Thoughts on the "Christ" in Christmas Debate

Brothers,
Thoughts I wanted to share. Merry Christmas all. I hope the Lord gives you everything you need not necessarily what you want. :)

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“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." The Gospel of Saint Luke – Chapter 2

This year there has been much conversation in the media regarding Christmas and how it is celebrated. Stories abound of conflict (real or perceived) between those who want to emphasize the “Christ” in Christmas and those who would rather dwell on the more secular aspects of the “holiday” season. Some organizations, apparently afraid of offending, are directing their employees to greet others with benign expressions such as “Season’s Greetings” with some Christians finding victory in responding with “Merry Christmas”.

But such quarrel truly misses the real challenge. For the task at hand for Christians is not ensuring Christ is within Christmas but rather one of ensuring we have Christ within us. The gift of the Christ child is the greatest gift from a Father above who loves us all. A gift we are not worthy of but one he freely gives because of His undying love for all of mankind. As Christians, as we reflect upon that gift this Christmas let us also reflect on what gift we can give back to Him to show our love in return. There are so many ways that we can do this and we don’t have to limit ourselves to just one. Start with yourself. Pray more, be more patient of His will for you, make an effort to go to church regularly, read the Bible and stay away from things that will lead you astray. Then Help others. For that panhandler on the street perhaps buy him something to eat and use that opportunity to expose him to the Gospel and encourage him to find help. While you won’t have immediate success that may be the seed he needed to move in the right direction. Be more understanding of the hardship of others. Don’t judge but instead be grateful the Father hasn’t put that burden upon you. Love your spouse more. Submit yourselves to their well being. Men especially, care for your wives like Christ cared for his Apostles. Remember how He washed their feet? Be vocal about your love of the Lord. Nothing showy, but never be afraid to let others know of your happiness in life and why that is so. Simply try to act like Christ would. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery then flatter our Savior with conduct which he would approve. In short, give him your heart, your mind and your will and you will become an instrument for Him to spread the Good New to others.

Of course we are all men and women and are prone to fail. He understands that. But even so, we are called to continue. We get back up after we stumble, wipe ourselves off and start again. My purpose is only as a reminder for all of my fellow brethren as writing is a reminder for me. If we truly have Christ in ourselves, we won’t have to worry about keeping Him in Christmas. He’ll take care of that.