Question of the Week...

Question...Some religions don't honor the so-called religious holidays, such as Christmas and Easter. What are your thoughts as to whether or not these days should be celebrated publically?

Answer...Good question. I truly see both sides of this issue, but take issue with both sides as well! There are religious groups that refuse to celebrate neither Christmas nor Easter, stating that Jesus should be honored on all days not just on a handful of occasions each year. That point is duly noted. Actually, I would very much agree with the premise behind that thought. Meanwhile, the other side of the coin states that Jesus should be exonerated in a very public way and these are just two days in which he can be highlighted and truly celebrated. Again, point noted.

Both sides of the issue comes with their problems. On one hand, Christmas and Easter alike have both earned their critics for becoming overly commercial. Christmas has rapidly settled in as a highlight of the fourth quarter economy and Easter means a spike in candy sales and various supporting items as well. On the other hand, you have religious groups that apparently see no problem with waving the Jesus flag loud and proud while simultaneously seeming to disrespect his ideology, life and accomplishments by insisting that these should not warrant public exoneration. It almost seems dismissive. Of course, these are the more legalistic sects of the Christian Faith who take this stand, so it's not really very surprising that they would attempt to turn what should be an opportunity to showcase the life and teachings of Jesus into another devilish opportunity to dismiss him through more legalism.

With all of that said, do I think that these holidays should be celebrated publicly? Well, yes. Sure, the over-commercialization of these events often distracts us from their true and deeper purpose. However, it should also be pointed out that such celebrations allow us to, in some way, shape or form, return to the loving and compassion driven message of Jesus...and to do so every year. What if we did away with the spiritual component of Easter altogether? Let's just make it a lighter, brighter version of Halloween with egg-hunting replacing Trick-or-Treating. No spiritual symbolism. No deeper meaning. Is that a better scenario for a person who connects to the teachings of Jesus? I doubt it. Such an approach, which is seemingly sought by the more legalistic faiths, leaves with it and opportunity for man to at least reflect on a man and his wonderful message.

To sum up: Absolutely...celebrate these holidays as opportunities to share the message of a very accomplished spiritual mind. Embrace the opportunity to do so. Yes, we should strive to keep the focus on the reason behind each holiday and not give in to over-commercialization. However, we should also do away with any legalism that teaches us to eliminate an opportunity to showcase a message that expresses love to our fellow man and a world that is in constant need of a big warm hug!

Thanks for the question, Becky. Keep 'em coming!
True