[Here’s a flashback to a post from last Christmas season…a gentle reminder.]
WHY GET UPSET that the city outlaws nativity scenes on public property?
Why complain about Wal-Mart greeters wishing us Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas?
What’s the problem with public schools hosting Winter Festivals instead of Christmas Pageants?
Christmas isn’t their story.
That’s something my pastor reminded me of on Sunday.
Our government offices, local stores, and public schools are filled with people of all beliefs—including Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, atheists.
They shouldn’t have to bankroll our story—or feel obligated to listen to it.
The story of Jesus is our story.
Not theirs.
It’s ours to treasure. Ours to memorialize. Ours to share to willing listeners.
“I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-12, NLT).
That’s our story.
No one should feel obligated to tell it but us.
No one should have to listen to it if they choose not to.
When Jesus sent his disciples out to spread the Good News of his teachings, he warned that some would not welcome them.
He offered this advice:
“If they don’t welcome you, quietly withdraw. Don’t make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way” (Matthew 10:15, The Message).
It’s our story. We should be grateful, not ticked as all get out.
This, like so many of your posts, was refreshing to read! Just yesterday afternoon I made the foolish mistake of trying to engage in a rational and thoughtful dialogue with someone who believes that, *sigh* Christmas is actually under attack (Fox News recycles this every holiday season) and who stood behind the assertion that the only valid holiday during this time of year is the Christian holiday of Christmas. Then this individual had a few radical conservative friends chime in, one of which stated that unless you believe in Jesus, you do not have a right to celebrate in any way, at all. My son reminded me that you cannot fix stupid, and that I need to pick my battles. So, while I identify as Christian Catholic, and I do celebrate Christmas, my faith is not strengthened or diminished by how someone chooses to wish me glad tidings. My favorite holiday greeting: Festivus for the Rest of Us!