Words of The Day

Christmas

Christmas ( Kris’mas, krist’mas) , the anniversary of the of Jesus Christ , and its observance; celebrated by most Protestant and by Roman Catholics on December 25; by Eastern Orthodox churches January 6; and by the Armenian church on January 19. The first mention of its observance on December 25 is in the time of Constantine, about A.D 325. The date. Te date of the birth of Jesus Christ is not known. The word Christmas is formed of Christ + Mas , meaning a mass of religious service in commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Whether the early Christians thought of or observed Christmas is not clear. Once introduced, the observance spread throughout Christendom. Some Christian bodies disapprove of the festival. Many customs of pagan origin have become part of Christmas, e.g., the Christmas tree; but most no longer have a heathen connotation, but acquired a Christian meaning( e.g., the Christmas tree points upward to God and reminds us of His gifts) . A commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ in harmonious keeping with the events surrounding that birth (Luke 2:1-20; Matthew 1:18-2:12) is a natural and normal expression of love and reverence for Jesus Christ.

Jesus Christ birth took place in humble circumstances, but all the figures surrounding His birth were pious and responsive to the hope of God. Jesus Christ was praised by a priest, by a humble Virgin, by shepherds, and by a prophet and prophetess at the temple (Luke 2:1-40). All reflect high expectation from people who portrayed as walking with God. Only the word of Simeon to Mary gives an ominous ring. The old man noted that Jesus Christ would be a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to Israel (Luke 2:32). In fact Jesus Christ would be the cause of grief for Mary and division in Israel (Luke 2:34-35). Jesus Christ is salvation of God (Luke 2:30), but in the midst of hope is the reality that fulfillment comes mixed with pain and suffering.

I call on all Christians to use the Christmas Festivities to spread the Good News. Not only should you give material gifts, but also give the word of God which we have received.( Matthew 10:8) Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give

God Bless you.