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PROGRAM D-7734
Here we are in the midst of the Christmas season again. As much as we enjoy this time of the year, it’s very sad to see people using this holy celebration of our Savior’s birth for anything but holy purposes. And nowhere is that more prevalent than in the working world. Have you ever noticed that people who never give Jesus Christ a thought all year long are more than ready to participate in Christmas celebrations and parties?
It seems that Christmas for many people is just an excuse for indulging in very unchristian activities, especially in our work environments. Here are some principles from the Word of God to guide our response to these situations:
The first principle I would point out is that Jesus was not a separatist. He did not by example or by instruction tell us to remove ourselves from every situation that was not religious or holy. In fact, he prayed for us in John 17:15: “I do not ask Thee to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.” He said that he came to save sinners, and he mixed with those sinners, sometimes at their own affairs.
We are not called to be separatists. We won’t reach people for Jesus by staying in our corner and hoping they’ll come over to see us there. We have to reach out to them where they are.
However, that guiding principle has to be balanced with another one as found in 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whether then you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” So, we have a balancing act here between these two principles.
When we can participate without compromising our standards, when we can join in without giving approval to un-Christian behavior, then we may be able to use these occasions as opportunities. But we need to be well aware of keeping the right balance. Jesus reached out to people in their environment, but he never allowed their environment to penetrate into his mind or his lifestyle. We are in the world, but not of it.
All too often we Christians allow ourselves to be brought down to the level of the unbelievers, instead of vice-versa. If there is any question in your mind that you will be able to keep a strong Christian testimony in the midst of any holiday celebration, then it would be wise to keep yourself separate from those questionable occasions. But you may be able to use that occasion as an opportunity to witness or build relationships, without compromising on your part.