Santa’s workshop
Every year at about this time, someone will ask me what I think about Santa Claus, the elves, reindeer and all the rest of giving toys to all good children of the world. I have the same answer every year. I BELIEVE IN SANTA! This has shocked some members of the church, but it begs an explanation. Some believe the birth of Christ is diminished when seemingly secular fairy tales usurp the beautiful story of the nativity. Both the nativity and the story of Santa Claus are stories containing the element of love. Love that goes beyond the mundane limits many have set when it comes to class distinction or social status. This love is available to all that would receive it.
It is said that Santa has a list of all children which tells him who is nice and who is naughty. I must be honest and tell you that I lied to Santa every year. He must have believed me because I still got presents. It was only after I started to study Religious Science that I fully appreciated the whole idea of Santa. Again, we see that the nativity and Santa are all about giving, which is sharing love.
Many have said that there is something about the Christmas season that has a greater appreciation from the people. Contrary to all the hubbub of thinking about who will be on your gift lists, shopping for the items, and wrapping them, there is glee in the giving. Each of us takes on the role of Santa as we give. Your mind, as you do all the work securing the gifts and presenting them is Santa’s workshop. Unlike Santa you sometimes give gifts to the naughty, but sometimes it’s best.
Paul said, “Have the same mind in you as in Christ Jesus. As you give and as you love that Christ Mind is within you. Keep your thoughts in the affirmative, don’t focus on what is wrong with the world, but what is right. It’s hard to see what is right with the news media but see through the fog and know there is a bright, productive day awaiting your presence. Besides you need more time to shop for the gifts on your lists.
We really don’t know what Jesus looked like. I saw one movie where Jeffery Hunter played the role. He had blond hair and blue eyes. Then there was a movie where Jesus looked like he came from an Arab nation, which he did. There has been different versions of Santa also. I suppose in this age of anti-obesity, Santa will be as thin as a fashion model. It really doesn’t matter how either looked. It is the love that counts. I don’t exclude Santa from my celebration. I hope you don’t.
Say to yourself, “The love of God within me gives freely and joyously. God’s great gift of life resonates in and through me. Every symbol of this holiday season reminds me of love.”
God is Love and Loving You Right Now!
(The Rev. Dr. Walt Sharer is minister at Bishop Church of Religious Science, located at 129 E. Line St., Bishop. Rev. Freda Lindsay and Rev. Walt officiate the weekly, Sunday services at 10 a.m. You can hear Rev. Walt’s message on “The Devotional Hour” on Sierra Wave KSRW 92.5 FM Sunday mornings at 8:30 a.m. The church can be reached at (760) 873-4195 for more information.)