There is a debate in the conservative Christian Church that would surprise the more mainstream Christians. Some have pointed to the pagan origins of many Christmas traditions. I am fascinated by history and the origins of words and phrases and expressions, and therefore eschew them. The pagan origins of celebrating on December 25, for example, and using a Christmas tree, and countless other things don't really bother me personally. My brother calls it the orange juice syndrome.
If a group of bad people decides to define their club by the fact that everyone drinks orange juice, will that and should that stop you from drinking orange juice? Don't let bad people hijack innocent things. Evergreen trees and candles and the solstices are not inherently evil. Only be careful you are not worshiping the customs. You can even use the evergreen branches to represent God's faithfulness or Christ as the Life.
Still, it is very interesting to look up the history of mistle-toe, wassailing or caroling, and Santa Claus. Tonight in particular I looked for the origin of Father Christmas. The study was interesting. I'm so Victorian that the image of an old man with a kind face, dressed all in fur and velvet, with long white hair and a beard is very *romantic*.
Study the truth and decide for yourself. I would recommend you don't practice deceit in your Christmas traditions, whatever you do. Tell your children the truth about characters like St. Nicholas.
To God be all glory.
Yeah, I too hate it when parents lie to their poor children for no reason on earth.
ReplyDeleteIt's evil, I tell you.