It is good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas, when its mighty Founder was a child himself. Source
Charles Dickens penned these words in his short story, A Christmas Tree. This single sentence captures the essence of his vision for the holiday season. It moves beyond mere festivity and commercial cheer. Instead, Dickens invites us into a profound spiritual reflection. He masterfully connects the joy of Christmas with its sacred origins. The quote serves as a powerful reminder of the humility and wonder at the heart of the Christmas story. It explores the divine nature of childhood and the importance of embracing a simpler, more compassionate perspective.
Through this line, Dickens encapsulates a theology of Christmas that continues to resonate. He distills complex spiritual ideas into a simple, accessible thought. Let’s explore the deep spiritual layers within this timeless observation.
. Charles Dickens and the Construction of Christmas
The Humility of the ‘Mighty Founder’
Dickens’s choice of words is deliberate and deeply significant. The phrase “mighty Founder” is a clear reference to Jesus Christ, the central figure of the Christian faith. However, Dickens immediately juxtaposes this powerful title with a humble image: “was a child himself.” This contrast is the core of the quote’s spiritual power. It directly alludes to the Christian doctrine of the Incarnation. This is the belief that God became human in the form of a child.
This concept highlights profound humility. The creator of the universe entered the world not as a king with an army, but as a vulnerable infant. Therefore, Dickens suggests that the true spirit of Christmas lies in recognizing this divine humility. It is a call to set aside pride and embrace compassion. He reminds his audience that greatness is not always found in power or authority. Sometimes, it resides in innocence and helplessness. This idea grounds the entire celebration in a sense of shared humanity and grace. By focusing on the child, Dickens makes the divine accessible to everyone.
Embracing Childlike Wonder
The quote’s first clause, “It is good to be children sometimes,” is equally important. Charles Dickens and Christmas – The British Library champions the virtues of childhood. He celebrates innocence, wonder, and an open heart. He argues that adults should occasionally shed their cynicism and worldly concerns. Instead, they should try to see the world through a child’s eyes. This perspective allows for genuine joy and a deeper appreciation for the magic of the season.
This is not a call for immaturity. Rather, it is an invitation to rediscover a purer spiritual state. For Dickens, the ability to wonder is a spiritual gift. It connects us to the mystery and beauty of existence. Christmas, he insists, is the perfect time for this rediscovery. The holiday’s traditions, from decorated trees to festive stories, are best enjoyed with a sense of childlike delight. This perspective allows the spiritual significance of the season to truly take root in our hearts.
A Christmas Beyond Materialism
In Victorian England, Christmas was rapidly becoming a more commercialized holiday. Dickens observed this trend with concern. Many of his Christmas writings push back against this materialism. This quote, in particular, gently redirects the reader’s focus from presents and parties to piety and reflection. He anchors the celebration firmly in its spiritual context. Consequently, he elevates the holiday from a simple winter festival to a meaningful commemoration.
Dickens’s personal faith was complex and deeply held. . He used his stories to promote a message of social responsibility, kindness, and empathy. The reference to the “mighty Founder” serves this purpose perfectly. It reminds the reader that the holiday honors a figure who championed the poor and the marginalized. Therefore, the best way to celebrate Christmas is to emulate these values. This involves practicing charity, forgiveness, and goodwill toward all. Source
Ultimately, this quote from Charles Dickens is more than just a festive sentiment. It is a concise and beautiful piece of theology. It calls us to find strength in humility. It encourages us to rediscover the world with childlike wonder. Moreover, it reminds us that the true spirit of Christmas is found in acts of love and compassion. As we celebrate the holiday season, his words invite us to look past the tinsel and find the profound, spiritual truth at its core.