Reason for the Season

[lukec]

Hey guys

Long time no chat. Anyway, the other day I was reading the local news around here and I discovered this gem in the "Letters to the Editor" section.

"Reason for the Season

I think more should be heard from those of us to whom Christmas is all about Christ. Our culture attempts to distort the true meaning of Christmas. The life of Christ is a historical fact, not a myth. The Old Testament of the Bible tells us we are like sheep gone astray, so God sent his son. John 3:16 'For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son that who ever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.' Wow, what a message to everyone. So let us forget all about political correctness nonsense. Let us sing carols and proclaim the true meaning of Christmas to the whole world. Not to those confined to churches and homes only. It's not about gifts and Santa Claus. It's all about Christ's birthday. We want children to know the truth. Merry Christmas. -Stella Attrell"


Of course I was irked, but I am sad to say that it seems to be the prevailing school of thought (if it can be called that?) around my area. I also recently learned that we have about 40 churches for the population of about 50 thousand so it's not really surprising. Anyway, I wrote my own letter to the paper so we'll see if they publish this:

"Re: Stella Atrell’s 'Reason for the Season.'

I would have to agree with Mrs. Atrell, that the meaning of Christmas has been distorted. However, the blame doesn’t all fall on modern culture; some, at least, lies with those who took the date from a pagan ritual in order to smooth the transition into Christianity. Further, the life of Christ is not a historical fact, it is a belief supported only by a self-affirming (and self-contradictory) book. This is why belief requires faith. So without belief in Christ, what does Christmas mean? To me, Christmas is just a holiday, albeit one which brings with it pleasant traditions and delicious turkey. More importantly, however, it’s also a time to enjoy the company of loved ones. It doesn’t have to be about Christ’s birthday. I think children really should know the truth, and be given the choice to separate myth from reality. Happy New Year!"

Of course, I don't think they will publish this, but you never know.

[Purple Rabbit]

I wonder why christians never wonder how a christmas tree fits in the Jesus story. True meaning? There never was one.

[Pope Alfred]

I hope they do publish it, that would really stir them up.

[Violet]

Your response doesn't seem even slightly offensive to me... but then again I'm not a theist

[Tiberius]

Here's hoping they put it in!

[tackattack]

As a theist I'm not overtly offended by it and would love to see it published.

[Violet]

As a theist I'm not overtly offended by it and would love to see it published.

If only there were more of that kinda theist

[Dotard]

My prophecy;

They will print it. Controversy sells newspapers.

[Eilonnwy]

I wonder why christians never wonder how a christmas tree fits in the Jesus story. True meaning? There never was one.

At my old job a male coworker asked a female coworker about what she does for Christmas and he was extremely confused when she said she doesn't put up a Christmas tree. She explained that it is condemned in the Bible, so she doesn't do it. He didn't believe her so they got a Bible and looked up the passage. I was amused by the whole exchange.

[Violet]

So who was 'right' in the end, Eilon?