The Reason for the Season?
Earlier today I asked the question "why are believers getting so upset about churches canceling church on Christmas Sunday morning?" I have been giving this question a lot of thought the past couple of days. I can see some issues that the church is going to have to face on December 25th. For example, finding enough volunteers to fill the various ministry needs for a Sunday service. It is challenging enough to staff a preschool department on a normal week much less on Christmas Sunday morning.
While I can understand many of the challenges that churches will face, I still really struggle with the idea of canceling church on Christmas Sunday morning. My biggest struggle is that we seem to be redefining Christmas in our culture. Are culture is trying to make this a family holiday rather than recognizing the spiritual significance of Christ's birth. Are we really saying that Christmas day is all about family? While I love my family and love to give them gifts, Christmas is about celebrating Christ's birth and I can't think of a better way to do that then in a worship service with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
While I can understand many of the challenges that churches will face, I still really struggle with the idea of canceling church on Christmas Sunday morning. My biggest struggle is that we seem to be redefining Christmas in our culture. Are culture is trying to make this a family holiday rather than recognizing the spiritual significance of Christ's birth. Are we really saying that Christmas day is all about family? While I love my family and love to give them gifts, Christmas is about celebrating Christ's birth and I can't think of a better way to do that then in a worship service with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
It seems to me that those of us who have proclaimed "Jesus is the reason for the season" should remember that simple truth. It is my prayer that this Christmas you will be in church celebrating the birth of our Savior and Lord!
Will
2 Comments:
Amen! Why is it such a bad thing to close down the preschool department one day and have the children go to church with "mom and dad"? Sure it can be a struggle...I have two little ones myself. They're energetic, loud and, well, children! However, they won't stay in extended care forever. Children need to learn and experience worship eventually. Why wait? Christmas is a perfect opportunity to begin.
I think it is a sad state of affairs for the church to close it doors on the day our Savior was born. If our job as His children is to reach those who do not know Him, how can we do so with the doors closed? While I am a strong proponent of family and spending precious time with them, are we better served opening presents around the tree in our pajamas or at God’s house setting the example for our children? It is not always easy or convenient to be one of His children, but the benefit far outweighs any sacrifices we have to make this side of glory. Open the doors to His house on the birth of our Savior!
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