I love Christmas! And, now it’s Christmas time. I’ve always been adamant about waiting until after Thanksgiving to start up Christmas, but it is more and more of a challenge. Lisa has Christmas Hallmark movies starting the first of November, Christmas music playing and Christmas shopping is happening. But, not me. I’m steadfast in my commitment to Thanksgiving – probably to a fault for Lisa :). However, once Thanksgiving is over, then it is full-on Christmas time for me.
By now, our Christmas decorations are up outside, our Christmas tree is up inside and our stockings are hung by the chimney with care :). We are now in full-on Christmas mode with Christmas cookies, movies, and PJs at the Simmons Sorority House (I have three amazing daughters). And, I love Christmas. I love the lights, the smells, the music, the presents and all of it. Christmas is over-the-top crazy in our culture with elves, reindeer and more, but it is still the most wonderful season of all.
Through the years, I have loved experiencing Christmas as a child and then watching Christmas through the eyes of my own children. The awe and the wonder of Christmas never disappoints. So, the question comes – How can we experience the awe and wonder of Christmas with so many cultural trappings? Can we find the true Joy and Peace of Christmas this year?
Here are some tips on how to experience the awe and wonder of Christmas this year: 1. Make plans to attend church every Sunday in December and especially Christmas Eve (this will keep you focused on what Christmas is truly all about – Jesus!) 2. Read the Christmas Story with your family. Carve out a time to read Luke 2 together. 3. Give a Bible to someone as a Christmas present this year – your child, spouse, co-worker or friend. This will impact them forever. 4. Give a gift to someone who can’t give anything back to you – the Giving Wall at church, serve at a local food pantry, allow your kids to drop coins in the Salvation Army bucket. There is joy in giving. 5. Be present with your family. Make a conscious effort to stay off your phone and do some fun things with your family and friends. Make memories that will last a lifetime.
Never lose the awe and wonder of Christmas. This is what makes Christmas so special. Not simply with the decorations, music, and food, but the awe and wonder of Jesus. That God so loved you – you! – that He sent His one and only Son. Christmas shows you how much you are loved. How much you matter to God.
Therefore, ask God to open your eyes and heart to the true meaning of Christmas this year. Make a commitment to worship Jesus this Christmas. He can easily get lost among all the tinsel, lights and Christmas movies, but find time to be with Him. Listen for Jesus in the laughter of your child – Jesus came to bring joy – Joy to the World. Look for Him in the generosity of people giving gifts to others. Hear His message in the carols.
As Christ-followers, let’s focus on Jesus this Christmas. Have fun with the lights, the trees, the cards, the cookies and putting together all the toys in the middle of the night on Christmas Eve, but keep your heart and eyes ready to receive what Christmas is truly all about – Jesus! He is the Christ of CHRISTmas. He loves you! Be filled with the beautiful awe and wonder of Jesus. Merry Christmas!