This one holiday has given me pause. I know our Lord was not born on December 25th, and the holiday is based on the pagan holiday of Yule (Dec 21). My parents never taught us about Santa Claus. I was 8 years old before I ever knew who Santa was. A teacher asked me, "What is Santa bringing you this year?" I quizzically responded, "Who is that?" Imagine the shock on the teacher's face.
Every Christmas morning, my parents would gather us all together, and my dad would read Luke 2:1-14 before a single gift was opened. We still do it even though my brother and I are grown. I know that passage almost by heart after 27 years of hearing it every Christmas morning.
Luke 2:1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.
Luke 2:2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
Luke 2:3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
Luke 2:4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
Luke 2:5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
Luke 2:6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
Luke 2:7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
Luke 2:8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
Luke 2:9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
Luke 2:10 And the angel said unto them, "Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
Luke 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger."
Luke 2:13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Luke 2:14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
About a year or two ago, I asked my mom why (I was curious what their reason was) they never did teach us about the man in the red suit, and she said, "The Lord commanded us to not learn the ways of the heathen [Jeremiah 10:2], and your dad and I wanted you boys to know the real reason for Christmas."
Just for discussion's sake.
In Him,
John
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Topic: Seasons Greetings (Read 6784 times)