Commenting on pro vs anti Christmas debates amongst Christians, Christopher Van Huss observed: “Christmas, or the celebration of it, has become a part of our culture, good or bad. The key I believe is to accept its presence and use it as an opportunity to contextualise the gospel message.”
In other word, between simple acceptance and simple rejection is space for a third way: thoughtful engagement. In line with this I would say, together, let’s rediscover the echoes of the lifestyle and message of Jesus in the Santa Claus / Saint Nicholas story. It only takes a bit of scratching below the surface.