A “partridge in a pear tree,” “two turtle doves,” and all the rest are phrases we generally only hear around Christmas time. They’re part of “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” one of the more well-known holiday songs. The song is on the radio and in stores usually in the weeks leading up to the 25th, but really it’s about gifts given after Christmas through the beginning of January. It’s a reminder of different times when the Christmas celebration didn’t end on December 25.
In certain places and periods of the church, . . . . the Twelve Days of Christmas (often December 25-January 5) were very important to people. There was gift-giving, wreath-making, food-preparing, and special Scripture readings and remembrances, among other traditions. In some parts of the world, the Twelve Days of Christmas are still a big thing.
We have freedom to celebrate Christmas as we choose, guided by the principles of God’s Word. But there’s something to be said for finding ways to keep God’s birth in the world in front of us as December 25 fades further in the rearview mirror, and we “move on” to other events.
The “Christmas spirit” of giving goes on – for us, motivated by Jesus’ love for us. Our Savior is our Savior year-round. We live with the peace and joy of Jesus at all times.
The words of the angels are for each and every day:
I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. (Luke 2:10)
… a Savior has been born to you (Luke 2:11)
… on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests (Luke 2:14)
May the peace of Jesus fill you up throughout the coming year!