Since begun by the late Newtown Bee Editor Paul Smith many years ago, the tradition of printing the Christmas story, according to St Luke, in the issue closest to December 25 has been carried forward.

The story is one familiar to followers of the Christian faith. A father- and mother-to-be, Joseph and Mary, take the long journey to Bethlehem in order to pay taxes. Arriving in the busy city, they are unable to find a room — and the birth of their child looms. Only a stable is available, and the young couple settle there and the child is born. They are alone except for the ox and ass, and with only swaddling, they bundle the infant and rest him in a manger. It is a tale that makes modern parents tremble at the thought; yet this child will grow from these humble beginnings to great stature and influence for centuries to come.

Who knows how many babes coming from afar, homeless and seeking shelter in a new country, are destined for greatness? We open our hearts and arms to all who hope for acceptance and peace in this holiday season. May we all know the love of this season, every day.

Luke 2: 1-19

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

And 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.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.