Two christmas celebrations - Theodore Parker

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Résumé :
A great many years ago, Augustus Caesar, then Emperor of Rome, ordered his mighty realm to be taxed; and so, in Judea, it is said, men went to the towns where their families belonged, to be registered for assessment. From Nazareth, a little town in the north of Judea, to Bethlehem, another little but more famous town in the south, there went one Joseph, the carpenter, and his wife Mary, obscure and poor people, both of them, as the story goes. At Bethlehem they lodged in a stable; for there were many persons in the town, and the tavern was full. Then and there a little boy was born, the son of this Joseph and Mary; they named him JEHOSHUA, a common Hebrew name, which we commonly call Joshua; but, in his case, we pronounce it JESUS. They laid him in the crib of the cattle, which was his first cradle. That was the first Christmas, kept thus in a barn, 1856 years ago. Nobody knows the day or the month; nay, the year itself is not certain...

Sommaire:
Two Christmas Celebrations by Theodore Parker is a narrative that juxtaposes the historical account of the first Christmas with a fictional depiction of a Christmas celebration in 1855. The text begins by recounting the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, highlighting the humble circumstances of his birth and the socio-political context of Judea under Roman rule. Parker delves into the life of Jesus, emphasizing his teachings on love, piety, and benevolence, and his challenge to the religious and political authorities of his time. The narrative then shifts to a fictional account set in the town of Soitgoes, Massachusetts, where Uncle Nathan and Aunt Kindly decide to host a Christmas celebration for the children of the town. This event is characterized by inclusivity and community spirit, bringing together children from various backgrounds, including those from less privileged families. The celebration fosters reconciliation among townspeople, highlighting the themes of forgiveness and unity. Parker uses this fictional celebration to reflect on the essence of Christmas as a time for community, charity, and the breaking down of social barriers. The narrative serves as a critique of contemporary society's focus on materialism and social divisions, urging a return to the core values of love and compassion exemplified by Jesus....