OK, I just got another e-mail ranting about the evils of saying “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas.” I was told that if I love Jesus, I will say in loud, angry tones, “Merry CHRISTmas!”

Here’s what I’m thinking. I’m going to say Merry Christmas every chance I get. I love Christmas. I can only say it for a month or so. I will make the most of it. No one will tell me I can’t say it. Honestly, I don’t fear that I will lose my right, as an American, to say Merry Christmas. When I do say it, I will do so in a way that is both merry, and Christ-like. I won’t try to prove a point or challenge a stranger to a duel of verbal greetings.

Why should I expect a person who doesn’t know Christ to celebrate His birthday?

Historically, Israelites would not speak the name of God. They wouldn’t even write the whole name for fear of misusing it and disrespecting the name and God whom it represents. The name of God must be respected and not thrown around lightly.

Exodus 20:7 “You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.

When I speak the name of Christ, it means something, every time. When someone else speaks His name and means nothing, that lessens the impact of His name. When I say Christ, whether in Christmas or not, people should take notice. On the other hand, when someone says, “Happy Holidays,” I should take notice. This could be my chance. Not to jump over the counter and strangle him with garland, but to share Christ, to introduce this person to Christ’s love. Isn’t that the goal? Rather than forcing someone to speak the name of Christ with no understanding, wouldn’t it be cool if one more person this season said Merry Christmas and it meant something?