Celebrating the True Spirit of Christmas: Biblical Accounts, Traditions, and Global Customs

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CHRISTMAS: CELEBRATING THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST...

Christmas: Celebrating the Birth of Jesus Christ - An Annual Christian Festival and More Than Just a Feast

Every year, Christians worldwide commemorate Christmas, an annual festival that honors the birth of Jesus Christ, God's only son. The narrative of His birth as portrayed in biblical accounts is steeped in symbolism and spiritual significance.

Scriptural Accounts

As per the Bible, before Jesus was born, he was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born to Mary, a virgin who married Joseph. During this time, Emperor Augustus ordered a census that required everyone to return to their hometowns for registration. Upon reaching Bethlehem, the birthplace of the Messiah according to prophecy, there was no accommodation avlable in any inn; thus, Jesus was ld in a manger following His delivery.

Then came the angelic proclamation and divine revelation: an angel appeared to shepherds who immediately went to visit Jesus and later spread the good news far and wide. The celebration continued with the arrival of the Wise Men bearing gifts of frankincense, gold, and myrrh for this newborn king.

The True Date

While December 25 is widely recognized as Jesus' birthday, it's not explicitly mentioned in the Bible; rather, Christmas falls around the same time as Winter Solstice.

Contemporary Celebrations

Decorating with a Nativity Scene

In households worldwide, both Christian and non-Christian alike, the iconic scene of Jesus' birth featuring His parents, shepherds, and the Wise Men adorns living rooms, churches, and malls during the festive period.

Putting up a Christmas Tree

Originally stemming from pagan traditions that celebrated nature's renewal during Winter Solstice, Christians have adapted this tradition with additional Christian symbolism since the 5th century. Evergreen trees symbolize new life in Christ, eternal life, and the Holy Trinity Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, as their shape resembles a triangle.

Singing Christmas Carols

Christmas carols began as songs prsing Jesus' birth rather than just singing traditional winter melodies. Today, they're popularly sung by both Christians and non-Christians worldwide, becoming a cherished part of the holiday spirit.

Atting Church Services

In churches around the world, worship services are held on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day that include hymns, caroling, and sermons about Jesus' birth. The Midnight Mass service is also a Christian tradition dating back centuries to honor Jesus's birth with midnight vigil, candles, and carol singing.

Gathering of Family

The holiday season brings together family members for festive meals centered around turkey, ham, or beef accompanied by mashed potatoes and stuffing, followed by gift exchanges.

Celebrating as A Nation

In Singapore, December 25 is officially recognized as a public holiday. The spirit of Christmas spreads beyond the religious sphere with shoppers decorating their offices and homes while Orchard Road, a famous shopping district, transforms into an enchanting wonderland adorned with colorful lights each year since 1984.

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? 2024 Racial and Religious Harmony Circles, Last Updated October 7, 2024
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