As a child, I can remember feeling sick with anticipation and excitement on Christmas Eve waiting for the morning to arrive; those were easily the longest nights of my life. Just the thought of Santa somehow appearing in our South Florida home with a sleigh full of presents was more than my small mind could bear…especially since homes in tropical areas don’t have chimneys. I never could figure that one out.
As an adult, Christmas has a completely different meaning to me. After all, it is the day we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and for that we have countless reasons to give thanks. I believe that I am a sinner saved by grace and I have no problem sharing that with the world; even if it is no longer “politically correct” to express my appreciation of God in a public place. Because let’s face it…this is definitely not the world that was described in the Bible thousands of years ago.
Then again, don’t think that I’m bitter because the birth of our Lord has been transformed into a month-long eCommerce bonanza. As long as non-believers get into the giving spirit and treat their fellow man just a hair better during the winter holidays, then I can’t help but think that the world is a better place for it regardless. That’s what Christmas is really about anyway…the act of giving cheerfully…and the Biblical implications can’t be lost there no matter how hard you try.
That’s one of your last marketing lessons of the year- do not be afraid to show the world your religious beliefs during this important holiday season. It is never in poor taste to say, “Merry Christmas” with a smile and a warm handshake, because you’re relaying exactly what the angels cried out from Heaven in Luke chapter two verse 14- “Glory to God in the highest; have peace on Earth and good will towards men.” And for those of us who attribute our success to our religious beliefs, it’s the very least we can do to express our religious convictions.
So I’ll say once again, Merry Christmas my friends; and I look forward to working with you again in 2016. In the meantime, I hope that you have some amazing time off with your family and make lots of cherished memories that will inspire future generations.