No one knows for sure the exact date of the birth of Jesus, but it’s still Christmas

by Gary Kennedy

No one knows for sure the exact date and time that Christ was born. However, there are several interesting things I have run across during my research of Christmas and the birth of Christ. I will share some with you in case you might have more definitive interaction to share with us.

Our history shows December 25 as the date of the birth of Jesus. Some aren’t aware that there was already a pagan holiday on that date and the two events were conveniently joined together. If we looked at (Luke 2:7-8) the Bible tells us that the shepherds were in the fields tending their flocks. Jesus was born as most of us know in sheep country. Shepherds would not be in the fields tending sheep during the cold season (December). At this time of year the shepherds would shelter their flocks for warmth. This would suggest very late summer or perhaps early fall.

It is an historical fact that Jesus’ parents traveled to Bethlehem to register in the Roman Census. This census was not taken during the winter months. We think of this part of the world as being extremely hot. However, winter nights could succumb to below freezing temperatures. Obviously, this census would lose a lot because of this, so, it is highly unlikely to be taken at this time. Also if you look at Luke (2:1-4) it leads us to believe this to be true. Also, if you read the book The Story of Santa Klaus it will become clearer

There are only six months between John’s mother, who was in her sixth month of pregnancy, when Jesus was born. Luke (1:24-36) also Luke (1:8-13). This gives us an approximate month of the birth of Jesus. The Bible is the most phenomenal book ever written. The answers are there if one only learns how to read it.

So, John’s father was Zacharias who was performing temple service when he traveled home to his wife. His wife, Elizabeth, then conceived. Luke (1:23-24). We have to assume John was born near the end of June, allowing nine months giving us the math needed to figure this out. So, we find ourselves at the end of March as the most likely time of John’s birth. Then if you add another six months, the difference in ages between John and Jesus puts us somewhere near the end of September as the most likely time of the birth of Jesus. Sounds complicated but you can blame that on the view point of the writer.

It is guesstimated that the first time the 25th of December was used as Christmas was during the 4th century. So the date of December 25 for Christmas was a compromise between Christianity and paganism. None the less, it has been allowed by the one we celebrate or he certainly would have done something about it. Some faiths have different dates yet they still use the same date, December 25.

After you read William Walsh’s book, which I referred to earlier, you will be able to see some of the tie. Coupled with the scripture of Luke and some also in Mathew, you will see all more clearly. Sounds like I am trying to get you to pull out your Bible. That may not be a bad idea.

All of this being said and done we have to decide, does the exact date really matter? Some things are lost in, and by, the history, yet what they stand for still remains. Christmas is obviously a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Christ. Some celebrate for the fun of it and some of us take it a little more seriously. All in all it is a time for family and friends to join together in thanksgiving for the thankfulness of the one who gave his life so that we might have a chance for everlasting life, through his sacrifice. His life is known to us and forever lives on as an example for us to follow.

It is said by some that the Christmas celebration should be of his death, not his birth, but we aren’t condemned for recognizing both as part of the Christmas season. You couldn’t have one without the other. Most importantly remember the scripture, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only son.” The point is in the remembering how and why he did this for us.

So, in conclusion, while we are enjoying family and friends, remember the true reason for the holiday. We are celebrating the life of the one in which all Christians believe. We need to remember his example and realize, by any standard all that he taught was based upon the foundation of love and charity. Even if the entire thing was just a story, what a wonderful story it is. It is one worth teaching and living irrespective of the reward or lack thereof.

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and don’t forget to share with those who are less fortunate. Remember, always, the father of us all reads the heart. So, it is not what you give it’s the why and how of it. My prayer for you is that you make it a daily event not a dated one.

God Bless us all!

The views of the author in the this article are not necessarily those of The Town Line newspaper, its staff and board of directors.