So many family traditions are wrapped up in Christmas: green and shimmering trees; homes decked with twinkling lights, tinsel, and holly; stockings hung in hopes of St. Nick; eager little hands helping frost cookies in the kitchen; plates of turkey and trimmings; and candles beckoning welcome to all. These are the glitter and glow of Christmas.
For centuries, nations have added their touches to the traditions of Christmas. Germany brought us the Tannenbaum—the evergreen Christmas tree. Japan taught us the wonder of folded paper ornaments. From Scandinavia we learned about kissing under the mistletoe. Nigeria added to our canon of carols the rhythmic “Betelehemu,” a tribute to the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. And England touched us all with Tiny Tim’s salutation, “God bless us every one!”[i]
The tradition of exchanging gifts at Christmas began with the Three Magi who offered gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the Christ child. They had followed a brilliant star in the heavens to pay tribute to Him. Today, many place a star atop their trees in honor of that wondrous night when the heavens were filled with angels. In countless homes a simple crèche sits on the mantle, and up and down the streets carolers sing of the humble beginnings of the King of Kings.
The spirit of Christmas can’t be purchased or unpacked from last year. It is found and felt in the heart. It is kindness and generosity, affection and reflection manifest in reaching out to those we don’t even know because they too are part of the great family of God. Christmas is a season of hope and peace. It is coming home to share in the richness of being with kinfolk and friends. It is a time of worship, a time to mend wounds, to love and to be loved. These are the gifts we open at Christmas and then give away all year long.
Program #3932
[i] Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol (1936), 52.