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| PentecostalTheology.com
THE SANTA CLAUS SPIRIT – Ray E Horton
What say you? Some Christians believe teaching their little ones the Santa Claus myth is just innocent fun, representing the giving Spirit if Christmas. But is it, or is it lying to our children and a distraction from the true message of Christmas?
The giving spirit of Christmas is wonderful and reflects God’s giving heart. But we give because of Jesus, not Santa. And while the kids eventually learn the truth, the distraction from the real reason and source of giving in their early years can stay with them.
Santa “Claws”
The distraction from the real reason and source of giving in their early years can stay with them
My kids used to call Santa Claus, “Santa Claws,” equating that myth with a lying spirit that just confuses and distracts from the true message and is a part of the greed of commercialism. They always knew the gifts were from parents and family in celebration of Jesus coming physically into the world.
If your family has Santa Claus as a part of your Christmas celebration, there is no condemnation. You likely saw it as innocent fun. But, if you receive this message, it’s time to tell you little ones the truth. And tell your older kids that it was a mistake, so they don’t pass on a bad tradition. Tell them we leave Santa to worldly people who don’t know Jesus, and not to condemn their ignorance. If you are just starting a family, you can start out right at Christmas without Santa.
Tell them about the greatest gift
What about that sense of enchantment that seems to delight kids (or scare some)? You don’t need it for them to experience the joy of giving and receiving. My kids were as just as happy without Santa. Tell them about the greatest gift, God with us in Jesus.
