Let’s talk about keeping Christ in Christmas this coming Advent and Christmas season. Advent begins on November 30th this year, and …
The number one way to keep Jesus Christ in your Christmas celebrations is to have Him present in your daily life. If you've already accepted Jesus as your Savior and made Him the center of your life, keeping Christ in Christmas is more about the way you live your life than the things you say—such as "Merry Christmas" versus "Happy Holidays." Our actions speak louder than words. Here are 9 simple ways to keep Christ the central focus of your life this Christmas season. Number 10 is up to you!
1) Give God one very special gift just from you to Him:
Let this gift be something personal that no one else needs to know about, and let it be a sacrifice. David said in 2 Samuel 24 that he would not offer a sacrifice to God that cost him nothing. Maybe your gift to God will be to forgive someone you've needed to forgive. You may discover that you've given a gift back to yourself. Perhaps your gift will be to commit to spending time with God daily.
2) Set aside a special time to read the Christmas story. (Luke 1:5-56 - 2:1-20)
3) Set up a Nativity scene in your home – and think about giving those we serve this special gift as well (See and order our St. Vincent de Paul Nativity pictured above at http://www.magnalite-usa.com/nativity08.html)
4) Plan a project of good will this Christmas: most Vincentians have plenty of ideas on how to do this one!
5) Take a group Christmas caroling in a nursing home – the gift of YOUR TIME is often the most precious gift of all!
6) Give a surprise gift of service to members of your family:
Jesus taught us to serve by washing the disciple’s feet. He also taught us that it is "more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35 The idea of giving an unexpected gift of service to members of your family is to demonstrate Christ-like love and service. You might consider giving a back rub to your spouse, running an errand for your brother or sister, or cleaning out a closet for your mother. Make it personal and meaningful and watch the blessings multiply.
7) Set aside a time of family devotions on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning: Before opening gifts, take a few minutes to gather together as a family for prayer. Read a few Bible verses and discuss the true meaning of Christmas.
8) Attend a Christmas church service together with your family: If you are alone this Christmas or don't have family living near you, invite a friend or a neighbor to join you!
9) Send Christmas cards that convey a spiritual message!
10) What will you decide to do?
Watching … waiting … in this season of Advent darkness, may we be preparing our hearts to welcome the Christ-child in dazzling glory on Christmas morn!
Peace,
Renée