The Christmas Story Once More
Mary, the Young Maid of Galilee
Mary lived in Galilee and was soon to be married to Joseph, a carpenter. An angel spoke to her and explained that she would conceive a son through the Holy Spirit. The baby boy’s name would be Jesus.
Mary a very young girl, who knew not any man, asked the Angel how this could be true? The Heavenly Messenger assured her that nothing is impossible with God. With humility and awe, she rejoiced in God her Savior.
What Child is This ~~ Josh Groban
Joseph and Caesar Augustus
When he heard the news that Mary was pregnant, Joseph had every right to reject and abandon her. But he was a kind and good man and did not want to cause her further shame.
God sent an Angel to Joseph to reassure him. Joseph knew the baby would be the Messiah, God with us, Emmanuel. Joseph listened to God, obeyed, and took Mary as his wife.
Caesar Augustus called for a census of everyone in the Roman Empire. Joseph had to go to Bethlehem to be registered. And there in the stable of an Inn, Mary gave birth to her baby.
Angels We Have Heard on High
Messengers in the Judean Hills
Another Messenger of the Lord appeared to the shepherds who were tending their flocks in the Judean hills that night. The angel announced that the Savior had been born in the town of Behtlehem.
A mighty chorus of heavenly beings appeared with the angels and together they sang praises to God. Later, when they talked amongst themselves, the shepherds decided to journey to Bethlehem to see the Christ-child.
They encountered Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus, in the stable. Later, they spread the word about the Blessed child. They went on their way praising and glorifying God.
But Mary’s heart was still and quiet as she reflected on all that had happened and all that had been said. Did she fully realize the sweet baby in her arms was destined to be the Savior of the world?
The Eastern Magi and The Savior of Mankind
The Magi, wise men and rulers, had seen a star in the East and came in search of it. They believed the star heralded the birth of a King. Herod, ruler in Jerusalem, met with the Magi and asked them to report back after they had found the child, saying he also wanted to honor and worship the child-King.
The Magi continued to follow the star in search of the new born King and found Jesus with his mother in Bethlehem. They bowed deeply, in respect, and worshiped him, offering treasures of gold, incense, and myrrh to the new King.
Aware of Herod’s desire to destroy the child, they did not visit him again and instead journeyed back to their own Kingdoms. And the young child grew in strength and wisdom, listening to and obeying both his earthly and heavenly Fathers, eventually laying down his life to redeem all who would believe. Selah.
Matthew 1:18-25; Matthew 2:1-12; Luke 1:26-38; Luke 2:1-20 (paraphrased).
We Three Kings ~~ King's College Choir
O Little Town of Bethlehem
- Christmas Eve Decision -- A poem
Sometimes we have to make quick and unexpected decisions to support or encourage the people we love. Sometimes we must let go of our plans and act in the moment - we will never regret it. - To Feed Your Soul - Christmas Music 2012
Music contributes so much to our lives, to any celebration, but especially to the mood and spirit of Christmas. There is some sort of music for everyone to enjoy during this Blessed and Holy Season. - Christmas in France: French Customs & Traditions
Find out how Christmas in France is celebrated. Learn all the French Christmas traditions, customs, and everything else there is to know about celebrating the holidays!