I was stocking a gift wrap endcap today at work and noticed that one gift bag that said "Happy Holidays" had an item number of 666. I laughed thinking how many folks might "ah-ha!" that as a sign or something silly. Then my brain took off down that rabbit trail.
This time of year you see the religious folk posting their memes shouting loudly that we must say "Merry Christmas" and the outrage about taking Christ out of Christmas. Do they even realize how silly and petty they sound? Sure, I may prefer to say Merry Christmas, but I don't feel the need to be offended by someone who chooses another greeting. There are a few fun holidays all run together, so is it really required to pick just one?
My biggest point to be made here, and probably the only one, is that Christmas really isn't about Christ anyway! It's NOT Jesus' birthday. We may choose to remember His birth at this time, but most research shows He was born in the summer, or maybe September. If we want to get really honest, we can research how it was actually a Pagan holiday that was commandeered by the Christians to stop the heathens from celebrating what they wanted to celebrate. So really, aren't WE the ones that stole the holiday? hmmm....
I love this time of year, and I even work in retail! I call it Christmas because that is what it has been called all my life, no agenda, no religion. I love Christmas music, Christmas movies, Christmas lights, Christmas trees, Christmas decorations, and yes, I even love Santa!! People are often more friendly and happy and excited about giving. The kids love getting presents and it's fun to watch their glee as they marvel at the wonderfulness that is Christmas. I don't see it as being much about Jesus, but all in all, it's a positive holiday that promotes a lot of godly principles, so I like it! There is nothing wrong with love, joy, peace, generosity, and enjoying life with the awe and wonder of a child. That is why this is my favorite holiday. So be happy, have a holiday, and love your neighbors, no matter what words they use to share the ideas that are Christmas.
