It was just a text message hoping the recipient had a fun 4th of July that continues through the weekend. During the holidays, I usually send a text greeting to friends and family or a number on my contact list. So that’s what I did last week to a new person on my contact list.
The reply thanked me but also informed me that they didn’t celebrate pagan holidays. They do what the Bible says and celebrate God days not man-made days. He also mentioned that he didn’t want to go against the word of God and partake in paganism.
I’ve had a couple people tell me to stop but most people respond favorably or not at all to the holiday text. This was the first time anyone had replied that having fun on the 4th of July was paganism. I would have thought I’d get such a reply for Halloween or even Christmas but not Independence Day.
I texted a thank you for letting me know about his belief and didn’t mean to disrespect or offend. I mentioned Romans 14 and ended with him to enjoy his Sabbath. Since that was a Holy Day according to the Bible.
The response was long. It said they didn’t have a belief or opinion. He was just following the covenant and the doctrine that the Bible tells us. He mentioned John 14:15 saying he or she that believes in me keeps the commandment and 7:38 that he or she that believes must believe in me as the scripture said. I think his version of the Bible is different or he typed it wrong.
From those verses, he texted that we shouldn’t be honoring no pagan holidays, no Sunday worship, and no birthdays because that is idolatry. He texted that he could go on and on but left me with 1 Corinthians 10:20 that people who celebrate pagan holidays are not of God but of the devil.
I replied with a thank you for the info and that I would seek God for guidance. Maybe he blocked my text because according to his Bible, I was of the devil. I did pray for him and those who think the way he does because I’m thankful to live in a country that allows freedom of religion and the freedom to celebrate holidays if we choose to. I celebrated the 4th with other Jesus followers. Scott and I left the party before the fireworks, but we did enjoy those that we saw from the road while driving home.
I don’t remember Jesus or the Bible saying we can’t celebrate birthdays or have Sunday worship. I read of the Holy Days, which the word holiday comes from, that were given to the Israelites to observe. Since I’m not Jewish, I’m not compelled to follow those Holy Days. If there are verses stating not to worship on Sundays or celebrate birthdays, please let me know.
The apostle Paul did instruct believers to be careful so that our freedom doesn’t cause others to stumble, that we are allowed to do anything but everything is not beneficial, and whatever we do should be done for the glory of God.
Prayer
Almighty God in heaven,
Thank You for giving us the freedom to choose You over everything else. Help us to remember that everything good comes from You and that You deserve the honor and the glory for all that we have. May we live our lives in such a way that people will want to be a part of Your Family.
In Jesus’ name, Amen
Verses
Exodus 20:11
Romans 14:5
James 1:5
Colossians 2:16
Leviticus 23
1 Corinthians 8:9; 10:23, 31
Song
Call to action
If you have already prayed, read the verses, and listened to the suggested song, then read about the dangers of criticism in Romans 14 and share your feelings on it.