The other day while looking at Z’s blog (which you should be reading too; he’s swell), I came across a post talking about Stand for Christmas. Here’s a bit of info from the StandforChristmas.com:
In response to the secularization of Christmas and the trend of censoring public references to this time-honored holiday, Focus on the Family and Focus on the Family Action began to speak out on the issue in 2007...In recent years, Focus on the Family has evaluated the advertising of major retailers and assigned ratings based on their level of ”Christmas-friendliness.” We provided these ratings in an annual shopping guide. The response from consumers – and media outlets – has been remarkable.
This year, we’re excited to present a Christmas campaign with a twist!
We’re placing shoppers in the driver’s seat. Through this site, customers can provide feedback directly to retailers and share their experiences with fellow shoppers! [emphasis mine]
Okay, seriously, who thinks this is actually a good idea?
I don’t want to come across as throwing fellow Christians under the bus, but seriously, this is silly.
I’m sure we can all agree that we live in a ridiculously P.C. culture where being as inoffensive and inclusive as possible are our highest virtues; but I also know I’ve never met anyone ever who has been offended by using the term “Merry Christmas.” Likewise, I’ve never seen someone lose their mind because someone said “Happy Holidays.”
I suspect that most people don’t really care that much either way.
Something I frequently need to remind myself is that I can’t expect my non-Christian friends, family and neighbors to hold the same convictions as I do; it’s silly to think that they should. And the fact is, for the majority of people (including many of us who profess to be Christians), Christmas is not about Jesus. It’s about stuff.
But if you want people care Christ in relation to Christmas, the way to do it is not by boycotting stores.
Perhaps a better way would be by taking opportunities to share the gospel, as well as be a bit more considerate toward the overworked and underpaid staff of the stores we frequent.
We can learn our barista’s name at Starbucks and not be in a panicked hurry to get in and out of a store as quickly as possible.
And maybe we can even say, “Merry Christmas” like we really mean it.
Just a thought. Am I out to lunch?
