On Political Correctness

There was once a time, not too long ago, when there was no debate about Christmas. TV talk shows did not interview people about why they don’t want to use “Merry Christmas” as a greeting. Merchants did not feel that they needed to be innocuous or generic. That has apparently changed – though Target, Sears and Lowe’s have recently changed their minds (commercial though they may be) and have begun to use the word “Christmas” again.

What is more intriguing to me is the reaction of the Christian community. Some are angry; others plan boycotts of merchants who aren’t using the word “Christmas”. Isn’t there a larger truth underlying all of this? That truth is that we are failing to reach our own country with the life-changing message that began in a stable – a message that Immanuel has come – a message that began with angels singing but must be proclaimed today by those who believe in Jesus, the one who came to save His people from their sins. It is hypocritical to be angry with Wal-Mart because they don’t use the word “Christmas” when God did not commit responsibility to preach this good news to Wal-Mart. He gave it to us. As we enjoy this holiday season, let’s look for opportunity after opportunity to explain the message of the manger.