A couple of things to think about. With the holiday season upon us and everyone shopping, let us keep in mind we have a capitalistic system. Let the buyer beware. Let the marketplace determine supply and demand. Not the government and/or the special interests groups. Let us also remember this capitalistic system has produced the strongest economy in world history.
But most importantly let us remember, “Jesus is the reason for the season.” God’s gift to mankind, the original Christmas gift. While we hurry around trying to find that special gift for our family members, we often, probably more than often, forget the true meaning of the season. And as we shop we don’t think that we are part of the capitalistic system.
Peace, love and joy we hear all the time during the Christmas season. Yet the world is not very peaceful, with the war in Ukraine and the Israeli – Hamas war dominating the news. Plus other conflicts we rarely hear about. There is very little peace in the world. Which is one reason we need to reflect on the true reason for the season. One of the most holy days for Christians, if we didn’t have Christmas, Easter would never have happened. Think about that.
Christmas is a season of love and celebration of God’s gift to us. As we go forth shopping for gifts, let us remember why gifts are so important to our celebration. At the same time let us remember buying gifts is part of our capitalistic economic system. Both are important parts of our society.
There is much to fill our minds with, sometimes it is overwhelming, inflation, the crime problem, the southern border crisis, and protests. We need to step back and reflect on the positive. We need to get our priorities in order. Faith and belief should be first, especially during the holidays. Not everyone in our country is Christian, but those who are should be celebrating without any interference from those who aren’t.
We have the Freedom of Religion. The first amendment to the Constitution states, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise there of …” So if those who might be “offended” by Christmas decorations, or celebrations, remember everyone has the same rights.
Christmas is a joyful time of the year. With good wishes expressed, gifts exchanged, carols sung and numerous other traditions observed. We live in the greatest country in the world. Even with all the problems and issues we are facing, nothing can or will change how we celebrate the birth of Jesus, our Savior and Lord.
Herb Dettmer is a retired Bowling Green resident, U.S. Army veteran and writes this column representing the viewpoint of “Joe Average” citizen. He is freelance writer and author of “Others,” a devotional book. Call or text “Joe” with comments at 419-494-4641.
