We're always on the lookout for new, exciting ways to get your family prepared for Christmas. By now you're likely familiar with all the usual things—attending church, baking cookies, curling up and watching heartwarming Christmas movies by the fire. However, if you're looking for something new (and Christ-centered) to add to your beloved family traditions, it can be difficult to be creative. After all, this is the time of year to pause, take stock of what's really important in life, and refocus on Christ, Himself. What better way to remind ourselves of Jesus' birth than an intentional family activity with His name at the forefront.
Here are 5 creative, Christ-centered Christmas traditions worth adding to your routine this week—or next year!
1. Advent, but Make It Festive
Creating some sort of special evening routine for the month of December is such a great way to honor the season, especially when you make it fun. Consider establishing some sort of advent calendar routine for your family. Whether that be singing a hymn, lighting a candle, or unwrapping little gifts that serve as reminders of Christ's birth. Try buying little treats or hot cocoa packets for the kiddos and attach a Bible verse to them. Unwrap the little gifts together, drink your cocoa, and discuss the verse and its significance.
Consider Colossians 3:1, "Therefore, if you have been raised with the Messiah, keep focusing on the things that are above, where the Messiah is seated at the right hand of God."
2. Nativity Scene Crafts
A nativity scene is a classic Christmas staple in any household. The visual representation of the three Wisemen, angels, shepherds, Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus is an easy way to highlight this moment. Try ordering your own ceramic nativity set and paint it yourself. You can also make finger puppets or felt cards, too. The sky's the limit here! The point is to spend time focusing on the significance of this story.
Consider Luke 2:9-11, "Just then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid! For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord!"
3. Crafty With Christmas Cards
We all love writing up a family Christmas letter to our loved ones, updating them on our family happenings. If you're a fan of getting crafty like us, try making your own cards, too. Head to your local craft store and pick up materials. Decorate your cards how you'd like—hey, you can even add a nativity scene on the front! Add in a Bible verse you'd love to share as well as a handwritten note. Receiving handmade cards this time of year is the absolute best. Nothing feels better than giving and receiving something heartfelt.
Consider 1 Peter 4:10-11, "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen."
4. Get Creative & Gift It
There are so many wonderful nonprofits and charities accepting gift boxes this time of year. Why not make it a family affair? Pick one night of the week to have a family (or friends) shopping night and hit up some local shops to pick up the goods. Depending on who the box is for, you could head to a toy store or a grocery store. The key here is to make the act of giving an intentional, shared tradition—one that you take your time on to consider the recipient. As always, feel free to add in a Bible verse, a prayer, or simply remind them of how much they are loved. If you're loving this idea and want to keep going, bake goods for your neighbors and friends, too.
Consider 2 Corinthians 9:7, "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
5. Sing Your Heart Out
Picture your favorite Christmas hymn. Now imagine going around to your friends and family's houses to share the song with them. Caroling is a time-honored tradition, but it seems to be less and less of a common tradition these days. Why not bring it back? Grab your friends, roommates, or family and create a program for the night's events. Order little candles, stock up on coffee or hot cocoa to keep your hands nice and toasty, bundle up, and head out on your route. If you're feeling especially creative, bake a fresh batch of chocolate chip cookies to pass out as you go. These are some of the best memories—bundling up, drinking something sweet and warm, and joining in on Christmas hymns with the ones you love most.
Consider Psalms 96:1-3, "Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples."
Oh What Fun to Worship & Remember
Above all, sharing the true meaning of Christmas should be at the heart of your traditions. The presents, the tree, the movies—they're all a fun part of this season, but they're not what's most important. God sent His Son to us that we might have access to Him, and not only that, but a relationship with Him. How special is that? Christ's birth is such a vivid reminder of God's love for us, and His plan for redemption. Although we've all sinned and turned against God, He still doesn't give up on us. As a reminder of what this season is all about, check out our shirts featuring your favorite verses, phrases, imagery, and words of encouragement.
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Bonnie On
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Stephany Forbes On
The only intentions of my comment, about to be made.. are the hope that the knowledge and research of christmass be fully, and truly researched and presented to your viewers. In this search, if you use things other than internet articles.. you will find it is in FACT a pagan holiday, therefore the true body of Christ should not entertain or celebrate.
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