By Bijoy A. Sangma
Christmas brings with it a profound message that transcends religious boundaries and resonates with humanity at large. The story of Jesus Christ – his humble birth, compassionate life, and transformational leadership – offers timeless principles of good governance that remain relevant today. It is no coincidence that Christmas, celebrating the birth of Christ, aligns in India with Good Governance Day, commemorating the legacy of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a leader who embodied integrity and service.
This intersection of Christmas and Good Governance Day invites us to reflect on how the principles of Christ’s life can inspire and shape governance in our world. Jesus Christ, hailed as the Prince of Peace, was not just a spiritual figure; he was a leader who exemplified humility, compassion, justice, and service. These values are the foundation of governance that uplifts society and transforms lives.
A Humble Beginning: The Foundation of Leadership
The Christmas story begins not with grandeur but with humility. Jesus Christ, the King of Kings, was born in a lowly manger, surrounded by simplicity. This remarkable beginning speaks volumes about the kind of leadership he represented – one that was grounded in humility, not privilege.
For leaders and officials today, the lesson is clear: true governance begins with humility. It is about stepping down from the pedestal of power and connecting with the realities of the people. Humility allows leaders to listen, to learn, and to act with empathy. Just as Christ’s humility drew people to him, leaders who govern with humility earn the trust and respect of those they serve.
The Christmas narrative reminds us that the greatest leaders do not isolate themselves in comfort but work tirelessly where the needs are greatest. Humility in governance is about understanding that public trust is a privilege, not a given. It challenges leaders to ask: How can I use my position to uplift others?
Compassion: The Heart of Good Governance
Jesus’ life was marked by compassion for the marginalized, the poor, and the outcast. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and gave dignity to those society had abandoned. His leadership was not about enforcing authority but about empowering people and restoring their hope.
In governance, compassion translates into policies and actions that prioritize the welfare of the most vulnerable. It means looking beyond statistics and seeing the human stories behind them. A compassionate government ensures that no one is left behind, that opportunities are extended to all, and that dignity is restored to the marginalized.
M. K. Gandhi said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
This Christmas, leaders are reminded that a nation’s greatness is not judged by its power but by its care for the least among us. Jesus Christ lived this principle, and it remains a powerful reminder for those in public service today.
Justice and Fairness: The Pillars of Governance
Jesus was a fierce advocate for justice. He stood against corruption, challenged oppressive systems, and emphasized fairness. His teachings, such as “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” are foundational to the concept of equity and fairness in governance.
Good governance, inspired by Christ’s example, is built on justice. It ensures that systems are transparent, decisions are fair, and every citizen – regardless of status or background – is treated with dignity. It is about creating structures that protect the weak, uplift the oppressed, and hold the powerful accountable.
Servant Leadership: The Example of Christ
Perhaps the most revolutionary aspect of Christ’s governance model was his approach to leadership. He declared, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” Christ washed the feet of his disciples, demonstrating that leadership is not about being served but about serving others.
In governance, servant leadership means putting the needs of the people first. It means making decisions that benefit the majority, even if they come at personal or political cost. It is about being accessible, responsive, and committed to the well-being of those one leads.
A Light in the Darkness
One of the most powerful images of Christmas comes from the Gospel of John: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” In a world often overshadowed by challenges – poverty, corruption, inequality – good governance can be the light that dispels darkness.
Jesus Christ’s life reminds us that even the smallest acts of care and justice can illuminate lives. For leaders, this means working tirelessly to bring hope where despair exists, to create opportunities where there are none, and to build trust where it has been lost.
The Confluence of Christmas and Good Governance Day
The celebration of Good Governance Day on Christmas Day in India is more than a coincidence; it is a profound reminder of the shared values they represent. While Christmas commemorates the birth of a leader who exemplified perfect governance, Good Governance Day challenges leaders to emulate those principles in their service to the nation.
Both call for leadership rooted in humility, compassion, and justice. Both remind us that governance is not about power but about responsibility. And both inspire us to envision a future where every citizen experiences dignity, opportunity, and hope.
A Christmas Challenge for Leaders
As we celebrate Christmas coinciding with Good Governance Day in India, let us reflect on the legacy of Jesus Christ and its relevance to governance:
=Are we governing with humility, listening to the needs of the people?
=Are our policies driven by compassion, prioritizing the welfare of the marginalized?
=Are we upholding justice and fairness in every decision we make?
=Are we serving the people with integrity, putting their needs above our own?
Jesus Christ’s life offers a blueprint for leadership that transforms lives and uplifts societies. His message is not confined to any one faith – it is a universal call to serve with love, act with integrity, and lead with courage.
A Season of Hope and Renewal
This Christmas, as the world celebrates the birth of Christ, let us also celebrate the values he stood for—humility, compassion, justice, and servant leadership. Let us allow his example to inspire governance that bring light to darkness, hope to despair, and dignity to every life.
In the words of the angels that first Christmas night: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” May this message guide our leaders and inspire us all to build a world of peace, justice, and hope.
Merry Christmas and a reflective Good Governance Day to all.
(The author is former National Executive Director [India] of Haggai Institute of Advanced Leadership, currently a PhD Research Scholar.)