It seems that during every religious holiday religious people complain about how everyone else treats it. “They’ve taken Christ out of Christmas” is the usual rant. Another favorite is “You can’t steal my Christmas” in response to using the word “Holiday” instead of Christmas. I get tired of it. When did we become so sensitive.

I don’t necessarily like the idea that we would be okay if everyone used the term Christmas instead of Holiday. Using the right word doesn’t make people Christians. It often just gives us a false sense that everything is good when it really isn’t. Maybe that’s why people fight it so much, they don’t want to face the reality that we live in an unbelieving world.

I suppose the main argument is one of influence. If everyone calls it Christmas maybe people would be more curious and begin to ask questions about Jesus. I have no doubt there are people who have met Jesus under just such influence. Keeping the brand name in the public’s mind is a key to marketing, after all. (Sorry for the sarcasm.)

However, I’m afraid that the way we influence people most is through our complaining. While trying to get “Christ” back in Christmas we give the impression that we are a bunch of argumentative grouches who have no idea how to celebrate. I have no doubt we have alienated people from Jesus under this kind of influence.

I propose that we give the complaining a rest for a few years. Let Jesus defend himself if he sees the need. Let’s try and concentrate on celebrating instead. Maybe that will be an influence that makes a real difference in an unbelieving world.

Merry Christmas!

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