As Christmas approaches, everyone beings to prepare. Stores stock up on their Christmas decorations, families begin putting up Christmas trees, lights, and stockings. They bake Christmas cookies and listen to Christmas music. Children begin to worry as to whether their on the naughty or nice list and what Santa will bring in his sleigh for them. These are all great holiday traditions, but it's becoming all too common for people to forget the real reason for the season...CHRISTmas.
Christmas is about so much more than the gifts under the tree and the Christmas cards we get in the mail. Christmas is the birthdate of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Although Christmas is a very busy time for most, we need to take the time to remember that He is the reason we are celebrating. He was sent to save us from our sins, how could we not honor Him on His birthday? Think about how much effort we put into celebrating our own birthdays, as well as our loved ones. Why wouldn't we do just as much, if not more, to celebrate the birthday of our Savior?
A very common unintentional way that people take Christ out of Christmas is when they shorten it to "Xmas". Personally, I have found this to be a huge pet peeve of mine. How can you replace Christ with an X and say you're not taking Christ out of Christmas?! Granted, I know many people use it as a shortcut, but try not to let yourself get lazy and cross out Christ when He is the reason for the season!
Christmas begins with Christ. Therefore, Christmas is also about keeping Christlike qualities, such as spreading cheer and joy! Keep in mind that Christmas is not an easy, happy, and fun time for everyone. Therefore, I wish to remind you all to be thoughtful and caring. Some will be celebrating their first Christmas without a loved one. Be kind to those around you, you never know what may be going on in their life. If you know someone who is struggling this holiday season, do something to help ease the hurt. Bake them cookies or even a gesture as simple as a hug can help. Do your best to bring them comfort, cheer, and joy!
Patience and gratefulness is another significant part of Christmas. It can be an insanely busy time. I know that store checkout lines can be dreadfully long, but be patient. Don't let these small things make you bitter or angry when there is so many things to be grateful for. As priorly discussed, some families can't afford to buy toys for their children to open on Christmas morning. Having to wait in those long lines means food and gifts to help celebrate and for that you should be grateful.In addition to having patience and being grateful, Christmas is about generosity and compassion as well. Be the giver more often than the receiver. Furthermore, remember those who are not as fortunate as you. Thankfully, there are organizations who work to help lessen the amount of those who go without. Many stores and malls have containers that people can put donated gifts for children in. I encourage those who are fortunate enough to take part in this incredible organization!
During this holiday season, I challenge you to put Jesus Christ in your mind first when taking part in any Christmas activity. I also encourage all to be patient, kind, caring, grateful, generous, and compassionate during this holiday season. Make sure others know the real reason for the season, too! And one last reminder, don't take the Christ out of CHRISTmas.
