Old Christmas

Old Christmas

Arise, Jerusalem! Let your light shine for all to see. For the glory of the Lord rises to shine on you.

Isaiah 60:1

In a dark time in history a light shone. God’s glory encased itself in the small form of a babe. When the Lord shines in our lives, we have reason to celebrate . . . and you may be surprised that for many Amish, January 6 is the day chosen to do just that.

People all over the world celebrate Christmas on December 25, but many Amish communities celebrate on January 6, or Old Christmas. Tradition states that twelve days after the birth of the Messiah, the wise men arrived in Bethlehem and, upon finding the baby Jesus, offered precious gifts.

The song “The Twelve Days of Christmas” was inspired by twelve days of feasting that culminated in “Old” Christmas. Like the December 25 celebration, Old Christmas is celebrated with family gatherings and simple decorations and gifts. Considered a more holy day, many Amish families fast until noon and then celebrate together with a large meal. On our calendars you’ll see the date marked as Epiphany.

Whether you choose to celebrate Christmas on December 25 or January 6, remember that every day is one worthy of celebrating the Light of God, Jesus Christ. Take a moment and consider how His light has transformed your life. Remember that the light of Jesus coming to earth is just a glimpse of what we’ll experience some day in eternity: “No longer will you need the sun to shine by day, nor the moon to give its light by night, for the LORD your God will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory,” we read in Isaiah 60:19.

In response to Christ’s gift to you, offer a simple gift to a friend today, whether it be a kind word, a hug, or a warm smile and prayer.

Dear heavenly Father, we spend the days leading up to our Christmas celebrations attempting to make Jesus “the reason for the season.” Instead, Jesus is the reason for life, hope, and eternity! As many Amish families celebrate the birth of Christ today, I desire to join them in my heart. I rejoice in the indescribable gift of Your Son!