How should we as Christians celebrate Christmas? With so many things like lights, Christmas trees, presents, and more, it’s difficult to discern the meaning of it all. This weekend, we will take a look at some of these traditions, some myths surrounding Christmas, and we will uncover the true meaning of the season. The title of this weekend’s message is “CHRISTMAS MYTHBUSTERS.”
One of my pet peeves is reading or listening to claims that many of our Christmas traditions are just pagan rituals that should be abandoned. Here are some facts on a few of them:
Every Christmas you hear some complaints about how we have commercialized the birth of Jesus and how we are so materialistic. What does gift giving have to do with Christmas? Contrary to what you may think, it was not inspired by the magi. In fact, the Christian practice of giving gifts began with St. Nicholas, the pastor of Myra, who rode across Asia Minor distributing gifts to poor children. December 6th in the Western Church and December 19th in the Eastern Church became St. Nicholas’ Day – a day to give gifts to children – and in time this practice merged with December 25th. So next time you go shopping, enjoy buying gifts for your loved ones but don’t forget to be generous to the less fortunate. After all, we were undeserving but God gave us the gift of Jesus. Merry Christmas!