2 Corinthians 2:19c in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome

Since Christmas is not in the bible then as expected I could not find the word mistletoe either. Here is the closest verse, (yes taken out of context) that exemplifies mistletoe in nature. It is a parasite that feeds off another trees root system and has no resources of its own and feeds off the living. Obviously, that is not what the word indicates in association with the tradition of Christmas, or does it?

Looking at some of the internet resources, some of which I refuse to parade here, take the use of mistletoe back to the Druids who proclaimed it to be the soul of the great oak. Makes sense that tree worshippers might come to that conclusion. The hanging of mistletoe at the door was meant to ward off evil and witches. One can draw the conclusion that a woman entering a house under the mistletoe was not a witch and therefor greeted as a welcomed guest.

The other conclusions that could be drawn were more romantic in pagan lore due to other magical traits ascribed to the plant. Excuse me for not going there. This is after all a Christian devotional with all good intentions. Kid friendly I hope.

It becomes more and more apparent that Christmas traditions are accepted and passed down from generation to generation without much of any historical perspective. Perhaps that is because if a serious Christian were to keep bringing up these points, I would be called a killjoy, and I have.

People want to enjoy their traditions without having to convict themselves of the attachments to pagan rituals. I don’t blame for that. It is supposed to be a festive occasion. It is only my wish in this, that if you call yourself a Christian, and you mean it, not to forget whose birth we are celebrating.

Gifting, let us consider gifts next.