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.
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There’s another side to this story too, Steve. And that’s that nowhere in the Bible are we even encouraged to celebrate Christmas — certainly not as the biggest holiday of the year! Like Mother’s Day, Christmas was a religious holiday until the latter part of the 20th century, when businesses figured out how to make a fortune with it.
The story of Christmas is only included in two of the Gospels. And, in the context of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, it’s all but a minor aside. And prior to 1900, it was not nearly the important holiday Easter and Pentecost were.
Yes, it’s fun to celebrate the holiday with the family. But Jesus’ his victory over death and sin, not his birth in a manger that is the reason to celebrate.
Thanks, Steve. You’re right about that.
Which reminds me, I need to go get some Topsy’s popcorn. Another unhealthy Christmas tradition.
I think one of the values of the story is that it serves as a stark reminder that God seems to focus extra attention on the lowly folks. Jesus’ parents were poor. He was born in a barn. The night-shift shepherds were the first on record to visit him, after angels sang their tune of invitation to them.
That’s pretty much the opposite of our current culture of greed and me-first, it seems to me.
Ah yes, the infamous “War On Christmas”. If you are strong in your beliefs how could anything I might possibly write or say have any impact on you? Whether it is the center of your religious universe or merely an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends I say let’s celebrate!
I think it is more that our “rights” are being taken away from us by a minority of people. Kind of rubs you (or at least me) the wrong way. I don’t expect my minority views to be center stage. Some do, simply because they have the “stage” to do so. Why can’t an atheist just ignore our traditions? Many Jews do, & even play along with the fun. But, no…I have to give it up for them. Traditions are fun. I like them. I like seeing a Nativity somewhere downtown. I like seeing a Santa Claus in my neighbors yard.
How about CHILL OUT all you people that don’t believe the way a Christian does. With or without Christmas. Let us have our fun or worship the way we want to. Stop taking away MY rights! Ok, I’m done. I never really express myself the way my head wants me to. haha
Just for the record Steve, do we conservative Christians ever do anything right? Just asking.
Thanks for your note, Debbie. The point of the blog is to give a voice to various sides of topics that affect our understanding of the Bible and our Christian faith.
I enjoy hearing from both sides. The varying perspectives helps me adjust my thinking because it keeps me thinking.
As to your question about whether conservatives get anything right, let me research that and get back to you.
You know I’m kidding, right?
Peace to you, Debbie. And Merry Christmas.
lol! Ok, Steve, you made me laugh! Out loud! 🙂 Thanks for the opportunity to vent a little.