Imho, I believe that God is pleased that we celebrate the birth of His Beloved Son. Many Christian symbols and observances were perverted by pagans. It’s possible, too, that Christians adopted pagan symbols and turned them into good symbols by definition and practice. St. Nicholas, or today’s Santa, emphasize giving, good cheer and family. The tree is evergreen (eternal). Jesus is the Light. Gifts allude to the Wisemen and God’s Gift of the Messiah to us. The beautiful carols are positive and uplifting. I am weary of people telling me that celebrating the most wonderful Birthday in the Universe has to be rigid. I think God smiles when He looks down at our attempt to make Christmas wonderful! He has said that he looks at the heart. I think you should “go all out” and celebrate to your heart’s desire. Those who criticize remind me of the Pharisees during the time of Christ.

Imho, I believe that God is pleased that we celebrate the birth of His Beloved Son. Many Christian symbols and observances were perverted by pagans. It’s possible, too, that Christians adopted pagan symbols and turned them into good symbols by definition and practice. St. Nicholas, or today’s Santa, emphasize giving, good cheer and family. The tree is evergreen (eternal). Jesus is the Light. Gifts allude to the Wisemen and God’s Gift of the Messiah to us. The beautiful carols are positive and uplifting. I am weary of people telling me that celebrating the most wonderful Birthday in the Universe has to be rigid. I think God smiles when he looks down at our attempt to make Christmas wonderful! He has said that he looks at the heart. I think you should “go all out” and celebrate to your heart’s desire. Those who criticize remind me of the Pharisees during the time of Christ