20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife:  for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.   21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS:  for he shall save his people from their sins.   22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, 23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.   24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:  25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son:  and he called his name JESUS.  (Matthew 1:20-25 KJV)

I have a question to ask the young people that anxiously await Christmas each year. What is the reason for the season? Hopefully the answer is ‘the celebration of the birth of Christ or something close to that answer. If that is the reason, why give in to so much commercialization starting in October (some companies start in September)? Does giving friends and family gifts or even giving yourself gifts, enhance the meaning of Christmas? It appears the true meaning of Christmas have left us and have been replaced with over commercialization.

I remember when I was on the radio, each year I was approached with the request to start my Christmas music special earlier and earlier (I always started the week after Thanksgiving). I always refused because of what was instilled in me when I was a child. Spirituality. Halloween have its place. Thanksgiving have its place. Christmas have its place. In my belief, commercialize Halloween and Thanksgiving but leave Christmas alone. Give a small gift or two but do not go overboard. Do not put yourself into debt and by the time the last payment is due, it’s time to start again. Christmas like Easter should be time for praying, reflecting on your life and being spiritual.

As it stands now, companies are attempting to make as much money that is possible, and they are not thinking about the spiritual portion as the reason for the season. In my day, Sunday was a day that very few stores were open for business. Certain holidays, Christmas included, downtown was a ghost town and most roads/streets had very little traffic. Churches were full and if music was heard it was usually spiritual. Most dinners were prepared the day before and, on the holiday, after church, everyone sat together to eat.

I fondly remember those days but, alas, they are long gone. How I wish for their return, but companies smell money like a wild animal smell blood. All I can do is remember those days, remember the reason for the season and celebrate inwardly. I’ll never forget but will forever long for its return. The birth of Christ should have more meaning to more people now than ever before. These are trying days. I know the reason for the season. Do you?