Introduction

Our family has thoroughly enjoyed celebrating the birth of Jesus “Hanukkah style.” They are days of celebration, feasting and gift giving. They are days in which we rethink covenant history. They are days of tangible connection with the Jewish roots of Jesus. They help to put us into the mindset of faithful Jews like Simeon who were “waiting for the Consolation of Israel” (Luke 2:25), and of Paul who loved celebrating Jewish festivals in a New Covenant context (Acts 18:21; 20:16; 1 Cor. 16:8; etc). They are days in which we attempt to leave the glamour and glitz of modern Christmas celebration and attempt to reenter the poor stable where Jesus was born. In short, this book explains how we celebrate December 25 in ancient Jewish style.

This book is not intended to impose a new holy day upon the church. I firmly believe that the Lord’s Day is the only holy day for the New Covenant. But I also believe that Scripture authorizes what the Westminster Confession 21:5 calls solemn occasions of thanksgiving, which can be celebrated in their several times and seasons.” This book is not an attempt to enter into debate with those who oppose all Christmas celebration. Nor is it an attempt to enter into debate with those who celebrate a traditional Christmas with Christmas trees, Santa Claus and trimmings. Instead, it is being produced at the request of many who have loved the rustic way our family has celebrated the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Repeatedly we have been asked for specific suggestions on readings, gifts, decorations, activities and foods that we have used for our celebration of the “Feast of Dedication” (another name for Hanukkah - John 10:22). We hope that both the theology behind our practice as well as the readings and practical suggestions for enjoying a Jewish style Christmas will prove to be useful to many.