An old high school friend whom I’ve always respected put a brief rant about the folks who write CHRISTmas instead of Christmas on his Facebook status this morning. His update made me think about my own annoyance with the very same thing. Although Brian and I hold very different theological views, I think his annoyance is justified.

Here’s why.

Many of the folks who are insisting that we “put the Christ back in Christmas” are not celebrating Christmas. (In my not-always-so-humble opinion.) I’m not sure exactly what is being celebrated, but I really don’t think it’s Christmas, the name of which means “Christ Mass.” Whether or not we should celebrate a “Christ Mass” is in itself debatable, but I think it’s pretty clear that we are not participating in anything remotely close to a reverent and joyful honoring of Christ’s arrival to save us from our sins and oppression.

I passively resisted a bit this year by not putting up Christmas decorations, but my husband wanted them, so I caved. I’ve also been sucked into the commercialism, although I didn’t go so far as to line up at Wal-Mart Thanksgiving night.

I’ve been having fun celebrating this holiday that is not Christmas. I bought my husband some things that he’s been wanting for a while, and I know Sage will be thrilled with his gifts. I feel joy when I find the perfect thing for my best friend. It’s true that the spirit of giving is often alive and present during this time of year.

I’m having a party, although I’m not calling it a Christmas party. It’s a girl’s crafting night. We’ll eat cookies (not necessarily Christmas ones) and have a good time while the tree sparkles in the background.

I’m not going to feel guilty about putting up a tree or buying a bunch of gifts, although my scale will indicate its displeasure at my holiday over-consumption of baked goods, I’m sure. What I’m trying to figure out, though, is exactly how to celebrate Christmas. Because I want to. And I don’t know how.

However that turns out to be, it will still incorporate joy.

And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Luke 2:10