Matthew 1:23
Behold, a virgin shall be with
child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
Let us be reminded that Christmas is a holiday for Christians celebrating the birth of Jesus. We are also reminded to be generous and help those in need.
The Gospels of Matthew and Luke explains the Nativity story. Joseph and Mary, Jesus’ stepfather and mother, traveled to Bethlehem for a census. The Roman emperor issued an order that all people must take the census in their hometown. Joseph was a descendant of King David and his hometown was Bethlehem.
After a long journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, Mary and Joesph arrived at an inn but it was full to capacity. Mary was due any day so the owner of the inn allowed them to stay in the stable.
Since there wasn’t a crib for baby Jesus to sleep in, a
An angel appeared to a group of shepherds nearby and told them to spread the good news of Jesus’ birth. The Magi, or three wise men of the East, were sent to Bethlehem by King Herod to confirm the birth of Jesus. After finding the child, they bowed down and worshipped him and gave him gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
The Nativity story teaches us lessons in hospitality and generosity. We should be welcoming and give what we can, even if it’s scant, just like the inn owner providing a place for the holy family to stay. And like the wise men, we exchange gifts to remind us of the birth of Jesus.
Let us remember the true meaning of Christmas, not the commercialized version of it.
Merry Christmas!