I was doing some shopping at Walmart this past week, and couldn’t help but notice the Salvation Army workers sitting outside with their bells and their buckets. As I approached the door, I watched the bell-ringer as she wished everyone who passed a “Merry Christmas” whether they donated or not.

I suddenly realized that she was not just being nice, but spreading the Good News of Christmas, even though she may not have realized it.

In Luke 2:10-11 the angel proclaims the message of Christmas to the shepherds:

“Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.”

The angel’s message was good news that would bring great joy to all people—the message that Christ is come. That is exactly what we are saying when we wish each other “Merry Christmas”—be merry and joyful because Christ has come.

So maybe that Christmas greeting should not be saved just for December. That is a message that should be shared every day of the year. Merry Christmas!