Christmas beliefs

“The Judge Who Stole Christmas” by Randy Singer.

Christmas is just around the corner. Some people are dreading it and some can not wait. Some think it is too early to think about Christmas. Others have been thinking about it for months.

Controversies arise each year as to whether or not religious decorations should be allowed or banned. Which songs and greetings are offensive and to whom. Retailers go with what sells the most merchandise. Activists pro and con make headlines.

We recently read a book that is a fictional story but it brings in some of these issues. It is titled “The Judge Who Stole Christmas” by Randy Singer.

The story begins in the sleepy town of Possum, Virginia where a husband and wife play the parts of Joseph and Mary in a live nativity scene. The husband, Thomas Hammond, ends up in jail for refusing to abide by a court order to shut down the nativity scene. The battle escalates into a national media spectacle. In the middle of it all is a law student, Jasmine Woodfaulk, who is assigned to represent Thomas as a part of her school’s legal-aid clinic.

The story is full of characters out to use the situation for their own agendas. Other characters are forced to think about their own personal beliefs and how they want to express them. They also face what it will cost them personally to share their beliefs as well as live them.

The ending is surprising and not predictable. The author’s intent is to provoke the reader to explore what the real reason for the season is. He also wants the reader to think about appropriate ways for individuals to express and celebrate their beliefs.

An in-your-face, I’m right and you’re wrong approach usually is not effective. Not speaking out or expressing personal belief is not right either.

Now is the time to think about how to share personal beliefs about Christmas in a manner that is thought provoking. Not confrontational but welcoming and inviting. Those who want to listen will. Those who do not will at least know where you stand and hopefully respect you for it.

Our personal belief is Jesus is the reason for the season. Celebrating Jesus’ birth at this time is the focus for us. Helping others in need is our way of honoring Jesus at this time of year. We also spend time with family and friends during the season.

What do you focus on at Christmas? How do you express your beliefs? How will you celebrate Christmas? We will share in and welcome any discussion on this topic with those interested. We will not argue but respect the beliefs of others who differ from us.

We challenge everyone to read the book and let us know your thoughts.