No need to read my comments in that way. I am very well aware of every single one of my many shortcomings.
Where were those mass media promoters in the 1600”s I might ask?
In what context?
Intolerance and a belief that there is only one true path is what gives some Christians a bad name.
Well there literally IS only one true path. At least according to the Christian bible which was inspired by God himself.
Their efforts in the name of Christ succeed in pushing people away from his embrace. I daresay more good is done in Christ’s name by the more tolerant less judgemental of us. People are not brought to goodness by admonishments or by eschewing Santa Claus. They are brought to God by seeing his love made manifest.
We might be saying the same thing but they are brought to God because God invites them.
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
I would agree that our lack of love and tolerance CAN and often DOES throw up stumbling blocks to people accepting the call of God.
Listen. I'm NOT attacking Christmas. I'm pointing out reality. You're arguing with me about something that is CLEARLY mythical and has a clear path as to how and why it's celebrated in America and elsewhere today. And you think that my pointing out that God's reality is so much better than the myth of Christmas is going to turn people away from God??
I appreciate you reaching out to bridge the gap forming between us. I do not believe there is only one true path. I believe God sees into our hearts and when we reflect his goodness we are closer to him & he is pleased.
While not realizing it or perhaps intending it, by trying to insist that only your view of reality has value you are attacking other ways of experiencing the world and God. This confuses people who do not see their way clearly and turns them away from God. People that are confident know that everyone has their own journey and a relationship with God is personal.
I believe that people have many paths to the light and I believe that the real meaning and spirit of Christmas is the first step on the path for many since it introduces them to the light so young.
I do not denigrate your way I just respond poorly to you sitting in judgement on others’ beliefs and calling them humbug because their beliefs do not speak to you.
Do not leave it to the marketers and merchandisers to give children the meaning of Christmas but teach your children how to transmogrify the magic of the day and keep it in their hearts, teach why that day is magic by examples and by recognizing the selfless acts of others. Use the day for the teaching tool it is rather than calling it anathema.
Be at peace and fare well.