Lessons in Living
Saving Christmas
The task of theology is to build a bridge between the sacred as presented in our scriptural traditions and the world in which people actually live. Rather than fight against secular aspects of Christmas, in this December 2008 series Jim Rigby showed how to reclaim the secular elements of Christmas wherever we can without betraying the message Christmas is intended to proclaim:
- Nov. 30: Nativity Scenes. (Download podcast or transcript in MS Word.) The manger story is actually an ancient theme where the savior figure is recognized by animals and all kinds of people. The manger is a small symbol of the whole world. This sermon was based on Genesis accounts of Eden and the ark. Scripture passages are Genesis 6:17–20, Luke 2:8–12, and Revelation 21:1–8.
- Dec. 7: Christmas Lights. (Download podcast or transcript in MS Word.) From the earliest of times, light was a symbol of the spiritual life. Everything we can see shines out of an invisible abyss that we cannot. Whether it is looking into a fire, or at the stars, light is very suggestive of the mystery of being. The passage is from Isaiah 60:1, “Arise; your light has come.”
- Dec. 14: Seven Secrets of Santa. (Download podcast or transcript in MS Word.) The real Santa was a loving old saint named Nicolas. Buddhism also has an image of a jolly and hefty guy who carries a bag and leaves surprises for the children. While every symbol must eventually be broadened and deepened, this sermon will speak respectfully of what may be a child’s first symbol of the spirit of love. The scripture is Ephesians 4:7–16.
- Dec. 21: The Tree of Life. (Download podcast or transcript in MS Word.) It was Martin Luther who reportedly brought the tree into the Christmas tradition. Looking up through the branches of evergreens, he realized how a tree symbolizes life. The tree can be a wonderful symbol of the interconnectedness of life. This lesson came from Proverbs 3:13–20.
- Dec. 28: Gifts. (Download podcast or transcript in MS Word.) Gifts can be a symbol of consumerism — or they can be a symbol of the love behind the giving. The Magi are the latter. The scriptures are James 1:7, “Every good gift is from above,” Romans 6:23, “God’s gift is life,” and Matthew 2:9–11.
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