Why I Say Happy Holidays as a Jesus Follower

 

Why I strive to say Happy Holidays to people, while still sometimes saying Merry Christmas too. 

Saying “Happy Holidays” isn’t about watering anything down nor is it an attack on the meaning found in our Christian tradition known as Christmas.

According to the Online Etymology Dictionary ( https://www.etymonline.com/word/holiday) the word
holiday comes from the old english (haligdaeg) or Holy Day. The word refers to consecrated religious observance, a religious anniversary, or Sabbath. 

When I say Happy Holidays, I am ensuring acknowledgement of a sacred season. As a bonus I show that I honor the traditions of my neighbors that may be different than me in a way that aligns us with the heart of Jesus..

Jesus consistently moved toward people with compassion, dignity, & welcome. When I use language that includes those who don’t share my faith, I am reflecting His heart: a Savior who came for the whole world, not just one group.

As a Christian, I know what this season means to me—God with us, hope breaking into the world, light in the darkness & of course Hallmark Christmas movies galore. Saying “Happy Holidays” doesn’t take that away. It simply acknowledges that I live in a beautifully diverse community, and I want everyone to feel seen and respected.

I personally celebrate Christmas boldly and joyfully! And at the same time, I use inclusive greetings as a small but meaningful way of showing Christlike love in a world that is filled with division, exclusion, & hateful rhetoric.

Saying Happy Holidays isn’t an attack on Christmas it is living out the message of the one we celebrate.

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