I am less and less enamored of the holiday each passing year. Although I think a Christian is free to celebrate it in his home, I am more impressed now by the freedom not to be pressured to celebrate it. Unfortunately, American evangelical culture regards it almost as a litmus test for being a Christian, as though you can't be a true believer unless you're willing to say, "Merry CHRISTmas!" and put up a CHRISTmas tree and defend the propriety of public displays of the nativity. Insofar as that culture has infiltrated the Reformed churches, there is pressure there as well to celebrate it, even in Sabbath worship.

So, while I still enjoy Christmas trees and lights and gifts and carols, the day and season mean less to me than they have in previous years. Frankly I'd have virtually nothing to do with celebrating it this year were I not living in the home of some who do. And since I prefer not to create dischord over what I regard as a Christian freedom anyway, I'll be participating in some of the festivities.

I am of course open to correction if anyone thinks I'm wrong in this matter.

Kyle

I tell you, this man went down to his house justified.