Christmas Commercialism

“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Luke 12:32-34 (NIV)

Black Friday was a disgrace with shoppers fighting over goods, as well as shops resorting to putting prices up beforehand in order to ‘reduce’ price tags to give the illusion of a bargain.  With all the glitter and commercialism of Christmas one might think that God is a capitalist.

God, of course, is not a capitalist.  Although capitalism is not inherently wrong or evil, Jesus taught that the spiritual life is not about the acquisition of material wealth, and he encourages an economics of generosity.

A very moral young man once asked Jesus what was missing in his life, and the unexpected response was to sell what he had and give to the poor. When the man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

If the celebration of Christ means anything, it means that we should give because God gives to us. He gave us his Son that we may live. He gives us hope in the midst of despair.

Instead of thinking about what we want for Christmas, let’s think about what we can give – not only at this season but throughout the year.

Prayer
Your son came to earth to give his life for us, help us to respond by giving to others.
Amen

Study by John Magowan

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About the Author:
John Magowan is a member of the Pastoral Council at Grace Community Church, Lisburn, Northern Ireland.

Local Congregation:
Grace Communion Lisburn
Ballymacbrennan School Hall
129A Saintfield Road
LISBURN
BT27 5PG

Meeting time:
Sunday 11am

Local Congregational Contact:
lisburngracecom@gmail.com
Phone: 07764336760
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