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. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered
[them] in her heart. And the shepherds
returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard
and seen, as it was told unto them.
Luke 2:1-20
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In the rush and of opening packages and eating with family and friends, let's not forget what it is that this day is truly all about.
God bless you today and I pray that He reveals Himself to you in a very special way today.
~Merry CHRISTmas!~
