The Christmas celebration has been the subject of some controversy over the years. The day, the title and the trappings have often been challenged on a number of grounds. The United Pentecostal Church International does not exalt December twenty-fifth as a High Holy Day. Churches and individuals make the day whatever they want it to be. Some go in for elaborate decorations and celebrations. Some keep it simple. Others do not recognize it at all, believing it to be a pagan holiday.
But long, involved debates about Christmas have never served us well. It is true that it suffers from over-commercialization. Society’s expectations of Christmas gifts and parties have become burdensome to many. Nevertheless, we have to recognize that Christmas, perhaps the most popular holiday in the world, turns the spotlight on the birth of Jesus. Wisdom often dictates that we follow a path that lies outside the normal range of choices. “He that winneth souls is wise.” If we can set aside our misgivings about the day long enough, marvelous opportunities to touch the lives of countless people present themselves to us. Here are a few:
Family gatherings. Many new converts disdain family get-togethers because of the drinking, foul language and immorality that invariably shows up. Some dread the arguments that often break out between relatives. Yet, Jesus deliberately visited in the house of sinners to be a beacon in a dark place. He knew that he had to enter into their society—-without partaking of their sins—-in order to have an impact on them. When you go, I advise you to do the following: Swallow your pride, smile through offensive insults, reach out to a hurting, lonely cousin or in-law, talk to everyone, and make sure you are remembered for something good. This is your opportunity to deliver a powerful, positive message by how you act, not by preaching. On the other hand, if you withdraw and express judgmentalism and disgust, that’s how you will be remembered. Leave before it gets too bad, but not before you have expressed the joy and happiness that is in your heart.
Gift-giving. Before you opt out of the gift-giving scene, consider the opportunity it affords you to establish a witness. The gift of a Bible, a book by a Christian author, a Christian tape or CD or some other Christian related gift may open a door to a person’s soul. Even if it doesn’t, you haven’t done any harm. It’s just another way to plant a seed.
Christmas cards and letters. Yes, it is a chore. Keeping any relationship alive takes work. Maybe the task will seem lighter if you try sending a distinctively Christian card. Better yet, write a little letter about the difference Jesus made in your life this year. If you include enough personal information in it, and not make it an impersonal sermon, it will get read.
Pictures. People will look at pictures, and they send wonderful messages. If you want the message to center on Christ, put a Bible in it, or have it taken with your church in the background. Your smile gives a silent testimony about Jesus.
Friendliness and cheer. The Christmas season gives all of us an opportunity to manifest a kind and charitable spirit that honors Christ. Call somebody that you haven’t talked to for a long time. Visit a neighbor and take along a pie or plate of cookies. Participate in a volunteer program. Do something that tells the world that love rules your heart.
Incarnation messages. Oneness believers are especially blessed by the miracle at Bethlehem because we recognize Jesus as deity robed in humanity. As a pastor, I welcome Christmas time as an opportunity to preach about the true identity of Christ. This centerpiece of the Apostles doctrine deserves to be heralded throughout the year, but especially in this season.
The Holy Ghost baptism. The gift of the Holy Ghost represents God’s greatest gift to the believer. Christmas time, while much attention is drawn to gifts, becomes an ideal occasion to focus on the Pentecostal experience. It’s not what gift you can give, but the gift that God alone can give that changes a person’s life. It is joy unspeakable and full of glory!
Christmas may be laden with tradition and imprisoned in pressure-packed circumstances. The way you line up on the issues remains your personal concern. But keep your eye open for times to share the good news. Don’t allow the extraordinary opportunities that Christmas affords to reach out to souls, most of whom don’t know or care about such difficulties, pass you by.