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Christmas creep. The term is commonly used to describe a merchandising phenomenon that occurs when retailers introduce Christmas decorations and merchandise earlier each year. I would like to extend the time to do this.
But it’s not just stores. More than a quarter of his American homes put up Christmas decorations before Thanksgiving, and many homes put up Christmas decorations before Thanksgiving.
Some psychologists believe that the desire to take longer vacations has something to do with the happiness they bring. In a world full of stress, the atmosphere of Christmas lifts our spirits and soothes our souls. The anticipation of Christmas seems to bring the world together and bring joy to the home.
Reenactors waving in celebration of the Day of the Three Kings, or Epiphany, on January 6
I want more we always have
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Stepping back in time to the first Christmas, we find two special groups that we’ve been so looking forward to this season.
One of them was a mysterious magician who traveled from the eastern countries, following the stars, in search of a savior. They are mentioned in the first Gospel. For we saw his star in the east and worshiped him” (Matthew 2:1-2).
The royal chariot marches in the Cabargata de Reyes or Three Wise Men parade in Madrid on January 5, 2015.
(AP Photo/Andres Kudacki)
Who were these mysterious guests? As far as we know, they did not see an angelic visitation like Mary and Joseph, nor a chorus of angels like the shepherds. God gave them a special sign – a star. They are Babylon’s stargazers, pointing east. I don’t know how they knew that their unique star was related to the birth of a king, but God knew how to communicate to them in a language they could understand.
They gathered their gifts, planned their long trek across the desert, and were full of excitement as they set off with pomp and ceremony.The Magi traveled the last five or six miles from Jerusalem to Bethlehem. . There they found him. They spent time with the boy and his family, gave him gifts, and worshiped him. The stargazing and trip were worth the wait. They found the king they were looking for.
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Another group that awaits the birth of Christ – the shepherds – is not at all like the Magi. The sage was a Gentile far away, but the shepherd was a Jew who watched over his flock nearby.
Adoration of the Shepherd
(iStock)
These humble shepherds had no camels, fine clothes, or expensive presents. Many scholars believe they were expelled from the city because of its filth and stench. They were sweaty, dusty ranch hands. How strange that they were invited to meet Jesus first!
These local shepherds were harbingers of those whom Jesus would later serve–the abominable lepers, the despised tax collectors, the poor, the outcasts. Knowing the promise of , they must have waited and waited to see if it would happen in their lifetime. Their hearts must have been pounding when they learned what was about to happen.
After the angels appeared to them, they ran on foot to Bethlehem to look for Jesus. And like the Magi, they rejoiced when they discovered him. With its modest stables and mangers they worshiped him at his feet.
Nigerian Christian pilgrims pray in the Grotto of the Church of the Nativity in the West Bank town of Bethlehem on Christmas Eve December 24, 2013.
(AP Photo/Majidi Mohammed)
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The original Christmas spirit gave the Wise Men and Shepherds a longing for hope that far exceeded the excitement of children waiting to open presents. That hope comes from our Creator. I believe that the Creator has given us the greatest gift of a Savior who will carry our burdens and cleanse us. There are many reasons to hang up the lights and stockings early and start playing Christmas tunes earlier than in previous years.
I need that joy. But that joy doesn’t have to be seasonal. The Apostle Peter said, “You have not seen Jesus, but you love him. You do not see him now, but you believe, and you are full of joy and glory beyond words.” (1 Peter 1:8).
Volunteers paint a nativity scene outside the Church of Jesus Christ in Fountain Valley, California, December 10, 2015.
(Kevin Sullivan/Digital First Media/Orange County Register via Getty Images)
Take time this Christmas to find joy not only in the simple habits and traditions we have adopted, but in the simple fact that God loves us and that we are close to those who seek Him. There is a reason the Bible emphasizes both the mystical astrologer and the humble shepherd on that first Christmas.
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This means that rich and poor, young and old, Jews and non-Jews, religious scholars and criminals, faithful daughters and capricious sons, all walks of life indicates that you can find All are welcome at his feet.
This is why the celebrations start early every year.
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