Christmas day special: Christmas is one of the most widely celebrated holidays around the world, full of joy, traditions, and history. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire or decking the halls, these 10 Christmas facts will add a little extra cheer to your holiday season. What are you planning this Christmas 2024? The savior Lord Jesus came to the world for the sins of people for world peace.
1. Christmas Day Wasn’t Always on December 25
The Bible doesn’t specify the date of Jesus’s birth. Early Christians debated when to celebrate, and December 25 was chosen in the 4th century, possibly to coincide with pagan winter solstice festivals.
Isaiah 9:6″
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
2. “Xmas” Has Religious Origins
Many think “Xmas” is secular, but the “X” comes from the Greek letter “Chi,” the first letter of “Christ” in Greek (Χριστός).
Luke 2:11
“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”
3. Christmas Trees Date Back to Ancient Times
Decorating trees began in ancient pagan cultures, symbolizing life during the winter solstice. Germans popularized the modern Christmas tree tradition in the 16th century.
John 1:14
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
4. Santa Claus Is Based on a Real Saint
Santa Claus is inspired by Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century Greek bishop known for his generosity. His legend evolved into the jolly figure we know today.
Matthew 1:23
“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God with us’).”
5. The First Christmas Card Was Sent in 1843
The tradition of sending Christmas cards began in Victorian England. The first card featured a festive family scene and the words “A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You.”
Luke 2:14
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
6. Candy Canes Have a Hidden Meaning
Candy canes were originally designed to resemble shepherd’s staffs and symbolize purity. The red stripe was added later to represent Christ’s sacrifice.
Galatians 4:4-5
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.”
7. Rudolph Was Created as an Advertising Gimmick
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer was invented in 1939 by Robert L. May, a writer for the Montgomery Ward department store, as part of a holiday promotion.
Micah 5:2
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”
8. The Largest Christmas Tree Ever Displayed
The tallest Christmas tree on record was a 221-foot Douglas fir displayed in Seattle, Washington, in 1950.
Philippians 2:8-9
“And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name.”
9. The Biggest Christmas Gift
The Statue of Liberty is considered the largest Christmas gift ever given, presented by France to the U.S. in 1886.
Psalm 72:11
“May all kings bow down to him and all nations serve him.”
10.Christmas Is Celebrated Worldwide
Countries around the globe celebrate Christmas in unique ways. In Japan, it’s common to enjoy a festive meal from KFC, while in the Philippines, celebrations begin in September!
Luke 1:46-47
“And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.'”
Christmas is a time of wonder, history, and love shared across cultures. These facts remind us of the holiday’s rich traditions and the joy it brings to people around the world. What’s your favorite Christmas tradition?