Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays?

This question (Do you prefer saying Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays?) has really been on my mind this year. Non-Christians prefer Happy Holidays and some of those in the business world feel it is more politically correct to use Happy Holidays to make sure they do not offend anyone. In all honesty, I used to fall into the second group a few years ago.



What Are We Celebrating?



My current thoughts however raises a different question I must ask: If you are a non-Christian and do not believe in the birth of man's Savior, Jesus Christ (or believe in a faith that does not believe in the birth of Jesus Christ) what are you celebrating every December 25th?



What Is The Christmas Season Really About?



I am sure there is a large group of "lukewarm" believers who may state that "yes there could be a God" but they do not have a true relationship with God and they really do not see any problem saying Happy Holidays. While I understand everyone comes to true faith at different times, is it not time to think about what Christmas really means?



The Christmas season is about the birth of Jesus Christ, God's only Son who He sent to die on the cross so our sins could be forgiven. Jesus was born of Mary and Joseph, and Jesus did die and He did rise again - for us.



If you do not believe the last paragraph, why do so many people still celebrate Christmas? Why are they rushing out to buy presents? Decorating trees? Why do they tell their children that Santa Claus is real but never introduce them to Jesus Christ? I understand this opens up to a much larger topic that would contain "religion versus relationship" or "all religions are the same - I tried that once it was not for me" (all religions are not the same and for the point of record I am a member of a non-denominational church and believe God wants a relationship with you and not religion, but I am sure that last statement will provide enough material for a seperate blog).



Conculsion



I urge you to not only say Merry Christmas this year - no matter who you are saying it to, but please take time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. If you are a non-believer or a "lukewarm" Christian, maybe this is the year you will learn the true meaning of Christmas and be touched by the Holy Spirit. God wants a relationship with you - when he knocks will you let Him in? As for me, Merry Christmas to all - please join me in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ!