By the time Dec. 26 arrives, however, most of us are tired of the frenetic pace we’ve kept leading up to Christmas, and we readily move on from adoration and celebration to “ordinary living.” And so the tradition of observing the 12 days of Christmas is lost to many ELCA members.
Did you know that the 12 days of Christmas is actually a time of rest from unnecessary labor and for joyful prayer? The season of Christmas begins on Christmas Day and extends for 12 days, ending on Jan. 5, before Epiphany begins.
What if we tried something different this year? What if, like the shepherds who were keeping watch over their flock, we too were startled and elated by the angel’s words: “Do not be afraid; for see – I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)?
With great excitement, the shepherds left their everyday lives to journey to Bethlehem to revel in the birth of the promised Christ. If we can cultivate the shepherds’ excitement and eagerness this Christmas, perhaps we can regain the wonder of Christmas joy.
As a church that that belongs to Christ, we invite you to take pause these 12 days of Christmas and revel in the excitement and joy of Jesus, who shakes up our lives and saves us from sin.
Check out the ELCA Facebook page for inspirational messages during the 12 days of Christmas.
