Keeping Christ at the Center of Christmas
The Christmas season is such a special time, a season filled with the sparkle of lights, the warmth of family gatherings, and the joy of giving. Yet, in all the excitement, it’s easy to lose sight of the heart of Christmas: celebrating the birth of Jesus. More than just a holiday, Christmas is a sacred reminder of God’s unfailing love for us.
As believers, we’re invited to intentionally keep Christ at the center of this season, ensuring that our hearts remain focused on Him in all we do.
Here are some ideas to help you keep Christ at the center this Christmas:
Reflecting on the Gift of Jesus
Christmas is a celebration of God’s greatest gift—sending His Son, born in the humblest of places, to bring salvation to a broken world. This truth is breathtaking, yet it can be overshadowed by the hustle of the season.
Take time to reflect on the story of Jesus’ birth. Read through the accounts in Luke and Matthew, and let the wonder of that holy night fill your heart. Consider carving out quiet moments with your family to pray and talk about what Jesus’ birth means for us today.
Infusing Christ Into Holiday Traditions
Traditions are such a meaningful part of Christmas, and weaving Christ into them can transform this season into a deeper celebration of His love.
Advent Devotions: Use an Advent wreath or calendar to count down the days to Christmas with Scriptures that tell the story of Jesus. Each reading can be a moment of worship and connection as a family.
Acts of Kindness: One of the best ways to honor Christ is by serving others. Volunteer together, donate to a family in need, or simply look for small ways to bless someone. These acts reflect the heart of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve.
Worship Together: Attend a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day service. Gathering in worship with your family and community is a beautiful way to center your celebrations on Christ.
Teaching Children the Heart of Christmas
As parents, we have such a unique opportunity to teach our children the true meaning of Christmas. While gifts and traditions are wonderful, we can use them as tools to point their hearts toward Jesus.
Encourage your kids to focus on giving rather than receiving by involving them in acts of kindness. Teach them gratitude by naming blessings together and thanking God for His goodness. Remind them through stories and prayers that the greatest gift they’ve ever been given is Jesus Himself.
The Power of Prayer
In the middle of the holiday busyness, prayer is our lifeline. Pause and pray as a family. Thank God for sending His Son, ask for His peace in this season, and lift up those who may be hurting. Prayer keeps our focus where it belongs—on Christ.
A Christ-Centered Christmas
When we make room for Jesus, Christmas takes on a deeper meaning. It’s not about perfect trees, the prettiest packages, or packed schedules. It’s about hearts turned toward God, lives reflecting His love, and homes filled with His peace.
Let’s keep Christ at the center of every tradition, every gift, and every gathering this year, allowing His light to shine in us and through us.
Father, thank You for the incredible gift of Your Son. As we celebrate this Christmas, help us to remember the true reason for the season. Guide our hearts to keep Jesus at the center of all we do and fill our homes with His peace, love, and joy. May our lives reflect His light to everyone we encounter.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
