A Christmas Footnote

One of the most significant changes in human civilization was the metamorphosis of Rome from republic to empire.  These events are filled with drama and intrigue... think of the conquests of Pompeii, the crossing of the Rubicon, the betrayal of Marcus Brutus, the alliance of Mark Antony and Cleopatra, and finally the ascension of Caesar Augustus... the first Roman Emperor.

It is a little ironic that in spite of Caesar's importance, the time when many people are most likely to hear his name is during the Christmas season, in a tale where he was little more than a footnote.  It was written by Luke, and it goes like this:

"And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cæsar 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 Judæa, 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."  (Luke 2:1-7)

Of course, this tradition does not take away importance from Caesar.  His empire lasted for centuries... and even when it was gone, people treated it as though it were still real.  Caesar's dead language can still be found in our science, our medicine, and our law.

That having been said, Caesar is dead, and his empire is no more... whereas the child in Luke's story... Jesus Christ... is alive and well and his kingdom thrives this very day.

The story of Jesus provides an example of prioritizing the things that matter in the context of the things that matter most.

This pattern is not limited to the story of the nativity, but should typify our observance of Christmas.  Careers, performances, programs, purchases, and other busy elements of our lives have real value and sustain many important aspects of this season... but they are little more than a footnote in the context of friends and family, music and prayer, kindness, generosity, and love.

Jesus would later teach this concept best (as he did with everything):

"Render therefore unto Cæsar the things which are Cæsar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s." (Matthew 22:21)

May it be so for each of us this Christmas.