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Christmas
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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
this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria. And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. 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 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 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 Saviour,
which is 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.
Luke 2:1-14
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Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. The Christmas story is told in the second chapter of Luke. Most Bible scholars do
not believe that Jesus was born in December, many believe He was born in October because the shepherds were watching their flock
at night.
The celebration of Christmas is not always accepted by fundamental Christians because of the pagan practices that are associated
with it. Originally Christmas was celebrated on January 6th, but was changed in 354 A.D. to December 25th to coincide with pagan
feasts taking place in December. The birth of Attis, the ancient sun god in Phrygia, and the birth of Mithras, the Persian sun god,
were celebrated on December 25th. The Romans celebrated Saturnalia, a feast honoring Saturn, the god of peace and plenty, from
December 17th to 24th.
Some of the customs now connected to Christmas came from past cultures. During Saturnalia the Romans would decorate with flowers
and exchange gifts and candles. The Celts in England felt mistletoe and holly were symbols of fertility and used them to decorate
their homes and altars. In the early church during All Saints' Day, Saint Nicholas was honored. Burning the Yule Log was connected
with magical and spiritual powers.
In 1836, Alabama officially recognized Christmas as a holiday. By 1890, all other states had done likewise.
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