When we celebrate someone’s birthday, what do we do? How do we celebrate?
At many birthday celebrations we tell stories about the person and talk about shared experiences. We toast their strengths and joke about their misadventures. We bring gifts, bake their favorite cake and make a meal they are especially fond of. And we share this joyous occasion with others who know the person.
On December 25th, and the weeks leading up to it, the world heralds the arrival of Santa Claus, Rudolph, and even the Grinch. However, the real reason Christmas is a special occasion is because it is the day we celebrate the birth of the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ. Even the name, Christmas, points us to the origins of this holiday—Christ Mass. A mass is a celebration. Thus, Christmas is to be a celebration of Jesus the Christ!
That is NOT how Christmas is portrayed on TV, advertised in stores, or spoken of in various social gatherings. What about in our families? Are we truly celebrating the birth of our Savior on Christmas? What are some ways that we can help ourselves and others focus on the real “reason for the season? Here are a few suggestions:
*During the weeks leading up to Christmas, when conversations about “What do you want for Christmas?” abound, talk about “gifts” we could give Jesus in honor of His birthday. Perhaps we could buy presents for children in needy families, pray daily for those who don’t know Jesus, re-commit our lives to living more faithfully for Jesus, visit those in nursing homes, take cookies to a lonely neighbor, etc.
*Go see the local live nativity, watch the community plays,
and listen to the area concerts centered on the real meaning of Christmas.
*Along with your other Christmas decor, be sure to set up a
nativity (or two or three) in your home as a visual reminder. On Christmas
morning, talk about each person represented by the figurines in the creche and how
they related to Jesus.
*Attend Christmas Eve service. Leave the cares and worries
about tomorrow behind and fully embrace this celebration of Christ’s birth.
*Serve a birthday cake for dessert, with “Happy Birthday,
Jesus” written on it.
*Before opening the gifts on Christmas morning, read the
account of Jesus’ birth from Luke 2:1-20 and/or Matthew 1:18-2:23.
How do you keep Christ in Christmas? I would love to hear what works for you!
Be encouraged and celebrate Jesus this Christmas!
