BobP:
I would like to add my thought's on this matter. God did send the three Wisemen from the east. Matthew 2:1-23
Also read Luke 2:8-20
"UNDERSTANDING THE STORY"
Poor and scorned by society, the shepards are nevertheless highly honored. God chooses them as the first to hear of the birth of Jesus. The baby they go to worship is a decendent of David, who had been a humble shepherd in Bethlehem before becoming a great king.
CHAPTER 2 VERSE 8
"Shepherds living out in the fields"
The angel appeared to people who were very lowly in the eyes of society. Shepherds roamed year round with their flocks, which made it impossible for them to keep the ceremonial law. Considered unreliable and often regarded as thieves, shepherds were not allowed to give evedience in the courts.
CHAPTER 2 VERSE 8
"Watch over their flocks at night"
It was not necessaryly a warm time of the year. Animals reserved for temple sacrifices were kept outdoors even in the winter, and shepherds watched over flocks to protect them from thieves and wild animals.
CHAPTER 2 VERSE 10
"Do not be afraid"
Angels always offered a word of reassurance to those they visited unexpectedly, understanding that people would be afraid.
CHAPTER 2 VERSE 11
"A Savior has been born"
The prophets had taught the people of Isreal to expect a savior. Many expected him to deliver them from Roman opression, others wanted to be cured of disease. Jesus the savior will be much more than a political leader or a healer, he "will save his people from their sins."
CHAPTER 2 VERSE 11
"He is Christ the Lord"
The Greek name "Christ" has the same meaning as the Hebrew word "Messiah," which means "The Anointed One." The priests, prophets, and kings of the Old Testament were anointed with a sacred oil to signify their consecration to God. A "Messiah" was appointed to accomplish acts in favor of his people under God's behalf. This was to be the calling of Jesus.
CHAPTER 2 VERSE 14
"Glory to God in the highest"
The Angels' words are celebrated by the Christian Church in the hymn "Glory in Excelsis Deo." Most hymns were orginally written as poems and later set to music. In medieval times, hymns were sung by a small choir made up of male singers only, who sang in unison (playsong).
NOEL: THE FIRST CHRISTMAS
The word "Christmas" comes from the old English "Cristes Maesse," which means Mass of Christ. In carols, Christmas is often called Noel, taken from the French word for "birthday." Since the 4th. century, Christmas has been celebrated on the 25th. of Demember, but the exact date of Jesus' birth is not known.
BobP: I hope this short note and the readings will help clear your concerns and free your doubts.
"Merry Christmas" and a Happy New Year"
Chief
May the warm winds of heaven blow softly upon your house. May the Great Spirit bless all who enter there. May your mocassins make happy tracks in many snows. And may the rainbow always touch your shoulder.
