Consumerism has absolutely killed Christmas, people think that Christmas is all about buying gifts ,so the retailers have given us what we want in over abundance. I think that even the Keep Christ in Christmas campaign is geared more towards having stores wish us a merry Christmas as we BUY more gifts. As far as keeping Christ as the center of Christmas My wife and I will not be giving out gifts this year, except for three gifts for our daughter, and explain to the presents symbolize the wise men bringing gifts to baby Jesus.

It's so important to stress to children that we are celebrating Jesus' Birthday, not theirs. Even the smallest children understand that they don't get presents when they go to someone else's party. I always ask them what they are going to give to Jesus for his Birthday! This opens up a bunch of conversation from them. I really feel that parents should be honest with their children that all presents they receive are coming from them because they love their children and not from some imaginary character. Children of all ages love the truth. Now days so few people will tell the truth. Jesus is the truth, the way and the life! Kids love to hear about Jesus!

One of the only Canadian efforts that I hope America picks up on: www.buynothingchristmas.org A hilarious new documentary that hits close to home for the average Christian consumer in America: WHAT WOULD JESUS BUY? Check it out at www.wwjbmovie.com Posted by Steve Noble

I mentioned some scripture on the show today that you could use to teach your family about the dangers of "consumerism". Here they are (use at your own risk!): Exodus 20:17 (do not covet) Matthew 25:14-30 (parable of the talents) Matthew 6:19-24 (sermon on the mount) Hebrews 13:5 (don't love money & be content) 1 Timothy 6:10 (love money is root of evil) Matthew 19:16-24 (rich young ruler) Luke 12:16-21 (storing up goods)