As I was driving around doing last minute shopping, I was listening to Michael Medved give a history lesson on the traditions of Christmas.
Confession: I do listen to talk radio, but I get irritated at the format because basically callers are only fodder for the hosts use to further his or hers own goals and agenda. I may ar may not agree with that agenda on any given day, but I dislike the promoted preception that this is a conversation, when it rarely resembles anything even close to that. Enough said.
I have heard much of his info before, mostly from legalistic joyless Christians who are trying to prove they are holier by denying their kids presents and carols to sing. Okay, there's a few cultists and atheists thrown in there, too.
I know Jesus wasn't born in December (probably spring), and the Wisemen arrived, not at the stable but when Jesus' family was in a house and he was probably 2. Much of the symbolism, from evergreens and holly to gift giving smacks of the Roman holiday Saturnalia, just without the orgy part. You have to admit, that does make it a tad holier.
But who really cares. I am not worshiping the tree; the gifts are not what may be impressing a deity; I have no illusions that poor shepherds long ago were shivering under their tunics to the celestial chorus. December or May--who cares!

So were there pagan origins interwined in this "blessed" season. Of course! But who cares. What it has become is another opportunity to serve God and be kingdom people in a hurting world.
Blessed Christmas!
I totally agree!! :)
ReplyDeleteBeautifully written and carefully thought out. Great job as always.
ReplyDeleteThank you for being my longest reader and follower. I was looking back over the year, and most of the times if there was a single comment it was from Everything Changes.
Hope you guys are having a great day.
Thanks Gardener! You forgot humorous! :-) Merry Christmas to you guys!
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