Christmas is a wonderful time of year that brings about so many things. With so much going on and so many things for so many people, it's no wonder that this time of year is what many claim to be their favorite. Shopping, yummy drinks, decorations, music, and Santa Claus.

Santa Claus is a very iconic symbol of Christmas. There are multiple movies, TV specials, songs, and clothing with reference to this creature. I even watched the classic, "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" not too long ago. My brother and I got this special plate from our aunt when we were young that had a special message for Santa on it. On this plate we would place Santa's cookies and Rudolph's carrot, along with a cup of hot cocoa on the side. Even though we're adults now, this has still been a tradition.

Santa makes his presence every year at the shopping mall so children can give him their list. I remember doing this as a kid and having a wonderful time doing so. I do realize though that Santa is not the reason for Christmas. In fact, Santa told me this himself when I was sitting on his lap as a young child at City Hall. He told me that Jesus was why we celebrate this time of year. It was not about him.

That should be very encouraging as a Christian, because I know so many Christians who are very much opposed to Santa Claus for fear of him overshadowing Baby Jesus in the manger. While some obviously make this mistake, I believe it is possible to like Santa and still keep the manger the main thing.

To me, Santa is simply fun. He represents youthful innocence and a large part of Christmas spirit. I don't see him as anything harmful or being out to replace Jesus. Especially since Saint Nick told me the truth as a young child. I realize not everyone had that experience though, so that might be part of the reason why some Christians think Santa is out to replace Baby Jesus.

If you are reading this and do not do Santa Claus with your children or were not exposed to him as a child, that is okay. I am not telling you how to raise your kids. That is between you and God. You do what you feel God is leading you to. The decision to do or not do Santa with your children is merely a conviction. My parents do not have the same convictions as everyone, and that is okay.

With that being said, do not get mad when a child is giddy to sit on Santa's lap. Santa is real to some kids but not to others. It is a choice if you want to believe that Jesus' birth is the true reason, and getting excited over a man in a red suit isn't going to automatically change your belief in the Gospel. At least it hasn't for me.

I am beyond grateful that Jesus was the beginning of God's gracious plan for redemption of the world's sin. We shake our heads at the inn keeper who turned Mary and Joseph away, yet we push away the Holy Spirit's conviction and guidance every day. Nothing is going to stop me from believing in this truth, yet I still enjoy the Christmas spirit that comes from Santa Claus. And that is okay.