Removing Christmas from Christmas

We've all seen the recent headlines. We know what is the buzz this Christmas. It is the fact that people want to remove Christmas. It all started with Macy's last year, and now many other retailers are following suit and saying "Happy Holidays" or "Seasons Greetings" instead of "Merry Christmas". I've seen it in the paper. I've received emails telling me to boycott certain stores. I even read an article about what the President is sending as his "Christmas" card this year. I've been guilty of it too, taking Christmas out of Christmas, but ironically not this year. A few years ago I said it, even when I believed in Jesus and was all for Christmas.

I've been thinking about this a lot lately, because many people are truly getting angry. Part of me grieves that people are trying to take Jesus out of His own birthday. But I have something to admit: part of me wonders "what's the big deal?" Yes, Jesus is the only way, truth, and light, but even God gives people a chance to choose Him. That's the beauty of the gospel. God offers us a choice, because He wants us to choose to love Him, not be forced into in against our will. So why should we make anyone say "Merry Christmas" if they don't want to or don't believe the truth? Remind you of any eleventh century crusades?

On the other hand, I had an epiphany. This issue could be the best thing that has happened to the church. The church is becoming more and more aware that Christianity as we have known it is going out the door. Some are starting to feel a little persecuted and realize that this thing may get worse before it gets better. God really is doing something new in this hour. He is drawing us to Him in a greater way. And if that takes removing "Merry Christmas" from the greetings at Baby GAP this season, then He'll do it.

So, the church is finally standing up to fight for something. Too bad it's not the issue of abortion... yet.