Santatheism
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. – Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)
Now that Christmas is in the rearview mirror, let’s be honest about something: Santa Claus has totally eff-ed up our understanding of God.
How many people, thanks to that ubiquitous jolly ole holiday elf, unconsciously conceive of God as an aged, white, bearded man in a distant land, making a list and checking it twice, finding out who’s naughty and nice, dolling out rewards for good behavior and punishments for bad behavior. You better watch out!
Like many children, I wondered which list I might be on. My parents and older brother would say “Santa’s watching!” for the entire month of December to keep me in line (it was a challenge during the rest of the year). Kids today don’t have to wonder. We can all go to www.claus.com and find out.
Constantly wondering if you have done enough to earn Santa-god’s favor is not only a fear-based way to live; it’s a recipe for misery and anxiety. If that’s where our theology starts, no wonder so many adults reject this “god” later in life.
“Do not be afraid” is one of the most common injunctions in the Bible. Teachings on grace surpass intimations of “naughty or nice” religiosity. Maybe it’s time to leave Santa-god in the rearview mirror permanently and discover the gospel anew.
Prayer
Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinner reconciled.
About the AuthorMatt Laney is co-Pastor of Virginia Highland Church UCC in Atlanta, GA and the author of Pride Wars, a fantasy series published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for Young Readers. The first two books, The Spinner Prince and The Four Guardians are available now.