Christmas UnwrappedSample

Keeping Christ in Christmas

Scripture: Luke 2:11 - "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."

In the glittering lights and the festive sounds of the holiday season, the core message of Christmas — the birth of Jesus Christ — can sometimes be overshadowed. The world offers us myriad distractions, from the commercial rush of gift-buying to the cultural push for a perfect holiday experience. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to keep our hearts anchored in the truth of that holy night in Bethlehem.

The Gospel of Luke tells us of a Savior born to us — Christ the Lord. This profound truth is the cornerstone of Christmas and the hope of our faith. Keeping Christ at the center is not about dismissing the celebrations and joy that accompany the season; it's about infusing every part of it with the awareness of God's love manifested through the birth of His Son.

To do this, we can start by creating space for Jesus in our daily routines. Whether through an Advent devotional, attending church services, or simply spending a few quiet moments in prayer each morning, these practices can help us reflect on the significance of Christ's coming. They serve as a daily reminder of whom we are genuinely celebrating and why.

Incorporating the story of Jesus' birth into our family traditions can also be a powerful way to keep our focus on Him. Reading the Nativity story on Christmas Eve, setting up a manger scene in our homes, or even baking a birthday cake for Jesus are tangible ways to teach our children and remind ourselves of the true star of Christmas.

Furthermore, the holiday season offers numerous opportunities to live out the message of Christ through acts of service and love. Jesus' life was marked by compassion and giving to the least of these. In the same spirit, we can volunteer our time, donate to those in need, or extend kindness to our neighbors. These acts of love reflect Jesus' love for us and are a testament to the transformative power of His birth.

As we navigate the festivities, let's also be mindful of the conversations we have and the messages we share. Are we contributing to the commercial narrative or speaking of the joy and peace of knowing Christ? Our words and actions can be a beacon of light, pointing others to Jesus amidst the holiday cheer.

This Christmas, let's challenge ourselves to keep Christ in our thoughts and let Him shine through our actions. Let's be deliberate in how we celebrate, ensuring that our festivities are a response to the joy of our salvation, not just a cultural tradition. It's a chance to renew our focus on our Savior's humble beginnings and spread the message of hope that He brings to the world.

As we exchange gifts, sing carols, and gather with loved ones, remember that the greatest gift was given to us on that first Christmas. It's a gift that never fades, never breaks, and never gets old. It's the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, and it's the reason we celebrate with joy and gratitude in our hearts.

Reflection Questions:

• In what practical ways can you keep your focus on Jesus amidst the busy Christmas season?
• How can the story of Christ's birth inspire you to live out your faith during the holidays and beyond?

Challenge:

Commit to a daily time of reflection or devotion in December that centers on the life and teachings of Jesus to help keep your focus on the true meaning of Christmas.