Christmas Day

The puritan colonists did not acknowledge Christmas. In their belief structure it was prohibited from being celebrated. They also had very peculiar names that they would give to their children. If someone had the surname Smith their name may be Jesus Is Coming Soon Smith. One might think some of these names are made up, however they are documented in legal papers so they are accurate names that were chosen. There is a lot that can be said in a name or title. Jesus the Christ child was called many different things according to scholars. A lot of the names given to him were the same as those of the King. There are many reasons this may have been, but there is one thing we can be sure of. Christ was not created in a manager. Scripture tells us that Jesus has been around infinitely. He was in heaven with the Father before the earth was created. No one in heaven wanted to come to the earth to give up glory and peace for this world of torment, persecution, hate, disappointment, violence, and death. None except one. This is Emmanuel. In the city of David was born God with us. God loved us so much (as imperfect as we are) that he wanted to be present among us. He lived as we live. After he was crucified he gave up the spirit that we too one day will give up. It is amazing to know such love could exist. The Second Reading today provides us with hope through this birth that came to pass. "...through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. This Spirit he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life." We accept your gift of love and peace that only you can provide in our souls, Lord Jesus. Thank you for coming to a cruel world and being born and living and walking among us. You shared in our struggles and you love us through it all. Through Emmanuel. Amen.

Collect:
O GOD, you have caused this holy night to shine with the brightness of the true Light: Grant that we, who have known the mystery of that Light on earth, may also enjoy him perfectly in heaven; where with you and the Holy Spirit he lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.