Every year around this time we hear the same things: “Happy Holidays,” “Seasons Greetings,” and “Merry Xmas.” I’m going to just come out and say that I find so much joy in worshiping Christ, and one of the ways I can do that is by keeping Christ in Christmas. Westlake is so blessed because we, truly, do not have to worry about offending someone by saying, “Merry Christmas” and that is a wonderful thing.
Last week, each student attended the ‘All School Christmas Chapel.’ The students sang traditional Christmas carols that celebrated the birth of our Savior. Mr. Fleming then talked about the reason the song “The 12 days of Christmas” was written. From 1558 until 1829 the Catholic Church was not allowed to openly practice their faith for fear of persecution, so they came up with a song where each phrase correlated to a statement of faith or a Biblical truth for the church to remember and honor. For example, the three french hens stood for faith, hope, and love, and the ten lords a leaping represented the ten commandments. This way they could actually sing about Christ without getting persecuted.
Sometimes we, as Christians, face persecution from other people when we talk about anything that pertains to Christ. I remember living in New Jersey and people would make fun of me for it and I still get those stares even when I go to work. It is very encouraging to be able to walk into an environment where saying “Merry Christmas” is not only accepted, but encouraged. Just another reason to love Westlake!
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” Isaiah 9:6.
At the start of the All School Christmas Chapel the students got a special surprise from our Bible teachers, Mr. Tantillo, Mr. Flemming, and Mr. Lovelace. Enjoy the following video: The Twelve Days of Christmas - Westlake Style
- Shelby Nicholas
Marketing Intern (and older sister of a Westlake student)
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