When Did Christmas Start?

Did Christmas start in Mary's heart
When she pondered these things in awe?
Or did it start with Joseph's mind,
Doubting, yet open, then calm.

Perhaps it was angels proclaiming
Who started it all long ago.
Peace on earth, good will toward man:
God did bless us, one and all.

It could have been the baby,
in Bethlehem that night.
But what about that ancient star
for wise men, burning bright?

Did Christmas start when shepherds
left their flocks to seek the child?
Or was it when old Herod's heart
With hateful murder swelled.

I sometimes think it all began
in Eden from ages gone by,
When a promise was made of a Savior,
By the One who never can lie.

Sometimes it starts in my heart,
And sometimes it starts in my mind.
Sometimes I swear I hear angels
When I think of that heavenly light.

Sometimes I leave work for worship,
I look and see hate all around.
And that's how I know Christmas started
When God said He'd help...
And He did it.