Ten Days Before Christmas

It is 10 days before Christmas 2023 and most of us are busy baking, decorating, planning wrapping, We are trying to create the perfect Christmas and give the perfect gifts for those we love,

In the hustle and bustle of the season, it is easy to forget the real and true meaning. Over the last 30 or so years, the world has taken a distorted view of the real reason for December 25th. Some would have the birth of Christ erased from our celebration. 

Merry Christmas becomes Happy Holidays. The Christmas tree would be a holiday tree. No mention of Christmas in our schools or at work. Any recognition of the Child of Peace would and should be eliminated according to some in the name of not offending those who do not believe.

And yet, despite their efforts, Christmas is still celebrated. Christians still celebrate one of the holiest days of the year. Because we know that without Christmas, there would be no Easter. And without Easter there would be no hope for our eternity.

Things You Can Do To Truely Celebrate Christmas

Beyond all if the fun and joy of Christmas, it is important to focus on doing something special to give to Christ for His Birthday, In our planning for the season, why not take time to do something special for someone in the name of the Christ Child this year. Even with only ten days left before Christmas there are things you can do to recognize and thank God for the wonderful gift you have been given. 

Donate An Extra Gift To A Charity

There are so many needs in the world today. With so many disasters this past year, we all need to give what we can to help those who have been suffering. Find a charity that does true and honest good for others and donate a gift. Sharing our blessings with others, especially during this season means that we know that good will come of what we can share.

Take Time To Visit Or Call Someone You Have Lost Touch With

Letting someone know they are thought of is a simple gesture, but one that can have a great deal of meaning to the person you reach out to. It could be just a simple message on Facebook, a phone call, a note or a Christmas card. Such a simple gesture could be a big deal to someone who may be going through some challenges that they have been keeping to themselves.

Start A Gratitude Journal

Letting God know how grateful you are for all of your blessings every day, is most certainly a gift that will please Him. It does not have to be fancy, just a notebook or a journal where you take time to meditate and remember one or two blessings the Lord has given you every day.

Write A Note To A Child, Grandchild Or Even A Great Grandchild

Write a special note to a child, grandchild or great grandchild just to let them know how special they are in your life. Taking the time to recognize them for all their accomplishments, large and small will give them a gift that will be special this holiday. Recognizing them especially at Christmas will fill their hearts with the joy and love of the season. 

Focus On Prayer

Not for the things that you want or need, but to give thanks and render glory to God! After all, He allowed His Son to come to earth to give the greatest gift of all so that we might live in heaven, despite all of our sin. Take time this holiday season to spend time with God and I guarantee your Christmas will be better for it.

Take Time To Be Present With Your Loved Ones

It can be difficult to find the time to just sit and spend time with those closest to us, especially during the Christmas season. But finding time to spend with your spouse and children is more important than you can imagine. Take time to do things together between now and New Years. Have a family movie night, play games together, just take time to be present with them. Doing things together without social media bonds you closer and will create special memories to last a lifetime.

Think of ways that you can do for others means that you understand the true meaning of Christmas. May you share that meaning with others as you celebrate the birth of  the Christ Child this year.