Christmas is a Christian holiday intended to celebrate the Son of God, Jesus, or Christ’s birth. Simple enough, it is a birthday party. Instead of shepherds and lambs, we now have illuminated pine trees and Santa Claus. There aren’t many similarities between Christ’s birthday and
Christmas as we know it. Or is there?

The birth of Christ brought joy and hope to the world, and today, over 2,020 years later, Christmas is celebrated all over the world, even by many who are not Christians. During Jesus’ birthday month, the world looks a little brighter, and there are more smiles and cheerful voices, even if under a mask.

Kings traveled far and brought a variety of gifts for the new baby. Today’s offerings are similar—money or gift certificates when we don’t know what to buy, sweet-smelling surprises including colognes, teas, candles, and products claiming to heal an abundance of ills, perhaps one’s favorite liquid beverage.

Christmas has always been about children, and we drift back with anticipation when familiar carols play and Santa HO HO HO’s and opens his arms to listen, as does Jesus. Both bring tidings of great joy, and neither ask anything in return except for us to be good. Doesn’t “He’s making a list and checking it twice, gonna find out who’s naughty or nice . . . ” ring familiar with Christian teachings?

No matter our age, it isn’t easy to be good boys and girls, and both Santa and Jesus ask the best of us, but they are also forgiving, knowing we fall short. Even with our shortcomings, Santa brings joy and hope as he hands out candy canes, and Jesus adds forever love. I think both set good examples, and those who don’t believe in one might be positively influenced by the other.

Some people say we put too much emphasis on Santa when the holiday is about Christ. After all, it is CHRISTmas, not SANTAmas. But just like neighborhoods throughout the world are called upon to unite in kindness for common causes while honoring opposing opinions, I think Santa and Jesus can honorably share a holiday. We offer wishes to one and prayers to the other for what we want. We are equal and valuable to both, and they want us to feel joy and hope as we celebrate the end of 2020.

Just my opinion, I think Jesus asks Santa to join his team and help the world shake off the pain of 2020 and celebrate the true spirit of CHRISTmas.

Until the next time: Live while you live.

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