For Lutherans and numerous other Christian denominations, Christmas is not just Christmas Eve, December 24th, and Christmas Day, December 25th. It is an extended season often called Christmastide celebrated from Christmas Eve until January 5th – the twelve days of Christmas. During this time we continue to observe the birth of Jesus. Many of us leave decorations in place until January 5th, the Twelfth Night, or until February 2nd, Candlemas, as we continue with our Christmas. In Lutheran and Episcopalian tradition , Candlemas is a time when congregants bring their candles to church for blessing. These candles are then used the rest of the year. They are symbolic of Jesus, the Christ, who referred to Himself as the Light of the World.
It is a time of communal celebration as well as personal reflection upon the meaning of this Holy season. It is a time to come and see what God has done.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” JOHN 3:16 KJV
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lpb - quest 
I know things change, but I do hate how the Christmas season is now thought of as only the time between Thanksgiving (if not early November) until December 26. Growing up, I always knew the 12 days of Christmas were from Christmas Eve to Epiphany, and the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day was always a special time to enjoy all things Christmas. Now I see Christmas trees in the yard waste on December 26, and people taking their house light down before New Year’s Eve. Honestly, it makes me sad!
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Thank God for traditions and the people who live by them. I appreciate the comment, Ann.
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