It's Christmastide

We've referenced in the past, and we'll do it again before we head to our Houses of Worship tonight, with many at 2300 hours awaiting services awaiting the arrival of the Saviour, that this is the start of the Christmas season, not the end, as popular culture would want you to think.

There are four Advent Sundays, the four Sundays leading to Christmas itself.  Then, of course, we have Christmastide, which is the entire twelve days that lead to the Epiphany (which is referenced via Matthew 2).  Our observance of Christmas begins tonight, and will continue into January 5.

As we change from Advent to Christmastide, we look at the words of a Christmas classic from John Francis Wade:

Venite adoremus, Dominum.

As we conclude this Christmas thought hours beforehand, let us read again Luke 2, and the verses that reference the Birth of the Saviour.

1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.

2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.