At this time of year many Christians struggle with how to deal with Christmas among their family, friends, co-workers and other Christians.
How do we present the story of our Savior’s birth, a true and essential part of our faith?
How do we deal with “gifting”, why do we give gifts to others at this time of the year?
As a family, do we have a tree in our home or not? How was this tradition started, is it appropriate for Christians to observe this tradition?
What do we tell our children and grandchildren about Santa Claus (St. Nicholas), is there a place for fairy tales and myths in the life of a Christian?
Can we as Christians sing traditional spiritual songs associated with this Christmas season?
As a congregation, do we avoid any preaching, teaching or songs that would lead our visitors or others to believe we condone the religious celebration of this season?
I will not attempt to answer all of these questions.
We do have scripture that cautions us about observing special days, Galatians 4:10.
We do have scripture that teaches us to do good unto all men, Galatians 6:10.
We do have scripture that teaches of the Greatest Story Ever Told; Birth, Life, Death and Resurrection of our Lord.
We do have scripture that teaches of the Greatest Gift ever given, John 3:16.
We do have scripture that teaches that our Savior died on a tree (cross), different from this traditional tree.
We do have scripture that teaches us to teach and admonish each other in song, Colossians 3:16.
At this time of year I am always reminded of Paul’s teaching in Philippians 1:15-18. ” not withstanding, every way, whether in pretense, or in truth, Christ is preached, and I therein do rejoice, yea and will rejoice.”
In whatever way Christians choose to observe the traditions of this season, let us seize every opportunity to teach Christ!
Sunday Morning In-Person Service is Canceled