The Christmas holiday has a huge cultural footprint, for Christians and non-Christians alike. How does it impact you?
For Christians, the Christmas holiday holds special significance as the birth of Jesus Christ. But for people who practice a different religion, or even no religion at all, December 25th is still a significant day.
Many of the trappings of Christmas, as it is celebrated today, have little to do with Christianity. For example, Santa Claus is mentioned nowhere in the Bible. In fact, many of the ways of celebrating the holiday are borrowed from other cultures. This includes the decorated tree, the giving of gifts to family members, Santa Claus, and other parts of today’s holiday.
Regardless of the origins, however, Christmas decorations start to appear in stores months in advance. Many towns decorate outdoor trees and shrubs with lights, usually starting in early December. Some may also have a town Christmas Tree with an official lighting ceremony.
Christmas music can be heard in some places as early as October. It is almost inescapable for the week or two prior to the 25th. Carolers may even go from door to door singing holiday songs.
On the commercial side, retailers try to entice buyers with sales. Of course, the discounts are available to anyone, Christian or not.
On Christmas Day itself, most businesses are closed, so most everyone gets a day off, regardless of religious affiliation. In Jewish communities, for instance, it is common to have “December 25th concerts” (for obvious reasons, they are not called “Christmas concerts”).
What are some ways the season impacts you? How do you suppose it is different for people with different religious beliefs? Different economic backgrounds?
Related questions: What does the holiday mean to you? Does your holiday fill you with wonder? What makes a tradition?