In my series on the Christmas Collective, I recently wrote about Christmas traditions as they play out in our homes. Some of our traditional activities and decorations are similar to those that others participate in because of all that we've come to identify with "Christmas" time. What about those things? The Christmas tree? The nativity? The star? The Wise Men?
As we choose what to participate in and what to decorate with, it becomes more and more noticeable, that there is a growing displacement of CHRIST at Christmas. Some of us seek to find our own ways to reconcile the fact that as Christians, we believe this holiday is, and should be, about HIM. Even so, it is easy to relinquish much of our own celebrations to activities that either directly oppose God or that neglect to point to Christ. So often we will engage in busyness while neglecting time with our Father to thank Him for the baby born for our salvation.
As we choose what to participate in and what to decorate with, it becomes more and more noticeable, that there is a growing displacement of CHRIST at Christmas. Some of us seek to find our own ways to reconcile the fact that as Christians, we believe this holiday is, and should be, about HIM. Even so, it is easy to relinquish much of our own celebrations to activities that either directly oppose God or that neglect to point to Christ. So often we will engage in busyness while neglecting time with our Father to thank Him for the baby born for our salvation.
Can we look to Christmastime, and all that it brings, and engage in discussions that point to the glory of Christ? Not in a legalistic way, but out of the overflow of hearts who are seeking the baby King and minds that are centered on Christ over the HOLYdays? I pray that we may we find opportunities to discuss the reason for the season. A great way to do so is with this new book by Master Books.
The War on Christmas is a beautifully done book with a pleasing layout, simple chapters and content that is just enough to prompt discussions with friends, or family. Perhaps you forgot to start an Advent reading this year (ahem), and maybe you just want to read something short to prompt consideration for Christ at Christmas, then consider this non-Advent book as an alternative.
Each chapter is short (3-5 pages with interspersed pictures.) As such, the information in each chapter is light and provides brief, but concise and pointed, coverage. Personally, I enjoyed the aspect of this simple concept presentation for the most part. When I first saw the title though, I thought the book might be a long and in-depth book on Christmas history and expression, which it is not, really. There is, however, an in-depth perspective which becomes clearer when the book is read in its entirety.
Some of the topics include: Christmas origins (name, timeline of events, what is it about?), Confusion and Misconceptions (X stands for Christ, Three Kings?), About Baby Jesus, How Christmas Came to Be (Star, Virgin Birth, Real Nativity) and War on Christmas (Winter Time Worship, Getting Rid of Christ).
For me, I was especially excited to see the chapter on whether or not Christmas has pagan roots. I have some sweet friends who do not celebrate Christmas, and I respect their decision not to do so. In considering why some do not participate, out of a love for Jesus, I was excited to have this book waiting for me to review. It provided insights and helped me identify points I knew in my heart but couldn't clarify. Some of these I will include in an upcoming post - Christmas Collection - Part III: Redemption.
Throughout the book there is a building theme and building argument for the importance of Christ, not only at Christmas, but in entirety, as the whole of scripture points to Him. In addition, the book concludes by sharing why our views on the creation account, in the beginning - Genesis, are so vitally important to the shaping of our belief in the gospel and ultimately who Christ is, as the second Adam, and our need for Him.
Ultimately - The War on Christmas is a beautiful book with a simple presentation of numerous topics surrounding Christmas celebrations and Christ. The whole of the book points to creation, and to Christ, and to the gospel.
It is not an overwhelming book on facts and details, and as such, it should be one that is easy to pick up and read for a few minutes and then pick up again later. I truly hope that families and friends will take time to discuss the content, and seek scripture for further depth and knowledge.
Throughout the book there is a building theme and building argument for the importance of Christ, not only at Christmas, but in entirety, as the whole of scripture points to Him. In addition, the book concludes by sharing why our views on the creation account, in the beginning - Genesis, are so vitally important to the shaping of our belief in the gospel and ultimately who Christ is, as the second Adam, and our need for Him.
Ultimately - The War on Christmas is a beautiful book with a simple presentation of numerous topics surrounding Christmas celebrations and Christ. The whole of the book points to creation, and to Christ, and to the gospel.
It is not an overwhelming book on facts and details, and as such, it should be one that is easy to pick up and read for a few minutes and then pick up again later. I truly hope that families and friends will take time to discuss the content, and seek scripture for further depth and knowledge.
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