[Know there are many folks of other/no religious persuasion, but I am an
unabashed Christian and rejoice each year at the retelling of the Christmas
Story.]
And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar
Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first
made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every
one into his own city.
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into
Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was
of the house and lineage of David:) to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife,
being great with child.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that
she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and
wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there
was no room for them in the inn.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping
watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon
them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore
afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you
good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is
born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And
this shall be a sign unto you; ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling
clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host
praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace,
good will toward men.
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the
shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see
this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in
a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which
was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at
those things which were told them by the shepherds.
[Note: The grif.net will be off-line for the next few days as we celebrate
Christmas with our God, and with our church, our family and our friends. See
you in a week or so.]
~~
Dr Bob Griffin, www.grif.net
1 cross + 3 nails = 4 given