Luke Two

“You know Dasher and Dancer and Comet and Vixen…” As the most classic of carols ring out on the streets, citizens reminisce on the many memories that give a warm feeling and a bright smile. But, how many people’s ideas of Christmas match up?

There is a broad spectrum of traditions that so many people repeat every year for the most popular holiday. If one hundred people were asked, “What is the meaning of Christmas?”, I wonder how many of those answers would agree with the true, historical definition of Christmas.

There are thousands of religions in this world, some more sensible than others. Christianity alone has numerous denominations. However, there are some strong-headed people who will try their hardest to defy any point Christians try to make. This “religion” that I am referring to is, of course, atheism.

The American Atheists have a reputation of stirring up debates across the nation. This year, their medium of protest was a billboard. The group created a fifteen second digital display that states the true reason for the holidays is “Chinese food and the Rockettes”. Other religious groups are refusing to be mere bystanders. They have retaliated with billboards saying things like, “Thank God you’re wrong!” and “You know it’s real. This season celebrate Jesus”.

Boldness is an understatement, even referring to both of the groups. The atheists should not have made a negative advance toward someone’s religion in the first place. If they don’t appreciate a time-honored celebration of the birth of their Savior, then they don’t have to celebrate it. But, they also don’t have to be the Grinch of America and steal the joy from Christians.

You might be thinking, “Well, the Christians didn’t have to fight back”. In the Bible, we see numerous occurrences of disciples standing up for their faith, even if it meant their life. From Job to Paul, our early brothers and sisters in Christ made it their mission in life to not only put themselves on the line for the name of Christ, but also to spread the Word of God to those who refused to let Him into their lives. Were they starting World War III by challenging the American Atheists with a contradictory billboard? Was anyone physically injured by their courage? No.

It may seem like a small action. However, acts of valor like this don’t go unnoticed. Followers of Christ who drove past the billboard rejoiced and took comfort in the fact that there are still people out there who take Christmas for what it really is.

A man was born. He lived a life with no sin. He died on a cross for people who were covered in sin. If you ask me, instead of praising candy canes and smoothly wrapped boxes, lifting up the One who came for us is far more worthwhile.

While Jesus wasn’t really born on December 25, celebrating the birth of that little boy will be a tradition in my home for generations to come.

Please share your Christmas traditions with me via email. Thank you for reading. God Bless.