Nativity

Sony DSLR-A200 ■ f/4 ■ 1/40 ■ ISO 400

I took this picture when we were active in the Alliance of the Two Hearts. This church, Saint Peter, in Merchantville, New Jersey was the host for Adore. It was a three-day event for children and young adults to participate in a religious celebration. The church had a nice Nativity display, and I was learning photography. My first take on a low-light situation.

The Birth of Christ is accounted for in the Bible and the Quran. There are so many visual representations all over about the Nativity. It adorns most Christian churches and homes all around the world during the Christmas season. In the Philippines, when the month ends in “ber” people start to hear Christmas songs and even put out decorations. Most countries celebrate Christmas. Businesses capitalize on the season, just like any other holiday or event. One may even think that all these are just to make money.

But why December? If you read the Bible, suggests that it happened during the lambing season. Shepherds were out in the pasture with sheep when an angel appeared to announce the Birth of Christ. Otherwise, sheep may have been corralled during the cold season. I have read that the Roman Empire may have had a hand in choosing the 25th day of December. I believe Emperor Constantine chose this date maybe because of a political motive or probably just a popular date for the celebration. Not to mention, the emperor was leaning towards Christianity at that time after previous emperors persecuted Christians.

The fact of the matter is that we do not have first-hand experience or knowledge, however, it does not diminish the fact that the event gives each one of us hope for togetherness and shared love. What’s ironic is that people get together only during some sort of celebration or something horrific that has happened. Why not give love not only on Christmas but every day?

But why do we have a Christmas tree? I will share my thoughts on this one next time.