5 Ways To Keep Christ In Christmas

The festive season is upon us, and with it comes the joy, love, and celebration of Christmas. However, in the midst of all the hustle and bustle, it's easy to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. As Christians, it's essential to keep Christ at the center of our celebrations, but it can be challenging to do so in a world that often prioritizes materialism and secular traditions. In this article, we'll explore five ways to keep Christ in Christmas, ensuring that the true spirit of the season remains at the forefront of our minds and hearts.

1. Focus on the Story of Jesus' Birth

At the heart of Christmas is the story of Jesus' birth, a narrative that has captivated people for centuries. The story of the virgin birth, the angels' announcement, and the visit of the Magi is a powerful reminder of God's love for humanity. To keep Christ in Christmas, focus on this story by:

• Reading the biblical account of Jesus' birth (Matthew 1-2, Luke 1-2)
• Displaying a nativity scene in your home or yard
• Sharing the story with family and friends
• Watching a movie or play that retells the story of Jesus' birth

By focusing on the story of Jesus' birth, you'll be reminded of the true reason for the season and can share that with others.

Sharing the Story with Children

If you have children, it's essential to share the story of Jesus' birth with them in a way that's engaging and easy to understand. You can:

• Read children's books about Jesus' birth
• Watch kid-friendly movies or videos about the nativity
• Create a nativity scene with your child using figurines or puppets
• Act out the story with your child, using costumes and props

By sharing the story with your children, you'll help them understand the true meaning of Christmas and create lasting memories.

2. Practice Advent Traditions

Advent is the four-week period leading up to Christmas, a time of preparation and anticipation for the birth of Jesus. Practicing Advent traditions can help you stay focused on Christ during the holiday season. Here are some ideas:

• Create an Advent wreath with candles and evergreen branches
• Follow an Advent devotional or calendar
• Make a Jesse tree, a symbolic representation of Jesus' family tree
• Participate in Advent services or events at your church

By observing Advent traditions, you'll cultivate a sense of anticipation and expectation, preparing your heart for the celebration of Jesus' birth.

Creating a Sense of Anticipation

Advent is a time of waiting and preparation, and by creating a sense of anticipation, you'll be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas. Here are some ideas:

• Create a countdown calendar with 24 doors or windows, one for each day leading up to Christmas
• Make a paper chain with 24 links, one for each day of Advent
• Read a devotional or scripture reading each day of Advent
• Sing Advent hymns or songs, such as "O Come, O Come Emmanuel"

By creating a sense of anticipation, you'll stay focused on the true meaning of Christmas and build excitement for the celebration of Jesus' birth.

3. Engage in Acts of Service and Giving

Jesus taught that the greatest commandment is to love God and love our neighbors (Matthew 22:37-40). Engaging in acts of service and giving is a powerful way to keep Christ in Christmas. Here are some ideas:

• Volunteer at a local soup kitchen or food bank
• Visit the elderly or those in nursing homes
• Donate to a charity or organization that supports a cause you care about
• Make gifts for those in need, such as blankets or care packages

By engaging in acts of service and giving, you'll be reminded of Jesus' teachings and demonstrate your love for God and your neighbors.

Teaching Children the Value of Giving

If you have children, it's essential to teach them the value of giving and serving others. Here are some ideas:

• Involve your child in volunteering or serving others
• Encourage your child to make gifts for those in need
• Teach your child about the importance of generosity and kindness
• Model the behavior you want your child to emulate, demonstrating a spirit of service and giving

By teaching your child the value of giving and serving others, you'll help them develop a heart of compassion and kindness.

4. Worship and Praise God

Worship and praise are essential components of the Christian faith, and during Christmas, it's essential to focus on worshiping and praising God. Here are some ideas:

• Attend special Christmas worship services or events
• Sing Christmas carols and hymns that praise God
• Read scripture and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas
• Participate in prayer and reflection, seeking God's guidance and wisdom

By worshiping and praising God, you'll be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas and cultivate a heart of gratitude and thanksgiving.

Creating a Worshipful Atmosphere

Creating a worshipful atmosphere in your home can help you stay focused on Christ during the holiday season. Here are some ideas:

• Play Christmas music that praises God
• Display Christmas decorations that reflect the true meaning of Christmas
• Create a quiet, reflective space for prayer and contemplation
• Light candles or use dim lighting to create a peaceful atmosphere

By creating a worshipful atmosphere, you'll be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas and cultivate a sense of reverence and awe.

5. Share the Message of Jesus with Others

Finally, sharing the message of Jesus with others is a powerful way to keep Christ in Christmas. Here are some ideas:

• Share the story of Jesus' birth with family and friends
• Invite others to attend church services or events
• Share your faith with others, explaining why Jesus is important to you
• Participate in evangelism or outreach efforts in your community

By sharing the message of Jesus with others, you'll be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas and fulfill the Great Commission to share the gospel with all nations (Matthew 28:18-20).

Sharing the Gospel with Your Children

If you have children, it's essential to share the message of Jesus with them in a way that's engaging and easy to understand. Here are some ideas:

• Read children's books about Jesus and the gospel
• Watch kid-friendly movies or videos about Jesus' life and teachings
• Create a gospel-centered Advent calendar or devotional
• Share your own faith story with your child, explaining why Jesus is important to you

By sharing the message of Jesus with your child, you'll help them develop a strong foundation of faith and cultivate a heart of love and obedience.

In conclusion, keeping Christ in Christmas requires intentional effort and focus. By implementing these five strategies, you'll be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas and cultivate a heart of love, gratitude, and worship. So, let's keep Christ in Christmas and make this holiday season one to remember!