Christmas is easily my favorite time of year. I love everything about it: the lights, Christmas traditions, having the close moments with family, and what this holiday represents. So many other parts of this time of year really make it my favorite, but these things are probably what makes it most special to me.
With so much happening around the holidays, we may not think about what really happened on the night Christ was born. We know the basic story of Jesus Christ, but our understanding of it can be surface-level. There are several misconceptions about the story of Jesus’ birth that most don’t know about! (Of course, the general story of this night is true…but there are some details we may have heard that aren’t confirmed in Scripture.)
One of the misconceptions is there were three wise men. Although this is a popular idea most people think to be true, there is no biblical account of this number. It most likely came from the three gifts given by them! Despite there being the hymn, “We Three Kings” and the modern Christmas stories mentioning three wise men, it isn’t a fact.
Another common misconception is Mary traveling to Bethlehem on a donkey. Again, this is not found anywhere in the bible and has been assumed because of the time period. It’s possible that she could’ve traveled by foot or some other way of transportation. Riding on a donkey while pregnant may not have been possible for her in the condition she was in!
A third belief that may not be true is Christ being born on December 25. This is not confirmed in the Bible and is unlikely to be true. It’s not impossible, but this time was colder and shepherds would be less likely to be out in the fields with their flocks. Adding to this, the idea of Mary traveling so far in the cold is very unlikely.
With all this being said, these details aren’t what the Christmas Story is about. It’s interesting how our world has come to add details to the story. But whether these are misconceptions or truth, we still can remain confident Christ was born and came for us. This is what really matters and misconceptions don’t change this beautiful truth! These false beliefs we have are in part due to society shaping our images. There’s nothing wrong with having a nativity and enjoying songs and stories that make assumptions, but it’s important to stay in the Word, make sure we are grounded in truth, and have the facts straight.
I hope you all enjoy your Christmas and soak in this time of year. This is the most beautiful time of year and a season we are able to reflect on what Christ has done. Don’t take it for granted!
