Traditions

“I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel.”—Genesis 3:15

Festivities around the Christmas season can seem like permanent parts of life. Unchanging traditions seem to be everywhere, yet many traditions are comparatively recent introductions.

Setting December 25 as the day to celebrate Jesus’ birth was established in 336 AD. (Because of pagan activities associated with this day, some Christians refuse this celebration date.) The first decorated, indoor Christmas tree was recorded in 1605, according to one researcher, but they were rejected by some as pagan symbols. Santa Claus became part of Christmas celebrations in America only in the early 1800s.

While we celebrate Jesus’ birth on December 25, some scholars conclude that Jesus probably wasn’t born in December. Some have identified His birth with Passover (in the spring) or the Feast of Tabernacles (in the fall).

Believers may differ on some theological issues, but they can agree that Jesus was born and that His birth is central to human history.

The Bible first mentions the coming of a Savior in connection with the sin of Adam and Eve. God promised that He would send a Savior to heal, forgive, and restore. The Bible is filled with prophecies about this, and Jesus fulfilled every one.

Traditions may differ from generation to generation and culture to culture. But Jesus is “the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Worship Him this season and throughout the year. He is the Lord and our reigning King.

Reflection Question: How do your holiday celebrations honor Jesus?