The spirit of Christmas is about having the full life that comes from living generously, the head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said.

Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, CBCP President, said a generous life is one focused on Jesus Christ and serving Him by bringing the Good News to others.

“Christmas is an invitation to a generous life… life is short I tell you so let us not waste it,” David said.

The bishop of the Kalookan diocese also emphasized that a life without God is selfish and meaningless.

“The basic message of Christmas is for us to say ‘Lord, I offer my life to you,’” David said.

Archbishop Socrates Villegas of Lingayen-Dagupan, for his part, reminded the faithful to “live a life of gratitude” if they really want to be happy and have a meaningful life.

“Think of others because the new name of Jesus is others. And it is only in loving others that we can truly live for the Lord,” Villegas said.

“Look at everything as a blessing, as a gift,” the archbishop also said.

Bishop Gerardo Alminaza of San Carlos pointed out that Jesus’ family survived not just through God’s grace, but because of the faithful around him.

In His plan of redemption, according to the prelate, God chose to be born to a poor, helpless and vulnerable family.

“Such families exist here today. In our midst. They are waiting for our humility and generosity for one another, to carry their burdens with them, and together welcome Christmas with a grateful heart,” he said.