5 + Laus Deo +
Contrary to popular belief, it was not in winter. Shepherds don't comfortably sleep in the open at night especially in the cold of winter. They were about 2 kilometers East from Bethlehem, just outside of the village of Beit Sahour "Place of the Magi" as some call it. The sky was so clear, every star paled in comparison to that star.
Can you imagine? These days you hardly see the stars with all of those electronic lights. I imagine that is part of how the tradition came to pass. Light is important. It guides the way doesn't it? He is the Way, the Truth and the Light. And one star to outside the others was a signal.
I was not able to see Him with my own eyes, the night of His birth. It was the first time my feet touched ground since I spoke with the young bride of Joseph. I can almost remember the cool blades of grass beneath my toes as I and others watched the flock and sang.
You give gifts because of Him. It began as a reminder of the greatest gift of all that has been given to you, mortal man. Salvation.
Hosanna in Excelsis.