Consumerism Chucked Christmas Down A 'God Sized' Hole

RealClearReligion ^ | 12/29/2011 | Bill Flax

[billflax]

Despite many a pundit's tale, it wasn't secular society that just evicted Christ from Christmas.

This assault on faith is neither new nor limited to the holidays. Instead of a peculiar people living as salt and light to a lost world, far too many Believers let the divine splendor of Light descending to Earth be eclipsed under the dull luster of consumerism.

We Christians seem unsatisfied by Christ's coming and instead compensate through seeking worldly ends. But if we are too busy living the same lives as unbelievers, who else will give an account of the rich hope that's within us?

The idea that every heart bears a "God-sized hole" has been attributed to Augustine. Fallen man tries filling this longing emptiness by worshipping possessions, pleasure, pride, power and even things that don't begin with P.

Yet wealth is likely our most common idol; materialism its alluring snare. Esteeming money before God is the root of many evils. Riches manifest these sundry other temptations.

Seeking gain is natural and if obtained honestly, riches can be an instrument for righteousness. Assuming we keep possessions in proper perspective, we may as Solomon instructs, enjoy the fruits of our efforts. Two of the Ten Commandments certify private property. Contentment is however critical, living charitably essential.

[billflax]

God bless!

[RitaOK]

I believe you have certainly made a fine point. I do believe your point is being pondered more and more by Christians, and that slowly, with each passing Christmas, we are realizing that the traditions have been co-opted by consumerism and the caving in to the “winter holiday” approach of bright lights, obsession with possessions, endless, pointless shopping and preparation. We will be seeing less of it in the future among the more devout, where less shall become more, as we recognize the poverty of Christ.

[Reddy]

Wish we had a “like” button for your post :)

[RitaOK]

Thankyou, Reddy. You are kind to say so. I can tell, you are one who has seen the light too. Have a blessed Christmas Season.

[LetMarch]

Thanks Billflax;

I have had 77 Christmas’s so far, and for the most part, loved them all. Movies like “Wonderful Life” and “Miracle on 34th Street” plus our beloved “White Christmas” and “Jingle Bells” and last but not least; “Santa Clause.”

But as a Christian, and as I focus on the birth of our Saviour. I more and more,wonder if it grieves the Lord as what our children and grandchildren have learned, or not learned about the One called: “Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world.”

Maybe, just maybe, the Lord would have us learn and teach about Him which: “For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world throug Him might be saved.” (John 3:17)

[billflax]

Thanks for reading and the encouragement!