The Real Meaning of Christmas

The Christmas story is about the birth of Jesus. Unfortunately, the world has distorted the real meaning of Christmas and made it into a “winter holiday” that focuses on getting toys and other gifts. The real Christmas story is about when God came to earth and was born as a baby in Bethlehem. Jesus was born to save us, not condemn us. Now, that’s an “extraordinary gift.”

Luke’s account in the Bible tells the exciting story of Jesus’ birth. His mother’s name was Mary and his earthly father was Joseph. One day the Roman Emperor, Caesar Augustus, ordered all the people in his empire to travel to their hometown, be counted, and put their name on a list.

The Real Christmas Story, from Luke 2:4-14

So Joseph went from Nazareth, a city in Galilee, to a Judean city called Bethlehem. Joseph, a descendant of King David, went to Bethlehem because David had been born there. Joseph went there to register with Mary. She had been promised to him in marriage and was pregnant.

While they were in Bethlehem, the time came for Mary to have her child. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger because there wasn’t any room for them in the inn.

Shepherds were in the fields near Bethlehem. They were taking turns watching their flock during the night. An angel from the Lord suddenly appeared to them. The glory of the Lord filled the area with light, and they were terrified. The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid! I have good news for you, a message that will fill everyone with joy. Today your Savior, Christ the Lord, was born in David’s city. This is how you will recognize him: You will find an infant wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly, a large army of angels appeared with the angel. They were praising God by saying,

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those who have his good will!”

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