It could be, former procrastinators, that your Christmas season is just right or could even use a few additions. But for many of us the idea of simplifying the month of celebration is very attractive. We just put off doing it. We wonder if it’s even possible and how to go about it.
First, we need a why. The biggest why is to focus more on the worship of the Lord Jesus. That’s a big “yes” to God. Second, we aid ourselves and our families to better enjoy the season by maintaining a kind of equilibrium. There will be times of rushing and pressure – but they can be moments instead of a month of spinning out of control with expectations, demands, and sugar.
These ideas can help us simplify and focus:
Maintain quiet time with the Lord. This is daily nourishment for your soul. Give Him your burdens of the season; hear His direction. Throughout the day, pause and notice Him in your children, coworkers, or a carol.
Remind your children often that we’re celebrating the birth of Christ, the promised King who redeems us. Otherwise, we’re subject to being molded by the world’s view of holidays.
Exercise and go outside. Keep up your exercise even if you must amend it. Fresh air clears our heads and resets our buttons. If you don’t exercise outdoors, step out your back door and breathe deeply.
Reset our expectations. A great suggestion I read is to ask each family member, what is most important to you in our Christmastime? (Don’t assume; there may be surprises.) We can include the favorites and be sure we’ve ministered to our family. We can skip the things that don’t mean so much to anybody. If zealous members have numerous favorites, ask them to prioritize them.
Reach out to others. This has a way of straightening our perspective while providing blessing.
Get help. Involving children helps build a sense of family and community responsibility. Ask a friend to help you swag the garlands or make your centerpiece. Help her in return. We can lighten each other’s loads.
God likes celebrations; He called for them and gave instructions. He will not overload us. What does He expect?
What Christmas favorites do your family members choose?
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