Christmas Time is Here! Decisions, decisions, decisions.

We're in the middle of a season where those of us who know about Christmas have choices to make. If we have family who celebrates with gift exchanges and family gatherings and such, there are definite expectations about participation. Up until now, I've continued a degree of participation but I can't do it this year. I'm opting out.

I wrote an email to my family members explaining my situation. I'm presenting it here for you to read and consider. Is this something that strikes a chord with you? You're welcome to use this for inspiration or, if you want, you have my permission to copy it and include it along with your own commentary to refer to as an example.

Blessings!

Bob

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Hi Everyone,

For many years I've been aware of how every popular tradition relating to Christmas and Easter is not biblical but pagan in origin. Sure, Jesus Christ was born and died and raised again, and Bible passages are read in churches, but none of that does anything to redeem the pagan practices. To celebrate pagan traditions is really to honor the gods of the pagans. I choose not to do that. If you knew what I knew, you wouldn't join in the heathen practices either, because it's really far better to worship God in truth and with purity.

You may be wondering why I would think the customary holiday traditions are pagan traditions. Research it for yourself. The problem most of us have is not so much discovering the truth or figuring out the right thing to do. The problem is that most of us really just don't want to do what's right. More and more, I find that I do. I hope you do, more and more, too.

I cannot in good conscience continue to participate in any activities related to Christmas or Easter, which includes the customary gift exchange. I am opting out of this and any future Christmas or Easter involvement. I won't be visiting family where and when those holidays are being celebrated. I do love each of you, and hope that you will consider what I'm writing in this email. You might feel there is in this something of a loss but it is really a gain, a big gain! My God is worthy of being honored! He is generous with reward for those who love Him.

Blessings in Christ Jesus,

Bob