Christians Celebrating Christmas

December 21st, 2005
I was just reading from a small book called Truth For Today by John MacArthur. I enjoyed this portion and wanted to share it:
————————————–
The Puritans in early America rejected Christmas celebrations
altogether. They deliberately worked on December 25 to show
their distain. A law passed in England in 1644 reflected a similar
Puritan influence; the law made Christmas Day an official
working day. For a time in England it was literally illegal to cook
plum pudding or mince pie for the holidays.

Christians today are generally not opposed to celebrating Christmas.
The holiday itself is nothing, and observing it is not a question of
right and wrong. As Paul wrote, “One man regards one day above
another, another regards every day alike. Let each man be fully
convinced in his own mind. He who observes the day, observes it
for the Lord, and he who eats, does so for the Lord, for he gives
thanks to God; and he who eats not, for the Lord he does not eat,
and gives thanks to God
.” (Rom. 14:5-6)
Every day–including Christmas–is a celebration for
us who know and love Him.
————————————–

I know people who go all-out to celebrate Christmas with lights, decorations, parties…the works! I also know people who do not acknowledge Christmas at all. I think that I am somewhere in between because I enjoy celebrating Christ, but do not put too many decorations out. I definitely don’t want to get caught up in the world’s hustle and bustle of the holiday, but would rather focus on the birth of the Savior.

I find it sad that so many people miss Christmas. It seems that people observe the season because our society says to do so. All the while being completely oblivious to what they are celebrating. It’s obvious that people aren’t sure what they are celebrating because they act as though Christmas is a magical time of emotional warmth, family togetherness, or some are just looking for a reason to party. We are even canceling church so that people can spend time–not worshipping the Lord and fellowshipping together with the saints–but with their families. Many times this season I have wondered if “family” has taken the forefront of the reason for celebration. But no matter what our culture projects or how we alter the day, Christmas will always be the celebration of the miracle of God coming to earth and being born in human flesh. As MacArthur says–every day is a celebration for those who know Him!

1 Comment

  1. emma
    January 19th, 2006

    i really agree with you and enjoy reading your blogs! thanks for really welcoming me into the high school group and making me feel at home.

    ~emma

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