When we think of Christmas naysayers, Ebenezer Scrooge and the Grinch might come to mind. But the real-life Puritans of the 17th century may have outdone them both! These zealous reformers banned the public celebration of Christmas in the Massachusetts Bay Colony for nearly a generation.

In 1659, the colony went so far as to make it a crime to celebrate the holiday. Anyone caught feasting, skipping work, or creating merriment on December 25th could be fined five shillings. Schools, shops, and farms were ordered to remain open, while churches were mandated to close. Their version of Christmas was stripped of joy, worship, and celebration, replaced instead with work and somberness.

Thankfully, today we embrace Christmas as a time of joy, love, and gratitude for the birth of Christ. It’s a season to gather with family and friends, share in kindness, and give thanks to God for the gift of His Son. This Advent season, our church will explore how we can truly celebrate Christmas as a reflection of Christ's love, kindness, and joy.

Unlike the Puritans’ vision of a “fasting and humiliation” holiday, we are called to celebrate as the shepherds did that first Christmas morning, with awe, joy, and worship of our Savior King.

So, let’s come together this Christmas season, sharing God’s love with one another and rejoicing in the greatest gift of all - the birth of Jesus Christ!