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Welcome to Varied Expressions of Worship

Welcome to Varied Expressions of Worship

This blog will be written from an orthodox Christian point of view. There may be some topic that is out of bounds, but at present I don't know what it will be. Politics is a part of life. Theology and philosophy are disciplines that we all participate in even if we don't think so. The Bible has a lot to say about economics. How about self defense? Is war ethical? Think of all the things that someone tells you we should not touch and let's give it a try. Everything that is a part of life should be an expression of worship.

Keep it courteous and be kind to those less blessed than you, but by all means don't worry about agreeing. We learn more when we get backed into a corner.

Friday, December 8, 2023

Opus 2023-310: Who Celebrates

Why has Christmas spread through the entire world and invaded many cultures when Easter seems to be isolated to Christians?  Or at least Easter was Christian until the modern commercial pollution set in.  

The difference goes back to the original announcement.

(Luk 2:10 KJV)  And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
Some people would like to limit this to the people of Israel but that little word “all” makes that very difficult.  

The offering of a Savior, God becoming man, the incarnation, these were gifts of God offered to all mankind.  This is a reminder that the God of Israel is also the God of the entire world even though they do not acknowledge it.

Easter is when Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.  You can get into a big debate on the word “Easter” and whether or not it has pagan roots.  I have read both sides.  The point is, when Christians talk about Easter they are talking about Jesus rising from the dead.  This is a message that only applies to people who believe He was the Son of God and died for our sins.  I am under the impression that Jewish and Hindu homes will have a Christmas tree.  I have a friend who is Buddhist and I believe he celebrates Christmas.  None of them sing “Up from the Grave He Arose”.  

So all are welcome to celebrate Christmas.  Maybe someday you will be able to celebrate Easter also.  Although there is nothing to celebrate unless you put your faith in Jesus for your own resurrection, the hope of Christmas is extended to everyone.

Merry Christmas.  Glorious incarnation.  Someday, happy Resurrection Day.

homo unius libri

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Comments are welcome. Feel free to agree or disagree but keep it clean, courteous and short. I heard some shorthand on a podcast: TLDR, Too long, didn't read.