How to Put Christ Back into Christmas

Traffic is backed up for miles near the mall. People are screaming at each other in Walmart. Your temper explodes because the grocery store is out of marshmallow cream and you signed up to make peanut butter fudge for the work Christmas party tomorrow, not to mention the fact that your Christmas list is only half finished and if you hear Jingle Bells one more time you might drive your car through the reindeer display in your neighbor's yard. It must be Christmas. There is no other holiday that can evoke that much anger out of otherwise sane people.

Each year it seems that Christmas becomes more of a struggle than a joy for American families. Children's wants get more and more extravagant and the Christmas lists get longer and longer. We're expected to give a gift to just about everyone we know or else people will think we're cheap. The cost of postage is skyrocketing making sending Christmas cards almost as expensive as the massive light bill we will have because, well it just isn't Christmas if you can't see the house lit up from a mile away.

As unemployment rates continue to rise and many families are in danger of losing their homes, it's time to reevaluate the meaning of Christmas and maybe even revamp how we celebrate it. It's time to remember that Christmas isn't really about giving gifts, it's about the ultimate gift. The gift of God's son that leads to salvation for all those that open their hearts and believe. And the most amazing thing about this gift was that it is given to us by grace, He asked nothing in return but that we receive it. With this in mind it's time to look at some ways to put Christ back into Christmas.

1. Have a nativity scene somewhere in your house. Go ahead and decorate the tree and hang the lights, that's what makes Christmas fun, but make sure that somewhere in your home there is a place dedicated to that first Christmas. Use it as a reminder and a lesson for children so that the reason behind all the fun is clear.

2. When figuring up the Christmas budget don't forget to set something aside for the church. Not everyone can agree on the exact guidelines of tithing and some don't believe in it at all, but if you don't give at any other time try to at least give at Christmas. We give gifts to neighbors, friends, family, and coworkers, but so many times we forget to put God on our Christmas list. Don't have a church? Pick one that you think makes a good contribution to your community or pick a favorite charity. Remember, whatever amount you believe is right it is really more about the state of your heart when you are doing the giving. If you give with an open heart, you will receive so much more in return.

3. If you don't have a church, find one. The importance of attending a church is often pushed aside for many reasons, but the fact is where two or more gather God is there. He wants you to be around other Christians so you can grow together. Christmas time is the perfect time to try a new church. With all the Christmas programs and special services it is a good way to try a few out and see what is the best fit without feeling obligated to return if it doesn't feel right.

4. Spread the word. Jesus' last words were a command for us to Go! He didn't say take this gift I've given you and keep it to yourself, he said Go! There is no better opening to spread the word about what it means to be a Christian than Christmas. The holiday itself is your opening, just think about how you might work it into conversation. This is the season for miracles, and I'll bet you know someone that could use one.

5. Send religious Christmas cards. I know it seems so simple, but a card with a beautiful line of scripture can say so much. Let's face it, even the most energetic Christians don't read the Bible as often as they should. A simple quote from the Bible might be the inspiration someone needs to open it up and see what else is in there. Yes the cute little Santa card is fun, but is that really the message that is most important to you this time of year?

It's easy to have God in your head at Christmas. Taking a few simple steps to make sure you have Him in your heart this year can make all the difference for you and your family.

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. - Luke 2.14