Christians, Santa Claus, Jesus

Differences Among Christians

Before I was a blogger (and hence immersed in the blogosphere), I was unaware of the immense diversity in the body of Christ. I had been a part of my own church for several years- the only church that I’ve ever called “home”. Of course, there are differences among our members- no two believers are just alike. But once you see the diversity among believers displayed on the internet for all the world to see, then you truly understand the multiple facets of those of us who identify ourselves as Christians.

I discovered that there are difference among Christians. There are Christian women who are committed to wearing head coverings. Then, there are those who don’t wear head coverings as a rule, but they DO only wear skirts and dresses. On the opposite side of the spectrum, there are those who wear whatever they feel like wearing. There are some who don’t bat an eye at drinking alcoholic beverages. And there are those who wouldn’t dream of letting alcohol cross their lips. It seems like you could get dizzy with all the different convictions we hold as individual believers! That brings us to Christians, Santa Claus and Jesus.

So What About Christians, Santa Claus, Jesus?

As we are approaching Christmas (something we should all agree on, right?) I notice some embrace the story of Santa Claus, and others shun Santa. Who is right?

Personally, in our family, we don’t go out of our way to foster the legend of Santa Claus. Sure, Saint Nicholas was a real person, but we have made sure to make our children aware that the version so often portrayed in our culture is pretend. (As they get older, I think I will share more about who he actually was. After all, he was a godly example of generosity and love.)

Seeking God’s Peace

For me, the differences among Christians about Santa Claus all boils down to seeking peace. What gives you the most peace? Just like the decisions to keep one’s head covered, or to drink or not drink, it really is a personal choice that each believer must arrive at on their own.

“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” Colossians 3:15

Another translation of that verse tells us to ‘let God’s peace act as an umpire in our hearts’!

Can Christians Have Unity Despite Differences?

We won’t all agree on every little thing, and I don’t know if that’s even attainable this side of Heaven. We can each approach God in faith, and accept that certain aspects of our faith will look different for each family. We can have peace about our individual convictions; no matter how distinct they might be from someone else’s conviction. As Christians (followers of Christ) we agree and receive Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior…a foundation of our faith. As the Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians 2:2, “for I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.”

As for Santa, he’s not an issue worthy of division, he’s a tradition celebrated around the world. He’s used by parents as an example as selfless giving. I believe we can unify around Jesus and hold Christmas traditions without guilt, shame or condemnation. Give each other grace during this season. Love one another as He (Jesus) has loved us!

Do you incorporate Santa Claus into your family’s Christmas tradition? How did you arrive at your choice to do so (or not)?

Becky is a wife of eight years and stay at home mom to three young children. She aspires to encourage women in Biblical truth on her blog, Happy Christian Home