The Holy Days

I just don’t get it. I hear people poo-pooing all the religious aspects of Christmas time and, although I’m not a strong advocate per se of religion, I am unequivocal that this time should be honored and revered for the purpose it was meant. What Christmas has become—in all its commercialization—still clearly harkens its origins back to the birth of Christ whether people choose to recognize it or not.

Gift-giving is a direct descendent of the gifts given to the Christ child. The stars we light up and place on our trees are direct symbols of the guiding star which led the wise men to Christ. The very language we use should be as telling as anything. “Christmas” literally means Mass for Christ. “Holiday” literally means Holy Day. These are not reflections of simple passed down traditions that only suggest fantasies and folklore. These are reflective of the roots for which we truly celebrate.

I, for one, have trouble remembering and honoring the holiday season for what it truly is. I get caught up in the gift-seeking and food preparations and only give a cursory thought as to why I am doing any of it. Keeping God in the foreground rather than the background should be obvious to any Christian, however, we are still humans very easily influenced by our society, our traditions, and media-led commercialism. I believe it’s time to rise above our worldly views and give praise where praise is due; give honor to the Creator who began it all; give gifts of our own thanksgiving to the One who gave us a gift that can never truly be repaid. Yes, Christmas and all its surrounding holidays should be used to glorify God and—if we allow it—to regain our purpose in this world.

Blessings!

Greg Morton© November 19, 2012
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