For the past two to three weeks, I have done everything humanly possible to evade any and every store imaginable. I have listened to people panic over the possibility that their loved ones won't recieve their gifts on time. I have encountered numerous "Christmas grumps" who scream and yell and start fights over the stupidest stuff or just for the fun of it. The number of people having heart attacks and strokes HAS to go up during the holiday season. And, I can't understand why.
This is Christmas...notice the first part of the word CHRISTmas. (I had to bold the letters because otherwise it may go unnoticed...like it seems to have everywhere else.) That is what is so funny to me. We cannot wish our students, our coworkers, or anyone we don't know a MERRY CHRISTMAS because it is a "religious holiday." Yet, finding religion on such a day has never proven to be more difficult.
Apparently, Christmas is supposed to be the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. However, on this very day, because they feared low attendance, many churches were closed. Santa Claus, however, was able to make his presence (presents, whichever spelling applies) known. More stories were told of a make believe old man and his nine reindeer who travel the globe bringing joy to all of the children...but, how many were told of He who brings joy EVERYDAY to the whole world? Not nearly as many.
For those who did find an open church or went to the Saturday service, or midnight mass, how can you combine the belief of two entities whom you have never seen? Santa gets credit for bringing joy through toys, Jesus gives you life and love. For some, it doesn't work at all. Jesus provided made it possible for some to be able to buy the toys AND still have electricity and a place to live. Some will be relying on battery operated toys for their diversions. But for most, Jesus and Santa aren't in competition...on this day Santa wins. In fact, many don't think about Jesus and his 12 disciples, but Santa and his 9 reindeer.
I must say that the Bible clearly says "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) And that gift, the gift of life and salvation, is much more valuable than anything an old fat man and his reindeer could bring, hands down. To get God's gift, there is no need for lines, no cause for stress, and plenty enough for everyone who wants in. There is never a need for a receipt or a credit card. You can enjoy this gift well after December 25, with no warranty papers to fill out... Guaranteed.
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