Common Sense: Why “Merry Christmas” Still Matters

When a Greeting Becomes a Statement

These days, uttering the words “Merry Christmas” has become a political statement in the minds of many. To some Christians, it is a defiant statement that the birth of Christ should be recognized and celebrated by everyone. For those who practice a different faith, or none at all, hearing the words insults their view of what people should say to each other in public.

All of this brings to mind the admonition that what we should be paying attention to is “the reason for the season.” From where I sit, this is excellent advice for everyone, Christians and non-Christians; a little mutual respect would seem in order.

What Christmas Means to a Christian

Without pretending to be a theological expert, this Christian views the real gift of Christmas to be as stated in Matthew—”they shall call Him Immanuel, which is translated, God with us.” God became truly incarnate to save mankind by the sacrifice of His life to atone for our sins (an area of particular expertise for me) and give us eternal life (closer by the day for we Boomers).

The Intention Behind “Merry Christmas”

We Christians need to be sure that what we mean by saying Merry Christmas is the combination of thanking God for His gift, combined with wishing only the best to those to whom we utter the words. It should be about our gratitude and hoping for good things for others. If instead, we mean “I’m a Christian, going to let you know it, and don’t give a damn about how you feel,” we surely are falling a tad short of loving our neighbor as ourselves.

I would go as far as to say that attitude insults the God we proclaim to be worshiping. If that attitude results in others letting you know they do not appreciate what you are saying, this falls into the “you asked for it” category.

Responding Without Retreating

At the same time, if the perpetually offended and insulted respond to these words as a chance to essentially say “screw you, Christians and this miserable holiday,” that is when the rubber hits the road. It is time for Christians to demonstrate how we respond to the gift of grace. I am not saying that the Christian has to fall all over themselves for saying or doing anything that could cause offense to anyone at any time.

There is more than one way to not back away from saying Merry Christmas when someone lets you know they do not appreciate you “imposing your views.” As earlier noted, the temptation might be to respond in kind, saying you will do as you choose and decide.

Choosing Grace Over Confrontation

Instead of giving in to that temptation, we should view it as an opportunity to show the cross. “Only meant to share part of the joy of the season with everyone. Hope your days are filled with love and joy.”

Do I think that approach will make most of those objecting to Merry Christmas suddenly see the light and thank you for bearing witness? I do not. Do I think we should apologize for saying Merry Christmas who take offense? I do not.