While the display may be ‘sexy’ and still aesthetically pleasing, we have to remember these symbols are somewhat sacred to many people. It would be like putting Buddah in a bikini – whilst bikinis are an accepted form of swimwear and nothing to bat an eyelid at now, putting a religious icon in one can easily be seen as disrespectful, perhaps even objectifying and commercializing the religious icon. While it is arguable that religious icons are commercialized already, having their own commercials and billboards, there is a world of difference in how they are marketed, as such, or how they are portrayed. As I understand it, sex appeal is about the last thing that Christians want associated with their religion.

Freedom of expression is important, of course, however just because we have a right to something, doesn’t mean we should necessarily say or do everything that pops into our head. I doubt the good people at Madison considered how offensive and confronting the display could be to Christians, which might be understandable, considering the shrinking importance God is having on our lives. However if they leave it up even after all this criticism, it may indicate a lack of understanding or respect for people who hold Mary in a higher position than a fictional character in a Christmas myth. They should understand that whilst this may garner attention, a lot of it won’t be positive.

What I’m wondering is why use a nativity scene in the first place when clearly Jesus was the last thing on their mind? Next time, do a Santa scene, or a family scene – then you can be as sexy as you want and you’ll have fewer Christians breathing down your neck about it.