In an effort to bring about peace and order during our arts and crafts time, I began to sketch a Christmas tree with a star on top. Now, every child wanted the draw the same thing. They scurried back to their desks to color with renewed excitement.
Later, a boy asked me to draw Santa Claus. Feeling challenged, since I'm not a great artist, I found a YouTube video of "Here Comes Santa Claus" from my BlackBerry. That way, I figured I could get a glimpse of how to draw Santa. It worked!
As the song played, the entire class gathered around that tiny little phone screen to watch and sing. My poor phone was nearly broken! Whew!!!
Pictures of Santa were now the new favorite requests! They asked over and over again! I heard one of them say, "I'm going to leave this picture for Santa, are you coming back tomorrow?"
The school system had advised us we're not allowed to talk about religion with the children. If only those children could get that excited over baby Jesus.
Although the excitement of Christmas is everywhere, as Christians, we've got to remember the "reason for the season" is Jesus Christ the Savior.
It's an enormous challenge--this competition between Santa Claus and Jesus on Christmas Day.
Notice how the word Santa and Satan are made from the exact same letters. Can't you see how Santa is depicted wearing red and white, he's wonderful, and comes bearing gifts. So does Satan, he offers the entire world. Remember, when he tried to tempt Jesus by taking him to a very high mountain to make promises to him. He showed him the world, and he promised Jesus could have anything in the world he wanted, if he would bow down and worship him. Take a look at the scripture:
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. "All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me."
Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.'" Matthew 4: 8-10.
Look how prominent Santa is among families around the world today. Is the baby Jesus so prominent?
We've got to be careful, Saints, if we intend to continue to win this battle for the Lord. We must teach our children the real meaning of Christmas – Jesus Christ, not Santa Claus.
Teach children, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11.
Please understand my point: Gift-giving is good, in memory of God giving his Son Jesus. Wise men came bearing gifts, too. Remember though, it's not about us wondering, "What gift will I get for Christmas." It's about the birthday of Jesus.
Give somebody the gift of Jesus. He is the reason for the season.
Visit the website of Lyndia Grant at www.lyndiagrant.com. To book Lyndia for speaking in churches or businesses, call (202) 518-3192. You can send emails to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .