Why celebrate the birth of Christ?

As far back as the second and third centuries, church leaders disagreed about the appropriateness of birthday celebrations within the Christian church. Birthday celebrations were thought of as pagan celebrations for pagan gods. Since the date of Christ's actual birth had not been recorded, these early leaders speculated and argued about the date. December 25th was chosen. It is believed that the first celebrations of Christ's birth were originally grouped together with Epiphany, one of the earliest feasts of the Christian church observed on January 6th. This holiday recognized the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles by remembering the visit of the Magi (wise men) to Bethlehem. A strong theory suggests that this date was eventually chosen by the church because it aligned closely with a major pagan festival, dies natalis solis invicti (birth of the invincible sun god), therefore, allowing the church to claim a new celebration for Christianity.

I found this information in several places on the internet. I cannot confirm or deny its validity no matter how interesting it may be. I know that for me the calendar date is immaterial and only serves as a place holder of the miraculous event. As the old preachers used to say “put a pin right there.” The question is asked why do we celebrate His birth, but to be honest I cannot understand how we could not. “A great multitude of the heavenly host” appeared to the lowly shepherds in the middle of the night to sing a few tunes (praising) to proclaim His birth. God had not spoken to Israel for 400 hundred years. He sent His son to begin to minister to a near dead world and to die Himself so I might not only have a relationship with Him, but a place in eternity with him. Somebody hold my “mule” while I shout!! The question is mute…

As always the holiday season is special for my family. We celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior. It is the beginning of His journey to the cross. This year is extra special. We will also celebrate the birth of Lyric, our first grandchild. Both of these occasions cause me to consider the life I have lived and the one I want and need to live. The next generation of my blood line is being introduced to the world. When she is old enough to understand, what will my life say to her? How will my legacy be framed in her eyes? Will she know me or will she only know of me. How is my life being offered up to Him? Will He know me or just know of me? I want Him to know me. I want Lyric to know me. I will celebrate her birth. She will have a cross to bear as we all do. But I will teach her that His birth, death, burial, and resurrection make her cross a little lighter. He left the Holy Spirit to help shoulder the weight. I will celebrate His birth knowing that His introduction by the heavenly hosts started a journey towards Calvary and is truly worth celebrating. It makes my cross and yours a little lighter to bear.

What was the question?

Have a Merry Christmas…

Glad the tomb is empty