Traditions

Each year my family gets together on Christmas eve and celebrates the season.  The night usually includes carols, treats, basketball (when in the church gym), and time with the family.  One of the best parts of the night is when my Grandpa, Lo Thar Nestman, pulls out the scriptures and reads from Luke 2:

1And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cæsar Augustus, that all ^athe world should be ^btaxed. 
2(And this ^ataxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called ^aBethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5To be taxed with Mary his ^aespoused wife, being great with child.

6And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7And she brought forth her ^afirstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the ^binn.

8And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the ^aglory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you ^agood tidings of great ^bjoy, which shall be to all people.

11For unto you is ^aborn this day in the city of David a ^bSaviour, which is Christ the ^cLord.
12And this shall be a ^asign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14^aGlory to God in the highest, and on earth ^bpeace, good will toward men.

In verse 9, when it says "And, lo", he pauses and stands up.  Always has to point out his name.  He thinks he is funny sometimes.  But, it has become something we expect and anticipate.  Not just because we find my grandpa entertaining, but because this tradition has always helped my family remember what the true meaning of Christmas is.  It is about the Savior.  It is a remembrance of one of the most important historical events this world has ever known.  I love Christmas time!  As you go through this season, try to remember what it truly is about.