Visiting stores and seeing commercials this time of year, it is hard not to notice how companies are choosing to, or not to, recognize Christmas as the “reason for the season.” As a Christian, I am extremely put off by such terms as “holiday tree” and other phrases that seek to be universally acceptable yet deny the majesty of the day that forever changed the world with the birth of my Savior, Jesus Christ. To see which retailers are recognizing “Christmas,” check out the American Family Associations’ “Naughty or Nice” list.
While I do appreciate stores that are sticking with “Christmas,” I think this brings up a greater issue. What have we, as Christians, let this season become? Why are we so concerned with where we should go… shopping? While I think it is wonderful to spend time with friends and family and shop for special gifts that will delight those around us, we must remember Christmas is about so much more than getting all your shopping and wrapping done, making the perfect dinner and rushing around to various parties and events.
The debate over Christmas has been around for a long time. According to Wikipedia:
"The first documented Christmas controversy was Christian-led, and began during the English Interregnum, when England was ruled by a Puritan Parliament. Puritans (including those who fled to America) sought to remove the remaining pagan elements of Christmas. During this period, the English Parliament banned the celebration of Christmas entirely, considering it "a popish festival with no biblical justification", and a time of wasteful and immoral behavior."
In some respect, the Puritans seemed to be against “Happy Holidays” AND “Merry Christmas” if it detracts our focus from God and His purpose. They do raise a point — are our actions and attitudes such that glorify God? As Christians, this is something we must consider every day as we seek to celebrate Jesus throughout the year. Instead of boycotting stores that don’t say “Christmas,” what if we skipped Christmas shopping all together and spent our money and time supporting those who are hurting and/or are without clean water, adequate food and shelter, etc.?
My prayer is that we at Christmas, and always, will look for ways to share the love of God and the gift of the Gospel with those around us.
Merry Christmas!