I, like most guys, struggle when it comes to buying gifts and getting appropriate cards. Greeting card companies have come up with some amazing innovations in recent years. Which of you hasn�t smiled when you opened a card and were surprised to hear music begin to play? This year the hot new thing is a card that actually records your own voice, or, the real money maker, the voice of a grandchild.

This past week, I was reminded that the cards and messages of our world are increasingly reflecting the times in which we live. Hallmark has a line of cards for couples who have been living together who decide to finally get around to getting married. Same sex couple figurines for wedding cakes are not far behind.

Not to be outdone, Planned Parenthood is rolling out their new line of Christmas "Gift Certificates." "We decided not to put any restriction on what the certificates could be used for," the press release said. Just in time for the celebration of the birth of Jesus, financial help with an abortion! This is not the first time Planned Parenthood has so blatantly used this season to blaspheme.

One news item reported:

"Christmas controversy is not new to Planned Parenthood. In the mid-1990�s, it began offering "Choice on Earth" holiday cards. The American Life League called the twist on the 'peace on earth' message found in the New Testament book of Luke bigoted 'mockery.' "

In Washington State, the Governor, who describes herself as a "secular progressive," has refused to remove a display that has been placed right next to the Nativity scene and the Menorah. It is a hate missive from an atheist group which reads:

"At this season of the winter solstice, may reason prevail. There are no gods, no devils, no angels, no heaven or hell. There is only our natural world. Religion is but myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds."

Where does all this venom come from?

The Devil kills babies. Don�t forget that. He hates Jesus and he hates you. Don�t forget that either. This time of year people have a rare window of time in which to soften their hearts to the things of God. We should not be surprised that the Evil will do anything and everything in its power to twist and to pervert the reason for this blessed season.

So, this morning we will look at how the enemy views Christmas . . . and how we should.