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Ed Ink: Our Christmas Tradition

Like so many other families, our family of friends and co-workers here at The

Bee have certain traditions we observe. One of our most enduring Christmas

traditions was started in this editorial column many years ago by former Bee

Editor Paul Smith. In keeping with that tradition, this week we quote from the

Gospel according to St Luke:

According To St Luke

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar

Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

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

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

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea,

unto the City of David, which is called Bethlehem (because he was of the house

and lineage of David).

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

And so it was that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she

should be delivered.

And she brought forth her first born son, and wrapped him in swaddling

clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the

inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping

watch over their flock by night.

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.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not, for behold I bring you good tidings of

great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day, in the city of David, a Savior, which is called

Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling

clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host,

praising God and saying,

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

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the

shepherds said to one another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this

thing which has come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph and the babe lying in a

manger.

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told

them concerning this child.

And all they that heard it wondered at those things they were told them by the

shepherds.

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things

they had heard and seen as it was told unto them.