[Diverdogz]

Yes, which store would Jesus rush off to in his SUV to buy that 62" 1080p HDTV, PlayStation3 and Surround Sound system? He could pick the lowest price and donate the rest to feed the poor, or he may not worry too much about the lowest price, but instead focus on the making sure the retail outlet's marketing strategy properly exploits his name with a hearty "Merry Christmas" sign and greeting from the salesclerk. Hmmmm.

Maybe he'd forgo the whole commercialization of the holiday altogether and show his love by spending time with family members and engaging in a wholesome family activity together. Picnic in the park, "adopt" a nursing home resident, volunteer at a homeless shelter's kitchen or something even more creative.

[Sam's Army]

Overt materialism aside (it's not just something that occurs in Christmas season), it is a cultural flashpoint. Most Christians do the things you mention there all year around. It is not folly to care about the fact that this is an easily identifiable flashpoint of exactly how the left has crept into the American consciousness in just the last 10-15 years.

"Merry Christmas" has only recently become controversial. And it is a pity.