SeniorSeeker
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AN AMAZING FACT: Hundreds of years ago in parts of Europe, people watched hedgehogs on February 2, observing their shadows or lack thereof to predict the end of winter. German settlers in America adopted groundhogs to continue the tradition. Originally called Candlemas or “Candle Mass”—an ancient feast that celebrated the presentation of Christ at the temple 40 days after His birth—the tradition became known in America as Groundhog Day.
From Candlemas to Groundhog Day … that’s quite a switch. This is not to suggest that Groundhog Day should be any type of religious holiday. However, this does seem to be a small example of secularization—the act of changing something so it’s no longer influenced by religion.
Secularization usually involves a movement away from God, and humans have become very good at it. Just glance at our major holidays (which were once “holy days”) to see if this isn’t true in the lives of most holiday observers. And there are so many other ways we distance ourselves.
The natural heart is proud and habitually turns away from its Creator. Confronted by its own wrongdoing, it tries to cut God out of the picture to alleviate its guilt.
Consider this: If we turn away from Jesus, our only source of Light, we will definitely see a shadow. But face the Sun of Righteousness, seek His forgiveness, and all shadows disappear. The promise of true spring!
KEY BIBLE TEXTS
And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me. Matthew 11:6 Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way. The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. For thy name's sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great. Psalms 25:8-11
By Pastor Doug Bachelor
From Candlemas to Groundhog Day … that’s quite a switch. This is not to suggest that Groundhog Day should be any type of religious holiday. However, this does seem to be a small example of secularization—the act of changing something so it’s no longer influenced by religion.
Secularization usually involves a movement away from God, and humans have become very good at it. Just glance at our major holidays (which were once “holy days”) to see if this isn’t true in the lives of most holiday observers. And there are so many other ways we distance ourselves.
The natural heart is proud and habitually turns away from its Creator. Confronted by its own wrongdoing, it tries to cut God out of the picture to alleviate its guilt.
Consider this: If we turn away from Jesus, our only source of Light, we will definitely see a shadow. But face the Sun of Righteousness, seek His forgiveness, and all shadows disappear. The promise of true spring!
KEY BIBLE TEXTS
And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me. Matthew 11:6 Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way. The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. For thy name's sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great. Psalms 25:8-11
By Pastor Doug Bachelor