The bible tells us that Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. (2 Corinthians 11:14) He is a master of deception and often deceives with things that are seemingly harmless or things that even appear to be very good. A popular Christmas song tells us:
"He sees you when you're sleeping. He knows when you're awake. He knows if you've been bad or good, So be good for goodness sake."
Only God can see and know all! Satan desires to steal Christ's glory; he wants to take the worship and praise that rightfully belongs to our Lord. (Isaiah 14:14; Matthew 4:8, 9) Do most children think of toys, gifts and fun at Christmas time or the Saviour Who wants to give them eternal life? Which do they most adore? Who occupies their thoughts most? Whom do they have the most desire to please? An idol is anyone or anything that takes the place in our hearts and lives that belongs to Christ. Would you say Santa Claus has done that for many children?
It is important to us that children be honest with us and with others. But how consistent and honest are we being with them when we tell them stories of Santa? We may attempt to justify this by saying it's for their good and will enhance their enjoyment of the Christmas season. While this may be the result, it can also create confusion and distrust in them. Small children are generally very trusting. They believe us and rely on what we say. Is anything worth risking any portion of their trust in us or their hope in God? I recall my reaction at finding out the truth. My response was, "Why did you lie to me?!" Likewise, my husband recalls thinking, "If Santa Claus isn't real maybe God isn't real either."
We will be accountable to God for what we encourage children to believe and hold dear. We are responsible to teach them the way of salvation. This is true whether we are their friends, church leaders, teachers or relatives. Parents and grandparents have the greatest responsibility and opportunity to do so.
"But whoso shall offend [cause to stumble] one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that amillstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea." (Matthew 18:6)
Now is the time to teach children to adore, glorify, and reverence our Lord. We must not only tell them but also demonstrate His life and love in our own lives, teaching them to live for Him and to relate all things in their lives to Him. He died not just to take us to Heaven but to make us His own, to make us pure and holy and to save us from our sins. THIS is why he died. THIS is the reason He came!
"...Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." (Titus 2:13, 14)
The story of Santa Claus has been a tradition in many andprobably most of our homes for quite some time. We want others to experience the same joys that we ourselves experienced in our
childhood. The idea of reindeer on rooftops at night and leaving cookies for Santa can be delightful and fun, but is all this
really in the best interest of the children we love so much? There are several reasons why I believe it can actually be quite harmful to them. This statement may surprise you or seem strange, but I hope you will continue reading this tract with an open mind.
At the time we have set apart to celebrate our Saviour's birth, on whom do you want to encourage the children in your life to focus their attention and adoration? Will you choose the Santa that they will someday see to be a lie and a farce or will it be Jesus Christ, the Saviour Who laid aside His own glory to be born as a man and die on a cross to redeem their souls and Who longs to make them His own: The One Who will never leave them nor forsake them for all of their lives and throughout all eternity. I believe God is grieved every time a precious little child puts his or her hope, love, and faith in "Santa" rather than in His Son.
I realize this is not a common way ot thinking but I wish it were. Please think and pray about it and ask the Lord for His direction.