He was an actual, real-life, human, historical person. Even the Roman Empire, mighty as it was, certified his authenticity. Son of David. Son of God. Son of Man. 25,000 ancient manuscripts confirm the truth, and yet some people still don’t buy it. That is, how Jesus can be both divine and human. Born in Judea but announced by a new star so bright that astrologers in Persia had to give it a look-see. Prophecy pronounced centuries before they were fulfilled, and living on in our stories of The Story.

As for an actual birthdate, though? Good luck with that! We only have December 25th because Emperor Constantine made it so 1700 years ago. It is not certain whether Jesus was born in the bleak midwinter, unless we remove shepherds abiding in their fields from the scenario. Further historical digging would take you in the direction of trying to determine when the census would have been taken. News, even royal decrees, traveled slow. For documenting purposes, it is probably sufficient enough to assert that Joseph was the “caregiver”, the one responsible according to law and Jewish heritage. Trace back forty-two generations, and you get to King David.

This greatest of all seasons, holiest of all births, is for all the analysts, star-gazers, scientists, and theologians. For you and me, all that is essential is knowing that we are unconditionally loved.
Blessed Christmas indeed.

Pastor Art