The secular world tells us that the Christmas season starts way back in November and ends today. Some more romantic secularists may agree that it's ok to still call it Christmas for another day or two. Both would be wrong! Instead of looking to all the worldliness of the secular pop culture, let's consult the Church. She tells us that the beautiful season of Advent just ended and, with the beginning of the vigil masses and evening vespers yesterday, Christmas has just begun. And today, Christmas Day, is just day #1 of the Christmas season. In fact, the Church goes further telling us that Christmas, as a day, is to be celebrated within an Octave. What does this mean? Quite simply, Christmas Day is so great a feast for the people of God that Christmas Day will last for 8 days; an Octave! Everyday from now through New Year's Day, when we as Church actualy celebrate the Feast of Mary, Mother of God, is a Christmas Day. Then when New Year's Day comes to a close, the Christmas season extends to the Feast of the Epiphany; traditionally January 6th, but now the Sunday after the 6th. And when we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the Christmas season extends to this date.
In summary, celebrate Christmas some more. Enjoy the Christmas season as now, not then. Christmas is not over; not far from over! Take each day of the Christmas season and celebrate it. Focus on the message from today's Gospel or learn more about the many different Saints and feasts we celebrate within the Octave and the entire season. Keep the tree up, let the Christmas lights burn bright, stay with Christmas at least now through the Epiphany.
So Merry Christmas from me and remember: today is born a Savior, Christ the Lord!
No comments:
Post a Comment