Have a Merry Christmas

For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Galatians 5:14 NIV)

Here we are in the Christmas Season again!  Mostly I love it.  I love the generosity, the joy, the fun, the fellowship and the wonderful, wonderful food... yummm!  But there are some things I don't look forward to... the unreasonable expectations we have for others and even ourselves; the crass consumerism that arouses our sense of greed and always wanting more, more, more; and the so-called "war" on Christmas.

I find it very unChristianlike that some Christians refuse to recognize other religious holidays of the season, but insist that all recognize Christmas.  They do this when they insist on businesses saying "merry Christmas" instead of "happy holidays" or when they participate in fight over "Christmas trees" vs. "holiday trees."  Individually, we are free to use whatever word we choose when we greet others, but how can we insist that businesses assume that every person is a Christian?  How can we demand respect for our beliefs when we don't do the same for others?

A couple of things to remember if you ever feel drawn into this war:  The word "holidays" is derived from the phrase "holy days."  Why wouldn't we feel blessed to have some one wish us happy holy days?

As for the phrase X-mas at which some Christians take offense, saying that we "cross out Christ,"  nothing could be further from the truth.  The X stands for Christ.  It is the first letter of the Chi Rho which are the first two Greek letters of Christ.  The Chi Rho has been a symbol of Christ since AD 33.  Nothing could be more traditionally Christian.

Have a truly merry Christmas this year by refusing to take part in this imaginary war.  Christmas is safe as long as big business makes money from it!!  But above all, take time this year to remember why we celebrate.  Seek out Advent services and attend them.  They can really help keep us centered during the chaotic rush of this time of year.

Lord God,
Help us to keep you centered in all of our celebrations and keep us from being overly sensitive as others celebrate their love for you in different ways.  Amen.

Joys:  The life of my sister-in-law Angela.  We will miss her; Emma's abundant smiles; having Richard at home