Amid Commercialization, A Humble Birth The Freeman’s Journal/HOMETOWN ONEONTA Edition of Thursday-Friday, Dec. 25-26, 2014 With the consumerization of Christmas, it’s appropriate to remember the humble origins of the holiday. First and foremost is the babe in the manger. In what was essentially a lean-to shed filled with animals, the infant Messiah rested in a feeding trough. Jesus’ parents were simple, rural people from Nazareth, a town unfit for a king; “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” The parent’s dedication…
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The Message of Christmas
Christ’s Legacy Calls Us The Freeman’s Journal/HOMETOWN ONEONTA Edition of Thursday-Friday, Dec. 25-26, 2014 In the song “O Holy Night,” we hear this line in reference to Jesus: “In his name all oppression shall cease.” That, for me, is the real meaning of Christmas. It’s not about gift-giving, decorations, or being with family. Ultimately, it’s not even about the baby Jesus. The real meaning of Christmas comes to light when that baby grows up – when we hear the things…
God’s Wish: Loving World The Freeman’s Journal/HOMETOWN ONEONTA Edition of Thursday-Friday Dec. 25-26, 2014 Ah, this wondrous and magical time of year! The joyous and festive sounds of Christmas Carols; excitement and anticipation in shopping for, wrapping, and then giving and receiving gifts; Christmas Trees resplendent in lights, tinsel, ornaments and star; Candlelight Services on Christmas Eve; friends and family gathered together, with the aromas and tastes we love so much – I do love Christmas! Joy to the world,…
Children Are Right About Christmas The Freeman’s Journal/HOMETOWN ONEONTA Edition of Thursday-Friday, Dec. 25-26, 2014 Many people remind us that Christmas is “more than just gifts.” And, of course, it is true that Christmas is more than tinsel and toys and electronics wrapped up under a tree. But still, most children get it right: Christmas really is about gifts. Christmas is especially about the gifts we often take for granted. And it is about remembering who the Greatest Giver of…