Christmas Eve

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be registered, each to his own town. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. (Luke 2:1-7 ESV).

I hope you have enjoyed the “20 Days of Advent” that we completed yesterday. Today, of course, is Christmas Eve. My prayer is that you are able to celebrate with family and friends in the true spirit of this holy day. We are blessed to be with many of our family today and tomorrow, though there are always those are missing. Perhaps you are one of those who find themselves wondering how you will ever celebrate when there is such an obvious absence you must face. Perhaps returning to the birth passage as our reading will give you some comfort and assurance. When I read it and think of the many emotions that surround this day, I am reminded of the wonderful carol, “Silent Night.” This picture is the chapel where it was first performed in 1818. It was first performed on Christmas Eve at St Nicholas parish church in Oberdorf. A young priest, Father Joseph Mohr, had come there the year before. He had written the lyrics of the song "Stille Nacht" in 1816 at Mariapfarr, the hometown of his father, where he had worked as a co-adjutor. The melody was composed by Franz Xaver Gruber, schoolmaster and organist in a nearby village. Shortly after it was taken and performed throughout Europe becoming one of the all-time favorites of Christians everywhere. It is strange to think how God’s message is spread in such unforeseen ways. This is some of what was happening when Caesar Augustus issued this decree requiring everyone to return to their birthplace to be registered. Joseph and Mary were forced to make the difficult journey to Bethlehem from Nazareth. Mary was due to give birth at any time and the trip would be very difficult; however, perhaps the most difficult thing of all was being absent from family and friends at such a momentous occasion. Even though this was Joseph’s birthplace, there is no reason to believe that any of his family still remained in this little town. They were alone and forced to take shelter in a stable which was little more than a hollow in the hillside that doubled as a dry place for the animals. This fulfilled a prophecy concerning the coming of the Messiah (cf. Micah 5:1-2). Though many doubt Jesus’ position and power, God will not fail to keep his promises. So, regardless of what your immediate circumstance is, take a moment to renew your hope and be assured that God will not fail you. He will make all things good. He can be trusted!