What Day Is Christmas Dinner?

Luke 2:6,7 – And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. (KJV)

Christmas Day is celebrated on December 25th, and this year it will fall mid-week, on a Wednesday.

However, like so many others, our family is spread out, living in many different places, and we aren't always sure who will get here, or when. This year is no exception. One family member phoned to say that five of them would like to join us, but that they need to see about time off work, flight schedules, availability, and fares.

Another family member lives in a country which has only one Canadian flight in and out per day. If she can come, she would have to travel on or after Christmas Day. Consequently, it doesn't appear that we will all be together exactly on the 25th. So one may wonder, what day is Christmas dinner? Dinner will be when we are together.

We are not unique. More and more families live less and less close to each other. They must juggle their time and finances to be able to be together, and, like us, they may even have more than one Christmas dinner. But each one, no matter what day it is served, will be not only in celebration of our times together with our families, but also, most importantly, in celebration of the reason we have been brought together.

Prayer: Our heavenly Father, we give thanks for the birth of Your Son, and the celebration of His life. May we be ever mindful that He is the reason for this season that brings families and friends together. We give thanks for our families, and for the fact that we can plan and enjoy a Christmas meal together, no matter what the day. May we remember that there are those who have no families, no place, and no-one with whom to have a Christmas dinner. We ask that You would bless our tables each time we come together, as we celebrate this Christmas season. Through Jesus Christ, Your Son, we pray. Amen.

Afternote: Long after submitting this devotional, things have fallen beautifully into place. Our family will be together on Christmas Day for the first time in three years — and this year, with the added blessing of our new little granddaughter. As I muse on who is responsible for this, I know that our greatest gifts are those that come without wrapping, bows, or cards, but in the very real evidence of His presence in our everyday lives.