'Tis the Season

I can remember a few years ago being really frustrated because I had been hit with several arguments on how to celebrate Christmas if you were a good "Christian." Some thought you had to love Christmas, decorate with lots of angels and nativities, and hate Santa. While others thought believers should not participate at all. The opinions are many, with varying degrees in between. One theme was prevalent; there was a right way to celebrate like a good Christian should. You were responsible for showing the world how it should be done.

In the Old Testament, there were specific festivals and feast days that God told His people to observe and for specific reasons.

I was so relieved when I finally realized that celebrating Christmas is not something that God told me to do. This fact encourages me because it means I have the freedom to observe it however I want. I can have lots of trees or no trees. I can have lights on my house or no lights. I can give gifts or not, etc., etc., etc. I'm free!

In recent years, I have heard the origins of our Christmas activities discussed more often. A lot of our traditions are secular, and even pagan in origin.

Don't get me wrong; I'm not against Christmas. Those that know me will confirm that I participate with gusto, snowman sweater and all. It's my heart and attitude that have been adjusted. I no longer feel pressure to do it "right." I trust my God to let me know if I do something displeasing to Him; otherwise, I party.

I can see a bigger picture. Yes, there's lots of commercialism; but there is also a lot of giving to those in need and charities. Sure, we need to do it year 'round; but it's better than not doing it at all.

I love that the songs that are played everywhere proclaim His Glory, His Majesty; the Christ. Ssshh! Don't tell the secular airwaves that they are proclaiming what we already know; that He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords! You know, one day, every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. They're just getting a head start at Christmas.