My congregation used to avoid Christmas trappings. After all, it’s obvious Jesus wasn’t born in December. And the celebration has roots in a pagan feast dedicated to the Roman god Saturn, Saturnalia.
But we came to realize that we needed to take advantage of society’s focus on Christmas. If the world wants to think about Jesus for a few days, what can we do but celebrate?
Of course, the way some us celebrate Christmas is perfectly contradictory to the teachings of Jesus — self-indulgence, materialism.
On the other hand, what’s more Christ-like than a time of being together with friends and family, giving to others, delighting in someone else’s joy? seeing Nativity scenes across the countryside, as people gladly announce their faith?
And, at least around here, there are countless drives for toys and food to give to the needy. It’s one of the special occasions where people cross denominational lines to bless poor children.
Was Jesus born on December 25? I doubt it. Is he more honored by participation in the name of Jesus or apart from our faith? Surely, the question answers itself.
Hence, you’ll find wreaths and even Christmas trees in our church building.
We want our children to always associate Christmas with giving to others in the name of Jesus. And in a few weeks, you’ll see Christmas trees on our stage heaped with presents to give away to the poorest families living near our building — which we will give in person and in the name of Jesus.
Jesus wasn’t born on Christmas, but I’ve seen him born in many a lost soul on Christmas. That’s close enough.
