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Have you ever thoughts about how much Christmas decor is out there? It seems that there is an endless amount from tinsel to popcorn strands to specialized wrapping paper to all sorts of wreaths and garlands, and the list is still incredibly large that I haven’t mentioned. And, I don’t know about you, but I love them all.

Seeing all the decor reminds me that this season is indeed incredibly special (and not just for what Santa brings all of us). This season is truly special because it is when we celebrate the incarnation of our Savior. We take time to reflect on God’s miraculous work and the hope it brings.

But, if we aren’t careful, we can let the trappings of our culture pull us away from a contemplative, worshipful attitude. I am not saying to avoid all fun and holiday cheer, but to keep in our minds the great reason for our joy.

So, what are some helpful ways to remind ourselves of the true reason for the season (you knew I had to slip that phrase in somewhere)?

#1 - Do an act of blessing for someone around you.

At Christmas, we in small ways mirror our savior’s heart of love in the gifts we give to those around us. We spend time shopping and searching for a special gift that shows others we care, love, and appreciate them. In some ways, though, we are responding to others for the things that they have given to or done for us.

Who is someone that you can do a random act of blessing for this holiday? Perhaps it is that cranking neighbor that only seems to complain about you. Maybe it is that co-worker that is always talking down to you. It could be the teacher that you don’t really have a relationship with or whose teaching style doesn’t connect with you as well. Regardless of who it is, how can you engage them with a love and sacrifice that mirrors our Savior’s…coming to die for those who were His enemy so that they could be forgiven for their sins even though they were undeserving. 

#2 - Take extra time in the Bible

Throughout the holiday season, many of us often have a little more time off to enjoy. I think we would be remiss if we spent all of our time off focus on what we want to do, without spending time enjoying the reason we celebrate. Consider taking time with the family and reading through some specific Christmas passages and talking about things that stand out to you in them. Maybe spend some time singing Christmas hymns together as a family praising our great God!

There will be plenty of time for presents, and laughter, and games throughout the holiday season. It would be a shame if we got to the end of this time together, and our time with God and His Word was marginal at best. 

#3 - Take time to pray for Christians around the world

For many Christians around the world, Christmas is not a safe holiday that is full of laughing and good memories. For many Christians, Christmas can be a very dangerous and deadly time. In fact, in 2023, Muslim extremists killed 194 Christians in Nigeria on Christmas Eve simply for following Christ. There are reports that Nigerian Muslim Extremists are planning an attack again this year. And that is only one example of the persecution that many brothers and sisters around the world are facing. 

Consider taking some time as a family to pray for those around the world who may be in danger this Christmas. Pray for their safety and for their boldness as they continue sharing the love of Christ, even in the face of such hostility. 

If we prioritize some of these helpful ways (or even come up with some of your own) focusing on who Christ is and what He has done for us, we can truly have a Spirit-filled Christmas. The decorations will come down, the presents will be unwrapped, and the season will pass, but the hope we have in Christ endures forever. By loving others sacrificially, grounding ourselves in God’s Word, and praying for our brothers and sisters around the world, we intentionally turn our hearts toward the miracle of the incarnation.

Serving Together, 

Pastor Derek