Christmas is the most wonderful time of year. It seems like no matter what you're going through in life--may it be finals, your job, or just the overall stressors life imposes on you daily--everyone is in better spirits near the holidays. There are more smiles, laughter in the air, and a sense of being at peace (even if you're far from it). However, anymore, we find it challenging to keep Christ in Christmas. I love the Christmas season, all of the lights and Christmas shopping. But, many of us get so caught up in all of the festivities we lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. Putting the meaning back into Christmas is easy, make it a lifestyle, and you'll be grateful for it.
1.) Volunteer. - The wonderful warm feeling that comes from doing something out of the kindness of your heart rather than for reward. Take a few hours out of your day to help out at a homeless shelter or soup kitchen, start a soup kitchen, or ring some bells for the Salvation Army.
2.) Remember, it's Christmas. - It's understandable how people choose to have or not have faith no matter the time of the year, but if you believe in the reason behind the season, then it's important that you take the extra second it takes to write out or say CHRISTmas rather than Xmas.
3.) Donate. - Whether it's your time or a few dollars to the local charity giving back to your community and people that are less fortunate, it can benefit the holidays in many ways.
4.) Spend more time with your family. - Remember, there are people that won't be able to make it to Christmas dinner this year, and how many Christmas wishes for some people are to have their family members present. Be thankful for your family and those that surround you because life is simply too short.
5.) Go to Church. - Even if you're not a regular, all churches will welcome you with opens arms to open your hearts and minds.
6.) Tell the Christmas Story. - No, not the one about Ralphie and the his Red Ryder carbine action, two-hundred shot range model air rifle! I'm referring to "Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger" (Luke 2:12).
7.) Simply greet people with a smile and a "Merry Christmas." - The small action of a smile and a wave followed by "Merry Christmas" is enough to lighten any scrooge's day. It takes five seconds and will make you feel just as merry and bright.
8.) Give praise and take knowledge of Christ's birth before going straight to the presents. - We are always so quick to run down the stairs and start ripping open the wrapping paper of all of the presents underneath the tree. Try starting this year's Christmas morning with a prayer just as quick and happy as we are to see what we got.
I'm not saying we must all go hours into the day without opening your presents. Be blessed and excited to open them all, that's wonderful! I'm much more just suggesting that we include the overall purpose of the holiday in our days, dinners, and conversations.
