I was traveling on Broad Street last week when I saw the sign posted that read "Holiday Parade." I could only assume that the "holiday" was Christmas. I instantly felt pain and sadness in my heart, just as Jesus must have felt when he heard those that made the decision to take his name out of Christmas.

Jesus said, in Mark 8:38, "If you are ashamed of me, I shall be ashamed of you." He also said that one day every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that he is Lord. I choose to make that decision now.

On Dec. 25, Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The decorations, the gift buying and the Christmas carols are all to give glory, honor and praise to God for the birth of our Savior.

We should stand up for Jesus, come back to God and work toward complete holiness. Blessed is he who is not offended because of Jesus.

Merry Christmas.

Yvonne Harrell

Southern Pines