The Christmas Story

And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world would be registered.  So all went to register, everyone to his own city.

Joseph went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Bethlehem because he was of the House of David – – to be registered – with Mary, his betrothed wife – who was with child.

So it was that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered – – and she bought forth her first born son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes – and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn.

Now there were – in the same country – shepherds living out in the fields keeping watch over their flocks by night.  And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them and the glory of the Lord shone around them and they were greatly afraid.

The the angel said to them  – do not be afraid, for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.  For there is born to you – this day – in the City of David – a savior – who is Christ the Lord.

And this will be the sign to you.  You will find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manager.

And suddenly there was – with the angel – a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying – – Glory to God in the highest – and on Earth, peace, good will towards men.