CHRISTMAS CUSTOMS Are They Christian - What Can We Learn From the Account?

What Can We Learn From the Account?

The visiting astrologers-however many of them there were-did not worship the true God.  The Bible version La Nueva Biblia Latinoamerican (1989 Edition) states in a footnote:  "The Magi were not kings, but fortune tellers and priests of a pagan religion."  They came in line with their knowledge of the stars to which they were devoted.  Had God wanted to guide them to the young child, they would have been led to the exact place without needing to go first to Jerusalem and to Herod's palace.  Later on, God did intervene to alter their course to protect the child.

At Christmastime this account is often surrounded by a mythical and romantic atmosphere that obscures  the most important thing:  that this baby was born to be a  magnificent King, as was announced to Mary and to the shepherds.  No, Jesus Christ is not a baby anymore, or even a child.  He is the ruling King of God's Kingdom, which very soon will eliminate all rulerships opposed to God's will, and he will solve all problems of mankind.  That is the Kingdom we ask for in the Lord's Prayer. -Daniel 2:44; Matthew 6:9, 10.

Through the angels' declaration to the shepherds, we learn that the opportunity for salvation is open to all who are willing to hear the message of the good news.  Those who gain the favor of God becomes "men of good will." There are marvelous prospects for peace in all the world under the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, but people must be willing to do God's will.  Is the Christmas season conducive to this, and does it reflect that desire?  many sincere people who want to follow the Bible feel that the answer is obvious. -Luke 2:10, 11, 14. 

Next time: OUR PRECIOUS HERITAGE - WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU?

The Watchtower, 2000