Perceptions #200146

"Christmas Again"

by Larry Henniger

It is that time of year again. Lights, decorating trees, and houses . . .tinsel . . . ornaments. . . packages and things. The holiday season is a special time, and one that we wholeheartedly enjoy.

Yet, as with anything, there are dangers and difficulties that can wreck one's perspective. Let me cite three such possibilities in relation to Christmas.

First, there is the regularly decried habit of commercialism. Exploitation of Jesus' name to make capital certainly is not confined to merchants at Christmas time, but it is painfully evident then. Using Christ to peddle wares across some bargain basement counter does him no honor.

Again, there is the danger of distorted religion. For many, Christmas is ballooned out of proportion and made into a Biblically sanctified, holy season. Yet, isolating Christ in a fabricated compartment is not the same thing as following him.

Finally, there is the mistake of completely ignoring the feeling of the time! A reverse psychology is at work . . . especially within the church . . . that makes it almost anathema to mention Jesus' birth around December 25! Some Christians work hard at not being openly religious at this time, lest another think they are observing Christmas as a spiritual festival.

All of this to simply clear the air. I am glad that Jesus was born. And I am glad at this season of the year, but no gladder than I am in July. He is Lord then, too!

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