Read Time: 5 min 11 sec | Reading Level: 6th Grade

HISTORY

The First Christmas

It’s one of the most famous stories ever told… and the best, because it really happened. 

Over 2,000 years ago, Caesar Augustus ordered a census of the entire Roman Empire, requiring everyone to return to their family’s hometown to be counted (Luke 2:1-5). That’s why Joseph and Mary traveled about 90 miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem (the city of Joseph’s ancestor, King David).

With no guest rooms available, they found shelter in the place where animals were kept, and that’s where Jesus was born. Shepherds nearby saw angels announcing, “Today in the city of David a Savior was born for you.” They hurried to see the baby and spread the news.

Months, or even years later, wise men (or magi) from the East followed a star to find the child. They brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, and worshipped Him.

Historians believe Jesus was born between 6 and 4 B.C. And probably not in December. Early Christians later chose that date to celebrate the Light of the World coming during the darkest time of year. 

Christmas is the good news—the best news—that Immanuel, God Himself, came to earth to be with us.

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CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE
At Christmas, we celebrate far more than a birthday. We celebrate God keeping His promise… something He always does. Jesus is proof that God doesn’t stay distant. He entered our broken world to bring light, peace, and salvation. 

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We observed his glory, the glory as the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
John 1:14 (CSB) (read full passage)

What do I want to make sure my kids know in light of this story?
That Christmas is about receiving the greatest gift: Jesus Himself.

Every other gift, no matter how exciting, points back to Him. Because Jesus came, lived the perfect life, died the death we deserve, conquered death, and remains at the right hand of His Father, we can know God personally. The same God who spoke the stars into being chose to dwell among us… and now, through His spirit, He dwells within us (1 Corinthians 3:16).

Remind your kids that God’s love isn’t something they have to earn. It’s freely given through Jesus (Ephesians 2:8-9).

What response do I want to model for my children?
Worship, gratitude, and joy. 

Let your family see you pause and reflect on what God has done. Before presents or family gatherings, take time to pray together and thank God for His presence in your life. 

When you give gifts, talk about how giving mirrors the heart of the Giver, who gave His Son for us (John 3:16). Remind your kids that every good gift, including the best gift of Jesus, is a reason to rejoice.

• Take time to reflect on all the ways the gift of “God with us” changes our lives, now and forever.
   

• Memorize John 1:14, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We observed his glory, the glory as the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth” (CSB).
   

• Offer a prayer like this one: “Almighty God, you have given your only-begotten Son to take our nature upon him, and to be born [this day] of a pure virgin: Grant that we, who have been born again and made your children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by your Holy Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom with you and the same Spirit be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.” 
  Book of Common Prayer, Page 600

CREAM AND SUGAR

Gen Z Word of the Week: That horse-drawn sleigh ride slays.

Family Fun: The whole family can join in on these reindeer games.

Whipped Cream on Top: Hope you like your present!

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