Merry Christmas

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.

2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

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:)

5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

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.

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

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.

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.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

This is why we celebrate Christmas.  It is the birth day of Jesus, the Promised Messiah, Who was born to redeem all mankind.  He was born in a place where He was a stranger, not in a palace, but in a manger.  His birth was not noted by the rich and powerful, but was announced by the angel of the Lord to a group of shepherds as they went about their everyday life.  The shepherds were told to not be afraid, because the angel brought them good news.  This good news was that unto them that day in the city of David was born to them a Savior, which was Christ the Lord.  Again, this is what we celebrate today.  The shepherds were told where they could find Jesus and how they could recognize Him.  They would find Him wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.  We today find Him as the Resurrected Lord, knocking on our hearts door as God calls us to Him.  Then, a multitude of angels appeared, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.  This is what we should be doing today as Christians while we celebrate Christmas, praising God and showing peace and good will toward all people.  Of course, it starts by accepting Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord, and if you haven't what better day to do so than on Christmas day.  My prayer is that if you haven't, that you will do so today, then you can truly celebrate Christmas.