS, XI, discourse on
25-12-81, p. 224
Disciples Of Jesus
"Many disciples followed Jesus. But throughout history, it has been the
experience of Rama, Krishna, Jesus and Muhammad that disciples, however close,
are seldom fully dedicated. Most are only part-time devotees. Jesus had 12
disciples. Most of them had faith in Him and lived up to His teachings. But,
Judas yielded to greed. He betrayed his Master for a mere 30 silver coins. He
could not find joy in life after this treachery. His mind gave him no peace. He
had to take refuge in suicide. Betrayal by people who pretend to adore (their
Masters) is happening since ages. Corrupt, greedy and selfish people spread
falsehoods about their own Masters. We hear of Judas. 2000 years ago. But in the
Kali age, people are obsessed with money
and Judases have multiplied. They seek to amass paltry riches, whereas good
character, good conduct and knowledge of God are the three real treasures to be
gathered."
Sai Baba. SSS. Vol. XI, discourse on 25-12-79, p. 12
John
"Vedanta says, 'Brahmavid Brahmaiva Bhavati.', the knower of Brahman becomes
Brahman himself. John resembled Jesus in all respects, as he constantly
contemplated on Him. As you think, so you become. If you think of God
incessantly, you will assume His form." Sai Baba. SS. 1/99. p. 4
Paul
"Initially, Paul hated Jesus. One day, Jesus appeared in his dream and asked him
lovingly, 'Paul! What harm have I done to you, why do you criticize me? All your
travails are the consequences of your own actions. I am not responsible for your
sufferings.' Then Paul was transformed and attained sainthood. Thus, Jesus
transformed many sinners into-saints. Sai Baba, SS, 1/99, p. 5
"Speak softly and sweetly with a smiling face. That will silence the critic.
Smile is the best answer to criticism. When Paul went on accusing Jesus, He
lovingly went to him and gave a pleasing smile. The sweetness in the nectarine
smile of Jesus transformed the poisonous heart of Paul." Sai Baba. SS, 1/99, p.
7
Matthew And Thomas
"Matthew was a tax collector. He would meet fishermen regularly and enquire as
to how they acquired faith in Jesus. Thomas used to doubt the divinity of Jesus.
Such doubting Thomases are on the rise. Never be in the company of such people."
Sai Baba, SS, 1/99, p. 5
Disciples At The Time Of Jesus Crucification
"One has to worship God both in times of pain and pleasure. Unfortunately, due
to the effect of Kali Age, people worship Him when everything goes well, but
criticize Him in times of difficulties. When it was ordered that all the
devotees of Jesus should be crucified along with Him, even His closest devotees,
Peter, Matthew, and Paul refused to identify themselves. Can these be called
true devotees? One should be prepared to sacrifice everything for the sake of
God." Sai Baba. SS. 1/99. p. 4
Crusification Of Jesus
"They (heads of temples and monasteries) tempted one His (12) disciples with 30
silver pieces, to betray Him into their hands. The Roman rulers were told that
Jesus attempted to assert himself as King and so could be punished for treason.
Their insistence made the Governor order his crucifixion. When the nails were
being driven into him to fix him on the cross, Jesus heard the Voice of the
Father saying, "All life is one. My dear son. Be alike to everyone," and He
pleaded that those who were crucifying Him be pardoned, for they knew not what
they did. Jesus sacrificed Himself for the sake of mankind". Sai Baba. SSS. Vol.
X. discourse on 25-12-78, p. 232
"When Jesus was on the cross and overcome with agony, an unseen Voice said from
Heaven: "Death is the dress of life." The body is the dress, which the Divine
Spirit puts on. Therefore, we should not weep when the body is worn out or falls
or is injured. Death is an event, that is the very nature of the body. Men seek
the cause for death, but no one seeks the Divine source of life." Sai Baba, SSS.
Vol. XI, discourse on 25-12-79. p. 14
The Inner Meaning Of Making A Christan Cross Sign By Hands
You should not be afraid of difficulties. They are passing 'clouds. Do not
waver. Follow the heart, which is steady and unwavering. Unity of head, heart
and hand is essential for man. This is the true significance behind the
Christians making cross sign by hands (Swami made a sign of holy cross to show
how it covers heart, hands and head). Install God in your heart. Contemplate on
Him and undertake good deeds. Consider every activity as God's work and act
accordingly." Sai Baba. SS. 1/99. p. 3
Sacrifice Of Jesus Christ
"People talk of Christ's sacrifice as evidenced by his crucifixion. But, he was
surrounded and bound, and crowned by the crowd who captured him with the crown
of thorns, and later, nailed to the cross by his captors. A person bound and
beaten by the police cannot say that he has sacrificed everything, for he is not
a free man. Let us pay attention to the sacrifice that Jesus made while free,
out of his own volition. He sacrificed his happiness, prosperity, comfort,
safety and position. He braved the enmity of the powerful. He refused to yield
or compromise. He renounced the ego, which is the toughest thing to get rid of.
Honour Him for these. He willingly sacrificed the desires with which the body
torments man. This sacrifice is greater than the sacrifice of the body under
duress. The celebration of His birthday has to be marked by sacrificing your at
least one desire or two, and conquering at least the more disastrous urges of
ego." Sai Baba. SSS. Vol. VIIJ, 25-12-72
Important Christian Days
"Jesus was crucified on a Friday and He rose from the tomb on a Sunday. That is
why Sunday is taken as the day of worship and service in churches. Catholics
give importance to Virgin Mary, the mother of Christ, while Protestants give
importance to the birth of Christ. Catholics celebrate Christmas by worshipping
Mary on the evening of 24th (of December) and Protestants celebrate the birth of
Christ on the 25th (of December)". Sai Baba, SS, 1/93, p. 4 '
"Today is New Year's Day associated with the birth and life of Jesus. It is a
good occasion to give up the old and welcome the new- in thought, word and
deed." Sai Baba. SSS, Vol. X, p. 141
The Christmas Tree
"There is a custom of putting up a Christmas tree on this day. The genesis of
this custom can be traced to Germany. A preacher by name Jensen from England
once visited Germany. When he was travelling in Germany on his mission, he
noticed some Germans attempting to offer a child's life as sacrifice to
propitiate God who, they believed, lived in an oak tree.The priest was warned
and questioned-them as to why they were offering an innocent child as sacrifice
to a tree. As they asserted that God lived in the tree, he took an axe and cut
the tree. To his surprise, he was shaken by the inexplicable vibration from head
to foot. He noticed the form of a child between the two portions of the tree
that was cut by him. This incident teaches the truth that God lives not only in
human beings but also in plants and trees. From that time onwards people started
putting up a Christmas tree." Sai Baba, SS, 1/93, p. 4
True Christians
"Today is the birthday of Jesus, celebrated amidst December snow-falls, with
lights and Christmas trees, and prayers. But it is useless to pray just one day
and forget God, during the rest of year. That is empty show. It does not emanate
from the heart. We are true Christians only when we live according to the
teachings of Christ and practise them in daily life. Even if we follow two
teachings of His, that would be enough." Sai Baba. SSS. Vol. XI, discourse on
25-12-79, pp. 13 & 14.
Sai's Teachings For Christians And Others
"There are many who are deeply devoted to Jesus. Their duty is to glorify the
great message of Jesus. The most important of message of Jesus is the
establishment of 'Peace on earth and goodwill among men.' At present there is a
growing tendency among propagators of the Christian faith to cast aspersions on
other religions. Money is being spent lavishly to spread Christianity. None of
you should play any part in such activities. This type of propaganda does great
harm to the personality of Jesus. Jesus was supremely pure and sacred person. To
forget Jesus' teachings and to profess love for Him is no love at all. You must
remember: 'God is one. Love is God. Live in love.' Only by this means can
humanity, despite the many divisions that exist at present, be united. Absorb
the teachings of the great seers and prophets. Do not despise anyone. Everyone
is entitled to accept what is good from any source. Differences of creed and
caste are irrelevant. There is only one caste, the caste of humanity. There is
only one religion, the religion of love. There is one language, the language of
the heart. There is only one God; He is omnipresent" Sai Baba, SS, 1/86, p. 4
"You have to get rid of the ideas of 'mine' and 'thine'. Regard yourselves as
the children of one God, who is the universal protector. Bear in mind three
things: love of God, fear of sin, observance of social morality." Sai Baba. SS.
1/88, p. 5
How To Celebrate Christmas?
"Carols and candles, readings from the Bible and acting out the incidents that
surrounded his birth, are not enough to celebrate the birth of Jesus." Sai Baba.
SSS. X, discourse on 25-12-78, 232
"Jesus sacrificed His life and poured out his blood to instill love and
compassion in the heart of man, so that he (man) may be happy when others are
happy and sad when others are sad. It is not by festivity and fun that you
should celebrate Christmas. Celebrate it, rather, by resolving and putting into
practice at least one of the ideas He (Christ) enunciated, or endeavour to reach
at least one of the goals that He placed before man".-Sai Baba, Vol. X,
discourse on 25-12-76, pp. 86 & 87.
Sai Baba's Christmas Message
"You work as a messenger or servant. Later, you worship, as a son does his
father. Finally you achieve the wisdom that 'You' and 'He' are 'One'. That is
the spiritual journey that Jesus has shown the way in clear terms. He announced
very early in life that He had come to illumine the spiritual path. Even as a
bud. He emitted fragrance. He had the light in Him, or else how can the tiny
glow-worm light a lamp. To elevate, to raise the level of his consciousness. He
(God) has to incarnate as man. He has to speak to them in their own style and
language. He has to teach them the methods that they can adopt and practise.
Birds and beasts need no Divine Incarnation to guide them, for they have no
inclination to stray away from their Dharma (right conduct). Man alone forgets
or ignores the goal of life." Sai Baba, SSS, Vol. X, discourse on 25-12-78. p.
233
"Jesus was the embodiment of compassion and love. His heart melted in sympathy
when He saw anyone suffering. His entire life was dedicated to service. In the
interest of truth. He laid down His own life. Such persons are revered in this
world, however times may change. Jesus was engaged in Sathya Narayana worship
throughout His life; that is to say. He was adhering to truth." Sai Baba, SSS,
Vol. X, p. 141
Sathya Sai Baba & Jesus Christ
''There is one point that I cannot but bring to your special notice today. At
the moment, when Jesus was emerging in the Supreme Principle of Divinity, He
communicated some news to his followers, which has been interpreted in a variety
of ways by commentators and those who relish the piling of writings on writings,
and meanings upon meanings, until it all swells up into a huge mess. The
statement itself has been manipulated and tangled into a conundrum. The
statement of Christ is simple. He who has sent me among you will come again.',
and he pointed to a lamb. The lamb is merely a symbol, a sign. It stands for the
voice - Ba-Ba. The announcement was of the advent of Baba. 'His' Name will be
'Truth', Christ declared. 'Sathya' means 'truth'. 'He' will wear a robe of red,
a blood-red robe. (Here Sri Sathya Sai Baba pointed to the robe He was
wearing!). He will be short, with a crown (of hair). The lamb is the sign and
symbol of love. Christ did not declare that He would come again. He said: 'He
who made me will come again.' That Ba-Ba is this Baba, and Sai, the short, curly
hair-crowned red-robed Baba, has come. He is in everyone of you, as dweller in.
the heart. He is there.. short, with a robe. of the colour of the blood that
fills it." Sai Baba. SSS, Vol. VIII. discourse on 25-12-72. p. 134
"Jesus was love. Sathya Sai too is love. That explains the gathering of
Christians of all sects, which we see here (at Prasanthi Nilayam). In Rome
today, Catholics gather to celebrate the Advent of Jesus. The Protestants
celebrate it by themselves in their churches. The Jews are not welcome anywhere.
But in the presence of Sathya Sai, all are equally welcome." Sai Baba, SSS, Vol.
XI, discourse on 25-12-81. p. 225
Sathya Sai Baba Disclosed His Nature On Christmas Day
"Twenty years ago when Christmas was celebrated for the first time in Prasanthi
Nilayam, I sang a song (as follows):
"Love in my form,
Truth is my breath,
Peace is my food
My life is my message
Expansion is my life.
No reason for Love, no season for Love
No birth, no death"
Sai Baba, SS. 1/99. p. 8
"Sai Baba sang the same above famous Bhajan on 25 December 1989, a Christmas
day, at Poomachandra Auditorium, Prasanthi Nilayam, announcing His divine
nature." SS, 1/90. p. 4
Christmas Celebration At Prasanthi Nilayam
"We have been celebrating Christmas every year here. True Christmas is
celebrated only in Prasanthi Nilayam, where people of all religions join
together to celebrate it. Generally, the Hindus celebrate Hindu festivals, the
Muslims celebrate their festivals, and the Christians celebrate their festivals,
so on and so forth. It is only in Prasanthi that people of all religions -
Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Parsis, etc. come together to celebrate Christmas.
Prasanthi Nilayam symbolizes the unity of all religions. Elsewhere, people
drink, eat non-vegetarian food and make merry in the name of Christmas. But
Christmas in Prasanthi Nilayam is celebrated in a holy atmosphere, not a
'holiday'. Sai Baba. SS, 1/99, p. 8
"The Christmas festival is celebrated in many countries with a lot of fanfare,
merriment and riotous festivities. You should note one thing. No where in the
world is Christmas celebrated in the same manner as it is done in Prasanthi
Nilayam. People belonging to different countries, different faiths and different
cultures, coming together to adore God and celebrate this festival in such a
holy atmosphere, which cannot be found anywhere else. Christmas is celebrated in
America, Germany, Italy and other countries. But in what manner? By sumptuous
eating, drinking and dancing and wasting time. Here also you indulge in drink.
But what is it you drinking? You are drinking Pure Divine Love. It is this love
that you must offer to the world." 'SaiBaba, SS. l/91~7p. 22
Unity Of All Religions On Christmas At Prasanthi Nilayam
"Complete unity of all religions can be seen only in Prasanthi Nilayam (on
Christmas. 25 December 1999). Imagine what a phenomenon it is that the
Christians from 64 countries of the world have assembled here to celebrate
Christmas. This principle of unity is the sign of true devotion." Sai Baba. SS.
1/2000. p. 1
Christmas Message
"Great teachers belong to the entire mankind. It is wrong to believe that Jesus
belongs only to the Christians and that Christmas is a holy festival for the
West only. Christ, Rama and Krishna - they are for all men everywhere. Various
limbs and organs together form the body; various states and communities form the
World. The sustenance of love, endowed by the Divine Grace, has to circulate in
every state and community to make the world live in peace and happiness. If this
truth is realised, there will never arise any idea of difference." Sai Baba, SS.
1/2000, last back cover page; SSS, Vol. VIII, Discourse on 25.12.1972
Sathya Sai's Benediction On Christmas
The following benediction was sung in English by Sai Baba on Christmas, 25
December 1989, at Prasanthi Nilayam, Pooma Chandra Auditorium:
You all are in the Kingdom of Sai!
You all are in Sai's Home!
You all are in Sai's Light!
You all are in Sai's Heart
I will bless you, I will bless you in this Holy Night.
This is your right.
Sai Baba, SS. 1/90. p. 3
Glimpses Of Christmas Celebrations At Prasanthi Nilayam (1999)
Christmas Carols By Overseas Devotees
"Christmas celebrations in Prasanthi Nilayam started in the afternoon of 24th
December (1999) in Sai Kulwant Hall. For this purpose, the Hall was
magnificently decorated in the traditional Christmas manner with golden, red and
green colour velvet decorations. Appropriately enough, the entrance gate to Sai
Kulwant Hall had a large velvet cloth hanging with the writing, 'Sarva Dharma
Priya Sai Deva ' meaning the Lord Sai who loves all religions. The twelve
pillars of the Hall, where Beloved Swami walks across the Darshan lines had red
velvet hangings with a Cross and angel in gold, representing the 12 apostles.
Pine, shining gold and red fabric decorated the entire Hall—-with cherubs. A
statue of Joseph, Marry and the Baby Jesus, in His crib, was placed close to the
chair of Swami. The Christmas programme started at 3.45 p.m. on 24 December 1999
when Bhagavan ceremoniously lighted the sacred lamps. After chanting Omkar and
welcome song in praise of Ganesha, the overseas devotees sang Christmas carols.
The main choir of 400 members sang with their hearts to the merriment of huge
gathering of devotees, which filled the entire Sai Kulwant Hall. To name a few
carols, they sang 'Dona Nobis Pacem,' Glory to God in the Highest,' and ended
with joyful clapping to "The Saints Come Marching in.' The programme came to a
close with Arati to Bhagavan and distribution of Prasadam.
Jesus And The Wizard Of Love
This excellent drama adapted from the book 'The Wizard of OZ' was presented by
Bal Vikas children on the evening of 24 December 1999, in the Poomachandra
Auditorium in the Divine Presence of Bhagavan Baba.
The opening scene begins on a Hillside overlooking the Sea of Galilee. Jesus is
speaking about His message of love and compassion to a congregation of people,
including five children - a Western, a Mexican, an Indian, a Chinese and an
African. Jesus then exhorts the children to undertake the journey to the Emerald
city, the home of His Father, the Wizard of Love.
As the children come to the home of the Wizard of Love, they are introduced to
the Father of Jesus, who is none else but Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The
Father tells the children that the qualities they are seeking - courage,
compassion and discrimination -already exist deep within them. The children then
ask Jesus to tell them the story of His mother, Maria. The play ends with the
Nativity story unfolding. At the end, Bhagavan goes up the stage and blesses the
children.
Divine Darshan On Christmas Morning
Early Christmas morning, the carolers in procession with lighted candles, walked
through the Ashram, singing praise to Jesus. The small children led the-choir
into the Hall carrying lanterns, followed by more children in beautiful angel
costumes with golden wings.
The energy builds, the lights are twinkling, and then He appears in His White
Robe, sweet smiles, and eyes of radiant light. He gives us all His Darshan from
the Mandir balcony, ever so slowly, so all can see.
Later in the morning, Swami went round the Hall and blessed the devotees with
His Darshan at 7.30 a.m. Thereafter, the Brass Band of the Institute enthralled
the audience with some soul-stirring music. After this performance, at 8.10
a.m., the Institute and School students presented an excellent programme of
carol singing. The glorious Christmas morning programme came to a close with the
distribution of Prasadam and Arati to Bhagavan.
Annual Meet Of Messangers Of Sathya Sai
The Annual Meeting of the Messengers of Sathya Sai was held on 25 December 1999,
on the holy day of Christmas in Sai Kulwant Hall. Bhagavan Baba inaugurated the
programme by lighting the sacred lamps at 3.00 p.m.
The President of the Association, Miss K.P. Sai Leela, welcomed all to the
meeting and briefly mentioned about the service activities of the members of the
Association from India and abroad.
The Secretary of the Messengers of Sathya Sai. Miss Rajeshwari Patel, extended
Christmas greetings to all the devotees on behalf of her Association and said
that this Christmas was very special as it was the last of the millennium.
Presenting the Annual Report of the Messengers of Sathya Sai for year 1999, Miss
Patel informed devotees about service activities and future programmes of the
Association.
A student of the Anantapur Campus also narrated her experiences and told how her
life had been transformed during her stay in the college hostel.
The last speaker of the afternoon, Mr. Arthur Hillcoat, emphasized the need to
put Bhagavan Baba's teachings into practice. He reminded the devotees that we
could make Swami happy only by living His teachings in our day-to-day life.
After this, Bhagavan Baba gave His Christmas Discourse, exhorting the devotees
to follow Christ's teachings of love and service to mankind.
Drama By Messengers of Sathya Sai
"An excellent drama entitled "There is only One Religion - the Religion of
Love,' was enacted by the Messengers of Sathya Sai in the Poomachandra
Auditorium on the evening of 25th December 1999.
The play presented stories from different parts of the world including the
famous story Abou Ben Adem and Swami Vivekananda's epoch-making Address in the
world Parliament of Religions to bring home the teachings of Bhagavan Baba that
different religions are the paths that lead to the same God and that service to
man is service to God.
Superb acting of the cast and appropriate video support left a lasting effect on
the audience about Bhagavan's Baba's message of love to mankind.
Cultural Programmes By Overseas Bal Vikas Children
A drama entitled ' Solon and Croesus' was presented by the children of Sai
Spiritual Education of Greece in Poomachandra Auditorium on the evening of 28th
December 1999. The drama was based on the life of one of the outstanding sages
of Greece, viz, Solon.
Solon's encounter with the fabulously rich King of Lydia was highlighted in this
play to show that it was the practice of virtues that brought happiness to man
and not wealth, which changed masters quickly.
At the end of the play, Bhagavan went up the stage and blessed the children. He
also materialized a gold chain for the child who played the role of Solon. Arati
was offered to Bhagavan at 8.00 p.m.
Earlier another drama by overseas Bal Vikas children depicted the hazards of
modern civilization and underlined the need for judicious management of natural
resources by man.
With these two dramas, the Christmas celebrations in Prasanthi Nilayam came to a
happy conclusion." Editor, SS. 1/2000. pp. 28-30
Christmas Celebrations At Prasanthi Nilayam - 1995
"Given the auspiciousness of Christmas in the Christian calendar, it is
befitting that celebrations take place in Prasanthi Nilayam. And every year
Bhagavan Baba energizes and illumines this programme.
First decorations began to take shape in quiet places, ready to emerge and
delight the eyes of Christmas Day (25 December 1995). Thus, angels knelt in
adoration on either side of Swami's chair, placed centrally under the glittering
crystal chandeliers on the Mandir porch and they flew joyfully around the
recessed walls and on the marble columns. Huge green advent wreaths hung on
either side of silver doors, garnished with candles, multi-coloured orbs and
golden stars, which danced in the breeze, tinsels, hearts, Christmas tree motifs
and stars highlighted the multi-coloured buntings and beautiful rose-bedecked
wreaths adorned the gates. The stage was set for Christmas.
Meanwhile, international choirs were formed. A large one, with 410 members,
created a programme of both traditional carols and songs of adoration of Swami.
They practised all day to reach excellence associated with this event. A smaller
choir wove itself into the Christmas play rehearsals.
One hundred and twenty Bal Vikas children from sixty-three countries came
together under loving hands, to leam their lines, dances and their positions on
the stage.
In the distant shed, costumes grew from the pieces of clothes as ladies from
far-flung countries enjoyed their busy Satsang while making the costumes. Scenic
arrangements went on. Innovative concepts such as ceiling drops were added and
brilliant visual effects were practised.
One hundred-twenty foreign Seva Dal members took over Darshan duties, and
excitement and anticipation grew daily as rehearsals were given the Divine Grace
of Swami's unannounced Darshan.
Christmas Eve arrived. At 4 p.m. Bhagavan came to Sai Kulwant Mandap and sitting
in His swivel chair listened with evident pleasure to the choir as they poured
their love in song. Every face gazing at Swami glowed with His reflected light,
as hearts swelled with peace and goodwill- a precious moment in time.
Bhajans, Aarati and Prasadam concluded the performance. The gathering
reassembled in the Poomachandra Auditorium to witness the children's play.
The Childrens' Play
Telling of a family's sojourn in Prasanthi Nilayam at Christmas and the
transformation in a boy's awareness, the play was also memorable as a
spectacular show. Children danced and sang, a demon dropped from above (mortally
wounded by Rama's arrow), firework stars cascaded and the Avatar gave a
compelling message. The final scene was a grand finale. Huge bunches of helium
balloons, trailing silver red streamers, were released on the stage, smoke
billowed and multi-coloured glitter fell from above as children and choir and
their love to Swami. He then came on the stage and gave Prasadam to every child,
smiling amidst the colour and laughter and love.
Christmas Darshan
Next morning (25 December 1995), the festival continued. Carol-Nagar-sankirtan
(a river of candle-light) flowed into the Mandap to await Bhagavan's silver door
Darshan and the soft carol singing expressed the heart yearnings from every
soul. All the devotees felt doubly blessed as Swami, wearing a white robe, gave
His Double Hand blessings, pouring love on one and all.
A gentle gesture, indicating Aarati, announced His leave taking and then all sat
in bliss reluctant to extinguish candles. At that moment of offering, all were
indeed one, hearts united by love for Bhagavan Baba.
Bhagavan returned in vibrant orange robe to sit on the porch for student's
concert. This year there was an indeed an added ingredient. Maynard Fergusen,
world famous jazz trumpeter, led the student brass band in an up-tempo caroling,
which brought hand-clapping involvement from the crowded Mandap. As Swami sat,
the trumpeters stood with Santa hats on, and His evident enjoyment of this added
to everyone else's. The jolly U.K. pianist, David Bailey, dressed in black
tails, added a salubrious touch as his fingers danced joyfully over the keyboard
and the energy field of love and happiness was reflected in every face. Prasadam
blessed by Bhagavan was distributed to the entire gathering.
The afternoon programme was in the Poomachandra Hall. First, their Annual Report
was presented by the 'Messengers of Sathya Sai'. These exemplary young women
spoke with humility of the Seva they selflessly perform. Then Arthur Hillcoat
gave an address before 'Bhagavan Baba rose t give His Christmas-Discourse:
Swami's message of love gently reminded all to practise Divine love, not worldly
love, and He spoke of Jesus who was God's messenger and son, just as all are.
He enjoined on each devotee to search for his/her own faults and to resist
criticizing others and ended by saying: 'The more you love and the more happy
you will be. Live a life of love.'
Then the 'Messengers of Sathya Sai' presented a dance drama of Ganga's descent
to the earth through Shiva's matted locks and Swami's drawing it out of the
netherworld to benefit the mankind via the Water Project. It was a beautiful
display of classical Indian dance by 7-12 years olds (who had never seen Swami
before) - a fitting finale to the Christmas Festival.
"Swami's Christmas Gift"
Describing the children's drama staged in the Poomachandra Auditorium on
December 24 (1995), Mrs. Rita Bruce writes:
The Children's Christmas Drama began at 6:30 p.m. The name of the drama was
'Swami's Christmas Gift'. Each day of rehearsal was for the children a Christmas
gift from Swami. His love and grace flowed like the holy river, Ganga, falling
from Shiva's head. Never before had Swami given before the children so much
Darshan.
There were 120 children from 63 countries whose ages fell between 2 and 14
years. Everyone who wanted to be in this drama was accepted, even those who came
two days before the performance. This was a profound learning experience for all
who attended.
Sweets For The Children
Swami gave the children many Darshans every day. He brought them apples one day
and played the game of 'Catch if catch can'. Another day Swami gave them big
chocolate biscuits as Prasad. He coached their performance, reviewed their
costumes, looked after the props, and even fixed an angel's wing.
One day He asked, 'How many drama choir women and workers?' They told Him a
number and soon after Swami returned with students carrying saris for all. The
number they gave was incorrect, but Swami had the correct number with Him, 119,
'Joy to the World, The Lord has come' was reflected in the eyes and smiles of
each lady. Bhagavan didn't stop giving. He gave the men white material for
stitching suits.
One day there was a beautiful Christmas table with decorated cake in white, red
and green frosting next to Swami's chair, a box of Prasad, and a Christmas tree.
Swami picked up a matchbox, lit the candle and while He cut the cake. He read
out the writing on the frosting, 'Holy Christmas,' and blessed the Prasad for
the children.
A few children did not need costumes because they wore white, but there were 100
costumes to be sewn. I asked the costume coordinator, 'how is this possible in
such a short time?' She told me, 'Baba's Divine helping hands reached out to the
ladies who worked on costumes for the children. He supplied five sewing
machines, and a hall to work in. The one hundred children were chosen by the
20th of December. They were measured, material was brought from Bangalore, and
the making of the costumes began in earnest on the 21a of December.
A huge amount of work had to be done by the morning of the 24* (of December
1995) when Bhagavan would inspect the dress rehearsal. The ladies worked from
dawn to late in the night to get costumes ready. When there was still much work
to be done, on the night of December 23, a blackout occurred, making sewing
impossible. Baba must have known that all the ladies needed a rest. It was only
through Baba's Divine help that the costumes were completed in three days and
ready for the Lord to see on the morning of Christmas Eve.
The first thing He asked, 'Where is Mary?' She was brought before Baba. Baba
then wanted to see Jesus and the boy playing the role of Sai Baba. When He saw
the three of them together. He said, 'Very nice costumes, very happy. You have
got Jesus' mother, Jesus and Sai Baba here now.'
The drama director was a Hollywood film director. Under his direction, the
children had to stretch their ability a little beyond what they thought was
possible. They practised
for about eight hours a day. The result of their efforts was acknowledged on the
night of the performance.
The drama was about a western family planning to spend Christmas with Sai Baba.
The young teen-age boy, Mathew, was confused about who Baba was and hoped that
he could find the answer on his trip to Prasanthi Nilayam. He had some dreams in
which Sai Baba showed him scenes from Jesus' life and taught him who he really
was. Swami said to him, 'You are God, I am God, We are God.' In the finale,
Swami's Christmas gift to Mathew was the answer to the proverbial question. 'Who
am I?' 'I am I.'
Swami's gift to the children who were lined up according to their height, all
120, some holding coloured balloons with shiny long streamers and sparkling
confetti showered down on them, was His unprecended long stage Darshan. Swami
gave all the children Pada-Namaskar and handed each of them a beautiful packaged
gift of a Christmas cake. Swami's hair had the sparkling confetti shining on it.
Balloons with helium were floating in the air with the long tail shiny streamers
dancing in the light,, while the children were at His Feet.' Swami even held a
balloon. It was verily a Holy Christmas Festival and Swami's Christmas Gift to
us all." Editor. SS. 1/96. pp. 6-9
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From the book - An Exposition by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba - Compiled and
Edited by Suresh C Bhatnagar
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