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NASB | John 10:10 "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | John 10:10 "The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]. |
Bible Question: I am the mom of a 3 year old girl who does not want to teach (lie to) her about Santa Claus. I know that this has the potential to cause her discomfort and isolation, but I want to do what is biblically correct. I do not mind teaching her who Santa really is (Saint Nicholas), but I am skeptical to believe that convincing her that Santa comes down the chimney after flying in a sleigh pulled by reindeer is Christian-like. What do you guys (escpecially you parents) think? |
Bible Answer: Dear Pixel "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." John 10:10 NASB I think this verse gives us clear evidence that our enemy, who is a great liar, steals and destroys. Jesus, on the other hand, came that we might have abundant life! To a child, fun, family, presents, sharing, are all part of abundant life. Don't lie to your little girl! But don't get all worried that Santa Claus is the devil in disguise either! Teach her that it is fun to enjoy all the Christmas sounds and colors, and to some point, the 'characters.' Yes, I include Rudolph! But don't lie and create a problem for yourself by having to explain why Santa is on the street corner, and in the department store, and on TV all at the same time. I have two teenage daughters, and when they were small we said Santa is Ho-Ho-Ho and fun and PRESENTS, but not real. He *represents* some of the feelings of good will that are shown forth this time of year, but Jesus is the True Giver. At our annual Christmas party for the neighborhood (unsaved), Santa makes an appearance! But Jesus is spoken, and His Gospel portrayed. We make sure that everyone knows that the guy in the red suit is someone they know, but everyone has fun anyway! You know, kids can 'pretend' and have fun without 'believing.' It is the adults that can't do that! :-) I am aware that many on this forum will be shocked at my answer. Well, too bad! :-) During the holidays, we have fun! We don't lie! And the balance of our lives show clearly that Jesus is Lord! The alternative is (in my humble opinion) to teach our kids that all fun is evil. I think this idea flies in the face of the above verse. Balance, honesty, integrity, and a bit of humor and fun is my 'teaching.' Blssings and peace in Christ Jesus, charis |