Christmas is coming. When I was a child (a long time ago), there was much discussion about the secularization and commercialization of Christmas. Christmas even then was good for sales and stores promised especially good prices in December. Nothing has really changed today.
Christians have had to contend with this for years, as Christmas becomes less and less attached to any spiritual significance. For many, Christmas is now more of a secular holiday than anything else, regardless of its roots.
What is far worse in my mind is the current politization of Christmas. Christmas decorations must be defended -- legally if necessary -- against all assaults. As the fight about the Ten Commandments in courthouses wanes, the struggle over manger scenes is just beginning.
Even as evangelicals turn to the political and legal processes to defend their faith, Satan must smile. For it doesn't really matter if there is a Nativity Scene at the local court house or, mall. What matters is whether or not Jesus Christ is Lord in each life.
Christ does not want me, as a Christian, to defend His name in court or, to pass laws in His favor. All this has been tried over the years, unsuccesfully.
In fact, there is no command in Scripture to remember Christmas, or to honor it. Certainly, Jesus doesn't care what those who don't believe in Him do on December 25th, except for one thing. His desire is on all days that sinners come to repentance.
Christians must stay away from the political process. Satan will use any cause -- however good -- to draw us in, but we must avoid it. The fight over manger scenes in the public square is like a big inflatable snowman -- big, gaudy and easily collapsed when someone lets the hot air out.
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