DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR?

Who knew the sales industry employed trained, seasonal evangelists? Every radio station and department store sound system has been bombarding us with holiday tunes since before Black Friday. In the hopes of priming us for the festive holiday shopping experience, they have managed to change misers and spend thrifts into giving and generous people. I know their idea of a conversion experience is when the latest techno gadgets and toys go flying off the shelves after a rousing chorus of “Santa Baby,” but unwittingly they have also managed to do something else. They have kept Christmas alive in the hearts of non-believers.

The season has become extremely commercialized, but it is what keeps a light shining bright in the hearts of people every year. And that light, no matter how dim, points hearts to Christ, who as we know, is the real reason for the season. Their attempts at altering the consciousness with salutations of happy holidays are somehow derailed by their own devices. For every chorus of “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town,” there is “O Little Town of Bethlehem” and “Silent Night” reminding them of “The First Noel.” Do you hear what I hear? During this season, the name of Christ is heard in shopping centers, malls, bars and over airways just as much as it is heard on Sunday mornings.

So if one too many Christmas songs has you screaming for the exit, stop and thank God for using the sales industry to get His son’s name out to those who may not step inside a church. Wish them a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!