Christmas, Christians and Commercialism

First, I must give a disclaimer: I am not judging anyone’s actions, behavior or motives. I am not preaching to anyone. This is just my perception of the controversy of commercialism and Christmas and why Christians participate in the affair.

I can understand the confusion, but I highly recommend one looks in the mirror before pointing a finger and condemning Christians who take part in the phenomenon. I try to look at a bigger picture. My thoughts take me to an alternate perspective. Of course, no one really cares what I think so this should be easily dismissed as lunacy.

Although considered sinful in the Holy Bible, materialism is just a fact of life and demonstrates one of the vast imperfections of man. As an American, I find it very difficult to avoid this very powerful desire. Without materialism, commercialism would be much less widespread.

On the other hand, commercialism has actually made Christmas the most popular holiday in the world. It seems that this sizeable money-making holiday has actually helped spread Christianity in several different ways. Could this be God’s way of turning something sinful into a method of spreading the story of Jesus and Christianity. Could God actually work in mysterious ways?

Oh, and by the way, Christmas is also when charitable giving is at an all time high; not only for churches and Christian families, but all factions of the business sector as well. I really don’t believe corporations would be near as charitable during Christmas if it were not as commercialized. Bonuses, days off, parties and sponsorships might just dry up for a holiday like Chanukah.

Have you ever given a gift and knew it made a difference in someone’s life? It may not have been the gift, but showing someone you thought of them and you cared enough to show it. When done in honor and celebration of the birth of Jesus is even more meaningful for any Christian giver. I think this blessing holds true for non Christians acting out of kindness and love at any time of the year.

If we as Christians gift on birthdays, what better way to celebrate the birth of Christ than by giving? Jesus was the greatest gift ever given: from a loving God to all humankind. God set the example of giving, as did Jesus when He gave His life for us. Gifting is not always the best way of following these examples, but many times it’s much easier than baking a pie or trimming someone’s trees. We were put on earth to share God’s love. Although far from perfect, making a difference in peoples' lives is what Christianity is all about.

Have no fear about the abhorrent commercialism of Christmas, it will continue to fade as Americans replace it with secular holidays such as Festivus and Winter Solstice. Gifting, giving and generosity will deteriorate as worldly values become predominantly customary. The morality of American people will also change from biblical principles to secular ones, thus inspiring even more materialism, greed, perversion and irreverence.

Okay, you can attack now...