The First Noel

Did you know that "Noel" is the French word for Christmas? Probably so. Well, anyway, the word is spelled "Nowells" in old English and it means tidings. In French we use the word "nouvelles" which means "news". This little word history reminded me that Jesus' birth was and is the good news that we all need and the good tidings that the angels proclaimed on that night to the shepherds in Bethlehem.

I have been doing some reading on the origins of Christmas traditions. One source stated that because of its pagan origins, Christians really shouldn't participate in traditions such as wreaths, Christmas trees, and gift giving. I don't know which came first, the pagan traditions or the Christian ones, but I do know that it is the spirit in which we celebrate that brings meaning to the holiday for us today. We are celebrating Christmas as the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the One through whom we can have a restored relationship with God in this life and after this life. He is the way that we can live in peace and joy in the midst of trials and difficulty. He is the One that enables us to love and to enjoy life. He truly is the reason for this season. Let us not forget the true story of Christmas and the reason that we celebrate.

"If you have a troubled heart,

listen to the angel's song:

"I bring you good tidings of great joy!"

Jesus did not come to condemn you.

If you want to define Christ rightly,

then pay heed to how the angel defines Him:

"A Great Joy!"

~ Martin Luther