The idea of Christmas lights being pagan stems from the historical roots of various winter celebrations. The use of lights during the winter season has been a tradition in many cultures long before the Christian holiday of Christmas was established. For example, ancient Romans celebrated Saturnalia, a festival in December that involved feasting and decorating homes with greenery and lights.
However, in modern times, Christmas lights have come to symbolize the joy and warmth of the holiday season. They are seen as a way to celebrate the birth of Jesus and bring light to the dark winter months. While some may argue that the practice has pagan origins, most people today associate Christmas lights with festive cheer rather than their historical roots.
In conclusion, while the custom of using lights may have connections to pagan traditions, their current use within the context of Christmas is widely embraced as a symbol of celebration and joy, rather than a continuation of those ancient practices.