Freedom in Christ

One man esteems one day as better than another, while another man esteems all days alike. Let every one be fully convinced in his own mind. 6 He who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord. [Romans 14:5-6]

Christmas has always been one of those holidays that separated religious people theologically. Growing up we used to hear sermons on how Christmas was a pagan holiday that had been transformed into a religious celebration by the early apostate church. Christmas trees were originally were druid influences of pagan culture that had nothing to do with the Bible and the gospel. Yet, we would all put them up in our homes and celebrate the non-religious secular culture of Santa Claus.

This year Christmas falls on Sunday. The elders at the McKnight Road Church of Christ [of which I am one] have decided to cancel Bible classes this December 25 and to have only a worship service at 10:00 a.m. Our thought was to give families with small children the additional time on Sunday morning to enjoy their Christmas celebration. I am amazed at how our thinking has changed over the years. The only thing I am sure of is that we are trying to honor the Lord. It may be a bit counter-intuitive; but, I hope that people will see it that way? I probably fall into the camp that esteems all days alike. But, that is o.k. There is room for both points of view within the kingdom; and, that is the freedom that we share in Christ. So this year we will wish you a Merry Christmas!