Prologue
Whenever I think of Christmas, I think of Christmas carolers, decorations, and Christmas trees with presents underneath. …I love all this and more about this holiday season, but I sometimes feel sad in spite of all this, just like Charlie Brown.
Unlike some holidays, there seems to be more to Christmas than this; even more than family reunions and festivals! ...But it's hard to remember what it is, and what all those OTHER activities have to do with it.
But when Charlie Brown asked what Christmas is really all about, Linus gave him his answer with the story of the First Christmas, and it really helped him feel better. He passed this true story to his whole neighborhood, and now I wish to pass it to all of you.
The First Christmas
Luke 2:1-16
Illustrations by Invisible Ring
And it came to pass in those days that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.
And all went to be taxed, everyone into his own city.
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
And so it was that while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
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.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
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.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: For behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another,
Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known to us.
And they came with haste, and found Mary, Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
Epilogue
Whenever I read this story, I think back to the Christmas trees with stars on top, and think of the star of Bethlehem that guided those shepherds to Jesus. I also think of the carolers; singing together like the multitude of angels that came down to earth that night.
The First Christmas story also reminds me of the nativity scenes, and the 3 kings who gave gifts to baby Jesus, kind of like how we give gifts to each other nowadays.
I was always told never to forget the true meaning of Christmas, but now I finally know why: I think it's the only way to make sense of this whole holiday season!
Hope this yuletide message of good tidings lifts your holiday spirits as well. Have a joyous and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, everyone!
PS: Check out the special edition of this post on the PHB!
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