Some Christians reject Christmas because they rightly believe that it comes from pagan origins. In Rome the 25th December was celebrated by the pagans as the birth date of the sun. In the early church the birth of Christ was generally not celebrated. By the third century, it was being celebrated in different communities on either the 6th January or the 25th December.

Think of this verse in Malachi 4:2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.

So is Christmas pagan? That is up to you and how you celebrate it. It is really a matter of perception. I believe the principles of 1Corinthians 8 should be a determining factor. In our society Christmas has no pagan connotations remaining from its origin-it is seen as a celebration of Christ's birth. As such it provides some unique opportunities for evangelism. It has to be said, that for many they celebrate it in a completely pagan way, and why not, they do not know our Saviour. For them it is Xmas. X is the unknown quantity.

Putting Christ central in all your celebrations will be a tremendous witness to others. Christmas is an opportunity too good to miss in presenting the gospel. Avoid Christmas cards and things that leave Christ out. Unsaved family members and friends are easier to share the gospel with at this time with cards that tell them the true Christmas story.

Avoid the man in the red suit like the plague as he is the enemy of the true Christmas. Lift up Christ. Read the Bible at Christmas Dinner. Centre family devotions on passages that reflect the prophecies of Christ's coming.Make Christmas special because Christ is it's centre. Honour Christ in every respect and you and your family will know God's rich blessing.

Luke 2: 9-11 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.