DISCERNMENT IN DEALING WITH OTHERS

Challenges may arise when you choose not to participate in holidays. For example, fellow employees may wonder why you do not engage in certain holiday activities where you work.  What if you are offered a Christmas gift? Would it be wrong to accept it?  What if your marriage mate does not share your beliefs? How can you make sure that your children do not feel deprived because of not celebrating the holidays? 

Good judgment is needed to discern how to handles each situation.  If a holiday greeting is casually extended, you could simply thank the well-wisher.  But suppose you are dealing with someone  you see or work with regularly.  In that case, you might choose to say more. In all cases, be tactful.  The Bible advises: "Let your utterance be always with graciousness, seasoned with salt, so as to know how you ought to give an answer to each one." (Colossians 4:6) Be careful not to show disrespect for others.  Instead, tactfully explain your position.  Make clear that you are not against gift-giving and gatherings but prefer but prefer to participate in these activities at a different time. 

What if someone wants to give you a gift?  Much depends upon the circumstances.  The giver might say:  "I know that you do not celebrate the holiday. Still, I want you to have this." You may decide that  accepting  the gift under those circumstances, is not the same  as taking part in the holiday.  Of course, if the giver is not the same  as taking part in the holiday.   Of course, the giver is not familiar with your beliefs, you could mention that you do not observe the holiday. This would help to explain why you accept a  gift but do not give one on that occasion. On the other hand, it would be wise not to accept a gift if it is given with clear intention of showing that you do not stick to your beliefs or that you would compromise for the sake of material gain. 

Next time: WHAT ABOUT FAMILY MEMBERS?

From the Book: What Does the Bible Really Teach? 2005 and 2006