by Kerry Beck

Most families get so wrapped up celebrating Christmas, they miss the celebration of Epiphany. Epiphany is the time period after Christmas where we look at the coming on the Wise Men to worship Christ. Historically, the holiday Epiphany included the twelve days after Christmas when the church celebrates the revelation of Christ as the Light of the world and recalls the journey of the magi.

Families in countries different from the US start the Epiphany celebration by remembering others on St. Stephens Day. St. Stephen's Day is on December 26 and commemorates Stephen, Christian faith's first martyr. Family Bible reading on the 26th of December might include his life story in Acts 6, 7, & 8.

Stephen was killed because of his convictions about the revelation of Christ in the world. According to the Book of Acts, he was the very first martyr of the Christian faith. For centuries, Christians have remembered his faithfulness on the day after Christmas, December 26. It is a day for selfless care for the needy, the despised, and the unloved.

Along with your family, it's nice to also find a needy family or support group to render services the day after Christmas. When most people are out shopping, you show that you care by bringing food or gifts to an impoverished family.

In places like Great Britain and Canada, this day is known as Boxing Day, a holiday in those countries. When my children first came across Boxing Day, they thought it was a boxing sport celebration. The true meaning of Boxing Day was a shock to them.

During this day, boxes of food are given to people in. Back then food and necessities were given to servants from their masters. The Wenceslaus' spirit is shown so that the people may celebrate with great happiness the manifestation of the Good News of Jesus' coming to the world.

Often churches organize the day to particularly serve the physical and spiritual needs of their neighbors and thus demonstrate that God's Word requires good deeds to others nearby. Boxing Day is one of those very visible ways to show the true gospel.

About the Author:

Kerry Beck desires to give you a free Advent Countdown to use in your Christmas & Advent celebration this season. Her book will also provides free Advent activities. North Wales Caravan Park.