Around Christmas time, there are all sorts of Christians out there saying, “Don’t forget the reason for the season.” Probably so many of us are mentioning something along those lines that everyone gets a bit tired of it.  Some may say in response, “Come on, really, we know what Christmas is all about.  And can you please do without the cheesy rhyme?”  Then they tread off to Church for the Christmas Eve service in order to remember the real reason for the season (A side note:  when we were growing up, my brother and I used to call those who came to church only for Christmas Eve and Easter (the busiest church days no doubt), “Chrevesters”–no offense intended if you are one of them, but it is a funny memory for me).

And yet, I’m inclined to believe that very few families in America today really center their Christmas season on the birth of Jesus Christ (Christians included).  For as I have been finding it, it is rather difficult to do.  At the very least, it is something that takes effort.  Take, for example, the last two Christmas specials I have watched with my kids.  First, the classic, old-school ‘Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer.” Second, “Elmo’s Countdown to Christmas.”

I wouldn’t miss either one, but there was one, central common denominator to both shows that bothered me and, in my opinion, demanded explanation to my kids.  The common denominator?  That Christmas might not come unless….1)  Rudolph saves the day with his red nose or 2)  Mr. Ben Stiller Elf guy gets all the blocks for the countdown (it really was Ben Stiller and he was a funny elf in my opinion).

Most folks probably won’t think it is a very big deal, but there is a clear message being sent to everyone watching. And if you don’t think kids pick up on this message, you either don’t have them or don’t pay much attention to what they talk about most at Christmas.  The clear message is that Christmas isn’t really about Jesus Christ, but (probably) about all the traditions we enjoy , especially the one about Santa bringing all sorts of gifts we get to open and enjoy.

They are only two examples, but as television serves as a reflection of where we are and where we will be, I think that if you watch your tv carefully, you will recognize that very few folks out there center their Christmas upon the birth of Jesus Christ.  And if you think that only kids are affected, you are having difficulty seeing yourself. For though we adults might not get all warm and fuzzy over Santa, we do tend to celebrate Christmas for the Holiday’s sake, not Christ’s.  Notice even the language we use, “Celebrating the Holiday.”  How do you do that?

Some of you reading may not give a rip about what I just said, because you are content celebrating the holiday itself. That’s fine (in one sense).  But for those of you who profess faith in Christ, I believe that what I just said is worth reflecting upon.  Take a look at your traditions, your conversations, the general tenor and enthusiasm in your home.  Then ask yourself:  What are we really celebrating?