The Renovating Reverend

Over the past few years, some Christians have taken up a cry against the use of the greeting “Happy Holidays!” In fact, I’ve actually seen people hiss through their teeth and mutter, “I hate that!” when wished holiday happiness. Some others loudly respond with a “Merry CHRISTMAS!” I’ve had trouble understanding such bitter rejection of a kindly phrase, and have decided to let these bitter responses remind me of the reason for the season, which is not strict adherence to any particular religious or social tradition, but is, rather, about an open invitation to walk with God and respond to God’s love with joyful, open-hearted generosity. After all, if I’m occupied with bitter disgust for people who wish me happy holidays, there will be little room in my heart for a meaningful, merry Christmas.


However you spend the next couple of weeks, may your spirit be uplifted and your heart opened wide.