Amid the flurry of holiday activities—decorating, gift-giving, and festive gatherings—it’s easy to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. While these traditions bring joy and connection, the heart of the season is about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
Keeping Christ at the center of Christmas is not about rejecting fun traditions but about infusing them with purpose and reflection. Let’s explore practical ways to honor Him this season, ensuring our celebrations reflect the reason for the season.
Why Keeping Christ in Christmas Matters
Christmas is the celebration of God’s ultimate gift: the arrival of His Son, Jesus Christ, into the world. In Luke 2:10-11, the angel’s proclamation to the shepherds captures the essence of this season:
“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
Keeping Christ in Christmas reminds us to center our hearts and actions on this life-changing event. It’s about worshiping Him, sharing His love, and celebrating His presence in our lives.
Practical Ways to Keep Christ in Christmas
1. Begin with Prayer
Start the season by dedicating it to Christ. Pray as a family, thanking God for the gift of Jesus and asking Him to guide your celebrations. Daily prayers throughout the season can keep your focus on Him.
2. Read the Christmas Story
Make it a tradition to read the nativity story from the Bible (Luke 2:1-20 or Matthew 1:18-25). Reflect on the significance of Jesus’ humble birth and discuss its meaning with your family.
3. Incorporate Advent Practices
Advent, the season of preparation leading up to Christmas, is a meaningful way to keep Christ at the center. Use an Advent wreath or calendar to focus on Scripture, prayer, and reflection each day.
4. Celebrate with Worship
Attend a Christmas service at your church to join in corporate worship. Sing carols like “O Holy Night” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” which highlight the gospel message.
5. Give with Purpose
Reflect Christ’s love by giving generously. Whether through supporting a charity, helping a family in need, or donating your time, giving reminds us of God’s generosity in sending His Son.
6. Set Up a Nativity Scene
A nativity display in your home can serve as a visual reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. Use it as an opportunity to teach children about Jesus’ birth and its significance.
7. Speak About Jesus
In conversations about Christmas, intentionally share the spiritual significance of the holiday. A simple mention of why you celebrate can plant seeds of faith in others.
8. Host Christ-Centered Activities
Organize activities that highlight the message of Christmas, such as hosting a Bible reading night, singing carols, or watching faith-based Christmas movies like The Nativity Story.
9. Practice Gratitude
Make a habit of thanking God for His blessings, both big and small. Gratitude shifts our focus from materialism to the richness of God’s provision.
10. Simplify Where Possible
Don’t let the commercialism of Christmas overshadow its meaning. Simplify your celebrations to focus more on relationships and faith rather than material excess.
Making Traditions Christ-Centered
You don’t have to abandon your favorite traditions to honor Christ. Instead, you can infuse them with deeper meaning:
- Gift-Giving: Reflect God’s generosity by giving thoughtful gifts that align with the spirit of love and kindness.
- Decorating: Include symbols of faith, such as stars (representing the Star of Bethlehem) or angels (proclaimers of Jesus’ birth).
- Meals: Begin your holiday meals with a prayer of gratitude, acknowledging God’s goodness.
The Impact of Keeping Christ in Christmas
When we keep Christ at the center of our celebrations, we experience deeper joy, peace, and purpose. It shifts our focus from the temporary pleasures of the season to the eternal hope found in Jesus. As Colossians 3:17 reminds us, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
By honoring Christ, we also create opportunities to share His love with others, shining His light in a world that desperately needs it.
Conclusion
Keeping Christ in Christmas is about more than a single day—it’s a mindset that transforms the entire season. By focusing on Jesus’ birth and living out His love, we can honor Him in our celebrations and share His message of hope with the world.
This Christmas, let’s embrace the joy and wonder of Jesus’ arrival, ensuring that every tradition, gift, and gathering points back to Him.
Reference
For more ideas on Christ-centered Christmas traditions, visit Focus on the Family’s Christmas Resources.
Merry Christmas, and may Christ be at the heart of all you celebrate this season!
See Also: A Light in the Darkness: How Christ’s Birth Brings Hope to Our World
