2 Corinthians 2:19c in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome

Since Christmas is not in the bible then as expected I could not find the word mistletoe either. Here is the closest verse, (yes taken out of context) that exemplifies mistletoe in nature. It is a parasite that feeds off another trees root system and has no resources of its own and feeds off the living. Obviously, that is not what the word indicates in association with the tradition of Christmas, or does it?

Looking at some of the internet resources, some of which I refuse to parade here, take the use of mistletoe back to the Druids who proclaimed it to be the soul of the great oak. Makes sense that tree worshippers might come to that conclusion. The hanging of mistletoe at the door was meant to ward off evil and witches. One can draw the conclusion that a woman entering a house under the mistletoe was not a witch and therefor greeted as a welcomed guest.

The other conclusions that could be drawn were more romantic in pagan lore due to other magical traits ascribed to the plant. Excuse me for not going there. This is after all a Christian devotional with all good intentions. Kid friendly I hope.

It becomes more and more apparent that Christmas traditions are accepted and passed down from generation to generation without much of any historical perspective. Perhaps that is because if a serious Christian were to keep bringing up these points, I would be called a killjoy, and I have.

People want to enjoy their traditions without having to convict themselves of the attachments to pagan rituals. I don’t blame for that. It is supposed to be a festive occasion. It is only my wish in this, that if you call yourself a Christian, and you mean it, not to forget whose birth we are celebrating.

Gifting, let us consider gifts next.

Matthew 2:2,9 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.

That is one impressive star! For many of us the star on top of the Christmas tree has been a tradition. Young ones were often given the honor of placing the star on top being lifted up by dad. Not part of your memories? I dare say for those who participated in that tradition, it was memorable.

If there is one universal theme associated with this Christmas season it is the hope within the loving parents heart, or afflicted soul, that each Christmas leave an impressive memory of love and warmth for the children. It is these lasting memories that build tradition.

The issue of impressive only got more impressive with the wide distribution of electricity. You know where I am going with this. I don’t even have to mention it. It became a tradition for our family to drive around looking at all the Christmas lights adorning the homes of those who are “into it.” Lights strobing to music have only spurred on the competitive drive in some wishing for ten million hits on youtube, twitter and facebook. If you have a computer or smartphone I am sure you have seen some really impressive light shows.

Do they overshadow the original herald of good tidings? His came with real angels, not plastic ones. We only get to read about that, but is that any excuse for replacing the Morning Star with flashing lights strobing to the rhythm of the music? I hope not, at least not in your afflicted souls.

I can only hope this series is leaving an impression with you for this season.