This year will mark my first Christmas being as a new creation
in Christ.
I was raised Catholic; therefore, I always knew that Christmas
was celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. However, I never truly
rejoiced and celebrated His birth.
God has brought me so far since February of this year. With His
help, I have gained so much knowledge, and I am delighted to celebrate His
birthright.
Jesus’ birth is one of the biggest days in Bible history…or history
in general. Now yes, Santa Claus coming to town, sleigh rides, jingle bells,
your mother’s homemade chocolate chip cookies, mistletoe, Christmas carolers, and
presents under the tree all help to get us in the holiday spirit. But, we need
to remember the true meaning of Christmas.
With that in mind, here are 8 tips on how to keep the Christ in
Christmas:
Give God One Special
Gift Just From You to Him
Jesus has given us so much, including Himself. Jesus deserves
something in return. Make it a gift that is personal….something that you do not
want anyone else to know about. He came into this world just to die for you.
We spend so much time asking Him for things and never ask Him
what He wants. This Christmas, I encourage you to give something to Jesus.
Whether it is making something for Him, writing Him a personal letter, or
simply setting aside time just for Him. Do something for Him for a change.
Set Aside Time To
Thoroughly Read the Christmas Story (Luke 1:5-56 through 2:1-20)
Obviously, in order to really keep the Christ in Christmas, it
is a good thing to know the story of Christ and His birth. If you do not know
about Christ’s background and the events leading up to His birth, it is
difficult to truly celebrate His birthday. Read the verses I listed above. I am
sure it will help.
Set up a Nativity
Scene in Your Home
I do this every single year. Setting up the Nativity, the scene
of Christ’s birth, is my favorite thing to do. After we decorate our tree, it
is always my responsibility to set up the Nativity. Not only does it give you a
chance to review the story in your head, but it is a nice little reminder of
what Christmas is really about. Go out and buy a kit. Make
it a tradition every Christmas to set it up. A nativity scene will draw you
closer to Christ.
Give Some Gifts to each
Member of your Family
I do not know how close you are with your family at all. You may
be super close, you may not be, but God has put you with your family for a
reason. There are no coincidences. Regardless of how close you are, give a
family member a gift... something special. It can be anything from a card to a
wrapped gift. Just give them something. Jesus is the epitome of a giver. He
encourages you to give…especially to your loved ones.
Set Aside Time to
Celebrate the Birth of Jesus with Your Family
There is nothing like rejoicing in Jesus with the closest people
to you. Pick out a few Bible verses, devotionals, readings, etc. that are solely
focused on Him and His birth. Celebrate
and rejoice as a family.
Send Christmas Cards
that Share a Spiritual Message
I am sure that if Christ would want us to share His Word with
the world. What better way to do that than through charming Christmas cards?
Make them, buy them, do whatever your heart desires, but try to make it
something that includes a verse or some kind of spiritual saying. It will be
meaningful to you and the person who receives it.
Plan a Project of Good
Spirits
There are so many out there who are not able to spend their
holidays with family. They do not get presents. They do not have the resources
to know Christ like some do. I encourage you and your friends to plan a fun
project that will give nothing but happiness and joy to those who need it the
most. Christmas is all about Jesus and the great gift of joy He brought into
this world. Maybe it is going to a local soup kitchen? Or a hospital?
Do something that will make others feel good. After all, the
best gift a person can give is happiness.
Set Aside Time to Focus
on Christ’s Wants and Needs
All that Christ wants from His Children is their dedication,
love, and gratitude. That is all. He wants you.
Take time on Christmas Day to simply give Him a quick hello.
Wish Him a Happy Birthday! Tell Him about how great His sacrifice was and just
how HUGE of an impact He has had on you. Give Him you. The best present you can
give Him is YOU.
Ladies, I hope these tips will help guide you into the wonderful
holiday season. Remember, while Santa is oh so fun and those presents are dandy;
do not forget what Christmas is all about… Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.
Here is a quote that I adore from a famous film that I think you
will recognize:
Charlie Brown: “I guess
you were right, Linus. I shouldn't have picked this little tree. Everything I
do turns into a disaster. I guess I really don't know what Christmas is all
about.” [shouting in
desperation]
Charlie Brown: “Isn't
there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?”
Linus Van Pelt: “Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about.”
[moves toward the center of the stage]
Linus Van Pelt: “Lights, please.” [a spotlight shines on
Linus]
Linus Van Pelt: "And
there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch
over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and
the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And
the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for behold, I bring unto 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. And this shall be a sign unto
you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.'
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host,
praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace,
good will toward men.'" [Linus
picks up his blanket and walks back towards Charlie Brown]
Linus Van Pelt: “That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.”
Amen, Linus!
Amen…
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