You don’t usually pay a visit to the doctors for the purpose of gaining cultural insight. However, that was an experience I had a few days ago when paying such a visit.
While I was sitting in the waiting area I noticed that the wall behind the receptionist’s counter was covered with a range of Christmas-themed stickers.
There was of course a large Santa, as well as several small Santas. There were images of Gingerbread houses, and quite a few gingerbread men. There were Reindeer running across the wall-scape, as well as a number of snowmen (I think quite strangely for an Australian Christmas where a snowman would have a life expectancy of about five minutes!).
Pondering on this cultural collage, it occurred to me that it was a perfect reminder of the West’s descent into the neo pagan Vacuum formed by the retreat of Christianity from 21st century society, as well as the dire consequences of that retreat which are seen daily.
The main thing of note about the images on the wall was not the images themselves however, but what was not there. Namely, the total absence of a nativity scene or any imagery at all that might indicate why this time of year is even called Christmas.
We can and should and will celebrate the birthday of our saviour, the Jesus who died to win for us an Eternal destiny. However, should also take a few moments to feel a sadness for the huge numbers of the lost, now the vast majority in the West, who now surround us at work, at home, in the shopping centre or the Christmas BBQ wherever we might be.
Maybe, as we celebrate, we can also use this time to bring glory to God by displaying his Son, in word or deed, to those who need to know him.
True peace and blessing to you at Christmas.
Discover more from unbounded church
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
