Nov 26, 2018
by Cheri Appel
PRO: An Opportunity to Witness
Here in North America, and in other countries, this is a time when many families gather. Memories are made. Cultural foods and activities are enjoyed. Traditions are passed from one generation to another. Family stories are retold. One’s heritage is remembered, along with family members of the past. When these things are practiced, they become an important anchor and education for our youth.
For many Christians, it is a time to emphasize and recognize the birth of Christ Jesus, celebrating that He was sent into this world by God, our Father, in order to offer salvation to all. Large numbers of Christmas cards and greetings are exchanged that continue to remind non-Christians of that very fact. The holiday gives opportunity to meet with our neighbors, witness to those we work with or someone we meet and speak of our Christian beliefs.
Churches know that their congregations will double and even triple at this time of year. Pastors, who preach Christ, often use these services wisely, offering the gospel and a chance to accept the Lord as a Savior to those who only attend once or twice per year. Christmas programs and media can offer Christian programming and music reminding all of “the REAL reason for the season”.
CON: Let’s Be Wise in Our Choices
Although the Bible does not tell us to remember Jesus’ birth, but rather His death, many want to do as the angels did and celebrate His life that changed the world. When the opportunity of Christmas witnessing presents itself with thoughtfulness, kindness and patience, we can talk about the paganism involved and pure commercialistic pressures.
Jesus was not born in a winter month. It is more likely the census that caused Mary and Joseph to travel to Bethlehem was set just after fall, when people would have harvest money. The December date came about when Christian celebrations and pagan holidays were combined. Mithra, a pagan god, was thought to be born out of a rock on December 25. Suggest that Christmas is a season, not a date.
Evergreen trees used for decoration came from a Druid (pagan) tradition. Suggest a Nativity Scene be the central attraction in the home rather than a tree. Santa Claus, presents and stockings are from the many stories of St. Nicholas. Although fun, these have nothing to do with our Messiah. Therefore, there is no Christian reason to “shop ‘til you drop”. Jesus is NOT Santa. HE IS OUR KING! Suggest instead that like the Wise Men we SEEK HIM and HIS WILL.