According to one online article*, the birth of Christ was not celebrated by the church until 336 A.D. It was originally a Christ mass, not the whole season from October 1 until December 25. Christmas was an event. A time of gathering together with other Believers to celebrate Christ's birth. To praise and worship. To read Luke's account of the virgin birth. To reflect on how a tiny baby's birth changed the world as well as individuals.
I don't deny loving the season as much as the next guy. Thanksgiving day our house will find me installing outdoor lights. Our tree goes up and the nativities are brought down from the attic. But how much of all that truly brings our attention back to Jesus Christ? The nativities, perhaps. Lights? Garland? Gifts? Not at all.
I have a friend who is a pagan. He likes to remind me that Christians "stole" ancient traditions and used Christmas to stamp out pagan celebrations. Historically that may be true, but I fear now that Christmas has been "stolen" by consumerism. Santa's workshop has replaced the manger. Flying reindeer have co-opted Heavenly hosts. Frosty has trumped baby Jesus.
What if the millions of dollars spent in Christian households on Barbies, Xboxes and ugly sweaters were rerouted to the poor? What if widows were showered with gifts rather than the family dog receiving a stocking full of dreck?
I am not pushing for a national movement to reclaim Christmas. Petitions to allow store clerks to wish shoppers a "Merry Christmas" are for others to draft. I would simply challenge each individual Christian to pray and reflect on what is truly important during this time of year. Jesus Christ gave up heaven for over 30 years so that we can spend an eternity with Him. It all started in a manger in Bethlehem. Simple. Humble. Miraculous.
(Note: The attached video was released in 1984, when videos were still in their infancy so don't expect flash and flair. And while the religious iconography may not be present, the music is beautiful and wondrous.)
http://www.christianity.com/church/church-history/timeline/301-600/the-1st-recorded-celebration-of-christmas-11629658.html*
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