Welcome to November, the start of the holiday season.

Ecclesiastes 3:12 tells us, “I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live.” (NIV)

This time of year, we begin preparations for Thanksgiving. Not just planning a huge meal and having friends and family over, but a reminder to be thankful for all blessings. Even when things don’t go our way. I experienced that when my latest book was delayed. I had misjudged a release date and caused some confusion for my ARC (advanced reader copy) team, but God seems to work out the timing much better than I could have planned.

https://www.amazon.com/Two-Cowboys-Cousins-High-Desert-ebook/dp/B0FW6SZ8GT

Here are a few Christian Christmas Myths you may not be aware of…

Luke 2:7 Jesus was placed in a manger after his birth, not born in a stable—the Bible doesn’t state this. (Many farmers during that time would bring small or newborn animals into their home for safety and warmth.)

Luke 2:8-14 has nothing to do with “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.” The angels spoke to the shepherds and praised God with the words “Glory to God.” Maybe they sang, but scripture doesn’t say. (It’s still fine to sing the above song to show our praise.)

Matthew 2:1,2 & 11 talks about the Magi or Wise Men. There were three gifts. No mention of the three Wise Men. (Maybe the next time you purchase a Nativity scene, add a couple more Wise Men.)

Many artists depict Mary riding a donkey to Bethlehem. Perhaps she did, but scripture does not mention that. Many traveled in caravans for safety, and there is the possibility Joseph chose that for his family.

Matthew 2:11 says that Jesus was a young child (perhaps a toddler or older) when the Wise Men came to visit Him. Many depictions show Jesus as a baby when they arrived, which is incorrect.

Hope you enjoyed the above.

May your holidays be blessed in little and big moments.

I’m blessed because you have read this blog. Follow me on facebook.com/alicia.whittle.9/Writing Out West. Or join the group.

Watch for my next blog in January. See you then!

Alicia

P.S. Looking for a good holiday book to read now on Amazon, try