Christmas, Happiness

Give to Caesar What Is Caesar’s: Give to God What is God’s

Post By David Eversley December 20, 2018 46 Comments

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(Last Updated On: December 18, 2019)

The above title speaks of Jesus’ reply to the Pharisees as they were trying to trap him with a trick question in Mark 12:13-17. The topic of discussion was whether people should pay taxes. If he had answered “No” or “Yes,” he would have been charged with treason against Rome or his own, the Jews.

What was he saying? To give Caesar his dues/taxes, because the coins bore Caesar’s image. However, they were also expected to give God His due – offering themselves in worship – having been made in the image and likeness of God.

Every year, many are excited about December, citing the usual cliche “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” People seem friendlier, have more money, and seem to be on a high.

Stores are filled to capacity as everyone is in a hustle to get (hopefully meaningful) presents for their loved ones. Some go out on a limb to impress, while others annoy their friends by having the gall to send an empty card without money – or even worse, a digital greeting. I heard you; some nerve, right?

Some save for the entire year so there will be enough funds to “Shop ’till they drop” (another cliche). They outfit their already well-furnished homes, buy enough food to entertain a drove of wild hogs at a deluxe buffet.

Then, there are those goodly folk ringing bells who put things in perspective by soliciting whatever you can afford (usually, small coins) to share with the less fortunate. Their intentions are noble at any time of the year.

Remember & Celebrate, or Restrain?

While some ponder if Jesus was born on December 25th or even born at all, others believe his birth shouldn’t be a big deal, but rather, his death.

Some have mixed feelings — so though they enjoy the “air” of the season; they tread carefully and observe from a distance. They may choose to quietly acknowledge the occasion instead. Yet, tons of turkey, ham, sorrel, and the best of beverages are “benevolently” tucked away in their homes — just in case someone stops in unawares (allowed only at this time of year)… And please don’t you forget to bring gifts for little “Johnny.”

Then there are the hardliners who don’t associate with Christmas but still welcome big holiday bonuses disguised as year-end bonuses, awards, gifts, and other useful tokens.

Just don’t discuss why they ~~compromise~~ do it and all will be well. I call them “seasoned” flirters and party poopers at heart. Most of them you know wouldn’t refuse a buttload of $100 bills (not that butt — see image below), dark chocolates, invitations to lunches and other goodies to justify their disassociation with Christmas, right?

No Brainers are Us!

Then there are the brains behind the commercial aspect. The engines that turn the wheel of the festivities and turn our brains to mush with tempting deals we ~~can’t~~ don’t want to refuse. Yes, the ~~abominable~~ adorable merchants who stock up shop, so we can “shop ‘till we drop” or die dead broke (there he goes again with the cliches).

Merchants may not all be in one accord with the “reason for the season” but they will grab hold by hook or by crook of any opportunity to tap your pockets dry every time.

They are businessmen/women, who can blame them. Making money is the reason ~~for the season~~ they exist.

You may now be wondering where is he going with all this.

The Link Between Money and Happiness

Whether we are lighter in spirit at this time of year because we have extra money or we anticipate receiving gifts, there is an important lesson to learn.

Money is an extension of our lives; the reward for our skills, our aptitude, knowledge. With money, we can reach our goals much faster than if we had little resources. The more money we have the happier we are likely to be, for obvious reasons. We can pay our debts, help others and live our dreams. With good management, we can reduce our stress levels significantly and in a way, every day can be Christmas.

I think it’s safe to say the more we have, the happier we are likely to become. When we buy the things we want for our pleasure, we are “buying” happiness, though not necessarily joy.

Another aspect is that most get a kick from giving to others. Admittedly, it feels great to give – and sometimes that awesome feeling nice people (like me) experience when giving, is sweeter than when they receive.

Can this be the reason most of us are in good spirits at this time of year? Because we have more money to “buy” and share “happiness?”

Is this reason enough to celebrate the season, though?

The Real Reason We Celebrate

Special days of the year include paying tribute to ordinary men and women. We acknowledge them by celebrating their legacy and contribution to mankind.

If you are like me, you celebrate your birthday because you are grateful to God for life. You are a gift to the world and your birthday is your special day. It qualifies your purpose and the reason you were born. Accordingly, you’re pampered by your loved ones and held in high regard… (at least for that day).

I understand that everyone doesn’t share a common belief system but since Christmas owns the name of its Lord, we celebrate the reason, significance, and purpose of His birth. Just remember though, He’s not a baby anymore.

Whether we identify with Christianity, for me, Jesus was born — and this time is used to celebrate Him. It also doesn’t matter if this time of year is seasoned with pagan intentions. Here’s why.

To Those Who Don’t Celebrate Because of Pagan Roots.

The days of the week represented pagan gods (Sunday, Monday…) yet we don’t worship a sun god (I hope) on Sundays. We were not responsible for naming the days of the week. But it’s our responsibility to worship God every day in spite of.

Once our hearts and motives are true, like the wise men (who said there were 3?) – we will worship and thank God for the purpose He came into the world — to save mankind from their sins.

Don’t use his name in vain when you say “Christmas” or give credit to any other. It’s Christmas and we celebrate Him. Give to God what is God’s.

Merry Christmas!

The real reason for Christmas competes with many other mainstream alternative symbols for proper recognition, but I am a Merry Christmas and not a “Happy Holidays/Season’s Greetings” guy. I will identify with the “reason for the season” as long as it is called “Christmas.” It bears His name and honour is due.

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Merry CHRISTmas and a Happy New Year from all at Better Human Beings!!

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