Merry CHRISTmas!

This is the time of year where pleasantries are exchanged on a regular basis. “Happy holidays” is said with a smile. “Season's greetings!” is proclaimed with a nod. But for me, there's nothing sweeter or more refreshing to hear than “Merry Christmas.” I’ve always found it ironic that there are so many efforts to be "all inclusive" during the holiday season—the result is the exclusion of Jesus.

Attempts to X out Christ begin with the terrible "Xmas" label and go as far as removing any mention of Jesus from the holiday celebration. Without Jesus—the Christ—the entire meaning of the Christmas holiday is lost. What is the song Silent Night without the refrain “Christ the savior is born”? Why have a tree without topping it with either the star or angel in remembrance of the arrival of the Messiah? No wonder so many people are left feeling as empty as their unwrapped gift boxes after the holiday is done.

Luke 2:11 declares, “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.” Christmas, or “Christ’s Mass” is a celebration of His birth. Now what sense does it make to have a birthday party and ignore the guest of honor? A simple “Merry Christmas” goes a long way in showing you know Who the party is for.

When I hear and say “Merry Christmas” these days, I consider it a purposeful and direct acknowledgement of Jesus Christ. It may not be politically correct—but I’d rather not be spiritually incorrect!

Merry Christmas, dear readers!