??The Reason for the Season ??

**Before I go any further, I want to share a disclaimer that this article is completely dependent on my personal beliefs. I don’t expect everyone reading to feel the same way.**

There’s something special about Christmas time. The music, the lights, the traditional food… it all makes the season something we’re fond of. However, even if all of that were to disappear, Christmas would still be just as special.?

The reason that I– and many others– observe Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus some 2,000 years ago. His birth was part of a story of redemption, one that brings us hope in a sinful and fallen world.?

I believe that it’s important to keep Christ at the center of our Christmas celebrations. Below are a few ways you can do so if you feel led!

??Focus on service during the holidays. Volunteer, buy for the needy, and donate money. Jesus came to Earth to give his life, so I think we can sacrifice a tiny portion of our time and money.

??Include nativity sets as part of your decorations. I have a friend whose mother wanted to help her build a Christmas decor collection, so to keep the holidays Christ-focused, she asked for nativity sets. She has built up a beautiful and diverse array of nativity sets that she spreads throughout her home each year.

??Use a Jesse tree and work your way through the stories of people that make up Jesus’ lineage.

??Attend a candlelight service on Christmas Eve. Even if you don’t go to church, you can still attend at any local churches– they’ll be glad to have you!

??Listen to Christmas songs that focus on the real meaning of Christmas. A few options include Silent Night, Angels We Have Heard on High, and Joy To The World.?

??Sing Happy Birthday to Jesus and eat a birthday cake for him on Christmas Day. I’ve seen several families do this and their kids love the special tradition!

If you choose to focus on Christ during the Christmas season, comment below and share one way you keep him at the center of your celebrations!