In
the days leading up to Christmas I will be posting a series on some of the good
works and wonderful blessings to mankind that are a “side effect” of Jesus’
birth. (See the introductory post here.) This series is inspired by “What if Jesus Had Never Been Born” by the
late Dr. D. James Kennedy.
“So, whether you eat or
drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory
of God.”
–1 Corinthians 10:31
The vast influence of
Christ’s birth extends beyond even those massive, philosophical, ultimate
question issues to some really fun everyday things as well. Here are just a
few…
- The graham cracker, enjoyed by
toddlers everywhere (and not a few adults too) was invented by Reverend
Sylvester Graham as a tool for alcoholics (it was supposed to reduce one’s
cravings for liquor).
- The pretzel was invented in 610 AD
by a Christian monk, shaped in a way to symbolize praying arms and given out
to students who said their prayers well.
- Welch’s grape juice was invented as
a non-alcoholic drink for Communion.
- The YMCA (Young Men’s Christian
Association) was started in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith as “an organized body of
young men determined to win their follows to a saving faith in Christ.” (What
if the Bible Had Never Been Written, D. James Kennedy. Thomas Nelson
Publishers: Nashville, TN. p. 200) Not long thereafter, the game of basketball
was invented by a YMCA member to help entertain inner-city kids.
- Crossing your fingers was originally
a Catholic sign of the cross which later degenerated into a sign of hoping for
good luck.
Here’s a good song that recently reminded me of this topic:
And
there you have it! A few more reasons you should think of the birth of Christ
as tidings of great comfort and joy!
