Merry Christmas

1 It happened that a decree went out at this time from the emperor Augustus, enjoining that the whole world should be registered; 2 this register was the first one made during the time when Cyrinus was governor of Syria. 3 All must go and give in their names, each in his own city; 4 and Joseph, being of David’s clan and family, came up from the town of Nazareth, in Galilee, to David’s city in Judaea, the city called Bethlehem, 5 to give in his name there. With him was his espoused wife Mary, who was then in her pregnancy; 6 and it was while they were still there that the time came for her delivery. 7 She brought forth a son, her first-born, whom she wrapped in his swaddling-clothes, and laid in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. 8 In the same country there were shepherds awake in the fields, keeping night-watches over their flocks. 9 And all at once an angel of the Lord came and stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone about them, so that they were overcome with fear. 10 But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; behold, I bring you good news of a great rejoicing for the whole people. 11 This day, in the city of David, a Saviour has been born for you, the Lord Christ himself. 12 This is the sign by which you are to know him; you will find a child still in swaddling-clothes, lying in a manger. 13 Then, on a sudden, a multitude of the heavenly army appeared to them at the angel’s side, giving praise to God, and saying, 14 Glory to God in high heaven, and peace on earth to men that are God’s friends.

Gospel of St. Luke 2:1-14 (Knox Bible)