Oh what a difference three years makes! In my 2003 Christmas column, before John Gibson wrote the book entitled The War on Christmas, I called for Christians to take back Christmas. In 2006, for the most part it appears it has been successful.
The incidents of PC Grinchiness are at an astonishingly low rate. We’ve seen some silliness (such as the West Virginia town that had a manager scene without the Baby Jesus) to be sure, but we should have one of the most peaceful Christmases in recent memory.
This is due in no small part to efforts of those who’ve drawn a line in the sand and fought to keep that time of cheer and good will in its proper place rather than displacing Christmas with the empty commercial, ‘Holiday.” Like all bullies, the ACLU is cowardly. If no one will oppose them they’ll pick on small towns with limited budgets, and some entities will fold in advance to avoid a confrontation. This past season, the ACLU was met with a strong response by Christian legal groups opposing their absurd legal theories.
Many liberals scoff at these victories. Some Conservatives will argue that it’s ridiculous to have any concern for a “War on Christmas.” Yet, the ACLU seems pretty concerned about it. Liberal groups, and institutions that are easily offended, make a big deal out of “Merry Christmas.” Don’t be fooled. The symbols and things we celebrate define who we are as a people. If we are stripped of those cultural symbols and the understanding of their meaning, we quickly forget who we are and where we are going.
Having won Christmas, let us keep it in its true spirit. The needs are great this time of year and by giving of ourselves to the needs of others, we show the true meaning of Christmas. For Christ did not come to receive, but to give.
Our focus should be on the things that matter most, not on the gifts. Christmas has inspired the best of songs and plays, and television. Christmas calls us to reflect on who we are in the eyes of God and man. It calls us to compassion, mercy, and love for one another.
As Christmas triumphs, let’s live in it’s Spirit, through giving, caring, and love. In doing so, we celebrate the things that make Christmas worth defending.
