From October through the end of December, we may find ourselves caught up in the busyness of the Christmas season.
But Christmas is a time to celebrate Jesus’ birth, right?
How do you keep Christ in Christmas when you’re already waist deep in the hustle and bustle of the holiday—decorating trees, shopping for the perfect gifts, Christmas caroling and nativity plays, hosting family and friends, baking cookies, and don’t forget about pictures with Santa.
In this post, I want to help you reframe your focus so that you can keep Christ as the center of your Christmas activities and enjoy the holiday in a deeper, more meaningful way.
And to offer a Free Printable 21 Day Centering Christ at Christmas Journal.
It’s not that you have to give up your holiday traditions. Instead, I want to show you how Christ can be a part of everything you already have planned this season.
Decorating the Christmas Tree
As the centerpiece of Christmas decor, the Christmas tree is a great place to showcase the true reason for the season. You can tell the Christmas story through nativity themed ornaments. As you string the lights, remember Jesus is the light of the world. And, when you get to the top of the tree, whether you prefer a star or angel, think about the night Jesus was born. Tell your children about the star the wisemen followed or the angels that announced Jesus’ birth to the shepherds. Now every time you look at your Christmas tree you will see Jesus and the joy He brings.
Watching Christmas Movies
The Nativity Story, The Star, and The Ultimate Gift are popular Christian Christmas movies. But even movies about elves, reindeer, and snowmen can spark conversations about faith, hope, and God’s love at work. So, pop the popcorn, pull up your favorite streaming service, and enjoy a great family night.
Shopping and Buying Gifts
God gave us the most precious gift with the birth of Jesus. Giving is how He showed His great love for us (John 3:16). As you shop for gifts, thank God for Jesus. Be grateful for the blessings you’ve received. Reflect on the love you want to share with your family and friends through your gifts.
What about Santa Claus?
Even Santa? Why not?! Can you not see Christ’s love at work through a man who makes toys and delivers them to children around the world? Show your children God’s love on display. Santa can be a perfect illustration of how God uses people to bless others. I can’t imagine the Jesus who ate with tax collectors and ministered to Samaritan women would denounce a man who makes toys and delivers them to children.
In Closing
Set your focus on a Christ-centered Christmas. It’s more about the way you live your life. The best way to have a Christ-centered Christmas is to make Him a central part of your celebrations.
Recognize and celebrate the love and character of Christ that is present all around. Take every opportunity to remind yourself, your family, and friends about the true meaning of the season.
For help setting your heart on Christmas, get a free copy of my 21 Day Centering Christ at Christmas Journal. There is a biblical thought to meditate on each day, followed by a prayer prompt.