Several years ago a member of the popular Beatles singing group stated, “We are more popular than God.” This statement resulted in provoking wrath in many. However, such statements may well be true.
And, at risk of bringing down the wrath of many it appears to this writer that Santa Claus is likewise more popular than Jesus Christ. And no wonder! Those who have perpetrated the myth have attributed many things to Santa Claus that only God could perform. Who, except God, could possible be everywhere on the earth in one night? Yet Santa Claus is supposed to be able to work such a miracle. And children are led to believe that Santa Claus is the most wonderful giver ever imagined. I do not think, therefore, that it is going too far to state that Santa Claus is more popular than Jesus. Hardly a home can be found where this myth is not entrenched.
Can God be pleased with this product of man’s imagination? I really do not know for sure but note these words from His inspired apostle, “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” (Col. 2:8) A fellow preacher, Donald Rhodes, writing on observance of Christmas, stated, “…each Christian should do all he or she can to teach the truth on this matter, being very careful not to even turn the “myth” of Santa Claus into a “lie” to be believed. Remember ‘all liars shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.’ (Rev. 21:8)”
-by Arlis D. Richardson-
