BYRD’S EYE VIEW: Celebrating the True Christmas Story
From the desk of U.S. Sen. Robert C. Byrd (D-WV)
Washington, DC (HNN) -- Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year, a time of joy and love, of family gatherings and warm memories. Too often today, though, big sales and the shopping frenzy try to take Christ out of Christmas. The meaning of Christmas is overshadowed by the pressures and strains of a commercialized holiday.
At its core, Christmas will always be about a couple who found no shelter but a manger, and also about a newborn child who would become the Savior of the world.
That is why, each year at this time, I reread the Christmas story in the Gospel of Luke. My Christmas wish is that all of us will remember the words and, more importantly, the true meaning of this sacred season.
"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 Judaea, 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 firstborn 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 Saviour, which is 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 peace, good will toward men."
In these days of rushing and wrapping, I hope that West Virginians will take the time to focus on the great and glorious meaning of Christmas. My wife, Erma, and I wish for all West Virginians a happy and holy Christmas and New Year.