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Modern Christmas Beliefs And History

While the history of Christmas is easily trackable to pagan roots, few people celebrate Christmas in the spirit of Saturnalia today. Todays Christmas is about the celebration of something different. Today, Christmas represents two closely related views.

1.)The birth of Jesus Christ
2.)The importance of family and giving

To address the first, this form of celebration began around 300 CE give or take a few years. It is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. As you know the story, Jesus Christ was born of a virgin under a shining star, in a manger. He was the son of God and would die for the salvation of the world. The celebration recognizes his birth as the single biggest event in human history and has been celebrated with gifts, decorations, and singing. As the angels sang to bring in his birth, so do we. As the three wise men gave gifts, so do we. As the star shone bright in the sky announced his birth, thus we top our tree with a star. Familys gather together to spend time with each other in honor of Gods blessing to us.

This celebration has been considered religious in nature for years. But in todays world, non-christians need not feel left out. Christmas is a time for giving to those who have not. A time when people feel the need to not let one child go without a gift, and no stomach go empty. As you see, the two are closely related because Jesus would be the same way, but all year around. This year, remember those that are hungry and cold and children without gifts. Remember that a celebration of religious proportions deserves to be properly honored by feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and helping the widows.

History Beliefs Christmas Modern

Very good comparison. I just wanted to add that the state of mind that I have been seeing in a lot of older children and young adults is more and more about a time that they have a chance to have something given to them. I don't believe that upbringing in today's world is giving enough explanation of what should be celebrated this time of year. Many kids are growing up with the mentality that the commercial Christmas is a reason to celebrate. As for me, Jesus is my shining star this time of year.

Modern Christmas Beliefs And History Christmas

Name: Cindy
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Comments: I agree that children are brought up in a way too materialistic way of living, they always expect something. The idea that Christmas is a time for them to receive an expensive toy or for older children, maybe a computer or television is completely out of what the idea of Christmas is about. Christmas is a time to reflect on Jesus and his life, what he gave to us is the gift of eternal life and that is more than any gift we can give. We should explain to children what the meaning of Christmas really is, not gift giving but honoring God and his Son, giving to others in need, food, shelter, companionship. We live in a materialistic world and it is up to us to let our light shine so, hopefully others will follow. It is important for children to visit the poor, take them food, visit the elderly, talk with them and spend time with them. Go to a soup kitchen and serve the homeless, that is what Christmas is all about.