All These Winter Holidays - How Can a Christian Graciously Respond?

It used to be that people celebrated Christmas, and Christmas was it. These days, it seems like there's 101 winter holidays and everyone is expected to be tolerant and accepting of everyone else's beliefs (well, almost).

You may believe, as I do, that Jesus Christ came as a babe born in a manger in Bethlehem, to grow up as a man and die on a cross for our sins. However, we live in an increasingly pluralistic world. On the one hand we are charged with sharing this good news with our neighbor. On the other, we need to be led by the Holy Spirit in how, when, and where we do so. Sharing good news simply is not tolerated in our tolerant world, especially at times when the world is having fun with its own celebrations.

Here is a quick guide to non-Christian winter holidays and suggestions for how to lovingly respond.

You should decide beforehand, prayerfully, to what extent you'll acknowledge the holidays of non-believers. Some Christians feel that it's just fine to wish a Witch a Happy Yule and give a gift of a candle. Other believers are horrified at the thought, thinking this to further someone else's sin. Consider prayerfully what the Lord would have you do, both because your own personal response matters to Him, and because how you treat others matters to Him greatly. Other Christians, feeling they shouldn't acknowledge the holidays of non-believers, will respond to "Happy Hanukkah!" with "Merry Christmas!" If done with the right spirit, this need not offend, it is simply two people exchanging pleasantries. If you truly cannot respond likewise, it is always appropriate to simply say, "Thank you."

Evangelism can be difficult at any time of year - whether it's in the workplace or your neighborhood. However, Christmas is an excellent time to share the love of Christ with others, and the winter holidays of other faiths give wonderful openings. Be cautious, again, in when, where, and how you do so, and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit at all times.