It’s that time of year when many people are delighted by the Christmas story and drained by the Christmas season. In our efforts to make things merry, we often wind up weary. We get so busy with the trimmings of Christmas that we miss the spiritual centre of the season.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. We can choose to become more focused and less frazzled at Christmastime. Here are four steps Christians can take to keep Christ at the forefront of Christmas.
Make time to be silent at night. Turn off the TV. Shut down the computer. Open up a Bible and read the first two chapters in the books of Matthew and Luke. Read slowly. Reflect on the majesty and mystery of that first Christmas.
Bring joy to your world. Give a gift to someone who can’t give one back. Spend an evening serving meals at a shelter. Or bring a meal to an elderly friend who is sick or shut in. As you bring joy to your world, you’ll find joy in your heart. You’ll experience the truth of Jesus’ words: It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
Come and adore Him. Be one of the faithful who show up at a Christmas service. Come as a worshiper, not just as a spectator. Give Jesus the best of your attention and affection this year.
Go tell it on the mountain. Actually, tell it everywhere you have opportunity. Echo the announcement that came from the angels: “Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). Tell the good news that Jesus still is the Saviour of all who trust in Him.
May this Christmas be joyful and faith-filled for you!
Rick and Linda Reed 